iExist, uExist, We All Exist

Cozy Reading at Libreria

2011-07-10T03:11:00.000+08:00

I am a book lover. I could literally spend hours reading books (for free) in a library or Powerbooks or Fully-Booked or any bookstore which allows free reading without obliging you to buy one. Bookstore is also always my first stop whenever I go to the mall. Or if I’m going to meet someone, I always suggest to meet up in a bookstore. You can either see me in the self-help/Psychological books section, the Filipiniana section, Inspirational/Religious, Travel, or the History section.

I just love reading–even if it could really take a long while before I could finish a certain book or even if I still have lots of books in the house which I haven’t finished reading yet. And I always find it a delight whenever I chance upon a real nice bookstore on the way to wherever I am going.

I love those community-type bookstores (I don’t think there’s really a term such as that but that’s how I perceive them). You know the kind of bookstores you can find along the street which those who are not really book lovers wouldn’t dare notice. These kind of bookstores could give you that homey, welcoming feeling, like as if you are just reading a good piece inside the comforts of your own abode. And if you’re being too engrossed with your reading, you can also add a cup of coffee to make your reading moment a real relaxing one.

As I’m writing this piece and describing that kind of bookstore, the one that’s actually playing freely in my imagination is Libreria Bookstore which is located inside the artsy haven of Cubao Expo in Quezon City.

I came to know Libreria through browsing over the pages of http://everydaysweetnotes.blogspot.com/. I first liked the pictures of the place and basically how she wrote about it made me want to really go and visit Libreria. I invited my walking buddy and fellow explorer friend Jane but she was super busy that time so we had to re-schedule the Cubao Expo adventure.

Days passed. One afternoon, I got a text message from Jane inviting me for a walk/food trip to de-stress. Since I’ve been inching to go to Cubao Expo and have a look at the bookstore which I’d also dreamed of during one of my afternoon naps, I immediately replied yes and suggested we go to Cubao.

Libreria Bookstore didn’t fail my expectation when it comes to the inducing that homey feeling. The first thing I noticed when I came inside was the sofa which was so prominent in the pictures I saw online. I’m not really sure if the books were arranged categorically but I loved how they were arranged–like on a casual, relaxed manner. The store also sells coffee for only Php50 per cup. Haplessly, we didn’t try the coffee since we were planning to eat somewhere after that Libreria adventure. But we did try their homemade butterscotch which actually tasted good.

The place is actually small like you can see and count all the people coming in and inside the bookstore. I just didn’t find it comfy enough to read a book while the owner was there manning the store–or perhaps it was because it’s just the first time I went there and I need some warming up to do pa. But the owner was nice enough to answer our questions and allow as to take pictures. She even thanked us for asking permission to take pictures because according to her, there were people who would just click their cameras without even asking her consent.

I would definitely go back to Libreria. I think it’s best to go there on a Saturday and spend an afternoon reading books while sipping cups (yes cups!) of coffee. Para kahit hindi man ako bumili ng libro, kumita man lang sila sa akin sa kape:-)

my good friend Jane with the Libreria guestbook:-)

There's still another couch which I like but I don't have a nice photo of that:-(

Libreria is located at:

Unit 64-D Cubao Expo, Gen. Romulo Avenue, Araneta Cubao, Quezon City

Operating hours:

Mon-Wed – 3pm to 8pm

Thurs-Sat – 3pm to 10pm

Dear Tech Fairy, Kindle For Me

2011-06-24T10:36:00.011+08:00

(Upon writing this, I am aware that iPad has been in the market for a while now.)

Seldom would I long for gadgets.Truth be told, people close enough to me know that I was never a tech-savvy: I am really just not. Period (but that is: circa, 12 hours)

My brothers would often gift me, though. And I do have a decent possession of some of the "essentials" in the world of the gadget-device buffs: a blue supernova cellular phone (at least 3 years old), a slim white Acer Aspire One loppy, an iPod touch (maybe also more than 2 years old), and that's it. I never intended to really buy anything else or replace any of them as they are all fully functional. When I want to take better photos, I borrow my mother's iPhone.

I never want myself to be too gadget-dependent or, worst, gadget-thirsty. I don't really buy what marketing peeps say about technology bringing "more convenience and saving time". Why do we need so much convenience anyway? To not do anything difficult? And what do we do with time saved? Spend it to some techlust activities? There you go. Guilty heads.

But I will plead guilty at the moment for my heart is suddenly in love with this e-reading device called Kindle. Blame the heavy reader in me. The surface is white (though surely there are some other colors, the one I saw kasi is white); With it, one will be able to read e-books, newspaper articles, and the like. And it's white. And white. Immaculate white. Damn, I am really into white and blue when it comes to tech devices.

I am not going to push myself to save for it. Who knows, my tech-fairy might just consider--I am not really here to cry and beg for one, but at least I shouted how wonderful it made me feel when I first laid my eyes on it.

Dahil Pangarap Kita, Ateneo

2011-06-23T12:23:00.001+08:00

Hindi ko sinsasabing hindi ako tinuruan ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (sa Maynila) at ng Unibersidad ng La Salle (sa Maynila rin) ng mga kaalamang maihahanay sa pinakamagagaling na unibersidad sa mundo--sa katotohanan, higit pa sa aking inaaasahan ang ibinahagi sa akin ng mga institusyong nabanggit.

Marahil, ang pagnanais na maging bahagi ng kultura ng Ateneo de Manila University (sa Katipunan) ay naguugat sa kagustuhang maging ganap na produkto ng tatlo sa pinakamagagaling na pamantasan sa Pilipinas (alam kong mas madami pang magagaling na unibersidad, andyan pa ang UST, etc. ngunit sadyang magkakabit ang mga pangalan ng tatlong ito).

O siguro nga isinasadya ko ito para naman masabi ko sa mga magiging apo ko na ang lola nila ay nangahas na pasukin ang mga naturang unibersidad minsan sa kanyang kabataan.

Ayoko mang pangunahan ang pagkakataon, ngunit ang pagnanais na makatuntong sa Ateneo ay isang matagal nang dalangin. Nasa huling dalawang term na ako sa aking master's at wala akong makitang ibang pamantasan sa Pilipinas na gustong pasukin pagdating ng PhD kundi ang tahanan ng mga asul ang dugo.=)

Hindi ako balimbing. Naniniwala ako na magiging ganap ang aking paghahanap ng may kalidad na edukasyon kung tatapusin ko ang aking karera bilang magaaral sa Areneo(slang sa Ateneo).

Marami na akong mga naging propesor na nagturo na rin sa Ateneo. Mga propesor na umiikot sa UP, DLSU, UST. Samakatuwid, dala-dala ng mga gurong ito ang magkakatulad na sensibilidad kaya sa aking palagay, hindi nagkakalayo ang pamamaraan nila sa pagtuturo.

Hindi ko naman alam talaga kung anong meron sa hinaharap. Madami pang maaring mangyari. Ang dami ko pang exams na pagdadaanan, reports na tatapusin, at papers na isusulat. Minsan pakiramdam ko unti-unti na akong nauubos--pero ganun talaga. Hindi pwedeng magreklamo kasi pinili ko 'to.

Problema ko lang kasi ang layo ng ADMU. Minsan sinasabi ko na sana ilipat nila ang graduate school nila sa Makati tutal nandun na rin naman sa Rockwell ang Law School nito. Sana magdilang anghel ako.

O sana, may taga administrasyon ng Ateneo na makabasa nito.

Gusto kong maging guro si Ambeth Ocampo. Sa pagkakaalam ko, faculty member siya dun. Kahit na araw-araw niyang isingit si Rizal sa klase, okay lang.=)

Gusto ko ring maranasang magsuot ng t-shirt na may maliit na tatak ng Ateneo. O, di ba ang cute non? Naglalakad ka kung saan--bagsak ang buhok, pantalon, walang make up, pero nakaputing t-shirt na may
"Ateneo Babe".

Kahit papaano maihahanay na ako sa kagandahan nina Bianca Gonzales, Nikki Gil, Rica Peralejo, at Patty Laurel.

Malay mo doon ko na rin makilala ang susunod kong mamahalin. (yun pala yun,e no? hahaha)

Yun nga lang sabi ng mga prof ko mas maganda daw ang facilities at library ng DLSU sa ADMU, baka madisappoint lang daw ako. Hindi rin ata sing kolokoy ng mga mga Taga UP ang mga Atenista kasi nga naman mga pawang anak sila ng mga pamilyang elite.

Wala daw aircon ang mga classroom.

At di ba ang daming nabubundol dun sa roadway nila?

Ah, basta!

Ateneo, pangarap kita! (Animo! LOL)

INSOMNIA

2011-05-19T23:29:00.001+08:00

I once read in Time Magazine that when, out of nowhere,a person crossed your mind, it is highly possible that that person is thinking of you,too.

Whoa, there you are, hopes raising that the apple of your eye is likely thinking of you every second--because you do.

Okay, dream on. No one stops you.=)

It is just 11:18 p.m. as I try to muse on Insomnia. I was actually hoping to title this "Sleepless in Pampanga" but I have used that on my other articles.

I would have thanked my inability to sleep early has it been a school day when I am supposed to pen a rigid paper due soon, or when I am doing it for something purposeful. The thing is, it is sort of like a holiday for me--classes in graduate school is yet to start on the 26th and my work as an IELTS Instructor is yet to resume on the 23rd.

I don't want to turn this article into another listings of tips on how to cope with this problem. I want this article to be as spontaneous and as experiential as it is supposed to be.

And,so,this insomnia happens every time I eat so much dinner or I have showered late or yes, when my heart is feeling faulty--worse, when all three happen.

As today, luckily, I ate too much lumpia and my stomach and chest aren't so happy being too heavy.

Your case might be different and I would love to hear from you.

In the mean time, I am trying to tire my eyes by blogging, watching films, and reading some poems--these activities somehow calm me.

I truly hope that I could get more testimonials or any sort of literature about insomnia. That might be possible when we start weallexist.com already. We are still working out some particulars and we will inform you about its launch.

Happy Thing To Do: Laugh at Bloopers and Outtakes

2011-03-05T15:44:00.000+08:00

Are you the type of person who stays longer in theaters after the movie credits roll in? Some people do that thinking that they might still see something, like an additional scene related or unrelated to the movie. Some movies have that to keep people from going out early.

Even some TV shows also let you see how the actors and actresses make mistakes during filming a certain scene. We see it on comedy films, even on drama.

It's there probably to let the audience do something, laugh. Some of the crew's mistakes are so funny they have to show it. It may also be a way of showing how much hard work they put in making these videos.

But since they laugh at themselves, why don't you laugh too? You watched TV (and movie) to be entertained, right?

A good start is watch Jackie Chan movies (no plugging intended) since they always show their mistakes immediately after their final scene.

So why not give it a try? Just don't laugh too hard. hahaha

Image courtesy of pjlighthouse.com

Happy Deed: Saying Thank You

2011-03-01T11:23:00.003+08:00

If some does even a very little favor for you, like letting you come out of the elevator first or complementing your clothes, a little appreciation for a good deed done to you can make your day brighter.

Even though it's obvious to tell it, just say "thank you" with a smile. If someone hands you a glass of water during dinner, or opened the door for you, or helped you carry your happy shopping bags, or saved the ball for you when you played tennis in Wii Sports, just say those two words.

If you're on the other side, say "you're welcome" also with a smile. You'll feel better too. Isn't it nice seeing someone smiling? Put a little accent to make it a little more funny.

Image courtesy of tycooncyber.blogspot.com

Happiness Through Simple Things

2011-02-16T14:30:00.002+08:00

There are simple things that you can do to be happy. It's right there. Our world is a very nice place. We just have to look at it at a certain angle.

This will be a series of happy things to have, happy deeds to do, happy places to visit, and simple appreciation of anything around us.

Are you a mall rat? Are you a music junkie? Are you a couch potato? Are you fond of physical activities like sports? Are you an internet addict? Does your parents leave you at the kitchen when you're younger? Do you remember the lines of the lead characters in the last movie you saw? Do you enjoy the nice breeze of air in the morning?

If your mind thinks positive, you'll notice the nice things around. You just have to open your mind. And eyes of course.

A Sky Lover

2010-12-12T00:34:00.000+08:00

Looking up, wondering if there is life beyond what is seen on the ground,
and imagining how the stars, the moon, the clouds, the rainbows,
and other elements above are really like up close.

A Tree Chatter

2010-12-12T00:27:00.000+08:00

One of the best things about Japan is that its culture silently whispers: "Nature is God."

And for a tree lover like me, a sight like the one above is more than just a delight in the eye. Though this is not a cherry blossoms tree (I went there during autumn, so, not the best time for seeing it), this tree's shade and panoramic view are enough for me to utter some secret wishes.

Sea Child

2010-12-12T00:15:00.000+08:00

How wonderful it is to bask under the afternoon sun, half submerged in a vast sea, half-naked, wet and magic-filled.

Staple, Thumbtacks, Clips or Hole Puncher? Choose first, before you read?

2010-11-12T11:19:00.002+08:00

Hi guys! for sure you haven't choose yet, but seems I get your attention.. Let me share something while your thinking which of the things (Staple, Thumbtacks, Clips or Hole Puncher) you like the most?

Okay, I don't know what do you call this exercise? (psychological exercise or mind exercise?), but one thing I'm sure something prompt me to share it, maybe I was bored in my work, or maybe I always like to share things that I know in my own little way it can benefit to others or not (it depends on the people how they will interpret it), and second assurance that this exercise might give small happiness or laugh.

Anyway below is the meaning of what you choose... Enjoy the exercise!!!!!!

God bless you more......

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

Which of this things represent you? Staple, Thumbtacks, Clips or hole puncher?

A. HOLE PUNCHER.... this are the people who usually creates event or situations that you'll never forget.
People like this are called "LEPUNCH" ( pronounced LE-PUN)
Used Lepunch in a sentence...
"My friend always make as laugh because of his joke and funny moments, he is our LEPUNCH" ^^

B. STAPLE.. this are people who need to be inspired first before doing what they wants, they some how like achiever, they like to accomplish many things.
People likes Staple called " APS" (pronounced AP-PS)

C. CLIP (Paper clips)... People who are down to earth and a risk taker, but sometimes they just playing along with you without noticing it.
People likes this called "Clipz" (pronounced CLIP-Z)

D. THUMBTACKS.. this are the people you love to keep, they will stick to you as long as you want, but once they gone you'll be missing him/her presence.
People likes this called "TAKZ" (pronounced TAK-Z)
Used TAKZ in a sentence:
"Why I can't forget you? why I always remember your smile? Your smell? Your touch?... I think your my TAKZ nah!"

You and I Vote (Please vote for Shai and Seph)

2010-11-09T20:27:00.001+08:00

Photography: Edric Chen.
Stylist: Jear De Mc Cuttac

Hey friends :) We'll need your votes! Clothing brand Solo is looking for a male and female model and we figured we got nothing to lose, so we tried our luck. There are 134 entries in all, and some have resorted to rating competing entries with 1 or 2 stars to pull down the Average Rating. Online voting ends November 15. It’s 35% of the criteria, so we’re praying and hoping for your support :)

VOTE LOVE CHIC:

1. Click here to sign-up. It only takes 3 minutes, promise! Sometimes you just gotta wait for the confirmation email from Solo. Please check your Spam/Junk Mail, it might've gotten trapped in there :)

2. Click on both Seph'sand Shai'sentries

3. Vote, rate 5 stars, and comment on both entries

4. Reblog on Tumblr, share on Facebook and Twitter, or link on your blogs

SHARE THIS NOTE!Or share as a link by copy-pasting this on your wall:

http://lovechic.tumblr.com/post/1524048604/solo

As a thank you gift, we’re giving away the top (size M) and shirt (size M) that we modeled here to one male and one female reader with the sweetest comment on either of our entries on the Solo site.

Thanks guys. You’re awesome.

Sprinkle of Peppermint: Catholic BigMag Issue 2

2010-10-22T20:20:00.000+08:00

Catholic BIGMAG Issue 2

God Summon

2010-10-20T07:40:00.001+08:00

I’m here again inside the church sitting in my favourite pew. I was a bit early for choir practice. I sat there staring blankly at the altar, listening the sound of birds and engines of cars passing outside the church. Within a few minutes, my eyes started to twitch and flicker and I felt the heaviness in my body as I’m about to fall into sleep. I shooked my head before I pass out and fall out of my seat.

“I feel so tired and sleepy. I didn’t get enough sleep last night”.

I wonder.. Why am I here? I could have gone home instead and get enough rest and sleep for the next day’s work.

Is it not unfair that I sit here in silence while waiting for others to arrive? Why can’t my friend make it to today’s practice?How can people say “no” very easily while I always have a hard time saying no to anything? Why do I always find myself in a situation, where I am always at the front line and constantly being fired upon?

Sometimes I wonder if it’s better to have no commitment at all, no responsibility, no one to please except myself, no caring and no heartache.

If I look back at my past experiences, all those things that I’ve been through in joining groups, dealing with people, making close friends, including some negative experiences that are painful to deal with and can lower your self-esteem, the only thing I can do is cry. I keep it all to myself.

I look at myself right now and I look back at those times and how I started to get involved in activities that have led me to where I am today, I see a picture full of laughter and tears, happiness and grief, love and anger, longing and fear.

I think it all started after I observed a change in my Kuya’s (elder brother) behaviour after joining a catechist group in our church. He was happy and smiling all the time and made lots of friends pretty quickly. I felt in my heart the longing to experience all the things my brother is experiencing. I liked my brother a lot and I admired him but I never thought of following in his footsteps. But after that experience I became his little shadow, everywhere he went I was there trailing behind. Many times I felt my Kuya was getting fed up and I was becoming a nuisance and a burden to be around.

Once he was invited to train to become an altar boy/sacristan, my parents made me go with him without seeking my brother’s approval beforehand. In the end he was left with no choice but to bring me along with two other friends. I was really excited to become an altar boy! But I wasn’t ready for the exams that we were required to pass to become “certified”. Each wrong answer during the practical exams means I get a slap on the back of my neck. Out of 30 I had 29 questions done and also received 29 strikes on the back of my neck. I felt hopeless and felt like running away, I thought there’s no chance I will be a sacristan. But instead I put on a brave face, held back my tears and waited for my one last question. “What do you call this (pointing to one object)?”, my trainer has already lost his hope in me. My vision was blurry with tears, I was so scared that I might say the wrong answer. “That’s a bowl”,I said. He didn’t react for a while, then he smiled half-heartedly because it was the correct answer. I could not control my tears any further and and they rolled like Niagara falls down my cheeks. They were tears of hope and happiness knowing that I have 1 in 30 percent chance to be accepted in the group.

After that episode in my life I began to feel that I didn’t want to be a shadow of my Kuya anymore that maybe there is hope for me down this road. My motivation was my absolute 1 in 30 percent chance of making it on my own! Carrying that ray of light with me I decided to find my own personal journey, discover ways to grow and see my own journey take shape.

I started actively participating in school programs like Boy Scouting, varsity sports, Red Cross. I joined all kinds of events and competitions which enabled me to explore my horizons and to find out how far I can go.

I got more serious in my extracurricular activities during my high school. I was actively involved in a religious organization of my choice and was always participating in their youth activities. Becoming part of the CAT (Cadet Army Training) was one of the best.My training has given me the confidence to succeed beyond just military life. I felt this unexpected confidence deep inside, in my abilities and in my powers to make a successful career out of what I studied. I am reminded of one worst and best and most unforgettable experienceI had in the army training - being forced to run in the forest wearing only one piece – my combat boots.

I was lucky to have been able to experience being in an all male Catholic high school. It has prepared me in a different way and sets me on the way to the destiny God has prepared for me.Although I never got any scholastic award, I was prepared to become a stronger person with bigger dreams, to be a leader, to be a friend, to be a companion to others, and a follower of God who was called to live in a relationship of love with God.

My shyness gradually faded, I felt more comfortable during my days in the university. I remember joining a socio-civic group where I experienced another once in a lifetime unforgettable initiation rites. Most of all I was blessed with the opportunity to serve my school when I was awarded a working student grant. I had a lot ofincredible people surrounding me then and having the chance to interact with professors and peers on a one to one basis has helped me to develop personally and mature as a person. I learned a lot about myself, learned a lot of skills to improve myself, gain knowledge and was able to share it to others.

I also have a musical life. I’ve been singing in choirs for more than nine years now. To begin with my voice was never great, it had a weak tone and my singing range was poor. Singing bass I had a bad tendency to miss pitches and was really weak down by the bottom of bass notes. This was years ago, but with constant practice my voice has now improved a lot. The feeling being a part of a musical ensemble contributing to an event is a very inspiring experience for me each time.

I’ve been involved with a number of different groups over the past few years. As of now I’m actively participating in CFC-Singles for Christ here in New Zealand.

If I will look back again and see where I stand and how much I have travelled in my journey through life, I can probably say that I’m a bit beyond halfway through now.

There’s still a lot to do, I believe that life is a continues process. Never stop learning, never stop changing and growing in your life. Always try to achieve your full potential and enjoy the things that you deserve. Dedicate your life to self-improvement and continuous learning in every way possible. Everyday do some improvement, see what you could be doing better about yourself and how you relate to others.

I was staring into space and was in deep thoughts when I heard footsteps behind me. It was our choir master heading towards the altar. He felt along the wall by the door for the light switch and turned it on. It lit up the choir stand.

We began our choir practice with our choir master distributing a new music piece to learn.

We started singing the song when the lyrics struck me straight through my heart. I felt like crying and tears brimmed in my eyes. It was a very powerful and meaningful song.

“Will you come and follow me If I but call your name?
Will you go where you don’t know And never be the same?
Will you let my love be shown, Will you let my name be known,
Will you let my life be grown In you and you in me?”

Just a while ago I was questioning my coming to choir practice when my body felt like resting for my tiredness at home. In one overwhelming moment God answered my every question. God summoned me to be here.

I understand now that sometimes God summons us to be in different situations because He wants to develop us and teach us what we need to know and is training us to be stronger. He wants us to experience with him the kind of life he wants to give us. He summons us to answer our questions and to welcome us home.

Maybe now I should ignore my tiredness and instead think about ways to share this experience.I should prepare to encourage people to keep on serving God, to plant a seed in others and help them know and experience God’s love. I am about 55 percent through my journey and I keep on counting. If I tell you how knowing Him have brought joy to my life would you not want to experience God as I do and see how far away you can reach if you walk with him?

God’s dealing with us mankind seems to be summoning us to look at the bigger picture.Great things will happen according to God’s time and will go according to God’s plans for you. Today He prompted me again to reflect and to try to see things in a different light. God is telling me not to worry but to continue to serve to the best of my ability even when things may seem bad. He wants me to succeed in my current struggles, to learn from those experience, and be ready to respond to his next calling whether it be big or small.

When God summons you, will you answer?

Thank you for reading my story. May you feel God summons to you, in your life, so you may see His goodness, his love, His mercy and grace, His purpose for your life and his plans for you being accomplished.

I hope to catch you here again soon.

PS:

Below is the whole lyrics of the music that promptedme to write this story. I too felt a sudden urge to make a video of the song (God Summon Video). It may be a little bit disturbing and I may sound like a walrus in heat but I hope the words of the song makes you forget all that. Please bear with me and thank you for letting me share it with you.

The Summons
by John Bell

Will you come and follow me
If I but call your name?
Will you go where you don’t know
And never be the same?
Will you let my love be shown,
Will you let my name be known,
Will you let my life be grown
In you and you in me?

Will you leave yourself behind
If I but call your name?
Will you care for cruel and kind,
And never be the same?
Will you risk the hostile stare
Should you life attract of scare?
Will you let me answer pray’r
In you and you in me?

Will you let the blinded see
If I but call your name?
Will you set the pris’ners free
And never be the same?
Will you kiss the leper clean,
And do such as this unseen,
And admit to what I mean
In you and you in me?

Will you love the ‘you’ you hide
If I but call your name?
Will you quell the fear inside
And never be the same?
Will you use the faith you’ve found
To re-shape the world around,
Through my sight and touch and sound
In you and you in me?

Lord, your summons echoes true
When you but call my name.
Let me turn and follow you
And never be the same.
In your company I’ll go
Where your love and footsteps show.
Thus I’ll move and live and grow
In you and you in me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW8m1WpzmuI

Catholic BIGMAG Issue 2 is up and it’s here ready for download!!!!

2010-09-24T08:27:00.003+08:00

As we all know, our life is full of potential, full of gifts and full of talents. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are many and varied and mistakes can be made by any of us in the exercise of our gifts. We have to pray for His grace and put our trust in God that the gifts we have are the best ones, and to use them in the best manner we are able in the service of God. This is what the Holy Spirit asks of us - to discover, in every detail possible, who we really are, and to use our strengths and our talents to carry out our purpose in God’s plan.

BIGMAG’s Second Issue features articles by Fr Frank Bird on “Finding Your Vocation”, Rev Fr Norbert Alvin Ma Cañada on “On Purpose”, Sr Margaret Kerry, FSP on “Living Our Vocation in Christ”, Fr Wilmer Joseph Tria on “Our Lady of Mount Carmel”, an interview with a passionate worship leader, personal testimonies, theology, mission journeys, a saint life, poetry, cartoons and more!

You can view or download Issue 2 in PDF through Facebook (Search Catholic BIGMAG) or by visiting our website:
http://www.catholicbigmag.com

Please share by forwarding this to all your friends and loved ones. Have a blessed day and thank you all for your support… ^^

Crossroads

2010-09-21T17:10:00.003+08:00

You travel with a clear destination in mind.
Along the way, two paths lead to your desired place.
One is exactly how you pictured, smooth and straight
and the other full of rough roads, complex turns, and obstacle.

Catholic BIGMAG

2010-09-13T06:34:00.006+08:00

‎"Be real. Do not try to be something you are not; and realize that not everyone feels and sees things the way you do. I found a saying the other day, which I love: 'Be the best you can be for God, for yourself and for others.’ That is all God asks. Only then can you be any good for others." (Paul Gibbes, Up Close & Personal)

To read more.. Watch out for BIGMAG Issue 2. It's coming very soon!

"I am the Lord your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you." - Isaiah 41:13

Wow Videoke Music Volume Pack 8

2010-07-28T20:00:00.002+08:00

Belting tunes in a karaoke won’t be complete without you singing the latest tunes that hit the airwaves. It would be a bore if you and your videoke buddies could only burn the mic with songs from the past. That is why Wow Videoke is working very seriously in updating its song packs so you can enjoy your Wow Videoke moment with your family and friends just the way you want it.

Wow Videoke is set to release its latest pack of hit songs via the Music Volume Pack #8. This latest pack will include the latest hits such as 21 Guns by Greenday, Boom Boom Pow by Black Eyed Peas, Bubbly & Falling for You by Colbie Caliat, Bye Bye & Obsessed by Mariah Carey, Cry & Disturbia by Rihanna, Dream on by Aerosmith, Fire Burning by Sean Kingston, Hotel Room Service by Pitbull, Hush Hush & When I Grow Up songs as popularized by Pussycat Dolls, the jumpy I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas, I Kissed A Girl by Katy Perry, If I Were A Boy & the empowering Single Ladies song as performed by Beyonce, Jump by Flo-Rida and Nelly Furtado, Just Dance as performed by Lady Gaga featuring Colby O’Donis, other Lady Gaga songs such as Love Game, Paparazzi, and Poker Face, Mad by Ne-Yo, No Air sang by Jordin Sparks featuring Chris Brown, Miley Cyrus’ The Climb and Party in the USA, Womanizer by Britney Spears, Insomnia by Craid David, Michael Jackson’s This Is It, Right Round sang by Flo-Rida and Ne-Yo, Jai Ho by Pussaycat Dolls, and the latest teenage sensation Justin Bieber’s One Time.

If you’re a fan of OPM music, Wow Videoke also included some of the well-love Pinoy hits which you can enjoy singing. The list include Gary Valenciano and Martin Nievera’s As One song, Lapit by Yeng Constantino, Bangon by Rico Blanco, It Can Only Get Better and In My Life as sang by Charice Pempengco, ABS-CBN’s Bro Ikaw Ang Star ng Pasko Ko, Upuan by Gloc-9 and Zelle, Record Breaker as popularized by Sarah Geronimo, I’ll Take Care of You by balladeer Richard Poon, Ngiti by Ronnie Liang, Kris Lawrence’s Kung Malaya Lang Ako, Nariyan Ka by Juris, May Tama Ako by Jay-R Siabok, Mas Mahal Na Kita Ngayon by Young Men, and Toni Gonzaga and Sam Milby’s You Are the One.

Religious songs are also an occasional favorite during videoke sessions that is why Wow Videoke also included some of the popular praise songs in the Music Volume Pack #8. You have there Hosanna, None But Jesus, Everything That Has Breath, Solution and One Way all popularized by Hillsongs; Chris Tomlin’s How Great is Our God and Indescribable; Rain Down by Delirious; Casting Crown’s Who Am I; and Darlene Zschelch’s I Will Run to You.

Indeed, all the poweful songs from various genres and languages were all pulled together to bring you Music Volume Pack #8. With this latest song pack, your videoke fun will surely reach another level up!

Philippines, I love!

2010-07-22T16:14:00.007+08:00

It is sickening enough to hear Filipinos who now enjoy living a life with bigger bucks in their pockets and picking on their friends, relatives, etc. about how good it could be working overseas--and not taking into account how they used to be sheltered by their homeland.

I remember, National Artist for Literature. F. Sionil Jose, once told a crowd in Adamson University that it pays to serve your own country, and if we could, please choose to stay.

I do not want to come out clean of this. I have been offered--and tempted--by my brother to join them abroad but have kept a file of skepticisms over the idea of being there and leaving what I now have here.

But what I am trying to say is that, if each one will be dragged out of the country, and the best ones leave each time an opportunity knocks, then expect a worse situations in the years to come.

I love my country--in fact, I took a course called Philippine Arts despite a thousand of eye brows raising each time I mention this.

And if my only reason for leaving is to earn bigger bucks, and then start looking down on people who do not earn much, then, I should be ashamed--really ashamed.

Introductory Essay

2010-07-19T13:23:00.002+08:00

(Note: This essay is the writer's first writing task in a company she currently works for)

Worthy of wonder

One might have heard of a cliché adage such as this: “No one is above anyone”—and I happen to be a great believer of the line. I acknowledge though that being an erring human, one can not help but put forth pride and prejudices towards other people. Still, I strongly contend that each of us has traits, interests, and dreams worthy of wonder.

Having said that, let me share with you some of the not-so-salient stuffs about this writer—pardon should I sound too self-absorbed.

Following visions of bliss

I must say that dreams have kept me far—at least through wishful thinking. As early as high school, my love for writing became apparent as I entered my first journalism career being the editor-in-chief of the school’s official paper. Writing—which, for me, is more of a pleasure craft—has never left my system since then; I made sure that in college, I got a degree that will take me to a route that shall further improve my writing aptitude. Instead of accepting the quota course, BS in Public Health, in the University of the Philippines-Manila, I settled for a non-quota degree, AB Philippine Arts, to be exposed to theories of the three macro-areas in the arts. I remember one of my high school teachers telling me that exposure to literary, visual, and performing arts can do the trick of getting one’s writing muse on fire. As I look back, I have been proven that she was absolutely right.

After graduation, I hopped from one job to another. I first worked as an education officer for an international museum in Manila. Right after, I was taken by a local broadsheet, The Daily Tribune, as a writer for its Lifestyle Section. After roughly two years, I was offered an associate editor position at Adamson University’s administration press office. During the 3-year stay at Adamson, I was also asked to handle Writing subjects for engineering students by the university’s Foreign Language department. Other jobs that I held after my writing-teaching career in Adamson were mostly freelance or project-based in nature. I also worked for magazines, SEO Companies, and the last was at a language-review center.

In 2006, right after I resigned from Tribune, I opted to embark upon further studies. I chose De La Salle University-Manila and took MFA in Creative Writing. After 9 sickening units, I gave myself a break from endless workshops and mass production of writing assignments. I decided to focus on my full-time job (I was still with Adamson during this period) and devoted more time to a significant other. Just this January 2010, I went back to graduate school, but transferred to a different course. With hints of pride, I hope to be finished by 2012 (fingers crossed).

I know it would be really too much to dream of this, but I would really love to enter Ateneo de Manila University for my doctoral degree, should luck ever favor me. That way, I could tell my grandchildren in the future that their lola was able to grace UP, La Salle, and Ateneo—arguably the best universities in RP. I think, more than the wealth, education is a treasure that no one can take away from anyone—and I hope to be a good representation of that belief.

…and so on

Easy Sunday mornings always bring out the best in me. I see to it that I am with my family in Pampanga during the weekend to get a brief escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life. On Sundays, I get up early to walk in our humble garden and smell the greens in the nearby rice fields.

I love literary books and some of my favorite authors are Rilke, Milan Kundera, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Jane Austen, Natalie Babbit, Haruki Murakami, Marcel Proust, Shakespeare, Lualhati Bautista, Cirilo Bautista, Rio Alma, and so on. I try not to read Paolo Coelho or even believe in Bob Ong for their works were never literary—as confirmed by several professors I had.

I love green tea and most kinds of tempura that I think I could adopt the lifestyle of Japanese. I am close to my family; I have three brothers—all are engineers. Being an unica ija , I was never branded as a spoiled brat. I am easy to be with, and on most occasions, really friendly, grounded, and pleasant.

Parting words

I am delighted to be part of ETPS because the company adheres on two fields I have been advocating—education and writing; I am hoping to have a great companionship with everyone.

To end this essay, I would like to share this poem to dear readers.

To Love Life
by Ellen Bass

The thing isto love life.
To love it even when you have nostomach for it,
when everything you've held
dear crumbles like burnt paper in your hands,
and your throat is filled with the silt of it.
When grief sits with you so heavily
it's like heat, tropical, moist
thickening the air so it's heavy like water
more fit for gills than lungs.
When grief weights you like your own flesh
only more of it, an obesity of grief.
How long can a body withstand this?
You think, and yet you hold life like
a face between your palms,a plain face,
with no charming smile
or twinkle in her eye,
and you say, yes, I will take you
I will love you again.

Before Women Had Wings

2010-07-18T17:40:00.002+08:00

I just finished reading the award-winning novel of Connie May Fowler, Before Women Had Wings, last night. I am just so thankful that I found this book among the many piles of good reads in Book Sale and equally grateful that I didn't let go of it. It's such a nice read. I am not really one for a book critique but I know how to distinguish a good book from a not-so-good one. And this one truly deserves a 5 out of 5 stars.

Before Women Had Wings is a story of A nine-year-old girl named Avocet Abigail Jackson, and her family's struggle towards normalcy. Bird, as she is fondly called, is a small town girl growing up in rural Florida in the 1960's. She is daughter to alcoholic and physically abusive parents.She has a sister Phoebe and half-brother Hans whom she loves very much. Her father killed himself after hiring someone to beat her mother. After her father was buried, Bird's mom decided that they will transfer to other town and start a new life there. Since they don't have enough money, Bird's mom accepted the offer of the little motel owner in Tampa, Florida, for them to stay in the small, dumpy trailer of the motel and her mom will work as bookkeeper so she could pay for the rent. Her mother became even more sober and she couldn't seem to accept the fact that she's left to care and raise her two daughters that's why she kept blaming them for the death of their father, especially Bird. The little girl find solace in Jesus and she even fantasized her as her own boyfriend. Then she met Ms. Zora, a mysterious black woman who lives alone in a cottage near Bird's school and comes to teach the little girl about dignity and her own capacity for forgiveness. Her mother disapproves of her being friends with Ms. Zora that's why she kept her friendship with her in secret. In the end, it was Ms. Zora who helped Bird's mom step up and do something to bring harmony and love back to her family again. Despite of all the physical, emotional, and mental pains that her mom caused Bird, she realized that she still loves her mom and that she wouldn't want any other person to be her mom than her.

I love how this book could really make you hang on for hope. It is indeed an amazing tale of dignity and forgiveness. This is a good read especially for those who are fond of family stories--the struggles towards happiness. And the best part of it all, Connie May Fowler has a very unique and artsy way of stitching words together to create a powerful impact in the heart of the reader. Her words may be ordinary but the way she put them together was way beyond imagination. I really fell deeply in love with this book:-)

Preparing Homemade Colon Cleansers

2010-07-12T19:45:00.000+08:00

More and more people are starting to realize the importance of cleansing the colon nowadays. There are even some who actually went vegetarian or at least toned down in eating fatty and meat foods. This is a good indicator especially that there are a lot of illnesses and sickness we could easily get just by eating the wrong kinds of foods or over-indulgence in it.

A clean colon is very essential for optimal health that is why it is highly advisable that you cleanse your colon regularly. You can find various colon cleansing products in the market today, however, you can also opt to do it the natural way. You could even make homemade colon cleansers for more economical and practical reasons. You should, however, start slow since each individual has different reactions to foods and herbs that are often used. Furthermore, you must read first all the ingredients that could be included in preparing homemade colon cleansers so you will have an inkling on what is used to flush the toxins and eliminates parasites.

You can find various homemade colon cleanser recipes on the net and you can even modify them according to your need. One simple and easy to do recipe is by using herbal colon cleanser tea. Making the tea is very easy. Just get 200ml of water and start boiling it on simmer fire. When it starts bubbling, add 2 cloves and about 2 teaspoon of crushed ginger. Let it be on fire for 3 minutes more. Then, you may add 5-6 holy basil leaves and 3-4 mint leaves. Leave it on fire for another 5 minutes. Once the water turns brownish, you ca take it off from fire. Cool it and then add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Drink it while it’s still hot. Try doing this for a month and you can see and feel the change within your body.

Another colon cleansing recipe you can try doing at home is by using 5 kg ripe plums, 400 gm honey, one tablespoon apple cider vinegra, and tamarind jam. The first thing you need to do is putting the pitted plums and 1/3 of the pits into a huge bowl. Fill the pot with water and boil it for an hour. You need to stir this from time to time and keep on adding water if required. After an hour, you can now remove the pits and let the mixture simmer for another 20 minutes. Once the jam gets cooled, you can start adding the rest of the ingredients such as honey, apple cider vinegar, and tamarind jam. Pour this medicated special jam in a glass container and make sure that it’s sealed tightly. Have 1 tablespoon of the plum jam early in the morning on an empty stomach.

You see, you need not spend much on colon cleansers since you can actually make one right inside your home. These ample colon cleansing recipes are not only expensive, but they are also highly effective in keeping your colon healthy, rejuvenate the entire gastrointestinal tract and improve digestion.

Foods That Cleanse The Colon

2010-07-12T19:42:00.000+08:00

While all kinds of food could satisfy our hunger and cravings, there are some which are bad for the colon and there are also some which are good and even help in cleansing the colon. If you care enough for your colon and you want to keep it clean and healthy, you need to eat the right kinds of food.

So what are these food that could help cleanse the colon?

First on the list are the fresh fruits since they are easy to digest. Considered as the natural cleanser, fruits contain good amount of fiber aside from vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some of the best colon cleansing fruits are apples, figs, prunes, dates, avocados, kiwis, oranges, papayas, mangoes, tangerines, and the fruits from the berry family.

Vegetables are also filled with fiber and the important vitamins and minerals needed by the body. Raw vegetables are the best for colon cleansing. You can try eating spinach, broccoli, celery, lettuce, potatoes with skin, beets, carrots, conrn, squash, eggplant, artichokes, and many others and you can feel the difference inside your body.

Eating cereals is also great for keeping your colon clean and healthy. Cereals without sugar, fats, sweeteners or additives are great for the stomach since they also contain lots of soluble fibers. Cereals also help reduce the cholesterol level so it’s, no doubt, healthy for the body.

Whole-grain breads and other forms of grain such as quinoa, amaranth, and basmati rice will also do wonder for colon cleansing.

Another types of food that are great colon-cleansing agents are nuts and seeds. These two also contain the right amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals necessary for the body. When eating nuts, make sure that it’s not roasted or salted. Look for the good kinds of nuts and seeds such as whole flax seeds, almonds, pine nuts, peanuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachios, brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and coconut.

Next in line are the beans family. Legumes such as kidney beans, lima beans, black-eyed beans, navy beans, chick peas, and many others contain soluble fibers which are good to prevent constipation.

Fruits juices are also good for cleansing the colon since there is no fiber or pulp that needs to be digested, hence, the vitamins and minerals are quickly absorbed by the body. Moreover, the added nutrition of fresh made juice could further strengthen your body to very well cleanse and eliminate more stored fats and toxins inside.

If you are serious about caring for your colon and you want to keep it healthy, you need to start storing these foods in your fridge now.

Is Colon Cleansing Essential for the Health?

2010-07-12T19:29:00.000+08:00

Colon cleansing is essential for the body if you want to live longer and you care for your body enough.

We all know that colon is a vital part of the body. There is even a saying that states that if you have a clean and good colon, you have a healthy body. It is because the colon is an organ the affects all other body organs directly and indirectly. If the colon is blocked, clogged, or it has many wastes that can’t be removed from the body, it affects the liver and it won’t be able to function properly. Eventually, as the liver malfunctions, the kidney will suffer, and the chain reaction from all body organs goes on.

Many factors contribute to the weakening of the colon. Poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle primary cause colon malfunction. Eating too much pork or consuming too much protein could bring a huge disaster for our colons since excessive protein could cause acidity in the body. When there’s an excess of acid in the body, it greatly affects the colon since it reduces the essential minerals and electrolytes in the body. Hence, the colon will be unable to tackle harmful bacteria and toxins.

Our environment also poses major threat to our colon since we are always exposed to pollution, secondary smoking, harmful chemicals, pesticides, and many others. Our immune system becomes weaker and weaker because of these harmful elements and it has to work hard to get rid of these harmful chemicals. When the immune system gets weak, the colon gets weak, too.

With all these serious threats to our health surrounding us, it is really of high importance that we get our colon cleansed. It is necessary to help our body get rid of the toxins that we got due poor diet, unhealthy lifestyle, and polluted environment. These toxins make it hard for our colon to function properly, resulting to serious illness if not given proper attention.

If you’re thinking of cleaning other organs in your body, you must start with the colon since if ut can’t do its job properly, the toxins you’re trying to drive away by cleansing your body organs would eventually return back to your body and might even cause more trouble.

Angsty Women, Read

2010-07-06T18:26:00.003+08:00

"We always say that someone who hurt us is

a jerk, a bullshit, a man without balls.

But I guess, any love is worth it.

It is part of our story--a base for greater things to come."

Pampanga's "Fisherman's Grill"

2010-07-06T08:36:00.004+08:00

I seldom dine out with my family with all members present. Last June 2010, 'twas more than a happenstance to be with all of them, with my brother bringing his boss from Japan.

As a very Filipino trait, my brother treated the Japanese with local delights.

We went first to the boss's hotel to pick him up, then we head to Fisherman's Grill in San Fernando, Pampanga. As Filipinos know, Pampanga is, arguably, the culinary capital of the Philippines.

Most of what we ordered were seafoods, well, as the name of the resto suggests. We had fried maya-maya, crunchy crablets, grilled catfish, veggies, lechon kawali, squids, etc. For drinks, we had buko juice (still on its buko) and pineapple juice for us ladies--Mom and I. My brothers were adventurous enough to try the kamaro, an exotic find in Pampanga. I think the Japanese also had some.

But what stood outstanding to me, though, was that the place is an old house set into a restaurant. So the feel of eating just right in your own home was achieved. We went to the second floor of the resto and were amiably welcomed by Kapampangan servers.

I bet there are booze available for those of you who think of having a barkada night out.

The parking lot, is quite small, but, at least we had space still considering it was a Friday night.

Images from here:

http://palaboy-lamonster.blogspot.com/2009/01/fishermans-grill-san-fernando.html

Dreaming of a Fashion Mecca

2010-07-06T08:11:00.004+08:00

Just the other night, I had a nostalgic moment upon remembering how I used to walk on the streets of Manila being swayed by breeze. Usual body wrap of mine display above-the-knee dresses as I am petite.

The nostalgia feel sunk deeper as I read an article about Istanbul in Sense and Style magazine, plus the wanting to buy a lot of pashmina, malong, or even patadyong in Arab countries or even just from Visayas and Mindanao. Being a Philippine Arts major way back in college, I got exposed to the dreamweavers' masterpieces--at least by class discussions and visual aids through books. Some esoteric professors would even wear theirs in class.

Add to the list of reasons would be the dire search for a softer footwear, where the elevation would not be sacrificed. As I mentioned, I haven't been blessed with height so it has been an every day way of life to take lengthy heels for walks. My hip has been killing me, so, I thought I could just have a Greek-like sandals with at least a 3-inch base with it.

I don't know why pants or trousers for women of cosmopolitan Philippines have been tagged as "simple", "basic", or even "comfy". Perhaps because it hides flesh, and it crosses on showing off a bit of masculinity of women(which I don't really like). As for me, it limits my movements, and it
takes away so much of leg fashion--don't men agree?

I know there could be a lot of Philippine fashion mecca or even a textile market. I bet even a mass place like Divisoria has its own wonders. My take, though, is to have one known capital where buyers could haggle and be sure that all they wanted are seen in the place.

Adorable Notebook

2010-07-05T19:18:00.001+08:00

As for me, the most adorable notebook is the one whose leaves is all filled with scripts of thoughts, concepts, ideas learned day by day, with some doodles created out of, perhaps, boredom or wanting to produce something still unknown. It may also have drawings and sweet nothings, flames in it.

On the Movie "Nell"

2010-07-03T10:34:00.006+08:00

I had the opportunity to watch the movie 'Nell' for my Psychology in Language Learning class in graduate school last July 01,2010. The movie was shown in 1994, and was really a great aid when one is learning or proving the First Language Theories usually studied by language majors like yours truly.

Starring Jodie Foster, as Nell; Liam Neeson as Dr. Jerome Lovell; and Natasha Richardson as Dr. Paula Olsen, Nell features how a woman who grew isolated in the woods struggled to live on her own while seeming to be time warp in terms of other human development such as language.

Aside from Nell's own story angle, the two doctors who studied Nell's life developed suppressed likeness toward each other. Nell, somehow, became a bridge for both to finally try what they have been keeping for quiet some time.

The individuals also had several epiphany in the film while on their journey of understanding consequences of their existence.

I am giving it 9 stars for its world view, cultural significance, psychological relevance, and raw acting of Jodie Foster.

Catholic Big Mag online!

2010-06-29T18:08:00.003+08:00

Want to be spiritually fed? In search for articles pertaining to humanistic values and biblical teachings? In dire need for epiphany? Then, the Catholic Big Mag online might offer you enlightening answers. Clickhere

Aren't Guys Who Read Books Hot?

2010-06-29T17:22:00.003+08:00

I chanced upon this site featuring blogs and images of men with a book at hand.

Try to visit:

http://hotguysreadingbooks.tumblr.com/

and find out how adorable a man could appear with a book to contemplate with.

Intrigued with Leona Art Resto

2010-06-28T15:09:00.002+08:00

My first encounter with Leona Art Resto was when I read a review of the place via Free Press. Since then, I would google the resto and try to read more on what foodies would say about it. By sour fate, I still remain a wonderer and never had the chance to be in that part of Marikina (or some blogs I read says it's somewhere near QC).

Anyway, I read that the resto has artworks all over so I would surely find the pieces interesting along with the food, which I heard are priced reasonably. The soft taco and mozzarella chicken have been lingering in my mind.

It's time to get my friends together and do some resto hopping again!

Basa Air Base in Pampanga

2010-06-28T14:51:00.003+08:00

I was on my first year in high school when I joined my schoolmates for the Division of Pampanga's Science and Mathematics trail-competition, way back 1996 or 1997. With me are my brother, representing the third year, and some other more senior students. The competition was held in Basa Air Base in Floridablanca. We spent several days and nights with sturdy tents that served as our shelter for the time being.

What was remarkable about the place was the lawn area,where the grass were maintained at a certain height. I remember waking up with the cool smell and vast landscape of the air base. That was the first time I saw life-sized helicopters and soldiers in morning training.

People in their bikes and flowers were also some of the beautiful sites to behold.

I hope to visit that place once again.

Heard About "Blanchetto"

2010-06-25T14:16:00.004+08:00

If you are working near Ortigas Center and are still in the streets on Saturday midnight till,say, before lunch of the same day, I heard Blanchetto is the place to pass by. Blanchetto, by the way, is an Italian word which means 'feast'. I saw a friend's facebook status with a picture of several scrumptious California Maki priced for only 89 pesos. I also saw some blogs about big burgers priced at around 150 bucks.

Folk Dancing in First Grade

2010-06-25T14:05:00.004+08:00

I would like to give credit to my friend,Arlyn Dianne Griego, for keeping this picture of ours during our first grade at San Isidro Elementary School:(extreme right is the author, beside her is her dear friend, Dianne).

The photo, in 1991, is both a picture of innocence and struggle to learn and showcase. Two decades after, Dianne is now living with her mom in the US, where she does further studies and work, and I am also doing further studies and work. Incidentally, we are still both very much single at 26, and do not intend to marry too soon.

I can't remember what folk dance we actually did, but this is most probably in beat with Manang Biday. Aren't those red headband cute and so remnants of '70's or '80's Manila? =)

We did dancing every school year till we reached 6th grade. As you can see, we love taking leads and we are not so difficult to be asked.

So where did our love for dancing take us?

Well, as I see it, Dianne still loves dancing as I saw several pictures of her with her friends chillin' on dance hubs, while I took a course on the arts for college. Maybe, when time permits, I will be back at one of our first loves.=)

Musings Again

2010-06-25T14:00:00.003+08:00

Beauty and Sadness, I don't know, but on can-not-be-ignored, enlightening instances, they seem to come in pair.

Recent Moview I Viewed Alone

2010-06-25T13:38:00.005+08:00

Robin Hood
Mr. Crowe really got me thinking of good choices in men. He always seem to take works with literary credits such as Robin Hood where he co-starred with equally valued thespian, Cate Blanchett. Aside from us knowing that Robin Hood is a timeless story of a man who steals for others, the story actually takes us to the psycohistory of the main characters--a prelude to the Robin Hood story we know. I'm giving it 10 stars from the world view and for having Matthew Mcfayden in the cast. =)

Iron Man 2
I did not know that Mr. Sherlock Holmes, Robert Downey Jr., could also bring about cool acts here. I just did not find his wife, Gwyneth Paltrow, necessary in the film. The film took a nap out me when Iron Man danced on the stage on his birthday--all the rest, I have already seen in other film antics.

500 Days of Summer
I knew the male character was the same youngster in the film 10 Things I Hate About you. The discovery alone stretched my patience to go about watching the female lead whose acting kind of lead me to dire boredom and a couple of sneer. The fact that the female character likes to read though got me to hang on some more. The line 'I woke up one morning and I just knew what I was never sure of you' will sure linger of viewers' mind for a time.

Going back to purpose

2010-06-22T12:11:00.008+08:00

In this times when it's so easy to lose ideas and word plays with just publishing them in the world of Facebook and Twitter, for the joy of making friends comment with all their might, a good literature, meaning, a good,longer writing piece is often neglected.

Being one of wea's writers, I am guilty of not posting those that I find of universal, good world views for a while now. I thought I could now do a rundown of them, so, pardon the listing.

On Euro Films

Last June 11, I was able to visit the French Film festival at The Shang and watched "Good Marriage". Even though I was seated not-so-strategically, there were essential realities that the film left on me. On how women could once in their life suffer from being 'busted', either brutally or subtle.Time and again, we have sought marriage for real happiness, the longing to be desired, but the film gave a different impression on me. As life is a box of mysteries, no one is guaranteed of a groom, no one is guaranteed of a peaceful married life, and no is guaranteed of a life they have always pictured in mind.

On Books
I have always kept a copy of Gabriel Garcia Marquez's masterpieces like "One hundred years of solitude" and "Love in the time of cholera"; the former's Chapter I have repeatedly read but does not get me to pull through the succeeding pages, and the latter gets me staring at its cover for a long while. If writer's have this muse or dwende to be able to pen, I think readers have such fear of finishing as well. No rush, I will be finishing these two in time.

On Academics
I just shifted last January 2010 from MFA Creative Writing (CREA) to MA in English Language (MAELED) major either in English for Specific Purposes(ESP) or Second Language Acquisition(SLA). 'Twas,I guess, cosmic to have landed to the program as I was supposed to transfer to UST (from DLSU) for their MA in ComArts program when a friend of mine pulled my hand to queue in the shifting line of MAElED. I was on my way to having my honorable dismissal finished; UST didn't even ask me to take an exam, but then I guess, the La Sallian spirit needs to be fulfilled.
I recommend the course for those who are in the teaching and writing profession. Being a writer for most of my career, I found MAELED suited for the academic-research writing type of professionals for the programs gets you to take a lot of language and writing classes. As for my hope to finish CREA, I would just have to attend more seminars and practice as much as I could. Ateneo de Manila also offers an interesting PhD program called Language and Literature, and my friends and I could consider should we have the time and resources in the future

Can Acid Reflux Be Cured at Home?

2010-05-19T07:14:00.000+08:00

While the attack of Acid Reflux needs to be checked immediately by a medical doctor, it does not mean that it can’t be treated the natural way. Nowadays, there are various home remedy solutions available to treat this type of disease, which often attacks its victims unpredictably. You might not be aware of it, but a teaspoon of one of your condiments at home might just be one of the best solutions to your acid reflux problem.

One of the simplest and often available solutions you can find at home is the Apple Cider Vinegar. It might belong to the acid family, but don’t you worry because it is a good acid. Just add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to ½ glass of water and sip that while eating your dinner and you are already on your way to curing your acid reflux.

Another way is to use anise and lavender tea. All you need to do is mix together equal amounts of anise seed and lavender, boil 2 ½ cups of distilled water, and pour the boiling water onto the teaspoon of the herbal mixture. Wait for 3-5 minutes before you strain the tea. You can also add in a bit of honey to make your mixture a little sweeter. Drink at least 8oz of the tea in the morning and in the evening to succesfully experience relief from acid reflux. This natural remedy helps reduce the amount of acid in your stomach.

There are many other natural ways you can treat your acid reflux problem, but these two are the ones that are easy to find and do. These cures could surely help relieve your acid reflux problems, but if you still experience heartburn often even if you’ve tried treating it the natural way, then it’s best to consult your doctor.

Your comments are very much open here.

How To Fight Fatigue in the Workplace

2010-05-19T07:08:00.000+08:00

Worrying too much about your work or the tasks that need to be done promptly primarily causes stress and fatigue in the workplace. Developing pressure from the top management also contributes a lot in our stress and fatigue. Psychologists say that fatigue is primarily caused by anxiety, illness, poor diet, or a sleep disorder. From the obvious to the extremely complex, the cause of fatigue can be as varied and intertwined as the depleted individuals experiencing its affects, and yes, almost totally avoidable.
There are actually several ways on how we could reduce and/or totally eliminate stress and fatigue in the workplace. Following these simple instructions and advices could actually help you solve your over-fatigue and stress problems.

1. Stop Worrying

Easier said than done, as most would say; but really, if and only if you will stop being anxious of your next work day, you will later realize that your life is getting a lot lighter and easier since the day you shoved that I-will-worry-about-this-and-that attitude. It may not be easy, but it’s worth practicing. Learn to live your life one day at a time. Enjoy the rest of the day in your hands and if ever there are still tasks or work piles that need to be finished by tomorrow, face it tomorrow. Never push yourself to the limits especially if it’s surely going to take a toll on your health.

2. Think Positive.

If you keep on looking at the negative side of your job, your angst about you’re your complaints, etc, you’ll see that little by little, your energy is going lower and lower until it becomes drained. Even your motivation will also fall flat down to zero if you will not stop choosing to see the downside of every situation and interaction in your job and in your workplace. Try to think positively about your work, avoid negative-thinking co-workers, and pat yourself on the back about small accomplishments, even if no one else does.

3. Junk the “I want everything perfect” attitude

Stop being your own self-critic. Don’t be too hard on yourself by feeling so stupid when you didn’t meet your expectation of yourself. No project, situation, or decision is ever perfect, and you put undue stress on yourself by trying to do everything perfectly. When you set unrealistic goals for yourself or try to do too much, you’re setting yourself up to fall short. Do your best, and you’ll do fine.

4. Practice your sense of humor

Life won’t be complete without some sprinkles of fun and laughter. It’s okay to be serious in your job, but never overdo it. It’s never a mortal sin to laugh every once in a while even if you’re in the middle of a pressing work assignment. Try to find something worth laughing or even smiling about in your situation. Find a way to break through in every difficult situation. You may not notice it but these little sprinkles of laughter could actually lighten your mood and even your colleagues and could eventually help you finish your tasks well.

5. Get a Life

Never ever make your profession your life. At least try to have other outlets outside of your office. Spend quality time with your family and friends—and we mean spend time with them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Try not to think of your work when you are with your family. Doing so will not only create stronger and more intimate relationship with your loved ones, it will also help recharge your mind and body.

6. Listen to your favorite music.

Music is a powerful tool in relieving stress. Regardless of what type of music you fancy on, hearing your fave tunes could already rev up your senses and soothe your tired mind and body. Listening to music does wonders to alleviate stress. Everyone has different tastes in music. We should listen to the music that makes us feel comfortable. Sitting down and forcing yourself to listen to relaxation music that you don't like may create stress, not alleviate it. Music is a significant mood-changer and reliever of stress, working on many levels at once

7. Get enough sleep

Get as much as 8-10 hours of sleep everyday—no matter how busy or hectic your schedules are. Practice ‘good sleeping hygiene.’ That means going to bed and waking up at the same time, not drinking a lot of caffeine or alcohol. Also, don't use the bed for much more than sleep. Avoid eating, watching TV, or readings on bed as these things could only make you hold yourself back from sleeping.

8. Exercise

Exercise is a great stress-relief aide -- even if you're too tired for it, says Mack. "If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired for whatever reason, exercise might be the last thing you feel like doing. But moderate amounts of exercise can actually help your mood. You will have more energy and require less sleep. Exercise will make you more tired at night, and you will fall into a deeper sleep, get better rest."

9. Eat healthy foods

Eating the right amount of healthy foods could certainly lower your stress level. Furthermore, eating your meals properly at the right time can do so much wonder to your weary mind and body. Never ever skip meals. Even if you are on the rush going to work, never ever skip breakfast. Eating breakfast contribute a lot in making you totally rev up and brisk for the entire working day.

26 in May

2010-05-09T22:57:00.001+08:00

No, I did not turn 26 on May 2010; I am a January daughter. The title was dubbed such just because the creative juice for this article was squeezed in this month.

The heat (yes, the heat) prompted me to share a rundown of 26 thoughts that kept recurring in my sub-and pre-conscious mind.

1. It is not environmentally just to take away stones, shells, corals, etc. whenever you travel to beaches. Leave the elements where they reside--living or non-living.

2. Applesauce can be a substitute for egg if one is into vegan-baking.

3. Read the book of Gabriel Garcia Marquez titled "One Hundred Years of Solitude" for a good world view.

4. Beauty is never synonymous to barely-clothed women fronting pages of magazines.

5. Even badly-punctuated billboards can disrupt minds.

6. Watch plays often instead of pop movies.

7. Being single is not a curse.

8. Do not listen to Kris Aquino 7 times a week.

9. If you must watch a film, try Antonia's Line.

10. Read poetry made by the likes of Rilke and Shakespeare.

11. Beef is better than pork.

12. If you are bored, try reading about Language family trees (either you'll get more bored or you'll discover a thing or two.)

13. Write journals about you and the environment, with sincerity.

14. Let the wind play with you hair at times (rephrased from Khalil Gibran).

15. Try living in a farm once in your life.

16. Listen how Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, and Wendy talk.

17. Freud contributed a lot to psychology, but I see him more as a great literary master because of his work on the patient named Dora.

18. Cellphones can magnify distance.

19. Showbiz talk shows in the Philippines promote a personalistic culture.

20. If you love someone, "show don't tell".

21. Forgiveness is a great form of love.

22. Say sorry--and mean it.

23. Walking does a lot of wonders.

24. Grief is healing in itself.

25. You will love more than one person in your life--not unless you die as early as 7.

26. You have the right to react if you find any in the list erroneous.

Forced Forgetting

2010-05-04T10:06:00.005+08:00

He showed roughness every now and then thinking it would make her believe everything was meaningless--he would take west when she's at the east route; he won't read her messages; he would make her jealous. He would date anyone whose qualities are near hers. In the end, it's not the woman who has gone on deep mud. 'Twas him who couldn't take how life changed his heart into a bitter stone. 'Twas him who can't figure out how he played it like a child. 'Twas him left standing on a ground of lies and betrayal.

Poetic Love (even without saying it)

2010-04-22T20:55:00.002+08:00

He is reserved; she is unfolded.

The girl lean on her man's shoulder. The two mention not a single word. After a few moment, the man places his head on the girl's head, too. They sat all night just staring at one direction.

Communication Vill Asia Opens On 30 January 2010

2010-01-26T16:23:00.002+08:00

Communication Ville Asia (CVA) advocates advanced language learning through in-depth training, seminars, workshops, and lectures on four aspects--speaking, reading, listening, and writing.

The newfangled language center offers a 2-week program in Personality Development and Communicative Learning for a reasonable price of
Php 5,800, which in addition includes one-on-one training. Discount is offered to those who will enrol in cluster—say, 5,000 Php each for a group of three (3).

CVA will also hold weekend Foreign Language classes in Japanese, Spanish, and French.
CVA is also open to conduct lectures in your own venue given proper arrangement.

Our programs have been aligned to cater to the different needs of the market--from review for civil service tests, Licensure Examination for Teachers review (LET), job interviews, call center basics, college entrance tests, high school journalism/press conferences, essay examinations, business letters/office memorandums essentials, and the like.

In addition to this, CVA offers editing services for brochures, newsletters, leaflets, and other text materials.

The trainings will be facilitated by seasoned practitioners in the education, public relation, and academic/ creative writing fields. Our lecturers hold masterals and doctorate degrees from reputable universities and have been in their respective specialization for at least 10 years.

Should you wish to ask further details, please refer to the following contact details: (02) 9714- 897, (02) 499- 9638, 0915- 619-6258, 0917-341-9300,
0926-758-8798, 0915-472-9073, email: commvill_asia@yahoo.com

We offer:
 Personality Development
 English Readiness Program (TOEIC, TOEFL IBT, TSE, TWE, IELTS)
 Accent Training (American & British)
 Grammar Enhancement
 Preparatory Review ( Civil Service, LET, University Entrance Test)
 Foreign Language Training (Spanish, French, & Nippongo)
 Corporate & Interview Essentials

Farewell Tweets of Michelle for me:-)

2010-01-07T19:03:00.000+08:00

My super adik friend Michelle kept devoted her entire day today bullying me through twitter. Seemed as though she started enjoying her twitter page because of me:-) hahahah!

her tweets:

facebook news: michelle just bought a machine gun from mafia wars and is about to shoot jun pyo's recent, crazy fan - apple lopez.

Apple, please stop the SUBTLE TORTURE!! With your annoying korean song and JUN PYO....>>(MafiaWars: michelle bought wild e coyote)

apple lopez is leaving mandarin for good. countdown: 1 day. I.T. will upgrade her desktop on monday! nyahaha!

apple, since it's your last day tomorrow, the world needs to know... 1. your super crushes: philip queyquep & lex, trainee or Capt's Bar!

apple, since it's your last day tomorrow, the world needs to know...2. your workstation looks like alice's wonderland, WORST version.

apple, the world needs to know...4. that your friends are clueless about u, wonders where the heck you got that level of confidence??

apple, the world needs to know...5. that you don't find eating as pleasure but habit.

repost: apple, the world should know>3.the Christmas gifts u gave your friends should have a note "wrappers&ribbons, compliments of momnl"

apple, the world needs to know... 6. your total working hrs is 10. work=3hrs, cyberstalk=2hrs , loiter=5hrs.

repost: apple, the world needs to know... 7. you WENT on leave to stalk your crush once. route:buendia>makati ave>ayala>makati ave>buendia.

Seriously, even if this lady is really an adik most of the time, i find these tweets sweet:-) It's like her way of saying she'll surely miss me:-) and in fairness to her, she has a future in writing how-to articles:-)

Sigh. I'll surely miss my MOMNL family:-)

Heart, Mind and Body

2009-11-23T05:14:00.004+08:00

People nowadays are really conscious of their self-appearance, especially me.

I’m one of those who stay long time in front of the mirror before leaving the house to go to school, to work, or go anywhere. The reason is that I’m not one you can admire because of my looks. I don’t have that great body figure that can melt a girl’s heart away.

At one point I aspired and wished to become a vocalist for a band, or a band instrument player that everyone idolizes, but I just don’t have what it takes.

Ever since childhood I always move along trying to improving myself, wanting to be appreciated and noticed by other people, especially by those I have special feelings for. I was always on the lookout for the right products that would make me feel satisfied when I look in the mirror. “Who’s the handsome of them all?”, I talk to myself in front of the mirror, because my answers are the only ones I can accept.

I closely examine all corners of my face. I stand sideways in the mirror and gaze at my stature, my clothes, my whole self. I will just stand there and stare thinking what else do I need to improve my looks.

My teen years were tough when appearance became more and more significant. I think back to those long hours standing in front of the mirror staring at the huge zit on my face thinking how I am going to get it off before someone sees it. I remember trying out “Master Eskinol, Secreto ng mga gwapo” (handsome hunk’s secret) skincare product, but still pimples keep coming out and my face got a lot worse.

In my attempt to get my crush’s attention I have even tried a skin whitening soap to make my skin fair, but it wasn’t effective as girls don’t seem to care much about a man’s skin tone.

I experimented with my hair style and changed my wardrobe, from shoes to accessories. These didn’t work either. I was still invisible to others.

There was a period when I decided to enrol in a gym class attempting to achieve an “abs of steel” in a few months time. After weeks of working out I started seeing results and I could see good muscles in my arms and abs. I walk through our street and it felt like everyone was looking at me in a different way (or was it just my imagination). Women I pass look at me straight in the eyes. I was even approached by a girl and asked for my phone number. But my hunk body didn’t last long. One day I was rushed to the hospital for an emergency appendicitis surgery. I was inactive for some time and then I completely lost my desire to go back to the gym. My body dropped down and I was back to my flabby self.

My appearance did improve as years passed but it took time and it was a slow journey. But I still felt I lacked something overall. I was perpetually unsatisfied with the way I look. I wanted everyone that I admire to like me. When they don’t and I’m heartbroken, I instantly become depressed.

I get headaches thinking “why, what’s going on with me?”

No one knew this. During bouts of self pity I cry alone in my room. Being the darkest skinned among my brothers always affected a part of me secretly. Those tears of self pity because of my appearance, because I was different in my style, my actions, in the way I think. It seemed I lost the feeling of being acceptable and presentable.

Then one day, for whatever reason, I found myself looking in the mirror that once showed my flaws… this time in a different way.

With a simple shift in attitude I finally found the courage to look in the mirror and see a person who is so full of potential, a precious being, a gift from above, a unique person inside and out, a result of love and hope.

After all this time I was placing my attention on the outward image while ignoring my inner connection with God. I didn’t realise He’s always been on my side and His love is reflected in me.

I was never satisfied because I was looking at myself the wrong way!

What I couldn’t see under this all is God’s glorious creativity within me. I am special because I was made in the very image and likeness of God.

Knowing Him is to know yourself and your potential to greatness. God is more than enough to fill up our inner emptiness. In knowing Him we can find satisfaction.

I have learned to appreciate my flaws, look at whatever hateful thing I saw in myself as part of who I am. I no longer pity myself, no longer envious of my brothers’ and other people’s strengths. I embrace my true self exactly as it existed, zits and all.

It all starts in our hearts - the change in how we see ourselves.

Surrender your hearts under the care and guidance of God.

Our hearts are capable of accepting anything be it happiness or pain. Even if it takes a long time, our hearts are able to heal. You nourish your heart by learning to love yourself as God loves you, accept everything about you. Believe God has moulded you into loveliness and a person with full potential. If sometimes you feel things are not fair and you feel trampled on by others, just accept and learn to overcome. Look at it as an opportunity for spiritual progress then go forward with your faith undaunted. Remember if God allows these sufferings it is because he wants us to learn and come out of these trials as a person not easily broken.

Our hearts can do us harm too. If we let it plan its way without God’s guidance, our hearts can explore things we have no understanding and may lead us in the wrong direction.

“I know, my God, that you examine our hearts and rejoice when you find integrity there.” 1 Chronicles 29:17

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. “ Matthew 7:7

Our Mind enters when our hearts can’t bear a situation and can’t see the bigger picture.

Our mind helps us to think, ask, and look for answers. What are we going to do, how will we react, and how will we make the decisions that will influence our actions.

Continue to search for God. Nourish our minds by learning God’s words and His ways. Fill your mind with the things of God. This will give us wisdom, knowledge and understanding.

We should teach our minds to explore more about his grace, and use this as guidance to make the right decisions.

Again, without God’s guidance our minds can explore things we have no understanding and may lead us to troubles in the end, because our minds can cause us harm too.

Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how God and pleasing and perfect his will really is.” Romans 12:2

Let your heart and mind work together toward God, for then and only then will your body follow.

If we don’t recognise our connection with God, we tend to abuse ourselves. Many of us don’t care for our bodies as we know we should. We follow the directions of other people and accept many things without thinking whether they are right or wrong.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts.” Psalm 139:23

Through my childhood up till now, I know through my own experiences God has always been there guiding me all through my up and down moments. I rejoice finding obstacles in myself, since embracing and overcoming them brings me closer to Him. If you just let your heart and mind be nourished by wonderful things about God, and allowing it to flow through your body, you could become the perfect person that sees beyond his outer flaws, the role model for others to follow.

The path to knowing God personally is never-ending. My journey continues as my life goes on.

I still run into big problems every now and then and my life seems to have become much more complicated lately. But so long as I know in my heart, mind and body that God dwells within me and in each one of us, and is there watching our every move, his words guiding us in all that we do.

I know right now, God is talking to you, like He does to me.. All you have to do is listen.

God Bless and thanks for reading my story.

Jigsaw Puzzle

2009-11-16T05:32:00.002+08:00

I went to mall last week for a short stroll, just to refresh myself on what’s new and latest trends in clothes, computers, and movies.

I checked every shop for special deals and new arrivals. I got a little tired walking and my window-shopping somehow got boring until I browsed through the “Toy World” shop.

I remember those times in the Philippines.. Every time I go home from work, I always end up window-shopping in this mall that is directly connected to my train station (MRT). The mall is also along the main road (EDSA) where I can find either bus or taxi whenever I miss my train.

I had one favourite toyshop in that mall. I remember spending hours looking through those matchbox cars and those little action figures that I dreamt of having when I was kid. If I had the money to blow I would have bought all those toys so I can display them in my room, to satisfy my childhood dream to become the supreme ruler of toys, own them in all possible ways.

So I entered the “Toy world” shop and I felt just like child again while walking around this store. I was imagining myself playing with these amazing toys. It’s a refreshing place to escape real life for a while, forget about your work your busy schedule and escape from your troubles.

As I wandered around the back end of the shop that doesn’t seem to be browsed through that much, I found the learning toys or those toys that encourage creativity and curiosity.

For some reason, there’s one toy that captivated me all of a sudden.

This is a “jigsaw puzzle” of a stunning picture. It’s so cleverly done holding hundreds of pieces in perfect position. The surface has got a glossy finish that reflected my face as I looked through.

As I stood there looking at the pieces in this puzzle, I started thinking about the “pieces” in my life - my family, my friends, the people I loved, events, achievements and celebrations.

I closed my eyes and looked back over the jigsaw puzzle of my life. There’s such a mixture of good and bad, joy and tears, happiness and sorrow. Every person, situation, goals, and trials - each one signifies a piece of my puzzle.

There are pieces that were hurtful. There are pieces that seemed out of place.

However each piece plays an important role.

And when enough time passes for every piece to ease into perfect place, there will be a big picture. A beautiful picture will reveal itself, one that represents myself, my character and my achievements.It will be a picture of hard work, an image of what God wants me to be.

I wonder how my puzzle is going to look like in the end? Am I near complete?

How much more pieces are there to be laid? Will I ever find all my pieces? I want to see the big picture.

But one thing for sure, there’s one piece that stands out as the most important piece in my life. It is my corner piece and it anchors my puzzle. From this corner piece I frame the image I am piecing together. This piece gives me an idea of what my image would be and how wonderful it would all look like.

This piece is God.

God is my strength and my cornerstone and I build my puzzle in the direction

He guides me. Knowing I have God’s guidance gives me hope in whatever I do. He helps me realise that those pieces of my past and present that have caused me pain are there to complete the picture and how he wants me to use them in my life.

I am grateful for the pieces of my life’s puzzle that I have found through experience and commitment to knowing God and his word. They have built my character today and a glimpse of what God has meant for in my life.

It takes a lot of effort to find the right pieces of the puzzle. Some pieces take more time and come harder. However God helps me to understand that my puzzle fits together in His own design and time. Gradually as my pieces fall into place, I am being molded into the man God has destined me to be.

Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands. Deuteronomy 8:2

I believe God wants us to be a part of other’s life puzzle too. He wants us to be willing to be used by Him to warm and touch other people’s hearts and to draw hurting people closer to Him.

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

When I look back over my life I can’t help but wonder what kind of piece am I to other’s puzzle.

Was I a great fit or did I just try to make myself fit, to the point of forcing it even if it wasn’t meant to be?

Two of my friends met their husbands through me.

I’ve led someone to pursue his talents and take up the right course in college.

One found true happiness through my encouragement and advise.

I’ve shared some of my ideas that made them successful in what they do.

But it’s not all positive..

I’ve given other people headache because of my shortcomings and wrong decisions.

I’ve created hurts to others because of my lack of regard for their feelings.

I’ve done a lot of really painful things in my life.

I’m not perfect but I try to be the best person I can be. The parts of me that are not pleasant I try to change. I try to make good things happen, but if they’re just not meant to be I’ve also learnt to let go and just listen to my heart and trust the Lord.

There may be situations in our lives that have caused us to ask ourselves - Where am I going? What am I called to do? Why me? Why this?

Instead of searching for answers, I just keep going on. I believe it is because of these pieces that other pieces are able to ease into place. Without those pieces I won’t be able to move on. Even though they cause me pain and heartache, they bring me one step closer to being complete. They make me the person I am today.

Let’s start putting pieces of our puzzle together. Fill the empty spaces. It could be very frustrating at times but extremely rewarding each time you find a piece that fits. If you find it difficult to look for a missing piece, stop and take a step back. The answers could just be right in front of you all along.

Let’s not shy away from “being a piece”. Inspire others by sharing who you are and how you have succeeded. Help them through their pain because you’ve walked a lot of those pains. Make a difference in their lives through your kindness.

Go in search for all the pieces of your puzzle across life.

Never give up with a piece that hurts.

And I hope it’s God you’ve found first in your jigsaw puzzle…

He sees the big picture, He knows what piece go where.

He will help you piece it all together.

PS:

Just recently, I was fortunate enough to witness and capture the talent of young kids in this video link.Somehow I feel I’m a fitting piece in their life’s puzzle.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHoZUfXUbdQ

"You Can't Keep A Good Woman Down" by Alice Walker

2009-09-08T09:10:00.004+08:00

Among the books the weallexist recommends to its dear readers is Alice Walker's You Can't Keep A Good Woman Down.

Published in 1981, the book is a collection of splendid stories.

'Pulitzer-winning author Alice Walker often concerns herself with various types of violence toward women. Her stories are often painful to read, but she uncovers insights about race, gender and human resilience along the way.'--(search.barnesandnoble.com)

Proofreading Services by DBW

2009-09-07T16:46:00.001+08:00

"Creative Non-Fiction: A Manual for Filipino Writers" by Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo

2009-09-05T18:05:00.003+08:00

The book "Creative Nonfiction: A Manual for Filipino Writers" is rich with texts from other nonfiction works penned over the years. Among the topics discussed by the book were Strategies of Creative Nonfiction and Types of Creative Nonfiction. Hidalgo has a brilliant way of setting readers in a classroom mood that the book is a teacher in itself. This writer's copy was bought at F. Sionil Jose's Solidaridad at Padre Faura, Manila, priced at P250.

Recommending the book "Sleepless in Manila"

2009-08-30T13:44:00.004+08:00

If my memory serves me right, I've been a periodic insomiac since I learned how to romance with books and scribble letters to any paper. To have chanced upon the book "Sleepless in Manila", edited by Christina Pantoja Hidalgo, was a relief. A relief in a way that I got to read essays,poems, and even medical explanation from the expert. The pieces in the book sure have humors creatively thought. It was also good to know that some of the Filipino writers in the book are friends, while some,whose others works I read before, were familiar names.

If I'd have the luxury of time, I might do a review of it for weallexist, but for now, this post is simply to recommend the encompassing book for all of you--insomiacs or not.

Pursuit

2009-08-30T13:17:00.005+08:00

(after Ramon C. Sunico)
By Exie Abola

This pencil hovers. You surface
from the dusk of dreams.

The eyelids flutter sleep away.
The things press against the pillows
in sleepy regret of the dissipating night.

This slender wooden limb's desire:
to inscribe your waking warmth
into each letter.

It pauses, a familiar fear:
the slivers of graphite
like bottles in a heap.

Then it recalls its pursuit
of the word-worn rose, and resumes.
The page fills:

the sunrise on your brown body.

2003

---
Source: One Hundred Love Poems: Philippine Love Poetry Since 1905, eds. Gemino H. Abad, Alfred Yuson, The University of the Philippines Press,2004, p.86

"Verbs with Verve: Refresher Course in Grammar" Seminar

2009-08-28T22:00:00.003+08:00

What's wrong if you're not chosen?

2009-08-28T11:12:00.001+08:00

…is what I always ask myself whenever I realise that things did not go the way I wanted it, because it was not meant for me, or simply because I was meant to learn something from it.

You put your heart and soul into doing one thing, you put your best foot forward, you strive and pray for it, however at the end of the day, there will be only one person who will be rewarded with the pot of gold, the lucky winner, the only chosen one.

Imagine Cinderella has a friend named Hopefella who’s always there for Cinderella whenever she needed someone to talk to about the maltreatment of her sisters.A friend who’s always at Cinderella’s side and never ceases to encourage her to not surrender, Hopefella herself has her own personal pain and grief as she is also going through the same difficult situation with her master. But at the end of the fairytale, the Fairy Godmother can only give one pair glass of shoes for one person to find happiness and everlasting love. She only came for Cinderella and no one else.

Have you ever felt this way? Have you ever felt like something kind of belongs to you but you can’t have it?

I can empathise with you. I know how it feels…. because I’m always second choice.I’m never first with anything… and it gets harder everyday.

There are some things I want to share, true stories of my (not so pleasant) experiences of life. Things that get me and pull me down to..somewhere.

I don’t think my stories below are any different from yours..

During my childhood days, I was that kind of person who’s always looking for a special attention from my family, friends and schoolmates. Unfortunately no one except my parents paid special attention to me.

But even though I know that my parents love me, as a child sometimes I felt that they really don’t care about me much. I have three brothers and I feel that they are always catered to and favoured compared with me.

Perhaps it was because I wasn’t that cute, cheerful, adorable child people like to pinch. Perhaps it’s because I was dark skinned, maybe I was naughty, or maybe because I was too shy and insecure.

My childhood friends don’t call me whenever they plan to play “patintero”(tag game).

They would call on me only because they’re missing one player. Most of the time

I’d just be standing on the side of the street watching while they continue playing forever.

Sometimes we’d watch a movie together and then we’d play the characters in the movie we’ve just seen. They wouldn’t allow me to play the hero though and always I’d be the bad guy who gets up and starts beating the main character.

I always do my best work at school but I was never good enough or smart enough to be a favourite pupil.

Whenever our teacher would ask us to form ourselves in groups, I sometimes pity myself because my friends (even my seatmate! who I talk to most of the time) don’t seem to want to group with me. I’d find myself either alone, or in a group that lacked a label. I had very few friends. I’ve spent a lot of time in a secluded corner with the unpopular kids… kids like me that are sometimes picked on and teased, or otherwise ignored.

When 6th grade came around, things changed a bit when I became part of the volleyball varsity in our school. Our team made our way up to the district level competitions and I was chosen to be part of the final team that goes to the final level. Or so I thought because my coach disagreed. I thought I was going to make my big debut at volleyball, but that day became the collapse of my sports career.

I didn’t get any Merit badge or any award during my scouting days because I didn’t belong to a higher troop.

I was aiming for a 1st place award in Metal Crafting competition we had in school. I’ve put so much and time and effort into mastering every detail of the piece that we will make in the event only to be told that I’d have to be disqualified because of an accident cut in my hand during the competition. I almost fell apart, nothing is more frustrating than that.

I’m highly unsure on what exactly was going on and oftentimes I’d ask myself is this what real life is all about?

Am I that clumsy and un-attentive that I always make the same basic mistake every single time?Is it because of my appearance that I’m never a personal favourite among my friends? Perhaps because I cannot afford anything to share to others so I can make more friends.Or maybe because of the slight speech deficiency I had which was a very obvious flaw in my character?

I continued to ask God what this all means.

Why am I always rejected.

Why am I always the one left behind..

the person not chosen ?

I have come away sometimes with wonderful ideas, but I’m more easily ignored

I have some good thoughts and suggestions, but no one seem to be interested.

For most people my best was never good enough

I tried so hard to get noticed, but I’m still the invisible one.

I’ve tried to reach out and care..but there’s no one there

Is there something wrong with me?

I’ve loved someone who didn’t love me and I’ve loved someone who’s loved me at one time but couldn’t sustain her feelings because she thinks there’s a far better person than me. I’ve experienced the latter twice.

One prayed for a sign from heaven that whoever does something first is the one.

One thought I’m childish and not emotionally mature enough to handle a relationship.

Is this really my lot in life, to constantly love people who can’t love me ?

When Pope John Paul II visited the Philippines the second time around, I remember my father and I were watching TV about the event. There was a segment in the TV program where a girl was being interviewed and was introduced as the child whom the Pope carried during his first visit to the Philippines.

My father remembered something when the name of our hometown (Villamor Air Base) where Pope John Paul plane first landed, was mentioned. He said he was there too, and he was one among those parents holding their child up in the air as if in offering toward the Pope. In Catholic tradition, the Pope is expected to carry one child and it will be a beautiful blessing.

My father told me I was the child he was carrying. The Pope stopped in front of my father and stretched out his arms, and as my father lowers me down towards him he realised the Pope shifted his body and chose to carry the child beside me.

Now let me say this again…Why not me?

I’m only human, I can’t help but dream that one day I’ll be loved so much that I’m the one that is chosen. I want to be loved for my flaws and my oddness, unconditionally and unwaveringly.

What’s keeping my hope alive right now is the thought that with God and my prayers, I know those whishes will come true.

God is the one who showed me wonderful ideas, that’s why I listen to him.

He teaches me good thoughts, that’s why I follow him.

He reaches out to me and I’m holding his hands so tight.

He’s doing His best for me, that’s why I’m doing my best to share His love and a lot of my heart to other people no matter who they are.

In the story of Abraham (Genesis 21: 1-32), when God promised that Abraham will become the father of all nations he was confused because his wife Sarah is in old age and can no longer become pregnant. But God told Sarah that she will bear a child and told Abraham to name it Isaac. But before Isaac born Abraham had a child named Ishmael from Sarah’s slave named Hagar. Sarah was worried that Ishmael would try to lay claim to Isaac’s inheritance and told Abraham to drive out the slave and her son out of their land. Abraham didn’t like Sarah’s idea but God told to Abraham to listen to his wife because it is Isaac who is the one who will bear his seed.

In this story you will see that Isaac is the chosen one, but God told Hagar not to be afraid and worried because He will take care of them and will make a great nation out of Ishmael’s descendants.

A similar story is in Genesis 48:17-19, when Jacob gave his blessings to his son Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh. When Joseph saw that his father has laid his hand upon Ephraim, he was not pleased, and he tried to take hold up his father’s hand to remove if from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s head for he was his first born.

But Jacob refused and said: “I know it, my son, I know it. He too will become a people and he too will become great. But, just the same, his younger brother will become greater than he will, and his offspring will become the full equivalent of nations.”

There’s a lot of stories in the bible confirming that the ones that are not chosen are blessed by God as well. Jeremiah 29: 11 “for I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

The ones that are not chosen may not be the top employees in their company, but they are winners in the hearts of their colleagues, friends, and their family.

So what’s wrong if I’m not chosen?

Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad?

I really shouldn’t be.

Because I know within me, that I’m not alone. Although I’m rejected by people, I know that someone out there is willing to choose me, even if we don’t choose Him, even if we push him aside. He wouldn’t leave us alone even though we have to endure many trials in our lives.

He knows how it is to be rejected and not chosen but his understanding is much more than man’s foolish understanding.He is Jesus Christ our lord, our God. Remember he died for us just to save our sins, to make us free, and be connected again to God, our big boss in heaven.

Just continue to hold to your faith and be fervent in your prayers.Do not fret at all that’s happening around and believe that God will make a way for your time to shine.

In the meantime,I do not mind not being chosen…

I do not want to let my head get in the way of my heart. I want to be so humble and childlike that God can use me as He wishes.

I am willing to be weak and without a will of my own, if this all means just submitting myself to the righteousness of God and letting His will be done in my life.

——

I dedicate this piece to the loving memory of my friend Ms Ai (Aileen Betic.)…you will never be forgotten, may the Lord watch over your soul. My heart goes out to the rest of her family and friends. Stay encouraged because she is with the Lord.

Rainbow

2009-08-10T06:35:00.004+08:00

Have you seen a rainbow lately?

Just recently after a rain, I have witnessed two beautiful rainbows side by side appear in the sky. I've seen lots of rainbows but never one like this one.
I feel very lucky to have been able to see this. It’s a special thing and was such a wonderful sight to see. At the same time I felt a warm contented feeling inside.
It has left me with a peace and sense of gratefulness I have not experienced in a while.

Where I am I see rainbows all the time.
Maybe it’s because of this weird Auckland weather where rain is kind of on and off and coming from all directions. But I knew in my heart it is God working on me, I needed to be reminded that he is always there for me and I wasn’t alone.

I remember that day I was travelling the road home with friends and there was a light rain shower outside. Our usual route was pretty much all motorway and there wasn’t a lot so we decided leave the main road and turned left at the signposted “Mill Road” and take the back way home.

The backway route is our favourite. It’s a smooth ride and eventhough it’s narrow, it’s got scenic views of the mountains to the left and right. But the great part is this route goes up and down like a real roller coaster ride!

As we reached the top switched back and plunged downhill, there in front of us was the most beautiful sight. A huge beautiful rainbow appeared in front of us among the hills.

I said to the group, I’ve seen the same one before and I know where the ‘end’ of the rainbow exactly will be, and we will see it as we climb up the highest part of the road. So we all got very excited to see the place, our eyes stuck in the sky as we don’t want to miss one moment of this spectacular view.

The little kids in the car started asking questions about rainbows.
They knew about the story of the pot of gold hidden at the end of the rainbow but got excited when one of us told the tale of the seven colourful fairies that live at the end of the rainbow. The other one said if you touch a rainbow you will become pretty and the rainbow will impart lots of colours in your body that can’t be removed forever.

While the kids started laughing at the fairy tales, a flashback scene from my childhood popped into my head…

I saw my childhood friend holding colouring books. He had three but the one that says “Noah’s Ark Coloring Book” on the front caught my attention as it seemed to have a story. I approached him and asked if I could borrow the book for a while to read it. He looked at me and I noticed he thought twice before he handed me the book.

He asked me to be very careful because the book is a gift from his Aunty and it’s expensive. “Okay”, I said sheepishly as I sat beside him, but obviously he didn’t like me to stay close too him so I moved a little bit far.

So I started flipping through the pages of the coloring book. Some of the words I didn’t understand, but the drawings and the images fascinated me. On the left page is a colored scene from the story and beside it is a paragraph explaining the scene. On the right page is the same scene but in simple line drawing, the page to put colour into however one wants.

There was a scene in the clouds where two men are talking. There was scene where a man (Noah) was building an ark and on the side are people jeering and laughing at the him as if he was doing something crazy. The boat is then finished and the man’s family entered the ark along with two of all living creatures, small and big.

After the door of the ark was shut, heavy rain fell and the waters flooded the earth and every living thing on the face of the earth was wiped out. When the rain stopped, the man let loose a bird who came back with a flower in it’s beak. They all came out of the ark and as the man in the clouds spoke, the sun came out from the clouds and the rainbow appeared in the sky.

I understood as child that God gave instructions to Noah to build an ark, and gathered each every kind of animal, male and female, to put inside the ark along with his family, because God will punish all the mankind and other living creatures.
As I grew up and got to read the story of Noah from the Bible, I learned that the rainbow symbolises the covenant God made with man not to destroy the world in such a way again.

That’s why a rainbow for me means hope. God gave us a unique and beautiful sign that good things are coming and to remind us that He keeps His promises.

Everytime I see a rainbow, I smile because my spirit is renewed and my hopes are reborn.

I hope next time I see our next door neighbour, they’d be nicer to me.

I hope someday I could l rejoin my childhood friends.

I hope I could fix my parent’s house, so that they won’t experience a ‘flash flood’ in the living room anymore everytime a heavy rain comes.

I hope my experiences in life have shaped me into a strong and compassionate person.

As I came back to my senses I realised we have gone past the spot where I thought you can see the ‘end’ (or the start) of the rainbow coming from the top of a hill.

But the rainbow stayed with us until we reached our destination.

I hope whenever I am down and hurting I could see a rainbow,
To remind me that no matter what goes on in my life, there is always hope
and that no matter what happens, God does not want me to give up,
Like the promise of a rainbow I will be happy and I’ll brighten up.
I will have no troubles but instead help others with their troubles.
I will be strong and live my life to the fullest completely surrendered to God’s will …

"I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth. And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: And I will remember my covenant, which [is] between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that [is] upon the earth. " (Genesis 9:13-16)

Five Stages of Grief

2009-07-31T18:20:00.005+08:00

by Linda Partan

The night I lost you
someone pointed me towards
the Five Stages of Grief
Go that way, they said,
it's easy, like learning to climb
stairs after the amputation.
And so I climbed.
Denial was first.
I sat down at breakfast
carefully setting the table
for two. I passed you the toast---
you sat there. I passed
you the paper---you hid
behind it.
Anger seemed so familiar.
I burned the toast, snatched
the paper and read the headlines myself.
But they mentioned your departure,
and so I moved on to
Bargaining. What could I exchange
for you? The silence
after storms? My typing fingers?
Before I could decide, Depression
came puffing up, a poor relation
its suitcase tied together
with string. In the suitcase were bandages for the eyes
and bottles sleep. I slid
all the way down the stairs
feeling nothing.
And all the time Hope
flashed on and off
in detective neon.
Hope was a signpost pointing
straight in the air.
Hope was my uncle's middle name,
he died of it.
After a year I am still climbing, though my feet slip
on your stone face.
The treeline
has long since disappeared;
green is a color I have forgotten.
But now I see what I am climbing
towards: Acceptance
written in capital letters, a special headline:
Acceptance
its name is in lights.
I struggle on,
waving and shouting.
Below, my whole life spreads its surf,
all the landscapes I've ever known
or dreamed of. Below
a fish jumps: the pulse
in your neck.
Acceptance. I finally
reach it.
But something is wrong.
Grief is a circular staircse.
I have lost you.

Why I Love VCF (esp U-belt)

2009-07-12T19:04:00.000+08:00

Alive! Alive! Yan ang laging naiisip ng mga tao pag nakakarinig sila ng word na "Christian." To be honest, I also had that kind of impression back then. Blame it on our neighbor in Sampaloc before who used to hold Bible study sessions in their house and then singing Alive Alive, Alive forevermore afterwards. Or more so, blame it on the wrong and/or exgerrated portrayal of media about Christian fellowships and services (remember Jologs?).

But really, today's Christian fellowship services is no longer about crying and laughing and crying again, all eyes closed, and all hands waving (imagine the picture?). Christian fellowships nowadays are more into practical approach in order to entice more people into listening and talking about God and never to scare them out. Thankfully, more people no longer perceive Christianity as being baduy or boring, but rather, it's one of the coolest things to get involved with.

I am one of those thousands of born-again Christians who are blessed enough to have found God and be part of a church who is not legalistic in its manner of teaching God's laws--Victory Christian Fellowship. And for almost 3 years that I've been part of VCF, there was never really a time that I felt regretful or discontented of my chosen community.

To make u understand why I love VCF so much (especially U-belt), here are the reasons:

1. The teachings are practical. They will not command you to do this and that or tell you not to do this and that. Instead, they believe that your love for God will eventually help you do things according to God's will.

2. Every church service is like a seminar and a concert all rolled into one. Sabi nga ng isang friend q na naisama q sa U-belt one time, "ang saya naman, parang may concert lang." The setting is like in an auditorium with a big stage at the center, all musical equipments present. Even the design of the stage is fabulous! As for the preaching, para ka lang nakikinig ng homily na never kang aantukin at mabobore kse lahat ng messages, may weight tlga at super tatagos sa puso't isipan mo:-)

3. The music ministry is super awesome! As in wala aqng masabi. Para mo na ring napanood na nagperform ang Hillsong United at lahat ng worship singers ng live! Fabulous tlga!

4. The pastors are all good-looking:-) Wala ka tlgang itatapon!

5. Ang cool ng mga pastors! Nakakita ka na ba ng pastor na nag-super luigi sa service? or nag-ala matrix kya? or ng youth pastor na pinapasakay ang mga members sa jeep na nasa unahan at nde nakapila tapos sisigawa siya ng barker kse nga nde pa un ang susunod na jeep, tapos ipipilit pa din niya, tapos dadating ang head pastor at palokong tatanuning siyan: Why are you cheating?" at sasagutin lang niya na, "eh mababasa kse sila eh" in a boyish manner? sa VCF lang un:-) Or ng pastor na nagpapavote ng venue for retreat pero dadayain kunwari ung count? or ng pastor na nang mahulog ang cord ng mic pagbigay sa kanya ng isang church leader eh pinilit pigilin ang tawa at nasabi na lang eh: "Holy Spirit come back" sabay ngiti?

6. The technical team is marvelous! The powerpoint presentations, the slideshows, all the visuals, the audios, everything! Fabulous lahat! Even the background of the lyrics kapag pinapakita sa lcd screens are fabulous din!

7. It's fun being part of the ministry. Lahat ng ministries okay tlga. It's not only a venue to serve God but also, it serves as a way to meet with other Christians and have fellowship with them.

8. The topics are amazing. Tlgang pinagiisipan bawat series. They're making it in a way na nde ma-bobore tlga ang mga members.

9. The events and activities are really fun-filled and wonderful. From the 7-day fasting to Freshmen night, to singles teambuilding and retreat, to Christmas Parties, etc., all of these are fantastic!

10. The centers are all grand-. Para kang nanonood ng concert tlga. Sound-proof. Well-lit, big enough to house a big number of people. There are also different rooms for the Toddlers, kids from 3-5, and kids from 6-12.

Actually, i could write a lot of things about VCF that i love the most, but perhaps, these things are a perfect summary of all. I feel really blessed to be part of Victory Christian Fellowship.

To God be the glory!

Usapang Bata 1

2009-07-07T21:14:00.000+08:00

Dayalogo namin ni Chloe (my 5-year old cousin):

Ako: Beh, magiging magkapit-bahay na tau eh.
Chloe: Ayoko.
Ako: bket naman?
Chloe: Eh kse lagi aq pupunta sa inyo. Tandaan mo, magiging malaki bahay q.
Ako: pano naman?
Chloe: syempre magiging stewardess aq.
Ako: Eh ang taba-taba mo kya.
Chloe: Pagdating q ng 12, payat n aq.
Ako: Ano? 12 pa? Bket nde pa ngaun?
Chloe: eh syempre bata pa aq. pagdting q na lang ng 12.kakain muna aq ngaun.

Pambihira!

Don’t Worry

2009-06-09T11:54:00.003+08:00

I was given a chance to see how God works in everyone of us even in a little animal like a bird.. I didn’t know that I will see this message in all of my photos that I found curiously interesting to shoot. Anyway have a wonderful time watching this video. Godbless…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBwj0k98sto

7th Doreen Fernandez Food Writing Contest now on

2009-06-02T17:29:00.000+08:00

The 7th Doreen Fernandez Food Writing Contest is now on. The contest is a tribute to the country's one time dean of Philippine food columnists, a major national and international catalyst for interest in Philippine cuisine, and founding Vice President of the contest's manager: The Manila Ladies Branch of the International Wine & Food Society.The topic this year is biskwit: traditional cookies that have been part of Philippine cuisine, nationaly or locally, for at least 50 years.There are many types including pan de san nicolas, kamachile, uraro, roscas, biscoch principe among many others. Modern products like today's chocolate chip cookies are not included.For details, go to this link:http://www.ncca.gov.ph/about-ncca/announcements/announcement.php?i=930

Ricky Lee Joins NBDB Book Club's Discussion

2009-05-21T15:19:00.001+08:00

Prize-winning screenwriter Ricky Lee will be joining the NBDB Book Club’s discussion of his runaway bestseller Para Kay B on May 30, 2-4 pm, at Ortigas Foundation Library.
Selling more than 10,000 copies since its launch in November last year, Lee’s first novel contains five interrelated stories illustrating and deconstructing the many convolutions of love. Everyone who’s read the book is invited to attend this intimate one-on-one with the author and discuss why 4 out of 5 of us are destined to be devastated by love.
Para Kay B is available in major book stores for P250.
RSVP 926-8238

Green Peace

2009-05-18T12:50:00.003+08:00

Be aware of the possible global turmoil and solutions emerging from our country. Clipping from this site:

There is a lot to be done when protecting the planet for future generations and help is always welcome.Greenpeace volunteers help win campaigns.Greenpeace Southeast Asia provides volunteering opportunities for those who are interested in helping us out in the office and, occassionally, in the field.

For particulars, visit the site below.

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=87812196812&h=XqusH&u=iZ16Q&ref=mf

My Father's Dream

2009-05-08T11:06:00.000+08:00

I didn’t feel like waking up this morning, I wanted to fall back to sleep to continue my dream.

I dreamt of people I thought are part of my life. Each of them were in their own place doing their own stuff, and it seems they don’t want to be disturbed.

The first one was stacking papers until it got so high it collapsed on the floor, and then he started all over again.

The second one was painting on canvass and if it turns out not good he makes another one. He made a lot but didn’t finish anything.

The third person had lots of things around him but never touched any of those. He growled and seems like he wanted to keep all his stuff in an orderly manner and off-limits to anyone.

The last person I saw was wearing a soldier’s uniform but I couldn’t see his face. He was carrying no arms only medals and merit badges pinned all over his uniform. As I was coming up to him I heard the tone of my alarm clock. And then there was black hole, my dream ended. I never got to find out who that bemedaled person was.

I was thinking deeply about my dream while walking slowly towards my office this morning. And then suddenly it dawned upon me. Why have I forgotten that my father is a soldier! He’s a retired soldier, he left service almost a decade ago.

Thoughts about my father started flashing in my mind. His life as a soldier wasn’t easy, not for him and not for us. You have to be very dedicated, must have a strong character, must know the rules by heart, must obey and be able to execute commands from higher rank without questions. Most specially you must have a nationalistic heart, ready to make sacrifices to preserve peace and have the courage to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves.

My father’s life as a soldier is an inspiration to us. He took his first step to becoming a solider when he became “core commander” during his high school days. Being named highest ranking leader to a bunch of wide-eyed hopefuls, to me, is a big deal. He said that’s when he started thinking about pursuing a military career (and that’s how he captured my mother’s heart too!).

There was a time he was approached by an underground youth movement and was being recruited, but my father declined. He was thinking about his friends and the more than 200 students who were under him. He didn’t want to risk his life, but more than that he didn’t want to jeopardize the lives of his troop.

After graduation my father wanted to join the US Navy (during that time US has military forces in the Philippines). To join however one must undergo an examination, which my father failed. I think that was his first experience with failure, but that didn’t stop him from hoping that someday he will wear the uniform of a real soldier.

A few years later his dream came true when he finally got the chance to serve as Military Police (section of the military solely responsible for policing the armed forces, and work in military bases) and was assigned in Villamor Air Base.

He juggled between service and love for his country.. and his love for my mother. Every chance he had, he’d travel to see my mother in her boarding house in Manila and (take note!) he’d bring with him a basketful of vegetable and fish all the way from Zambales. They got married secretly and my father helped my mother to finance her studies. Once again they got married when my mother graduated from her teaching course.

My brother and I came into the picture a few years after and were witness when my father became a full-pledged soldier. He chose to stay with the Air Force, where he served as a military police, so we didn’t have to leave our home in Villamor Air Base.

My father has experienced unfair judgments during the “coup d’etat” in the late 80’s. Not given the chance to defend himself, he got demoted two ranks below and was sent to a short term confinement to an unmoving ship called “500” inManila Bay. He was one among those soldiers who didn’t have any choice. He suffered humiliation and difficulties the worst of which is being away from us his family. But it’s also nice that when we visit him I get to sleep in his bunk bed in the ship and we’d have the greatest day in prison.

My parents sent us to a private school for boys no matter how expensive it may be. I remember a time when my father was only receiving 500 pesos in his payslip, after debts and advanced loan payments taken off his salary. He was continually looking for alternatives to get a bit of money. During his break time at work he’d plant pechay , kangkong in the backyard of their office at the base for our own consumption and to sell when harvest is ready.

He’s also well known in our place for selling “mangoes”, sometimes he sells fish too. Sometimes I go with him, he rides the pedicab while I push or vice versa. He does most of the talking while I, being inherently “shy”, handle the list (of those who bargains to pay later!).

But the truth is, those time not one of us children was really sincere in helping him. We pointed fingers at each other about who’s turn it will be to go with him. I must admit I thought it was pretty desperate and we were degrading ourselves working in the streets. Deep inside me I was worried about becoming so dark skinned when I’m under the sun too much. I worried so much about what other people will say about us (private school children).

He was a real hardworking man. As a military father he was very strict. Before, he didn’t like us to be part of any physical activity and never let us go somewhere far like camp. He’s very protective and never lets us out of his sight. But not one of us ever doubted just how much he loved us. Both my parents are so kind, very humble and down-to-earth people, which is why our neighbours like them very much.

Maybe because of these experiences and hardships as a soldier, not any one of my brothers thought of following the footsteps of my father.

No one, except me.

I wanted to become a soldier too. I’m so fascinated with the uniform and the colourful badges. I somehow feel I’m responsible to protect others from harm. And somehow, even if he doesn’t speak about it, I felt that my father’s dream is to see one of his sons becoming a soldier one day. I saw my father’s eye’s sparkled as he handed me the application forPhilippine Military Academy. I told him I’d think about it but didn’t tell him I have hesitations.

I knew I will fail the physical exam because I can never meet the very stringent eyesight requirements. My father knows that too but that didn’t keep him from trying to encourage me. My one chance is to be a “Ground Officer”; you will be trained for six months in Camp Aguinaldo and be assigned to an office, not like most who will be assigned to the field. I had an uncle who is also a soldier and was willing to help me get there. Everything was set to go, except me.

I didn’t apply in the end. I didn’t understand what kept me from pursuing what I thought I wanted. Maybe I wasn’t really the one who will fulfil our father’s dream.

We don’t talk too much about it anymore. Maybe my father has already come to terms that no one will follow in his footsteps. But I’ve never stopped dreaming about becoming a soldier someday. Something inside me wanted live the life of soldier.

I remembered, I got the chance to attend a big event of the church community I belong too. It was a gathering of all the leaders within metro manila. There was a part in the program where anyone can go in front and share whatever the Holy Spirit commands you to. I felt something strange, I feel like there’s something stuck in my chest that I have to let out. My feet led me to the front and I started speaking in front of everybody. Mark 9:35 “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all“. I told everyone about my father’s dream that one of his sons will follow his footsteps. I thought I would be the one who will fulfil it but couldn’t because of reasons beyond my control.

At that very moment I realized God showed me another way of fulfilling this dream. Although I didn’t become a soldier of my country’s army. I was, right that moment, standing as a soldier of the Army of the Lord !

I’m very proud that my father has served our country. I hope someday he’ll be proud that I too became a soldier. A soldier of God fighting for those who are hurting, reaching out for the lost to His Kingdom. . At all times bearing God’s love.

As I write this, in my thoughts I pictured a scene. Two soldiers… me and my father… standing before our God…. proud that we did our job like good soldiers. We both have weathered the worst of the storm…and no matter how heavy the burdens we carry, we will not be swayed but will continue to walk the line towards righteousness and full obedience to God.

I dedicate this piece to Retired 1st Lt. Maximo S. Abela, PAF , my hardworking and loving father. You were, and still are, a tremendously powerful figure in my life.

I hope in my own way I have fulfilled your dreams.

A BROTHER’S WISH

2009-05-01T09:22:00.003+08:00

The other day I received a phone call from the Philippines, and it was my youngest brother on the other line. His voice sounded happy and it seemed like he wanted to tell me something, but hesitated and gave the phone to my mother.

The good news was he just got his working visa, and he will be leaving soon to work in another country!

I felt so blessed upon hearing the news. Back when when I was still in the Philippines, my brother would always tell me about his plans of going abroad. Now his prayer is granted, and I’m happy for him because he’ll be fulfilling one his goals too, which is to help our parents.

I would have been happier if he’s here in the same place with me. He is my brother whom I have a long conversations with, about things like school, our plans, his friends. I always beg for him to tell me about his crush in school. I know we can be together someday, but for now I’ll just pray for his safe trip, good health, and wish he doesn’t forget to pray always.

I remember my childhood days with my brothers.. We didn’t speak to each other much that you’d think we didn’t care about each other. We were not close, or sweet to each other. We usually hide our emotions and not showy of our true feelings. Even to our parents we were like that. We each had our own friends we were more comfortable being with.

But I remember there was a time when I was desperate for my elder brother’s attention and wanted to be with him wherever he goes. But I was always left behind, maybe because I was too young and he thought I’ll just be a nuisance to them.

But then again I was happy and proud whenever I hear people say good things about him.
All my cousins and relatives like him very much, he’s very good at drawing, he is a top boy scout during elementary days, all our playmates look up to him because he’s good in basketball (despite that he’s not quite tall). All in all he’s very smart, sweet, and damn cute too.

I know as a teenager growing up, he had some issues, some of those kept hanging on up to the time he became a father. There are times when we just can’t understand what he’s going through. But my parents were always there behind him, supporting him, guiding him to the right path, even though I think he’s not aware of that.

But then I know deep inside my brother’s hearts, there’s a man full of love and caring for others. I always pray that someday he could overcome his trials, accept the things of the past as a meaningful experience, and start anew with God in his life. Although he doesn’t seem to know that we are here for him, I’m still hoping that he will see the right path and have the heart to know God’s plan for him.

I wish I could feel his small hands again, holding me while were walking in a dark road going to our grandma’s house, saving me from our “sipa” game so I won’t become “ta’ya”, playing together in the sand under my Grandma’s “nipa” house. I wish we could play basketball once more under the “santol” tree unmindful of the small drops of rain gently falling from the sky.

I have 3 brothers, by the way, and a former soldier as a father that brought us up in a military way. That’s probably the main reason why within the family we’re not very showy of our feelings. It seems strange because outside the house, we all love sharing our feelings and were never hesitant to show our care and support to our friends.

My brother who came after me is one who loved to invite friends over to our house.

That’s how some of his friends have became my friends too, But the problem is when I got into trouble with one of his friends, he still insisted for his friend to stay over, no matter how uncomfortable it is for me to see him around. But when it’s him having problems with one of my friends, I have to choose my brother over my friend, send my friend home and not allow him to come over for a while, even if my brother’s the one at fault.
That’s the dilemma of being much older you know, you’re always expected to give-in to their demands and be much more understanding.

But then again I’ve learned a lot from my younger brother. He taught me to become more patient. I worked in my alma matter to help him finish school, and at the same time guide him through his university days. Although I hurt a lot when he’s being rude and a bit disrespectful… I assured myself it’s just a phase and he will change when he finishes his studies and becomes more mature.

For me it was like crossing over to the other side of a swiftly running river with water up to your shoulder while carrying a heavy load.

But what I like about my younger brother is he patiently perseveres in all his attempts and actions. He is much more caring to other people, he’s somehow a leader to his group, a very funny person, and loves helping my parents whenever us older brothers are not around.

I wish and pray for him to have a successful career, to be strong as he faces difficult times ahead, to be more responsible and self-disciplined, to be more affectionate and loving but not too sensitive.

I wonder what my brothers would wish for me?

Growing up with them, I know at times I’ve given them a hard time. Every time my father calls on someone to do the dishes, I always point my fingers to one of my two younger brothers. I acted like I’m the eldest because most of the time our eldest brother was not around. He studied far from our place and had to live in a boarding house. We only get to see him during sem breaks and holidays.

I sneak in my brother’s territory to use their clothes and shoes sometimes.

I thought that because I bring food to the table I should be exempt from any dirty house work.

Sometimes I think I’m doing all those as my scapegoat for my own personal grievances and for the pain and hurt I’m feeling inside. At times I think I’m a failure in my own personal life and that I’ve lost many things along the way because I always have to make sacrifices just to see them happy, sacrifices that other people never would have to consider making.

I’m usually looking for answers why I have to carry these loads, why I always find my self helping them and thinking about their welfare first instead of my own.

At the back of my mind, I know that in the end no one will remember and I will be left alone.

In the bible you can find stories about brothers, stories about the sibling rivalry, jealousy, favouritism, disobedient, and deceitfulness. There’s thestory of Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau, Joseph the Dreamer, and The Prodigal Son. These stories may give you some answers you’re looking for whenever you feel pain and don’t know how to handle things with your brothers and sisters. Stories that will make you feel strong and keep you from thinking bad things.

The pain and hurt are no longer there whenever I’m alone thinking about them… but I guess acceptance is an ongoing process.

I just wanted to grow with my brothers, what I have now they must have too, my blessings are their blessings too.

I will, with my magic wand, bring them here so we can all be together. But then life can’t be that easy. God doesn’t want it that way because we will not be happy and contented if everything’s done easily. He wants us to suffer sometimes and experience some pain and trials, so that we can come back stronger and better, happy that we’ve pulled it off and hold it together.

Let us recognize brothers in the bible that support each other in everything and were one in their belief in serving God. Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, all members of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ, the 3 brothers Shadrak, Meshak, and Abednego who opposed King Nebuchadnezzar, and a lot more not so popular that you can think of.

Together these brothers create powerful things. Even when faced with a big hurdle, it’s easy for them to overcome. Because there’s more than one of them pulling it all together!

It’s been more than a year now that I’ve been away. I’m missing my family so much already. Everyday I wish to myself that one day we would have a family reunion when we would swap stories about what happened in our pasts, our problems, experiences, our failures, our own family, about anything going on with our lives.

I imagine ourselves smiling and laughing at all these things we’ve survived and accepting of the things that brought us to where we are… more mature, more responsible, more loving family.

I imagine us four brothers serving God hand-in-hand in every way we possibly can.

PS:
I wrote this blog for all of my brothers, especially to my youngest brother who is now starting a new phase in his life in another country… God bless BRO! I am proud of you. Keep up the good work and know that your efforts will be rewarded in the fullness of God’s time.

Tony Espejo Announces Gantimpla 32nd Season

2009-04-23T16:46:00.001+08:00

In the recently concluded World Theatre Month, Tony S. Espejo, artistic director of Gantimpala Theater, was awarded the Outstanding Artist for Golden Years of Service. Together with other theater stalwarts such as Tony Mabesa and Onofre Pagsanhan, he is just one of the many luminaries given recognition by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the International Theater Institute, at the Malacanang Palace, when it concluded the month-long world theatre celebration.

Also, productions under his direction earned honors as well – The God Stealer/the Queen’s Jewel (2006 Best Non-Musical Production); Lifetime Achievement Award (2007), and Ang Pagong at ang Matsing (2008 Best Musical Production) – all from the ALIW Awards.

With all these accolades, Espejo beams with so much pride and is obviously in high spirits. In this exclusive conversation, he reveals his many thoughts and feelings about his first love and baby – which is the theater and of course, Gantimpala.

“I felt old,” laughs Tony, who immediately touches his silver hair as he flashes a beatific smile, when asked to react about his latest recognition. “Well, the NCCA Award was totally unexpected. When their office called me up and asked me to go to Malacañang to receive it, I was very elated. It occurred to me that I must have been doing something good for having been chosen as one of the awardees in the field of theater arts.”

He elaborates, “When I say that I must have done something good for Philippine theater, it is because I think I have made the Philippines aware of our play writing quality. For me, the soul of one’s culture or artists is through its literature. No matter what you do, if you go back to the libraries of earlier civilizations, what you immediately look for is their literature. You always go back to the roots. For example you are an Eskimo and would like to know about the Philippines, he has to read something about the country and its people. If he manages to read a play about us, then he will have a better understanding of us. The soul of the Filipino character is best captured through writing, and playwriting contributes greatly to this fact. I think I made people aware, especially the writers that you must write about the Filipino, his life, aspirations, trials and experiences, so that we could be understood and appreciated. If no one writes about us, how can anybody learn about us?”

“The idea of the small, intimate production is very exciting and the discovering of new works by new writers acted by young artists, I think is another good contribution,” he adds. “The whole genre is very stimulating and I do believe in the ten-year reign of Gantimpala Theater at the CCP as one of its original dramatic arts companies, did a lot in further enriching Philippine literature and dramaturgy. Now, that we are doing the Four Classics and other plays, I think I deserve some credit for tapping several millions of Filipinos, especially students, and believe me, that’s no easy job. Reaching out to this very important aspect of youth culture is very important.”

Since leaving the CCP, the Four Classics (Florante at Laura, Noli Me Tangere, Ibong Adarna, El Filibusterismo) are the centerpiece productions of his company and he explains the objective behind its staging once more as Gantimpala celebrates its 32nd season.

“Personally, I feel that in the theater, first and foremost we must appreciate our own, we must watch the classics. In music, you have the likes of Mozart and Beethoven, they are masters. In dance, you have the likes of Nutcracker and Giselle. Gantimpala is the company that presents the classics. We hope that as we produce them, it inspires our audiences to go back and read the written work and appreciate it even more.”

“Let’s face it, regarding Florante at Laura, how many of us actually read it?” he inquires. “In high school, they assigned it to us, we read a chapter, but do we really sit down and read it from cover to cover? This is something which I doubt very much. But when Gantimpala stages it, in two hours time, the whole five-inch thick novel is finished. You witness its highlights and the characters coming alive. It really makes it easier for the reader to understand and appreciate it and hopefully, the theater experience would inspire them to re-read it completely. It equips the student with better appreciation of what they are studying in school.”

“When we did Florante using the komedya as a theater form, I felt that if Florante was staged during the era of Balagtas, it could have been staged as anything else except as a komedya because that was the theater form of that time. We re-wrote Florante for the stage and used the form of the period, and hit two things. The impact was so strong people thought that the Balagtas’ poem was written as a komedya. It is not! It is only Gantimpala who did it. That is the impact of Gantimpala introducing a theater form. Ibong Adarna is the same thing. It’s an awit so it has to be very light,” explains Espejo about some of the classics added elements.

What can he say about the critics who do not share his vision? “The criticisms do not bother me at all,” he reacts. “I think that is ignorance working rather than an intelligent understanding of what we’re doing. The classics must be revived, staged, and viewed over and over again.”

Aside from the Four Classics, Espejo’s company also stages plays written by National Artists, children’s musicals and contemporary plays, as well as touring productions. For this year, Cinderella and Our Town come alive on the Gantimpala stage.Katipunan, Mga Anak ng Bayan, Ang Pagong at ang Matsing, Sleeping Beauty and A Life in the Slums meanwhile are set to tour various provincial destinations..

“I always welcome new work,” Espejo avers. “I feel presenting a children’s play is very important in the work we are doing because we are working for students. The classics appeal to high school students, what about the children? I feel that if you want the children to appreciate the theater at early age, then you must give them something that they can appreciate. This is very important for me thus we are introducing the children to good theater to begin with. This season we are welcoming the arrival of Cinderella, J. Dennis Teodosio updates the Charles Perrault version with music by Jesse Lucas.”

He imparts, “With regard to the National Artists, they are such a select few and for me they are very important since they have helped form the soul of Philippine culture. We read about them in the papers. We know their names but we do not know what they’ve done. This my way of telling the people that this is what they have done and their works are the testaments of their greatness so it is about time for us to understand, listen and appreciate them.”

"I’m very much excited about Our Town this is something that I look forward too," says Espejo. "This play by Thorton Wilder is one of the few intelligent plays we have not done for a long time. We just didn’t have the venue for it but now, I think the company is ripe to do this one. Our Town is a small play that is big in impact and I’d like to do more plays of this kind in the years to come.”

Where do you get the drive to continue? “I get surprised myself,” he answers quickly. “Gantimpala is like my daily vitamins. I thank God for making me as sharp or as sensitive as before, or even more. I could not imagine myself thinking this way twenty years ago. Actually, twenty years ago I would be bothered how the playbill would look like. Now, as the artistic director, I balance the yin and yang of the company.”

“Well, my personality is, I’m in a way, kind of cold, there is almost an unapproachable part of my personality,” he discloses. “So I build up on the enigma, this is all just part of the ilustrado packaging (points to his cane), I enjoy playing that role to the hilt. What I love most about in the theater is that it is a dictatorship and when there are power struggles or shall I say democracy rearing its ugly head, it’s a great feeling to know that I’m wiser and mellower now and that I know how and what cards to pull.”

In the nearest future, Espejo wants to spearhead a new Gantimpala Theater Playwriting Contest, the publication and staging of these plays, building a home for his beloved company, and the realization of his PAPA – the Philippine Academy of the Performing Arts.

Since the PAPA has not yet been established, Gantimpala Theater opens its doors to theater practitioners as it conducts a 10-day stage and production management workshop under Ed Murillo. It will be on May 25 to June 5, 1:00 to 5:00p.m, at the Rehearsal Hall, Open Air Auditorium, in Luneta, Manila. (Workshop fee is P3,000.00)

For all the accolades and the trophies, what Espejo consider priceless are the appreciation of common folks, strangers even, to what he and his company has been doing.

“One memorable incident of that sort happened when I was still at the CCP during the days of Bulwagang Gantimpala. I was set to go out for lunch at that time, and then there was this utility man, an elderly guy mapping the floor. He approached me and said ‘Mr. Espejo congratulations at salamat po.’ I asked him why. He answered, ‘kasi lagi po akong nanood ng mga plays ninyo lalo na pag historical, kasi hindi po ako nakapag-aral so kapag gusto ko pong matuto, lagi po akong nanonood ng mga productions ninyo. That really touched me. I did not purposely do my productions for that and it amazes me that the effects of the plays are multiplied ten folds. Until today, there are bank tellers, who when I present my pass book, recognize me and inform me that they have seen the Four Classics, or just the other day, when I was doing my early morning jog, a man went out of his car, approached me, and thanked me. He just recently saw my picture in one of the papers and said to me that in high school, he saw all our plays. And that just recently, his son has been watching them too. All of these make me smile for indeed, they are affirmations that, I must be doing something good.”

For more information about the 32nd season of Gantimpala Theater and its stage management/production management workshop Call 528-0603/536-5860; email – gantimpalatheater@yahoo.com.ph or visit: gantimpalatheater.multiply.com

My Prayer

2009-04-23T12:30:00.002+08:00

It’s already 10:17pm here in Auckland and I still can’t sleep. After my previous blog, I just feel like writing again. But what do I write about this time ?

I almost forgot I didn’t pray today, but I did this morning, wonder if that’s all right?

Someone asked me today if I could hear the voice of God while in prayer. Quite a few people I know have doubts if their prayers are ever answered. Some are confused if they are praying the right way. Some seldom pray, some never prays at all..

My own personal brand of prayer.. I do rosary sometimes, I go to church to pray but prefers if there’s only a few or no one else around. Most of my routine prayer is at midnight before going to bed (although I tend to sleep while am doing my prayer).

I do say a prayer for other people whenever I’m asked to.

I pray when I’m walking to work, when I’m in a car, bus, taxi, jeep for a safe journey to my destination.

I do relaxed prayer; while sitting on a comfortable chair with your feet up on the table.

Sometimes I find myself singing and praising and realize that I’m doing my prayer already.

Sometimes I pray but no words come out of my mouth… a “silent prayer”.

I pray on bended knees when things just get too hard to bear…

My prayers are small, big, exaggerated, impossible, serious, worrisome, sad, funny, undescribable, and senseless at times… but that’s how my daily prayer goes.

The truth is, the more you pray, the more intimate you become with God.

I remember my brother asking me to pray for him once. “Why don’t you pray for yourself, I know God will listen to you”, I asked. “But you’re much more prayerful than I am so please pray for me”, was his reason.

But he’s missing an important point.. that the power of a prayer comes from the heart of the one who needs it. Other people can help, but we’ll be just an additional step. If you want something earnest you have to take the direct leap !

Prayer is an act of humble worship in which we seek God with all our heart. It should start from our heart first. We should have an intimate relationship with Him, so that you can ask Him freely, and He will guide you and lead you through the right directions.

You will then appreciate the importance of having your own personal prayer with God, you’ll become more sensitive to others, you will pray for them even if they don’t ask you to. You’ll find it in your heart to say a prayer for their safety, more blessings, good health, and a lot more. James 5:16 “ Confess your sin to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful result.”

1 Peter 3:12 “The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers.” So try to be righteous in all ways. Remember that it is through prayers that you become closer to God. The closer you are to Him, the better person you will be.

In Luke 18: 1, Jesus told his disciples a story to illustrate the need for constant prayers and to remind them that they must never give up on prayers, and prayer must be consistent and persistent. And according to 1 John 5:14, we can be confident of God’s response to our prayer when we first submit to his will. If you feel your prayer is not answered, do not lose hope, because it may be that God has answered your prayers already by giving you not what you asked for but something far better.

7 years ago, our family had the most trying times of our lives. My father had to undergo a bypass operation as soon as possible in order to live longer. But it was only me and my mother who was working during that time, and our money is just not enough. I felt so helpless. All I can do was to pray we would overcome this trial. I even lost hope and gone to the point that I already accepted my father’s fate. But looking at my mother’s face, I knew I had to keep the hope in my heart alive, I just can’t let my father die. My mother tried to hide her weakness, her struggles, and her pain to us. Her smile told us not to worry, that everything will be okay. But when the doctor gave us a week to decide, that’s time when I heard my mother cried alone in her room. She had no idea where to get that big amount of money for the operation. She found herself the next day inside the adoration chapel near the public school were she was working, praying for God to give her guidance, to lead her to where she could find help. After a few minutes, a nun who was then in charge of the chapel approached my mother to ask what was wrong. My mother, who couldn’t help herself anymore, started to cry and poured out all her sufferings. The nun said they would include my father’s name in their prayer requests, to help our family pray for my father’s successful operation.

After five days, my mother received the money we needed for the heart surgery, and many thanks to the people who helped us, my father surpassed the operation.

When my father learned the story about my mother’s prayer and the nun in the adoration, he volunteered to serve as a member of the lay cooperator of that congregation. That was the first time I saw my father had the interest to serve in a religious community. And he’s the one who led me to become part of the group too.

It’s a simple fact of life, that the more our schedule is crammed full of activities, the more problems we have. The more there is to pray about!

Remember to always turn to God in prayer, especially when you’re feeling down and lonely. He will always be there waiting, to give you the strength, comfort and encouragement you need.

My thoughts and prayer right now is for my parents who I miss so much. I hope they’re doing alright and always find a way to get rid of sickness. Thank you both for standing by me constantly through all my walks of life.

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PS:

Click on the link below to watch a short video I made for my wonderful parents. I thank them both for being my parents!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOHiBv_y5E8

Can you measure God’s blessings?

2009-04-19T09:48:00.003+08:00

Hmm… seems easy, yet! my answer is "No".

In this blog I want to share with you my blessings. I can’t imagine that I’m getting these kinds of blessings. It’s just out of my dominion.

Last Friday, I did my routine practice driving with one of my kind sister here in Auckland, Yup! She’s a blessing too. In between driving tips I enjoy getting her viewpoints. She’s one who encourages me to write more, even though sometimes I think my writings are corny and makes no sense at all. I’m lucky to have her as friend. Surely people like her will be blessed abundantly.

How do I gain enough confidence to drive alone, what kind of car should I get, couldn’t wait to get on the road with my first car … thoughts that are bugging me whenever I’m lying in my bed. What will happen within the next few days, if God permitted?

It’s really hard to get around here if you don’t have your own car. But the main reason why I like to drive my own car… is to have a continuous service to God, to join other servants, and to take hold of the opportunities that God is laying down upon me.

Come to think of it, the reason why I’m getting all these blessings is because of the opportunities that came to me. Opportunities that arise as a result of helping family, friends, and other people. But most of all, I refer to the opportunities to serve God that came to me unexpectedly.

When I found the chance to join a church community again here in Auckland, I started to ask myself, "am I ready to serve.. again?". Truth is, I’m afraid to fall down again, that in the long run, I may want to run away instead of facing all trials and hardship that I may encounter. What if I get disappointed with others servants, if I become so busy, if I experience spiritual dryness, or any reason that you can think of?

But you know, forget all these obstacles that are hindering you from taking opportunities to serve God. Stop whining and complaining. Don’t resist but just go with the flow. It could be quite strong if you can feel the energy coming towards you. Instead, pray and ask for guidance, God will listen.

If you have problems with transportation, money, time, or whatever. God will provide. Just open your heart, listen to him, and you will see how great the opportunities are to serve him. I found it difficult opening up to these opportunities at first. But I prayed to God, told him how weak I am, and how I lack understanding of spirituality, and God understood.

So don’t worry and don’t be afraid. Respond with courage and faith to God’s opportunities when it arise.

Remember the verse in the bible Matthew 9:37-38 He said to his disciples, "The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few. So pray." I’m hoping that even though I have nothing compared to others who have all the good things in life, I pray that in my own little way of serving God, these little ways may result to something big in the future, and that I may encourage others to open their hearts and make time and effort to respond to their opportunities.

To share with you a promise from God, Matthew 25:29 "To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they have an abundance. But from those who are unfaithful, even what little they have will be taken away."

I ask you earnestly to respond to your opportunities when it comes to you. Don’t be afraid or discouraged. The Lord your God is going before you. He will fight for you, and guide you, direct you to fulfilling the opportunities he is giving you. And someday, in God’s time, you will be surprise and amazed of what God’s master plan is for you.

I may sound like I’m blabbering nothing, or maybe it’s hard for you to recognize the opportunities that I’m telling you about. Or maybe you’re wondering how to get those and what to do when you get one. You see, for me.. God never gives us that we can’t handle, even if it’s not in our dominion. He can make it all possible!

As for now, let me just share with you the blessings that I have coming from God..

I have a job and I’m good at what I do.

This gave me the capacity to help my parents, which is my sole desire when I came here.

I found opportunities to serve God in my own littlest ways.

I was led to join a choir, and become a part of a church community where I can share my life.

I can go on and on but I’m just happy that..

I recognize these blessings to write about.. many won’t be able to.

Thank you God !

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Please find the link or attached file in this blog, and see what blessings I am experiencing right now. You tell me if you can measure it!

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PS: Thanks to all the people who I’m with always and gladly share their time and company with me. Even though sometimes I fall short of your expectation, I never cease being grateful to all the kindness you’ve given me. To all… your being is my blessing.

A Simple Song Makes a Difference

2009-04-14T12:39:00.001+08:00

I remember when I was a child I didn’t talk too much because of many reasons like my shyness, my dorky complexion, my relative’s playing favoritism, my lack of confidence…but most of all I had speech problems. I stutter a lot and most of the time I couldn’t get my words to come out right. (utal-utal sa pananalita o kaya bulol). Do you believe me? Yes, it’s true. It’s not hereditary or hormonal defect. My mom said I’ve had it since the time I’ve fallen out of bed real bad when I was a baby. Or maybe there are other reasons..

At the age of 5, I started to feel self-pity. I was always afraid that people will laugh at me when I say something or start a conversation with them. I remember instances when my cousins or friends make fun of me repeating my words and mimic how I say it… “ku..ku..ku..kuya” , “ a..a..a.ate”. I felt I had a defect, that I wasn’t normal and that I’m so weak. I’ve sort of lost hope that there’ll be a cure to my disorder.

It was really hard for me to express myself, my thoughts during those years. I felt that the real me hides beneath someone else, someone who‘s afraid to communicate, who’s always shy, worries a lot, no self-confidence, and jealous of others.

I got used to being in this quiet world and was contented for a while. Until one day I woke up and found the strength to break free from this grim front I have masked myself with all these years. Suddenly I knew what I wanted. What I wanted was …to be able to express myself openly and freely..to just say what I feel without hesitation and not think about how others will think.. to laugh loud… to say more.. and just let it all out !

I wanted to share my thoughts.. to say something nice that will to encourage someone who is in hardship or pain. I believe in the power of words to affect people, and kind words when you hear it.. it gives you hope, openness, strength, and love.

This is the one true self I want to be… and I just can’t wait to be my real self…

I remember praying so hard and asking for God to someday take away this problem I’ve been battling with since childhood. I did my best too and tried all means to improve my speech.

Now at my age, chances are a good no one would have thought I had a speech problem during childhood. God gave me the encouragement that with maturity and time I will be able to overcome my stutter.

Every occasion in my life that I experience a similar situation, I cherish it. I don’t care how long I suffer for as long as I know God will help me and guide me to overcome all these.

Through all these years He has also shown me that my family is my greatest shield and my most powerful strength. I remember fondly, it was my mom who was my most devoted teacher and it was my dad who thought me to not fight back at anyone who lashes at me.

In all these experiences that God has given me, I no longer feel pity for myself like I had felt since childhood. I no longer stutter. I’m still in the process of becoming my “real self” but I know I’ve found my “new self”.

For the moment, let’s just have a simple song within ourselves, a song that only you can hear, a song that you sing over and over and carry in your heart always, a song that gives you hope, gives you peace, will nourish you….and help you find your “Real Self”.

The song of change and improvement is what’s playing softly in my heart right now…and it is what’s making the difference in my life.

PS:

Let me share with you a short video I made for the choir group I’ve joined just recently. They are called the “The Bread of Life Chorale Group” based in Auckland NZ and headed by Ate Nanette and Kuya Winston Feria. If you’re trying to find me in the video, I’m just at the back. :) May God bless you while reading and watching my story.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ot9_67-b1zY

A Moment in the Shore

2009-04-14T12:37:00.000+08:00

Hi guys! I would like to share with you a story that happened on August 22, 2008 (Friday). I had feelings of being down, sad, lonely, and frustrated that time, which normally happens to an overseas worker (I think so). And after long hours of work, though I haven’t worked too much (that’s frustrating on my part), my friend offered me a lift to drive me home.

While on the road, HE asked me if I like to going to the beach. I didn’t answer back because I didn’t want to spoil his time, energy, and of course his gas. But my friend insisted me not to worry and not to think too much because, “HE is different”.

We went to Eastern Beach, Howick. HE showed me the Bible College where he studied before, which is near to the shore. After that, we reached our destination. HE mentioned to me that there are two options to enjoy going to the shore: first is by riding a car and second by walking; but HE chose to walk so that I would enjoy some moments in the shore. We started at the top of a hill, went down to a narrow road; we passed by a little bush, then barbeque area, then shore, etc.

Okay! I enjoyed the walking, HE let me do things that I like doing, which is photography. And during that time, I also remembered my childhood days… my province… my family…

After we finished walking at the end of the shore, we finally decided to go home.

Well… It’s a good experience, because it’s the first time that I went there. But to tell you the truth, I felt a strange feeling that I couldn’t understand… and I knew that deep inside me, something was lacking…..

When I got home and faced the computer, I checked the entire photos that we took and enhanced some of the pictures in photoshop before uploading them to my flickr account.

When I was editing one of the pictures, something suddenly struck my mind. I realized that something has happened. So I figured it out.. In the presence of my friend, HE is there too… HE is the loving God… HE is my friend… and my friend wants me to smile, to cheer me up, to enlighten my mind and spirit…. Geeez! I feel stupid. I didn’t recognize the presence. It’s a perfect scene, time, right person whom HE used to be his instrument, for showing his love for his child.

God wanted me to smile, to forget the problems for the meantime, to enjoy and to feel the love, because every time we feel down or up, HE’s there to uplift us and HE is the first person who will know what we are up to.

To explain more of my story, I uploaded a short video slideshow of my experience about special moments in the shore………. just click the link below:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqkkgw4f23U

(This my ever first attempt of sharing and writing. One of my way to serve God, to show my existence, to be a living bearer of God’s love for us.. May you bless this day while your reading this short story of mine. Thank you!…..Thank you God….

A Commencement Speech

2009-04-08T22:49:00.022+08:00

by: Mr. Danilo Ignacio

Brother Kenneth, Ms. Lily Hope Mendoza, Ms. Karen Hebron, members of the faculty, administration officials, dear parents, graduates, ladies and gentlemen. Magandang gabi po sa inyong lahat.

Napakalaking karangalan po sa akin na maging Commencement Speaker ninyo ngayon. Bata pa lang ako, pinangarap ko ng mag-aral sa La Salle. Kaya lang, pinanganak akong mahirap. But thank God I was able to fulfill that dream with my children.

My daughter graduated from St. Benilde, my son from La Salle Taft and my other son and granddaughter are now studying in La Salle Taft. When I could already afford it, I took up graduate studies in Public and Business Management in La Salle. I am very proud of my involvement in La Salle Canlubang. In 2001, I was a member of the Building Committee that was responsible for the construction of the school. Thereafter, I served as member of the Board of Trustees and then as chairman of the board until two years ago when I had to resign when I was hired by Dr. Lucio Tan to be the President of Eton Properties Philippines, Inc.

Bro. Kenneth asked me to share with you, dear graduates, my experiences which you may hopefully draw from as you progress towards university life. So today, please allow me to share with you four important values – the values of integrity, hard work, friendship and gratitude to parents.

Integrity

Let me start with integrity. Princeton University is one of the most selective colleges in the United States, admitting only 9.25% of undergraduate applicants in 2008. In the “America’s Best Colleges” rankings by the Forbes magazine in 2008, Princeton was ranked first among all national colleges and universities. Its reputation for excellence is bolstered not only by its esteemed faculty but also by its students who pride themselves in upholding the highest academic standards and values.

A testament to this is what a group of students started in 1893, which has become the cornerstone of academic integrity in Princeton University. Implemented since then, the Princeton Honor Code places on the students the responsibility to observe full honesty in taking written examinations, tests and quizzes, as well as the obligation to report any suspected violation of the honor code. The exam instructor distributes the exam papers and gives the appropriate instructions, after which, he leaves the students to take the exams unsupervised and only returns to collect the papers. In turn, the students, prior to taking the exam, would write and sign the following statement on their exam paper : “I pledge my honor that I have not violated the Honor Code during this examination.”

This, to me, is the ultimate test of one’s integrity, which is doing the right thing even when no one is watching.

I have worked for over 30 years in the real estate industry — as Vice President of Citibank, President of Philam Properties, General Manager of Robinsons Land and, currently, President of Eton Properties, the developer of the 1000 hectare Eton City very near this school. I have awarded billions of pesos of contracts. There are plenty of temptation in this industry, from contractors, suppliers and brokers. However, when faced with such situations, my parents’ words ring in my consciousness — you can buy almost anything, but you can no longer redeem your integrity once sold. I tell my contractors that the best gift they can give me is to give the company their best price, finish the project on time, and never compromise quality. My employers pay me well, more than enough for myself and my family to have a decent lifestyle. I am happy to receive such compensation only and nothing more. I do not owe any contractor any favor; therefore, if a contractor does not fulfill the requirements of his contract, then my actions will only be dictated by what will be in the best interest of our company.

Integrity is manifested through one’s commitment to be honest and truthful all the time. It is choosing and doing what is right and true, without the need to be prompted by others. John Maxwell said, “Policies are many, principles are few, policies will change, principles never do.”

Admittedly, the road to integrity is not always the easy path to take. There will be situations when you will have to make the unpopular choice or go against the norm. However, as my experiences taught me, the rewards are endless. You gain the trust and respect of your employer, friends and colleagues. More importantly, you feel no guilt and radiate a peace that only a clear conscience can give. You sleep soundly at night. As the French Proverb goes, “There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience.”

La Sallians are persons of integrity. However, you will not be spared from temptations which will compromise your values. During these moments, simply go back to the values your parents and La Salle taught you and you will manage well. Your integrity that is ingrained in you will be your best bet against these external pressures and temptations.

So dear graduates, may I request you to raise your right hand. Ang hindi magtaas ng kamay, hindi bibigyan ng diploma ni Brother Kenneth! Now tap the person to your right. Sabihin ninyo – “Hindi ako mangongopya.” Now raise your left hand and tap the person to your left. Sabihin naman ninyo, “Hindi ako magpapakopya!”

Hard Work

I want to share with you the first secret to success — WAKE UP EARLY. As the saying goes, daig ng maagap ang masipag. The early bird catches the worms. That’s easy in elementary and high school when you have morning classes and you have to wake up early. As you go to college, your class schedule becomes flexible and less structured. Your nightlife becomes longer with parties and barkadas. Waking up early becomes a very difficult ordeal.

I developed my work ethics from my childhood days. Ang aking mga magulang ay nagtitinda sa palengke. My day starts at 5 in the morning. My mother and I will go to Paco or Divisoria Market to buy the goods which we will sell in Sta. Ana Market. I will then leave the market at 10 am to prepare for my afternoon classes. After classes, I would go back to the market and go home past 8 pm.

When I was in my 2nd year in Mapua, I worked in the school as a student checker. Ang trabaho ko ay mag-check ng attendance ng mga professors, kung present, absent o late. Pati sarili kong professors, kailangan kong i-report kung absent o late sila. 8-5 ang trabaho ko. I attended my classes at night and on weekends. The work ethics and the habit of waking up early that I developed in my early childhood helped me not only in getting my engineering degree but also in finishing at the top of the graduating class and subsequently placing first in the board examination.

Similarly, my work life had its share of challenges. In 1990, I was given the mandate to build Citibank Tower, a 33-floor building, with a budget of 55 Million USD. I had no previous experience in high-rise building construction, but I happily accepted the assignment. I woke up very early. I started my meetings at 6am. I studied very hard. I read a lot of books and consulted experts in the field. I was not afraid to ask questions – better to be ignorant for one day so I can be an expert later on. I hired the best contractors, architects, engineers and consultants. I am proud to say that Citibank Tower is the first world class office building in the Philippines, built by somebody who has not built a building before. My formula – I woke up early, worked hard and never stopped studying.

Francis Kong, from whose columns, books and speeches I drew inspiration for my speech, wrote in his newspaper column, “Success is never handed to successful people. They work harder than the rest.” My boss, Lucio Tan, starts his meetings at 5:30 in the morning. George Ty, the owner of MetroBank, starts his meetings at 7am.

Inspired by the work ethics of these taipans, I also try to set the example to my employees by waking up earlier than them and working harder than them. I typically wake up before 5 am and start reading my emails and browsing the different newspapers online. I am usually among the last employees to go home in the evening. However, I still try to find time to have dinner with my family and spend quality weekends and vacations with them.

Francis Kong beautifully sums up the correlation of hardwork and success. He quoted:

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Tenacity is the key.”

“There are those who believe that with luck alone, one can be successful. This is not true. Success is never a one-shot deal. And then there are also those who believe that if you ‘believe enough, visualize enough, dream enough and discover the ancient secrets, you will be successful.’ Those who dream great dreams need to wake up and do some work.

“Because at the end of the day, it is still the one who wakes up a little earlier, works a little late, studies and learns new things everyday, is dedicated to his work, faithful to his family, connects with God in an intimate way and tenaciously deal with all the downturns in life, who will emerge successful.”

Dear graduates, please raise your right hand and tap the person to your right. Sabihin ninyo – “Gigising ako ng maaga.” Now raise your left hand and tap the person to your left. Sabihin naman ninyo, “Bumangon ka rin ng maaga!”

High School Friendships

Let me now talk about the value of high school friendship. Tignan ninyo ang nasa kanan ninyo. Tignan ninyo ang nasa kaliwa ninyo. Tignan ninyo ang nasa likod ninyo. Ke maganda siya o mas maganda sa inyo, remember these friends. These are the people who have known you at your best and worst. They have been with you through good and bad times, through triumphs and failures, through victories and defeats. They are those who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down. They may stab you, but they will stab you in front with their frank and well-meaning words. These true friends may get in your way, but only when you happen to go down.
Exciting times await you in college and you will meet people from all walks of life. You will meet some who would influence you, and others also whose lives you would touch. You will spend time with people of similar interests, and laugh with those with the same sense of humor. You will find people who study longer and perhaps drink more bottles of beer or tequila shots than you.

You will continue to share many experiences with your newfound friends. However, during the low and trying moments in your life — your first heartbreak; flunking a major exam; getting fired from work; meeting an accident; getting seriously ill, experiencing loss in your family — your high school friends will be among the first who will give you comfort and support. They are not the fair weather friends who would only be there when times are good but will scamper away when situations turn unpleasant. Hindi sila pa-weather, weather lang. These friends have no requests nor expect any favors, except for the favor of your loyalty and friendship. They are the ones who punched the school bully after he pushed you; they who stood with you as you were caught by your teacher; they who helped finish your science project when no one else would; they who opposed your misplaced curiosity, but came to your rescue nonetheless.

So go out and meet people. Experience life as it awaits you. Nurture new friendships and relationships, but do not forget your real friends, your high school friends. Remember to thank these people who have helped you make this day possible. They will cherish your friendship as you do theirs, with no pretensions and vested interests.

So dear graduates, again, please raise your right hand and tap the person to your right. Sabihin mo sa kanya, “Hindi kita makakalimutan.” Now raise your left hand and tap the person to your left. Sabihin mo, “Hindi ko rin makakalimutan ang utang mo!”

Expression of Gratitude

Mike Healy’s story, “It’s the thought that counts,” told of three sons who discussed the gifts they gave to their elderly mother.

The first said, “I built a big house for our mother.” The second said, “I sent her a Mercedes with a driver.” The third smiled and said, ”You remember how mom enjoyed reading the Bible? And you know she can’t see very well. So I sent her a remarkable parrot that recites the entire Bible. It took elders in the church 12 years to teach him. He’s one of a kind. Mama just has to name the chapter and verse, and the parrot recites it.”

Soon thereafter, mom sent out her letters of thanks:

“Michael,” she wrote one son, “the house you built is so huge. I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole house.”

“Gerry,” she wrote to another, “I am too old to travel. I stay most of the time at home, so I rarely use the Mercedes. And the driver is so rude!”

“Dearest Dennis,” she wrote to her third son, “you have the good sense to know what your mother likes. The chicken was so delicious.”

Remember - It’s the thought that counts!

I am sure none of you have gifted your parents with a Bible talking parrot. What then have you given them? When did you last express your love and affection for them? Have you thanked them for their sacrifices and gifts, most especially your education?

There are times when you may take your parents for granted. You get caught up in the day-to-day things that you lose track of your relationships with them. Often, you find yourselves arguing with them instead of exchanging stories or having a laugh with them. How many times have you argued about your spending time with your barkada instead of working on your school paper? How many times have you answered back to your parents when you went home past your curfew? Were you hurt by your parents’ words when you thought you were not at fault and your parents were unreasonably strict? Beyond the anger and the harsh words, did you care to stop to listen to what your parents were actually saying? When your mother nagged you to improve your grades or clean your room, didn’t you hear her concern for your future and wellbeing? When your father scolded you for staying out late or going out without permission, didn’t you hear his concern over your safety? When your parents grounded you for not behaving in class or figuring in a fight, didn’t you hear their desire for you to grow responsible and morally upright?

Apart from the material gifts your parents shower you, they also show their love through their words and actions. As parents, they may use a different tone or display a strict demeanor to express their love and concern, but it does not mean that they love and care for you less.

So on this day, I urge you to take time to listen beyond what your parents say and do. Instead, appreciate the messages that they want to tell you. Return their affection by showing them the love and respect they deserve. Thank them for giving you the best gift that a parent can give – the gift of the best education in this country, the gift of a La Sallian education. There is no better day than today to thank your parents for your academic achievement. So graduates, please show your gratitude to your parents by giving them a rousing round of applause. Palakpakan natin sila.

May I also request you graduates to raise your right hand and tap the person to your right. Sabihin mo sa kanya, “naintindihan ko na kung bakit strict ang parents ko.” Now raise your left hand and tap the person to your left. Sabihin mo, “Huwag ka nang pasaway!”

Closing

At this point, please extend also your gratitude to your teachers — they who selflessly shared their knowledge to provide you the best education possible. While you stand proud as La Sallians, they too stand tall as accomplished educators, having molded you to be individuals of integrity and value. Please also take time to express your gratitude to your alma mater, your home for the past several years, which provided you the finest training ground to explore your limits and realize your potential. Your gratitude towards your school would best be measured by the right path you will take and the moral decisions you will make from this day forward.
To the class of 2009, my congratulations. Animo La Salle!

Thank you very much.

Source: http://franciskong.com/motivation/a-commencement-speech

Kakai Bautista, Valerie Tan, Joel Molina, and Perry Escano--All GTF Graduates

2009-03-27T13:17:00.005+08:00

Kakai Bautista, Valerie Tan, Joel Molina, and Perry Escaño were batchmates during the 2003 Gantimpala Theater Summer Musical Theater Workshop. Their facilitator was Bodjie Pascua, one of Manila ’s finest theater actors. Their recital production was Katy, a well-loved Filipino musical about the life of singing icon Katy dela Cruz, under the direction of Roobak Valle.

It has been 6 years since that fateful and eventful summer these actors have graced several Gantimpala productions, and now they are making their mark in the field of entertainment.

Last seen as Lucinda, the evil fairy in J. Dennis Teodosio’s Sleeping Beauty, a Filipino children’s musical produced by Gantimpala Theater that became the official entry to the CCP’s Pasinaya 2009 last February, Bautista portrays a comical domestic helper in the hit primetime drama Tayong Dalawa, featuring the love triangle of Kim Chiu,Gerald Anderson and Jake Cuenca, and a fortune teller in Dragona – these shows are currently airing in ABS-CBN Channel 2.

Valerie, on the other hand, continues to enthrall followers of The Beat, a magazine type of show in Q Channel 11. Tan travels in and out of metro and mega-Manila and nearby provinces to discover, learn, and experience local culture and the latest hotspots in cosmopolitan Manila .

Joel Molina, got an ALIW Awards Best Actor nomination for his role as Philip Latak in The God Stealer/The Queen’s Jewel, the 2006 ALIW Awards, Best Non-Musical Production, a twin-bill of plays produced by Gantimpala Theater based on the short stories of National Artists F. Sionil Jose and the late Nick Joaquin.

Airing now are Molina’s commercials for a cough syrup and a cellular mobile company. He is currently shooting three independent films, Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe and Sanglaan, both for Cine Malaya and Panahon Na, which is intended for international release, produced by the City of Taguig .

Regular viewers of the Robin Padilla evening drama Totoy Bato, are very much familiar with Perry Escaño, as he was one of Padilla’s closest friends in the soap. Of late, Escaño is Ka Ferdie, one of the NPA captors of Jake Cuenca in Tayong Dalawa. Escaño belongs to the elite roster of top twenty independent film actors.

If you want to follow the path of this four, by all means, join and be part of Gantimpala Theater’s Summer Musical Theater Workshop.

Enrollment is currently on going with classes starting on April 13 to May 21, MWF classes held at the Rehearsal Hall of the Open Air Auditorium Building in Luneta, Manila . Tuition fee is P5,000 which can be paid in full or installment basis. A recital production serves as the culminating activity.

Roeder Camañag and Onyl Torres are the facilitators. Tony S. Espejo is the artistic director of Gantimpala Theater.

Highly-talented workshop participants will be invited to join the apprenticeship program of the Gantimpala Theater Actors’ Company.

For other information about Gantimpala Theater’s summer workshop, call 528-0603/536-5860 or send an SMS to 0921-5286308 or write to: gantimpalatheater@yahoo..com.ph or visit gantimpalatheater.multiply.com .

Genoveva Edroza Matute dies at 94

2009-03-24T13:41:00.008+08:00

Noteworthy and acclaimed Tagalog writer Genoveva Edroza Matute, the first to win grand prize in Palanca literary award for Tagalog short story, died in her sleep last March 21. Matute left the world at 94.

Remains of the prolific writer lie at Sanctuario, Araneta Avenue corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City to be buried at the Manila North Cemetery on March 25.

Widow of Epifanio Matute (who was the brain behind Kwentong Kutsero, a popular radio and tv program during the '50s and '60s), Matute was also in the field of the academe for 46 years.

She obtained her education from University of Sto Tomas, where she also got her masters and doctorate.

One of her most important works was "Kwento ni Mabuti."

Summer at Century Park

2009-03-20T17:15:00.004+08:00

Discover real pleasures of summer as Century Park Hotel takes you to a refreshing and one memorable vacation treat for everyone.

Bring the whole family at the Palm Grove, the hotel’s very own poolside snack bar outlet. Weekends here become special as Century Park Hotel revives another favorite promo-Weekend Barbeque Buffet Under Sun and Stars. Schedule a date between March 13 to May 15, every Friday and Saturday from 5PM to 8PM. Adult price is only Php850+ while for children is Php400+ (5 years old and below).

Frolic in an afternoon fun and experience the balmy, tropical feel of summer, right beside the temperature-controlled pool as the inviting ambience. Experience an irresistible al fresco style dining, complete with delicious line up of grills—fresh, warm, and cooked to your liking. Whet your appetite with grilled seafood delights such as tuna belly, salmon fillet, ikan panggang, tanigue fillet, mussel, and fish tandoori kebab. How about juicy and tender slices of garlic sausage, pork belly, chicken tikka, beef patties, and beef bulgogi? Not to mention are assorted garden-fresh mixed greens and grilled vegetables such as tomatoes, corn, and zucchini. Accompanied by fresh fruits in season and assorted mini cakes as desserts, the menu is a definitive winner and sure to satisfy.

To make the night complete, Harmony Trio will also play songs good enough to make your hips sway and some pieces making you think of a lover who must have dedicated such evocative number. Adding spice and fun to the event is a weekly raffle of overnight stay gift certificates from our partners, such as: Flushing Meadows Resort and Playground Bohol, Plantation Bay Resort, and Baguio Country Club. Other minor prizes include day pass tickets from Enchanted Kingdom , Island Cove gift certificates, a bottle of Cossack Vodka, and a whole lot more. Just attached your official receipt to your business card and get a chance to win any of these prizes!

For more information, please call food and beverage at 528 5837 or 528 5907 for restaurant reservations. Log on to www.centurypark.com for more details.

Books on a Ship:MV Doulos's Final Voyage in RP

2009-03-18T14:19:00.006+08:00

MV Doulos, the world's largest sea-faring passenger ship revisits Manila for its final voyage in the country. This is probably the last chance Filipinos will see it dock up on Manila Bay shore as the ship is to take a sojourn for good on 2010. Doulos is a floating bookstore that has travelled the world, with charity as its main thrust. Filipino bookworms will have the chance to ride and feast on the booksale on shore until March 30, 2009.

Along with books, Doulos also showcases merchandise like mugs, CDs, and others. It also features activities for children like face paintings and book reading. Volunteers are there to assist you.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday - Monday 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

Entry Fee: Php 10, 16 and under is free but must be accompanied by adult.

Location: Pier 13, Manila South Harbor, Entry at Gate 1.

Contemporary Literary Books

2009-03-18T10:07:00.012+08:00

When one is not seemingly exposed to good-reads, chances are, you'll end up picking a harsh book, like a psuedo-melo-manipulative pocket book stories and love advices carried with bad proportion of human emotional and condition (yes, this writer read about Bob Ong, too), and would end up stuck reading with heart-wrenching more than soul-soothing and enlightening ones.

Here are a list of tested fiction books you might want to grab.

The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera: Explains why man feels life's weight when with struggles rather than when on a suspended, non-problematic strait. It follows a fiction story which tackles man's womanizing, woman's coping, and how the couple were able to get away from such path. Clippings from the book:

"We all need somebody to look at us. We can be divided into four categories according to the kind of look we wish to live under. The first category longs for the look of an infinite number of anonymous eyes, in other words, for the look of the public.
The second category is made up of people who have a vital need to be looked at by many known eyes. They are the tireless hosts of cocktail parties and dinners...
Then there is the third category, the category of people who need to be constantly before the eyes of the person they love. Their situation is as dangerous as the situation of people in the first category. One day the eyes of their beloved will close, and the room will go dark..
And finally there is the fourth category, the rarest, the category of people who live in the imaginary eyes of those who are not present. They are the dreamers."

After the Quake by Haruki Murakami: is a collection of short stories of people's circumstances happening during and after a cosmic quake. Murakami delights the readers with his vision of truth and smooth sense of orld view. Setting is in mystic Japan. Clip from the book:
"Anyone who falls in love is searching for the missing pieces of themselves. So anyone who's in love gets sad when they think of their lover. It's like stepping back inside a room you have fond memories of, one you haven't seen in a long time."

Bamboo Dancers by NVM Gonzales: The country's national Artist fro Literature once again show both magnified and
clarified view of Philippine tradition, customs, and culture.

Mag Watch: March 2009 Edition

2009-03-15T23:50:00.002+08:00

It's the fire prevention month, but there are fire-inducing magazine covers currently out in our favorite stores. Let's check them out.

Candy: Bea Alonzo
Chalk: Sarah Geronimo
Celebrity Living: Cesar Montano
Cosmopolitan: Marian Rivera
FHM: Maggie Wilson
G! (January-March): Karylle
Garage (February-March): Gerald Anderson, Enchong Dee (alternate cover)
Good Housekeeping: Carmina Villaroel and Zoren Legaspi
Lifestyle Asia: Antonio Cojuangco
Marie Claire: Karylle
Maxim: Krista Ranillo
Meg: Nikki Gil
Mega: Paula Taylor
Men's Health: Lance Armstrong
Metro: Christine Reyes
OK!: Jennifer Lopez and Anne Hathaway
Preview: Lucy Torres-Gomez
Rogue: Rosanne Prieto
S: BB Gandanghari
Sense & Style: Teresa Herrera
Seventeen: Kim Chiu
Smart Parenting: Claundine Barreto & baby Santino
Speed: Francine Prieto
Stella: Kim Chiu
T3: Megan Young
Total Girl: Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus
Town & Country: Dedes Zobel
Working Mom: Vina Morales
Yes!: Vicky Belo and Hayden Kho

Writing Workshops in March

2009-03-10T17:32:00.004+08:00

After the successful run of its recent feature writing workshops, Designed by Words Writer’s Workshop is proud to host two new classes this March.

“Lighting the Lamp in a Hurricane: A Poetry Appreciation Seminar” will be held on March 14, featuring poet Carlomar Arcangel Daoana. The seminar will give the reader a more familiar grasp of the poetic language that will help him read a poem with a broader and more creative and critical perspective and hopefully facilitate in writing his own verses. Daoana will read from his book Marginal Bliss, published by the University of the Philippines Press.

“Writing the Personal Essay” will be held on March 21 and 28, featuring writer Cathy Paras-Lara. A one-day introductory course on the fundamental techniques of the personal essay, the workshop will familiarize the student with the elements of essay, importance of tone and voice, and creative ways in generating ideas for a piece. Lara will share some of her works, including the essay that served as the inspiration to her book, Everyday Warriors: The Faces and Stories of Breast Cancer published by the University of Santo Tomas Publishing House.

Designed by Words Writer’s Workshop is a writer-led initiative devoted to enhancing writing skills and creativity. All classes will held at Trinity Bldg., T.M. Kalaw Ave., Ermita, Manila. Workshop fee is P500 for the poetry appreciation class and P2,500 for the personal essay class inclusive of meals and writer’s kit. Pre-registration is required. To register and for inquiries, call 536-1926; email dbw.workshops@gmail.com or visit http://designedbywords.wordpress.com.

Conference on Spanish Colonial Philippines, March 11-12

2009-03-05T23:27:00.003+08:00

The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) History Department will hold a conference on Spanish colonial Philippines, as a tribute to an eminent Spanish scholar who pioneered studies on the said subject in Spain.

Dr. Lourdes Diáz-Trechuelo, who died in Seville last year, set a milestone in Philippine historiography in Spain when she wrote Arquitectura española en Filipinas (1565-1800) in 1959. She had since then published other scholarly works on the same topic. In 2006, the Philippine government recognized the significance of her contribution to Philippine historiography with a Presidential Medal.

Entitled “Lourdes Díaz-Trechuelo, In Memoriam: A Conference on Spanish Colonial Philippines,” the gathering will be held on March 11 and 12 at UA&P. Co-sponsored by the University of Córdoba, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ortigas Foundation, the forum will highlight the works and person of the late scholar.

Among the conference speakers will be some professors from the University of Córdoba and Universidad Complutense of Madrid who have worked with Dr. Díaz-Trechuelo. Other speakers include Filipino scholars, contemporaries of Dr. Díaz-Trechuelo, and professors from major Philippine universities and research institutions. They will present papers on architecture and economic history – areas that are especially related to the work of Dr. Díaz-Trechuelo – as well as other topics such as colonial governance, society, and culture.

Admission is free, but participants are encouraged to register in advance. For inquiries, please contact Ms. Girlie Caedo or Ms. Krishna Luna at 637-0912 local 277/288 or e-mail mgcaedo@uap.edu.ph.

Sarah and John Lloyd, Again, Change Our Lives, In A Moment

2009-02-24T11:47:00.007+08:00

John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo reprise their respective roles in "You Changed My Life" as Miggy Montenegro and Laida Magtalas. The movie continues a fairy-tale-like flick, which was dubbed "A Very Special Love" in 2008. Now enters the character of a high school friend of Laida in the person of Rayver Cruz. Miggy, being the always-absent boyfriend, develops unusual jealousy especially now that he has been burdened with greater responsibility, which means lesser time with his Laida.

The team behind the film thought again creating a signature act expected to be popularized again by Laida. It the first film, Laida's "sundance" was imitated by children and children-at-heart. We've seen the trailer and it showed that she will be making the rest of the country cuddle their loved ones with her "power hug."

Sarah and Loydie, on their interviews with local entertainment shows, seem to have insinuated that they have several kissing scenes in the flick; will Sarah finally uncover that sensual side of her?

Lloyd's mature attack with every role he plays make movie goers see the character with a certain depth. John Lloyd's acting mettle has been proven even when not paired with Bea Alonzo.

"You Changed My Life" is now shown on your favorite theaters and was Graded A by the Cinema Evaluation Board.

Mag Watch: February 2009 Edition

2009-02-24T02:11:00.006+08:00

Before the love month ends, let us show you a recap of what fine prints we got here in our local stands, including who's on the cover.

Candy (January-February): Nicole Uysiuseng
Celebrity Living: Cesar Montano
Cosmopolitan: Angel Locsin, Angel Locsin and Piolo Pascual (back cover)
FHM: Katya Santos, Maui Taylor, and Andrea del Rosario
Fudge: Bamboo
Good Housekeeping (January-February): Lani Mercado
Lifestyle Asia: Camille Marie Yu Tantoco, Nicole Yu Tantoco, etc.
Look (January-February): Gretchen Barreto
Marie Claire: Lucy Torres
Maxim: Niña Jose
Meg: Kim Chiu and Enchong Dee
Mega: Anne Curtis
Men's Health: Paolo Contis
Metro: Kristine Hermosa
Mom's Today: Rhea Santos and Pia Arcangel
OK!: Britney Spears
Preview (January-February): Kris Aquino
Rouge: Fabian Fink
S Magazine: Karylle
Sense&Style: Angelica Panganiban and Derek Ramsey
Seventeen (January-February): Shaina Magdayao
Smart Parenting (January-February): Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan with Hannah and Benj
Speed (January-February): Toni Gonzaga
Starstudio: Kris Aquino
Stella: Rhian Ramos
T3: RR Enriquez
Total Girl: Ashley Tisdale and Vanessa Hudgens
Town&Country: Tweetie Gonzalez
Uno: Dylan
Yes!: Manny Pacquiao
You (January-February): Karylle

Syd Field To Bring Screenwriting Masterclass in Singapore and Manila This March '09

2009-02-16T12:11:00.004+08:00

CNN calls him "the guru of all screenwriters", Syd Field is regarded to be the leading authority in the art and craft of screenwriting by industry professionals in Hollywood and around the world today.

The Hollywood Reporter calls him "the most sought-after screenwriting teacher in the world."

His internationally acclaimed best-selling books Screenplay, The Screenwriter's Workbook, and The Screenwriter's Problem Solver have established themselves as the "bibles" of the film industry world wide. They are used in more than 400 colleges and universities and have been translated into 26 languages.

Syd has been a special script consultant to 20th Century Fox, the Disney Studios, Universal and Tristar Pictures and has collaborated with such noted filmmakers as Alphonso Cuaron (Y Tu Mama Tambien), James L. Brooks (Broadcast News, As Good As It Gets), Luis Mandoki (When A Man Loves A Woman), Roland Joffe (The Killing Fields, The Mission), and Tony Kaye (American History X).

He is currently on faculty at the USC Master's of Professional Writing Program, has taught at Harvard, Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCLA, the AFI and many other noted institutions.

He is a creative screenwriting consultant to the governments of Austria, Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Mexico and Norway.

By special invitation of the Ministries of Culture, Field has taught screenwriting workshops in Buenos Aires, Brussels, Berlin, Frankfurt, London, Mexico City, Munich, Oslo, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Vienna, Zurich, and Johannesburg, South Africa.

He has conducted workshops for the Canadian Film Industry in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Edmonton, was the keynote speaker at the International Film Festivals in Berlin, Rio de Janeiro and Oslo, Norway, and the President of the International Film Jury at the 1998 Flanders International Film Festival, Ghent, Belgium.

Field is also a special consultant to the Film Preservation Project for the famed Getty Center and was the first inductee into the prestigious Screenwriting Hall of Fame of the American Screenwriting Association.

Some of Field's former students include Anna Hamilton Phelan (Mask, Gorillas in the Mist), John Singleton (Boyz N the Hood, Poetic Justice), Randi Mayem Singer (Mrs. Doubtfire), Laura Esquival (Like Water For Chocalate), Michael Kane (The Color of Money), and Kevin Williamson (Scream, Scream 2 & 3).

Source: http://www.filmeduc.com/sydfield/index.htm

Tanghalang Batingaw's Contribution To Arts Month

2009-02-14T07:01:00.004+08:00

Tanghalang Batingaw presents Ang Sampung Tigda-dalawampung Minutong Dula to be viewed on February 17, 18 and 20 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 5 p.m., AVR 1 - Lyceum of the Philippines University at 20PhP for Lyceans 30PhP for outsiders.

Amorsolo Exhibits Still Open To Public

2009-02-13T18:35:00.005+08:00

Ayala Museum and Lopez Museum are still displaying National Artist for Visual Arts,Fernando Amorsolo, works . The former exposes the master's opus until March 8, 2009 and the latter until April 4, 2009. Ayala dubbed its exhibitions "Amorsolo's Women Concealed and Revealed" while Lopez titled it "Tell-tale: The Artist as Storyteller, Amorsolo As Co-Author."

Ayala Museum is located at 3/F Galleries, Ayala Museum, Makati Avenue corner De La Rosa Street Greenbelt Park,Makati City, closed during Mondays, tel. # 757 7117. Lopez Museum is found at Ground Floor, Benpres Building, Exchange Road corner Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, closed on Sundays and Holidays, tel. # 631 24 17.

Eraserheads Fans To Come in Droves in MOA in March 7

2009-02-12T13:44:00.007+08:00

Patience of Eraserheads's followers will be tested after 7 long months. Come March 7, 2009,8 p.m., SM Mall of Asia Grounds will be filled with individuals humming, singing, and rocking Heads's hits. Dubbed the Final Set, the concert is the continuation of the legendary Pinoy band's reunion concert last August 2008.

Ticket prices are VIP PhP 5000; Gold PhP 3000.00; Silver PhP 1300.00; and Bronze PhP
300.00.

Ely Buendia, the band's frontman and lead vocalist, is said to be fit and in good shape to finish the final set of songs. It will be recalled that Buendia was rushed to the hospital after the song Lightyears.

Critically Acclaimed Up Dharma Down Headlines A Free Concert on Feb. 27

2009-02-11T17:09:00.003+08:00

Book, art, and music lovers are invited to attend the myriad of activities lined up by the Ortigas Foundation, Inc. (OFI) in celebration of its 13th anniversary.

On Feb. 20 and 21, “Booked at the Ortigas Park” showcases great titles from noted publishing houses and dealers. The 30-piece Quezon City Symphonic Band takes the stage and serenades with standard Filipino pieces and other pop hits for a post-Valentine high.

Kids of all ages are invited to go to the Ortigas Park on Feb. 21, 2 to 4 p.m. for Ilustrador ng Kabataan’s live illustration showcase. Catch in action the country’s premier organization of artists for children.

“I’m involved with someone else” is usually an unpleasant thing to hear, but this time it’s actually a welcome statement. Be involved with someone else – volunteer for OFI’s social development projects. Sign up and pledge hours of volunteer work at the Ortigas Foundation booth at the Ortigas Park. To close out the week-long festivities at the Ortigas Park, internationally acclaimed band Up Dharma Down headlines a free concert at the venue, supported by Paramita, Sleepwalk Circus, and Ang Bandang Shirley – excellent groundbreaking bands from indie label Terno Recordings.

Over at the Ortigas Foundation’s Artists Nook of the Ortigas Building, award-winning painter Reynold “Rendy” dela Cruz displays more than a dozen creations depicting children in his aptly titled selling exhibition Kaluskos Musmos from February 26 onwards. Finally, poetry lovers group Pinoy Poets celebrates its fifth year with featured lecturer Edgar Samar talking about the novel’s views of poetry.

The Ortigas Foundation Week is made possible by Ortigas & Company, Limited Partnership with Terno Recordings, UST Publishing, Academic Services, Bound Bookstore, Adarna House, Bestsellers, Ilustrador ng Kabataan, and Pinoy Poets.

OFI is Ortigas and Company, Limited Partnership's answer to the call for responsible corporate citizenship. Established in 1996, the Foundation's primary focus is to promote pride in being Filipino by supporting the study of Philippine history, culture and arts. Since then, the Foundation has embraced a host of other projects with a variety of concerns, participating in initiatives where its support is most needed.

For details, call 631-12-31 to 38 locals 222 and 228 or e-mail ortigasfoundation@ortigas.com.ph.

Ballet Philippines Takes A Bow This Season With Neo-Filipino!

2009-02-07T14:56:00.003+08:00

Ballet Philippines (BP), the country’s premiere dance company, takes a grand bow as they culminate their rousing 39th Anniversary Season with NEO – FILIPINO, electrifying dances that serve as homage to the vast riches of the Filipino cultural heritage with the revival of a repertory favorite and two world premieres.

One of the main highlights of NEO-FILIPINO is the highly- anticipated revival of founding artistic director, Alice Reyes' Amada, which was inspired by the stories written by National Artist Nick Joaquin's Tatarin and Summer Solstice. Amada explores the mysteries of the Tatarin ritual.

Live music by Kalayo (formerly Pinikpikan) will serve as inspiration for the world premiere of KatiTaog by Ballet Philippines ' Artistic Director, Max Luna III - his first work created especially for the company.

The world premiere of Ulaging – Daog-dog Sa Sang Libong Kulog by BP Resident Choreographer, Alden Lugnasin, draws on a fusion of live music, ethnic instruments, movement, drama and contemporary dance to expose the plight of the indigenous Lumads of Mindanao. The music for Ulaging is an original composition of Roberto Aves, with vocals by Grace Nono.

For this season–ender production, BP is pleased to once again offer discounts to Students with ID (50% off) and Seniors (20% off). Special discount rates are also available for School Groups.
This production of Neo – Filipino is made possible in part thanks to the support of Ayala Land Premiere, Globe Telecom, SGV Foundation, Inc., Rene Barbier and Freixenet Cava Wines.

For ticket information, call: Ticket World Outlets: +632 891 9999;CCP Box Office: +632 832 3704l; and Ballet Philippines : +632 551-0221/551-1003//832-6011 or , please visit BP online at http://www.balletphilippines.org/

Gantimpala Theater Graces CCP's Pasinaya 2009

2009-02-01T17:00:00.002+08:00

Gantimpala Theater, returns to its original home at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute, as it graces the CCP's Pasinaya 2009, on February 1, the start of the annual February Arts Month celebration.

The company, known then as Bulwagang Gantimpala, was one of the CCP's resident theater companies. During its ten-year reign in Batute, they presented and produced original, untried and untested Filipino plays and many consider these efforts of the company as instrumental to the growth of contemporary Philippine dramaturgy.

On the occasion of the Pasinaya spearheaded by the CCP, Gantimpala Theater presents excerpts of J. Dennis Teodosio's Sleeping Beauty, with music composed by Jesse Lucas, under the direction of Tony S. Espejo.

Giving life to the fairy tale characters are Aiza Marquez (Princess Anabella); Noel Rayos (Prince Reginald); Gary Lim (Narrator) and Kakai Bautista (Lucinda).

The Gantimpala Theater Sleeping Beauty performances are scheduled at 2:00p.m. and 2:40p.m., Tanghalang Huseng Batute. Admission is for free.

See you there!

Mag Watch: January 2009 Edition

2009-01-14T14:43:00.016+08:00

It's a new year and that simply means a new set of magazine listings. We'll continue our coverage of the latest glossy prints currently available in the market.

The magazines coverpeople are:

Candy (Prom Special): Lauren Young
Candy (January-February): Nicole Uysiuseng
Chalk: Dingdong Dantes
Cosmopolitan: Britney Spears
FHM: Carlene Aguilar
Fudge (December-January): Wolfgang
Garage (December-January): Geoff Eigenmann
Good Housekeeping (January-February): Lani Mercado
Health Today (December-January): KC Concepcion
Lifestyle Asia (December-January): Nedy Tantoco and family
Manual (December-January): Paula Taylor
Marie Claire: Bea Alonzo
Maxim: Valerie Concepcion
Mega: Rhian Ramos
Men's Health: Ryan Agoncillo
Metro (December-January): Piolo Pascual
Offcam (December-January): Julius Babao, Christine Bersola-Babao and kids
OK!: Jennifer Aniston
Preview (January-February): Kris Aquino
S Magazine (December-January): Sarah Geronimo
Sense&Style (December-January): KC Concepcion
Seventeen (January-February): Shaina Magdayao
Smart Parenting (January-February): Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan with Hannah and Benj
Starstudio: Karylle
T3 (January-February): RR Enriquez
Total Girl: Jonas Brothers
Town&Country: Tweetie Gonzalez
Woman Today (December-January): Carmen Soo
Working Mom (December-January): Jodi Sta. Maria
Yes: Willie Revillame
You (January-February): Karylle

Holiday Allergy Alert: Don’t Let Allergies Ruin this Season

2008-12-26T19:28:00.003+08:00

This holiday season, it’s best to be prepared. Even as we rush to the malls to do our last minute shopping or go to family reunions, we are exposed to all kinds of allergens from food offered during parties, or dust from Christmas décors that were kept last year. If not given the proper medical care, allergy attacks can cause enough discomfort that can ruin your holidays. (Loratadine) Allerta, the allergy control medication from Unilab, helps you identify the symptoms that trigger irritating allergic reactions. With a sound knowledge of these signs and symptoms, you can immediately take the necessary precautions and be in tip-top condition in no time.

Reading the signs
Among the indications to look out for in mild allergic attacks are itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion and dry, itchy throat that do not spread to other parts of the body. However, there are moderate allergic reactions with symptoms that spread to other parts of the body, like itchiness and difficulty in breathing.

Controlling the signs
One you feel the onset of these signs for no apparent reasons, there is a great chance that you have been exposed to an allergen. Though the effects seem alarming, there is a handy remedy that will help you take control of these bothersome allergic reactions.

Unilab’s (Loratadine) Allerta is always on the alert on these occasions. It is formulated to repress the first signs of allergy and give you long-lasting comfort. All you need is one dose to get rid of allergy and its symptoms. It also has no adverse side effects and will not leave you feeling drowsy so you can still work, shop or engage in your favorite leisure activities this holiday season.

Effective and reasonably priced, (Loratadine) Allerta can be purchased over the counter in most drug stores.

Share the Gift of a Cool & Clean Christmas with C2

2008-12-26T19:24:00.003+08:00

Christmas is indeed the time for sharing. We share gifts, greetings and goodwill, even our time as we visit friends and relatives we have long missed. We share sumptuous feasts over happy reunions many times over throughout this joyous season. But then, what better thing is there to share in this time of giving than the gift of good health and wellness?

This season is the perfect time to share C2 Green Tea 1 liter when friends and family visit. With C2 Green Tea 1 liter as a staple of your Holiday handaan, not only will you enjoy its delicious refreshing flavors but its health benefits as well. You really can’t go wrong with green tea as your drink for the season.

The presence of both caffeine and theanine makes green tea the drink with the perfect balance – caffeine helps increase alertness and concentration while theanine combats stress, tension and anxiety. This makes C2 Green Tea in its handy re-sealable PET bottle the ideal companion for fighting through Christmas traffic. Green tea can aid in consuming fat and enhancing metabolism – perfect for complementing Christmas work-outs to burn off the extra calories. It can also bring down the amount of cholesterol in the body – to help counter the extra-rich Holiday feasts. And green tea helps bring down the amount of sugar in the blood – to help counter the added intake of Christmas sweets.

So with C2 Green Tea 1 liter chilling in your refrigerator and a Holiday feast on the table, you are ready to share a heartwarming meal replete with good health and wellness. For a cool and clean Christmas, there’s simply no better choice than sharing the different delicious flavors of C2 Green Tea 1 liter, available in supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores nationwide.

Gantimpala Theater Presents Piling-Piling Pamaskong Awitin!

2008-12-26T19:11:00.003+08:00

GANTIMPALA THEATER PRESENTS PILING-PILING PAMASKONG AWITIN!

Gantimpala Theater, invites you all to Piling-Piling Pamaskong Awitin on December 27, 7:00 p.m., inside the EDSA Shangrila Mall, which is located at the corner of Shaw Boulevard and EDSA.

Piling-Piling Pamaskong Awitin is a musical show that presents a sampling of traditional Filipino carols and popular songs.

Performers are Noel Rayos, Fame Flores, the Pastores de Belen dancers of Randy Guevara and the Hiyas ng Sining Children's Choir.

The musical show is under the direction of Tony S. Espejo, Artistic Director of Gantimpala Theater.

EDSA Shangrila Mall is the partner of Gantimpala Theater in this special holiday presentation.

THE SHOW IS FOR FREE!

Mag Watch: December Edition

2008-12-26T18:38:00.005+08:00

It's the last month of the year and it's about to end. So before we wrap up the final days of 2008, let us share with you our glossy print sightings.

Bounce: VJ Dylan
Candy: Kristen Stewart
Celebrity Living: Ara Mina
Cosmopolitan: KC Concepcion
FHM: Mariel Rodriguez
Fudge (December-January): Wolfgang
Good Housekeeping: Vicky Morales
Lifestyle Asia (December-January): Nedy Tantoco and family
Look (November-December): Judy Ann Santos
Manual (December-January): Paula Taylor
Marie Claire: Angelina Jolie
Meg: Chris Tiu
Mega: Bea Soriano, Mariel Rodriguez, Paula Taylor, Rhian Ramos
Men's Health: Barack Obama
OK!: Angelina Jolie
Preview: Rhian Ramos
Rogue: Angel Locsin, (alternate cover) Manny Pacquaio
S Magazine: Sarah Geronimo
Sense&Style (December-January): KC Concepcion
Seventeen: Blake Lively
Smart Parenting: Dina & Danica Sotto with baby Mich
Speed: Roxanne Ginuo
T3: Fabian Fink
Total Girl: Selena Gomez
Town & Country: Tessa Prieto-Valdes
Working Mom (December-January): Jodi Sta. Maria
Yes: Kris Aquino, James Yap, and kids Josh and Baby James
You (November-December): Sarah Geronimo

You Ready To Be A Hero?

2008-11-28T16:59:00.005+08:00

Ortigas Foundation, Inc. and Kaya Natin! Movement would like to invite you to a free talk entitled We Can Be Heroes: How everybody can be heroes through ethical leadership, good governance and active citizen participation.

Kaya Natin! is a movement composed of good Filipinos from different sectors of society. They espouse genuine change and ethical leadership in our country in our government by promoting transparency, social accountability, people empowerment and electoral reforms. The pioneering leaders of this movement, that we hope would be present in the December 2 Forum, are Filipino of the Year Gov. “Among” Ed Panlilio, Ramon Magsaysay Awardees Gov. Grace Padaca and Mayor Jesse Robredo, Mayor Sonia Lorenzo of Nueva Ecija, and Gov. Teddy Baguilat of Ifugao.

The talk will be held on December 2, Tuesday, 4 to 6 p.m. This is open to professionals, students, youth leaders, government servants, employees, housewives – everyone who has a stake in this country we lovingly call home.

To confirm your attendance, kindly send an e-mail to fernandezks@ortigas.com.ph or call Kiel at 631-1231 to 38.

Please refer to the attached e-flier and vicinity map for more details.

Thank you very much.

Gantimpala Theater Stages Rolando Tinio's A Life in The Slums

2008-11-28T16:55:00.003+08:00

Gantimpala Theater closes its 31st Season with A Life in the Slums, written by Rolando S. Tinio, National Artist for Theater, which was awarded first prize, in the English division of the 1975 Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards. This announcement came from Tony Espejo, artistic director, who also directs the play.
A Life in the Slums is a comedy of manners in nine scenes with musical numbers that presents the intertwining lives of Henny, a truck diver; the twins Millie and Annie; the neighbor Salud, the neighborhood hunk and Roger, every body’s lover.

One afternoon, Millie (Kimberly Diaz) gets a surprise visit from her sister Annie (Monica Llamas), in the squatters’ area where she resides. The two share pleasantries and discuss the many happenings in their respective lives.

Millie reveals the wonders of being part of the “real world,” in the slums, with her truck driver husband Henny (alternately portrayed by Xeno Alejandro and Francis Cruz III), and children. For Millie, despite the squalor, stench, confusion, fistfights, rumormongers, and the people’s search for their daily existence, being in the slums is her version of “heaven on earth.”

Annie, on the other hand, laments the sorry state of her affluence. She feels “filthy” because of the many transgressions of the people surrounding her – their mother’s accidental death due to gluttony, their father’s extra-marital affairs, her marriage on the rocks with Roger (Jojo Riguerra) who happens to be Millie’s former lover and her incapacity to become a mother.
In the end, the two sisters agree to reverse their roles, both hoping that they will discover true happiness in their newly acquired neighborhood and personas.

Tony Espejo says, “I am directing the play as a theatre of the absurd production because obviously, National Artist Rolando Tinio wrote it so that it can be performed as such. It is very funny; biting at some points, and will definitely open the eyes of people on the ridiculousness and hypocrisy of the rich and their ambivalent attitude towards the poor. One day they embrace them, the next day, they loathe them.”

A Life in the Slums is the fifth season of Gantimpala Theater’s National Artist Production Series. Yearly, the company stage plays written by national artists for theater and literature to give its audiences the opportunity to appreciate and understand the artistic contributions made by these masters of the dramatic and literary arts.

Helping Espejo create the impoverished world of Millie and Annie are Andy Villareal (lights designer); Marianne Sedotes (set designer); Albert Figueras (costume designer); Joey de Guzman (musical composer); Jorge Cabullo (production manager) and Michael King Urieta (stage manager).

A Life in the Slums is fully supported by the National Parks Development Committee.
Performances are on December 5-6, (10am/2pm), at the AFP Theater, in Quezon City, December 12-14, (10am/2pm) SM South mall in Las Piñas City.

Shows will resume next year with play dates on January 23-25, (10am/2pm) at the AFP Theater, and February 6-7, at the SM South mall in Las Piñas City.

For information, tickets, and booking information, please call the Gantimpala Theater Marketing Office at 899-5745/896-3503 or 474-5198 or write to: gantimpalatheater.multiply.com or gantimpalatheater@yahoo.com.ph