Jolly Jeep

How has it been?

2010-11-02T15:27:00.005+08:00

It has been almost 4 months since I landed on this foreign lah-lah-land. It has been 4 months of being miles and miles away from my family and friends. It has been 4 months of trying to learn the ropes of the new industry I am in. It has been 4 months.

I was never fearful of my decision to try my luck here in Singapore. It was actually the best decision I've ever made. Why?

One thing is that my mom's going home already, back in the Philippines, after 15 years of not seeing her, the whole family will now have her back.

Good for them.

Sad for me.

I could always see it that way. I could always think that it's sad that just when my mom goes home, I fly away and work abroad. I could always ask why am I doing this? Why am I working for my mom? Why?

But then I always end up smiling and telling myself that, "Hey! Look at the brighter side! You earn money not just for yourself but for your mom."

And yes, it actually is fulfilling to know that your hardwork is slowly paying off.

So, how has it been?

I met new friends.

I built good working relationships.

I work for a good company.

I have the person there is with me.

I am happy.

Yes.

I am happy.

And nobody can take it away from me. Not one.

So if ever you decide to go abroad, take it as an opportunity to discover what is out there and see the best things that could happen.

OFW po ako

2010-09-07T16:36:00.005+08:00

It has been a while since I last posted something on this blog. Really long while. A seemingly relaxing hiatus for me and for my search for greener pasture.

And so yes, I went out of the country to earn a better salary. Much better, at that.

But yes, I'm still aligned with what I studied in college. Not underemployed. Not underpaid.

Just perfect.

Let me just get everything straight, I'm here not for the sake of earning a bunch of bread for myself, but for my mom.

But what seems to be the best thing about working abroad?

Aside from the money, you get to start a whole new life for yourself, start a whole new story that everybody will surely love to read.

You get to meet a lot of friends, people from your own country who went to that place with the same reason that you have.

You get to discover a lot about yourself, reflect on what life has become for the past years.

You get to learn.

You get to earn.

We will all have different reasons and answers to that question.

But one thing's for sure, you will live a life full of ooohhhhs and aaaaahhhhs that you never realized you can do.

Ako po ay isang OFW.

And I'm mighty proud to be one.

To PNoy with love

2010-07-08T12:37:00.005+08:00

There's always a need for change. And that he said, he will bring about to the Filipino nation.

President Benigno Aquino III, the next big thing in the Philippine history.

Okay, my first two lines showed my full support to PNoy.

Yes.

I am very much a fan, from the start of his campaign to his first day in Malacanan.

Yes.

Even though Charice Pempengco looked like Snow White in her gown on PNoy's inauguration, I still am an avid supporter. Don't get me wrong, I love Charice. It was just her gown that day. But that would be a totally different blog entry.

Everyone's expecting a huge change with PNoy's administration. And everyone means even the people outside the country - Singapore, Japan, China, and even US.

Thus, it's a weight to PNoy's shoulder.

I just hope he won't stoop down and disappoint everyone.

I mean, there will surely be pitholes along the way. But if only the Filipino nation will be there by his side, no walls won't keep the country from moving forward.

So to PNoy, with our hopes held high, may you be the man we hoped you would be.

There would be no easy way to get there to where you want the Philippines to be, but for me, at least, you have our support. It will be a long journey, but hey, we have each other.

To PNoy with love.

Kung buhay pa si Pepe

2010-06-19T11:15:00.004+08:00

Sa ikasandaa't apatnapung kaarawan ni Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado Y Alonzo Realonda, biglang kong naisip na paano na lang kaya kung buhay pa si Pepe?

Ano kaya ang itsura niya? Ano kaya ang iniisip niya? May position kaya siya sa gobyerno?

Kung buhay pa si Pepe...

Tutulugsain niya panigurado ang bawat buhay na jejemon sa Pilipinas. Hindi. Hindi po ako galit sa mga jejemo'ng ito.

Sabi nga ni Rizal, "Ang hindi marunong magmahal sa sariling wika, mas malansa pa sa isda".

Mula roon, naisip kong magiging anti-jejemon si Rizal. Hindi lang nila binago ang wikang Filipino, binaboy pa ito.

Kung buhay pa si Pepe...

Siguro nangibang bansa na siya, lalo pa't kelangan ng mga doctor sa ibayong bansa. Sigurado'ng mayaman na siya ngayon at may sariling bahay sa Amerika.

O di kaya'y nag-aral ulit ito ng Nursing. Marami rin ang nangangailangan ng nurse sa bansa tulad ng Canada at Amerika, sigurado'ng magkakatrabaho siya doon.

Kung buhay pa si Pepe...

Baka nagpapalit na to ng pangalan. Mula sa Jose, kikilalanin na natin siyang Joe. Mas maganda nga naman sa tenga, mas commericalized.

Kung buhay pa si Pepe...

Mas magiging maayos kaya ang Pilipinas? Mas maunlad? Mas kaaya-aya?

Tingin mo? Kung buhay pa si Pepe?

Sucker for Hawker

2010-06-05T12:08:00.003+08:00

Char Tiew noodles for lunch

Breakfast hasn't been this good with a Kaya Toast

Laksa for your spicy craving tongue

Chicken rice to top it all

When you're a stranger in a country of Buddhas and Dragon dances, there's always that hesitation to try the local dishes.

Not in my case.

I call myself adventurous when it comes to food. Food, anyway, is but the best invention of mankind.

Singapore homes the best Hawker Centers in Asia. Yes. These food havens are the way to go when in a tight travel budget.

When you wake up in the morning and wanted a smell of Singapore right at your table, worry not, Kaya Toast is the best choice.

Perfect paired with iced or hot coffee, Kaya Toast is best dipped in a bowl of half-cooked egg savored with soy sauce and salt.

After a very long walk around the island, hunger will strike you at lunch time. Settle on the nearest hawker center and get yourself a bowl of Char Tiew Noodles.

Topped with roasted pork and veggies, savor sweetness and authenticity of this chinese noodle delicacy right within your pocket's reach.

When under the rain, there's always my favorite noodle soup, Laksa. This spicy and perspiring bowl of noodles will surely get you up for another long walk in the island.

And as they say, you haven't been to Singapore without a taste of the infamous Chicken Rice.

Steamed and sprinkled with a taste of perfection, this genuine chinese delicacy will make you crave for more and drool for even more.

With all these...

Like me, you'll surely be a sucker for Hawker.

Boracay is food. Food is Boracay.

2010-05-03T14:37:00.007+08:00

Chocolate Sin-ful

Smoke's Kao Pad

I know of Boracay's fine sand and crystal-clear beach.

But there's more to what your eyes can see, there's also what your tongue can taste. Boracay homes the most mouth-watering dishes and desserts that will make you swim back for more.

There's the artsy-fartsy Smoke restaurant in D'Mall.

When you've been to Soms in Rockwell and Mandaluyong and had a taste of their Kao Pad. Then, you surely need to dine at Smoke and order their bestseller, Kao Pad.

A Thai-inspired dish, you'll go gaga over the battling sweet and sour taste Kao Pad's bagoong-flavored rice topped with mango and scrambled egg.

Then there's Beef Salpicao.

Usual at the first sight of it. But wait until you take a bite of its juicy beef seasoned with fried garlic that will inevitably brainwash your memory of what Beef Salpicao used to be.

When you taste buds crave for that Filipino dish, there's Island Chicken Inasal.

Right at the heart of D'Mall, grab a bite of its authentic Bacolod Chicken Inasal and drool over their Filipino's very own Sinigang. Giving you more reasons to stay on the island.

Thinking of the best dessert on the sand?

Then Zuzuni's the only way.

Enjoy the sand while savoring their sinful Chocolate Sin - a freshly baked chocolate muffin with stuffed with hot fudge and vanilla ice cream on the side.

One true YUM!

And when hunger strikes you in the middle of your booze session, there's always Chori Burger to stuff your alcohol-pumped tummy.

So the next time you're in Boracay, be sure to enjoy all sides of the triangle - beach, food, and booze.

The New Kid in Riverdale

2010-04-23T10:41:00.004+08:00

I grew up in a town where playing in the street, climbing the trees, and pressing neighbor's doorbells is a pastime.

Technology was out of our reach. Not until my 6th Grade.

Reading was then my hobby.

And Archie, Jughead, Veronica, and Betty were my playmates.

Fast-forward to the present time.

I left all my Archie comics at home in Davao. I matured to reading novels from all genres.

But now, it seems to be all coming back to me. Now that there's a new kid in Riverdale.

World, meet Kevin Keller.

The newest addition to the gang - hot, hot, hot.

But what seems to be so special about him?

He's the very first openly gay character in the series.

His first appearance is titled "Isn't it Bromantic?" where Veronica (who doesn't have any idea that Kevin is gay) is insanely falling in love with Kevin. The catch, however, is that Kevin tells Jughead that he's gay but the latter prevents the former to tell Veronica about his true identity.

Interesting?

Watch out for him on September 01, 2010 in your local comics stands.

Reality Bites

2010-04-15T14:27:00.004+08:00

I found myself on the couch last long weekend watching the latest episodes of Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains and The Amazing Race.

Stressful. And I meant that in the most positive way.

Every scene really is something to look forward to. And the challenges are but superb.

And then I thought, TV has gone where now?

From the emergence of series in the boob tube, TV has gone a very long way. Reality shows has now become the trend.

From Survivor to The Amazing Race to Big Brother. Even Paris Hilton's search for her new BFF is now on your TV screens.

It's great success can be very well rooted to the success of singing competitions in the tube. One, best example maybe is American Idol where viewers all over the world continue to watch.

But wait, let me just say that reality TV has become very popular that it's now nauseating.

Maybe not Survivor and The Amazing Race.

But seriously? Paris Hilton searching for her new BFF? Do you really have to air that?

In the Philippines, I should say that reality TV has become not just a trend, but really famous. You can see Pinoy Big Brother which has now become a talent search.

Kim Chiu? You there?

But I still am a fan though.

Reality bites.

It bites hard.

Pacquiao's butterfly effect

2010-03-15T17:03:00.004+08:00

I found myself in a crowd of a thousand shouting at the top of my lungs to a person I see only through an LCD projector.

Weird. I initially thought.

It suddenly struck me at the end of the game.

I don't really know what the hell I was doing there. I could have just spent that Sunday alone in my room and wait for the results to come out in Twitter.

You can never go wrong with what cyberspace feed (Or so, I thought).

I couldn't consider it the Fight of the Year.

But I should admit that I am guilty of not betting for Manny Pacquiao to win this fight.

Yes. I have my reason.

Joshua Clottey is an African, roots came from Ghana. And we know how these people fight. I am not trying to be a racist here. But really, Clottey has all the advantages he could get.

The height. The reach. The weight. The muscles.

All about him was really an advantage.

But everything changed before the game started.

Since the coliseum was closed to minimize the crowd's growing number, I thought of smoking inside instead. I found myself smoking with a 50-ish man.

Out of nowhere, he asked me, "Sino tingin mo mananalo bata?"

"Hindi ko po alam e," I answered. "Pero nagdadalawang isip ako kung mananalo si Pacquiao e. Ikaw po?"

"Ako Pacquiao siyempre. Manalo. Matalo. Sa Pilipinas ako."

I was suddenly speechless.

It felt like a piano was suddenly drop over my head.

I just smiled.

I realized,Filipinos still have that burning pride to be a Filipino. We still hang on to the fact that we are still capable of change.

And I believe you my fellowmen.

To manong, thank you for that remark. It changed my perspective. It changed me.

Come Holy Week

2010-03-10T10:24:00.003+08:00

I've had my fair shares of sacrifices.

It might not be the bloody type, but it's my simple way of showing the importance of Christ's crucifixion on the cross.

This year, I thought of taking it through photos.

I am wondering where to best visit and capture the Holy Week.

I first thought of Pampanga, where the sun is hot, and the land is sulky.

Imagining how the photos would look like gives me the thrills.

How about Zambales?

The sight of the beach and the sand as it touches my feet would also be picturesque.

To lessen the cost, I can go around churches in Manila and capture the best sights.

But wherever I'll be this Holy Week, one thing's for sure, I need to reflect on my sins and how the Almighty Father accepted me with open arms despite all my trespasses.

Amen.

EDSA Revolution lives on

2010-02-25T19:21:00.003+08:00

I am no EDSA baby.

But the rich history of EDSA Revolution amazes me.

The people.

The shout.

The passion.

Everything about EDSA is an apple of my eyes.

I love the abstract concept of EDSA that I even wanted it to happen again.

Now, 24 years after, do we still have that fervent spirit to fight against the government's crime and corruption?

Elections is fast approaching.

We see TV spots of candidates running for a certain position.

We see tarpaulins around the city.

We even now hear jingles as irritating as it can be.

And I think the spirit of EDSA will live through the coming elections.

I believe that such spirit will spark amidst all these and ignite that righteous thought to vote for who is the best person to sit as our next president.

There will always be that attempt to fabricate the results.

But I know today's Filipinos will stand up for what is right.

Amidst all the adversaries in our country, I still believe that when the situation calls for it, the Filipinos will still unite along EDSA to fight for what they believe.

Filipinos will still raise their voice as high as they can for the government to hear them.

Filipinos can still put down a president.

I believe in you Pinoy.

I believe in you.

Run on the rugged side

2010-02-17T14:39:00.002+08:00

I have been stale for years now, fitness-wise.

I tried doing it again this year.

I don't know if my metabolism is still that fast but it's worth a try.

To all you fitness gaga out there, here's Merrell Adventure Run. Details of the event is on the photo.

I have a SHOE story to tell

2010-02-12T09:35:00.004+08:00

It was a very fine Monday morning.

I woke up early.

I went jogging.

I ate my sumptuous breakfast.

A perfect start to a fantabulous week (despite the loads and loads and loads of work).

I took a bath.

Dressed up.

It was just right until I noticed something wrong with my favorite pair of shoes.

The sole's ripping off.

What a Monday, I thought.

Confident as I am, I went out of the house clutching with me my daily professional needs, wearing my ripping-off shoes.

I went from one store to another to find a temporary remedy, rugby.

Unfortunately, no one sells even a drop of it.

I was losing hope.

Suddenly, seemingly a gift from the heavens, a blessing from above, it was as if God saw my suffering, a shoe repairman seated on one corner of our street with his paraphernalia.

I hurried towards him.

Had my shoes repaired.

And out of nowhere I asked, "Madalas po ba kayo dito manong?"

He answered, "Ngayon lang, napadaan lang,"

I replied, "Hulog ka ng langit,"

"Done," he said.

With a smile on my face, I flew off.

I then thought, it's 10:30am, "You're late, Cyprus! RUN!"

Kaibigan mo lang ako

2010-02-08T18:31:00.002+08:00

BUJOY: Nagpromise ka sakin na hindi ka malelate.

NED: Kaya ako nalate dahil sinundo ko pa si Mary Ann.

BUJOY: Nagpromise ka rin sa akin na hindi mo isasama ang Mary Ann na yan.

NED: Okay, kaya ko sinama si Mary Ann kasi mag-on na kame. At syempre ikaw ang gusto kong ikaw ang unang makaalam nun dahil ikaw ang bestfriend ko.

BUJOY: Get out of my way.

NED: Hindi ka ba masaya para sa akin.

BUJOY: Get out of my way.

NED: Bujoy, hindi ba ito ang gusto mo?

BUJOY: I said, get out of my way!

NED: Ano bang nangyayari sayo?

BUJOY: Wala kang pakealam!

NED: Hindi na kita maintindihan e

BUJOY: Kelan mo ba ako inintindi?

NED: Direchuhin mo nga ako, dahil hindi ko kayang basahin kung anung andiyan sa utak mo. Kung galit ka sabihin mo sakin, sabihin mo sakin kung bakit. Kung nasaktan kita, sampaling mo ako, sige gantihan mo ako. Matatanggap ko lahat dahil kaibigan mo ako.

BUJOY: Oh yes kaibigan mo ako. KAIBIGAN MO LANG AKO. And that’s all I ever was to you Ned. Your bestfriend. Takbuhan mo kapag may problema ka. Tagasunod, tagabigay ng advice. Taga-enroll, taga-gawa ng assignment. Taga-pagpatawa sa iyo kapag nalulungkot ka. Taga-tanggap ng kahit ano. AND I’M SO STUPID TO MAKE THE BIGGEST MISTAKE OF FALLING IN LOVE WITH MY BESTFRIEND. Dahil kahit kailan, hindi mo naman ako makikita e. Kahit kailan hindi mo ako kayang mahalin na higit pa sa isang kaibigan.

NED: Bujoy!

BUJOY: Ngayong alam mo na, I think you can get out of my life.

NED: Bujoy, mahal kita. Mahal na mahal kita kaya siguro duwag ako. Kung magkarelasyon tayo, pano kung masaktan kita. Baka pati ikaw Bujoy na kaibigan ko mawala pa. Bujoy, hindi kita kayang mawala sa buhay ko.

BUJOY: Anong gusto mong sabihin ko Ned? Anong gusto mong maramdaman ko? Mahal mo ako pero hindi mo naman kayang ipaglabang ang pagmamahal mo sakin. Gusto mong maniguro. NED HINDI KA LANG ISANG DUWAG, MAKASARILI KA.

(ENTER MUSIC: NANGHIHINAYANG BY JEREMIAH)

Buwan ng Wika sa buwan ng Enero

2010-02-04T13:40:00.006+08:00

Matagal na rin akong hindi nakakapagsulat ng Filipino.

Kahit ba sabihin nating ito ang pangunahing linggwaheng ginagamit ko sa araw-araw, iba parin ang pakiramdam na makapagsulat gamit ang sarili mong wika.

Hindi naman siguro masama na kahit minsan, balikan mo ang pinaglakhan mong wika.

Kumusta naman kaya ako pagkatapos ng dalawang buwan kong pagtrabaho bilang manunulat?

Masaya.

Yun naman talaga ang importante sakin e.

Mahirap, sa kabilang dako.

Dahil hindi sapat ang kinikita ko.

Pero alam ko namang darating ako dun.

One step at a time, ika nga.

Sa ngayon, nagpapakalango na lang muna ako sa trabaho.

Hanggang dumating ang panahon na masasabi ko'ng, ito na yun.

Pero sana po Panginoon ko, dumating na siya sa lalong madaling panahon.

Pressure ba Lord? :)

I am a writer

2010-01-20T17:06:00.006+08:00

I am now officially a writer.

And since I've become one, I almost forgot that this blog exists.

Writing for a living has stopped me from blogging.

Lame excuse.

Again, I am now officially a writer, a copywriter at that.

My long wait is over.

This may not be the company I dreamt of, but I know, this is just step towards that shining goal.

Now the question is, how long will it take you to stay?

For now, I am confined by my dream, my aspiration.

But I know, in time, maybe not soon, reality will bite me and shall wake me up.

However, I believe that nobody can take that dream away from you as long as you want to stay sleeping in that dream.

Meaning, as long as you're happy with what you're doing, then, nobody can take that away from you.

Even your mom who's nagging you to look for a job with a better and higher salary.

I am writer.

And I am blissful to become one.

Two-Oh-Oh-Ten Goals

2010-01-05T11:17:00.004+08:00

We all heard of New Year Resolutions.

What to do and what not to do on another new year.

I had my fair share of resolutions, and each year, nothing really happens.

I just blurt it out, and along the way, everything changes.

Now, this 2010, I try not to do resolutions.

I have goals.

First, starting off my career as a writer in 2009, I want this to flourish and continue growing this 2010.

Initially, I wanted to work in an above-the-line advertising agency, but opportunities didn't allow me. A door in a below-the-line advertising agency opened, so I grabbed it.

But this year, I am aiming to further develop my writing skills and enter that world I want to be one with.

Second, I want to lose weight, tone those muscles, and live healthy. I'll try to lessen carbo intake, and lessen my smoking.

Lord, help me.

Third, I want to do better with my current job. It does not pay that much, but I know this is a start of something greater ahead.

I am keeping my fingers crossed.

Fourth, I want to do better with my life. It's not that it's all messed up, but I want to aim for something better.

No.

I want to aim for the best.

Cliche as it may seem, but this is what I want to do. I'll straighten things out.

All these this 2010.

Guide me, oh Lord, so I may do all these.

Where would I be on 2154?

2009-12-18T11:56:00.005+08:00

I see you.

We have seen him work in Terminator 2.

We saw how magnificent his eyes are in Titanic.

Now, brace yourselves for another masterpiece from the master, James Cameron.

Avatar.

When I heard of the film, it was nothing for me at first. It seems to be just another sci-fi movie that would pass by.

And then the trailer came, I said, "This I have to watch,"

I am not a movie critic, as I always say. But I love how James Cameron illustrated the world he created with his own mind.

I love every detail of the film - from the 3D technology to the music to the actors to even the creatures in the film.

I love how he told the story to every eye that will watch the film. I love how he brought me to another world, a world where everyone would want to be in.

Though the cast wasn't that strong, except for how Zoe Saldana do that growl and Sam Worthington's oh-so-hotness physique, the effects and story balanced it.

Would James Cameron still create such film?

That I'll leave up to him.

But I have only this to say, amazing is an understatement. Avatar is one divine masterpiece you surely don't want to miss.

So call your friends and take them to a one hell of an Ikran ride.

I love you, I do

2009-12-17T17:12:00.004+08:00

Tranquility sparks
Illuminating the night
Thoughts of you ignite.

Thy breath is fresh air
Giving life to weary days
You're my oxygen.

Your warm, sweet embrace
Blankets me when I feel cold
Alone without you.

The touch of your lips
Shivers throughout my body
I crave everyday.

The look of your eyes
Melts my stonecold, empty heart
It drives me crazy.

All these I dare keep
Without you, where would I be?
I love you, I do.

* * *

Here's a haiku for my partner after challenging me to write one.
To you, I hope you like it.

The country's gift this Christmas

2009-12-15T10:00:00.007+08:00

Today's the start of Philippine's traditional Misa de Gallo.

You can now surely smell the cold breeze of the air as the holiday seasons come near.

But looking back, are we really having a merry Christmas despite the latest happenings in the country?

The latest on is the Ampatuan-Maguindanao Massacre where more than 50 people were murdered heinously.

Is this the country's gift for Christmas?

Nobody thought that would happen. Who would right? Only maybe those people who did it.

But on the brighter side, I still believe we're having a merry Christmas.

This would really be up to us now.

What we need to do now is to pray as one for the justice of the victims.

It wouldn't happen that fast, but we still need to believe that it will come, in time.

The country's gift might be gruel and tragic.

But giving it back with prayers and faith is one gift no one can ever take from us.

Merry Christmas everybody.

Start of dreams coming true

2009-12-10T17:58:00.005+08:00

Where does everything start?

And I wonder how?

I always go back to Miley Cyrus' song, The Climb.

As the song goes:

"Ain't about how fast I get there,
ain't about what's waiting on the other side,
It's the climb,"

Starting out, I have always been a huge fan of advertising - it's creativity amazes me. And yes, I dreamt of being a copywriter.

I wish to someday win my Tambuli, Araw Award, Kidlat, and if opportunity allows me, that Cannes Grand Prix.

Too much of a dream?

I say, it's wishful thinking.

Going back to the question, where do you start?

You start dreaming, wishing that what you have in mind comes to reality.

Then comes, looking for the way on how you get there, the good and best way of course.

And when you get there, you stay and try to be the best.

Where does it end?

You are the one to tell it.

One key is to be happy and cherish every moment of it.

These I want for Christmas

2009-11-27T11:30:00.004+08:00

I back read my blog when I first started it back in December and saw a Christmas wish list entry.

Then I thought, I should start thinking of my wish list come Christmas.

Here goes another list of the stuff I want this season of GIVING. Yes, yes, yes. I know. Ma-ma-materialism strikes back. I know this is untimely amidst all the chaos in the country. But hey, this is just a wishlist. Let's put insensitivity aside.

This is for your sake anyway. So you won't have a hard time thinking of what to give me.

Or am I just dreaming?

1. Last year I asked for a Fisheye Lomo cam. This year, I still want one. This is not the one I asked for a year ago, I want the chromiac version of the Fisheye. Perfect for photo taking while waiting for 12 midnight on Christmas.

2. How about my own portable DVD? The vacation will surely bore the hell out of me and that portable DVD is the perfect company. What do you think? Maybe you can include a DVD or two.

3. My eyes have been glued on Traffic shoes for quite some time now, and I think this is the right time to get one. Those pointed, shiny shoes would be perfect to wear on Noche Buena. Yes?

4. The child in me wants a Nintendo DSi. PSP is way too overused. I want something different this time.

5. Would I forget my long overdue dream? A DSLR for myself - whether a Canon 500d or that Nikon D5000. I think I should start plaguing my mom on this.

There you go.

My very own Christmas wish list.

I don' care whether it's wrapped or not.

Globe Tattoo brings Embassy to Subic

2009-11-20T15:16:00.004+08:00

How do you bring Embassy to Subic?

I don't know.

And I don't even care.

All I know is that Globe Tattoo is bringing Embassy to Subic tonight at the 21st Philippine Advertising Congress.

Where else do you party at Subic?

But with the FASTEST GROWING PREPAID BROADBAND IN THE COUNTRY!

My very first Philippine Advertising Congress will surely be uber fun.

See you there guys!

2012 on 2010

2009-11-18T12:19:00.002+08:00

Christmas is the time of the year when you reflect and repent.

Now, 2012 is the movie of the year when you do the same.

We saw it happened with Independence Day. Another one came with The Day After Tomorrow. But 2012 is a 360 degrees different from all those disaster flicks.

For one thing, the end of the world on 2012 is a forewarning from the Mayan calendar. According to them, the Mayan calendar will end on December 12, 2012 thus the end of the world.

From there, 2012 visually created what could happen when the earth annihilates right before your very eyes.

Starring John Cusack, Amanda Peet, Chiwetel Ejiofor among others, 2012 tells us the epic adventure of saving your own lives when the world comes to an end.

We know of how John Cusack is great as an actor, but the supporting roles complemented each other to create that perfect ensemble.

There were, of course, parts that you wouldn't like but in a holistic point of view, the film's just perfect.

So I say, Independence Day + The Day After Tomorrow <>

You have been warned.

Pacman? Vice-president?

2009-11-16T11:46:00.007+08:00

On my way to work today, the radio was tuned in to Mike Enriquez’s daily morning show in DZBB (and yes, I don’t have a choice since you ride down the cab with the radio tuned in already, it’s a good thing though).

My eyebrows suddenly raised when this certain volunteer group is recommending/suggesting/advising Manny to run as the country’s vice-president come 2010 elections fighting against the country’s high caliber politicians.

Under what grounds?

They say Pacman is the person who will help those forgotten or deprived Filipino athletes like Z Gorres. They say we are assured of his honesty in serving the people because he won’t be corrupting. He has the money anyway, they say.

HUWAAAAAT!

Wait a minute. Hold your horses people.

I say my piece in three parts:

(1) He might be the Pound-for-Pound King, the ultimate warrior, or whathaveyous, but it doesn’t automatically mean that he is right and perfect for the position. It’s not as if helping all those athletes would help the country get back on its feet. We are healing a more serious wound than that.

(2) Politics is not Manny’s arena, and it will never be. He might have all the money in the world, he might even pay the country’s debt (exaggerated, yes!) but it doesn’t disqualify him to be corrupt. Okay, not him. But the people surrounding him? I don’t think so.

(3) I just can’t imagine a boxer leading the country. I am very sorry, I am not discriminating Manny in whatever sort of way, but I just don’t see it. It’s not as if boxing gyms would help the country. He’s not even qualified to be one. According to the COMELEC REQUIREMENTS, to qualify to run as vice-president, you need to be 35 years old and above. He’s 30. No can do. Sorry.

Do you hear me people?

Not Manny.

Let him play his game.

Let’s play ours.

Agree?

Rock, Paper, Scissors

2009-11-12T14:40:00.003+08:00

I am pretty sure you have heard of those asian poses. We, Filipinos, even call them Japan-Japan (with that peace sign).

But I never grasped its reality until I saw this site they call Asianposes.com.

I rolled on the floor, laughing.

I never thought that they even call some of these poses as rock, paper, and scissors (as what you see in the photos).

Its not that I am discriminating my fellow asians, but really, the photos are really funny.

I found it funny.

I hope you find just as funny.

No offense, really.

Now, let me try my rock, paper, scissors asian pose.

Just when you wanted it

2009-11-10T18:28:00.003+08:00

Surprises come in unexpected instances, in the weirdest situations, in the most awkward packages.

As for me, surprise came in a Black Tie.

Nothing can ever replace the happiness you'll feel when that dream finally came true.

Now what do you do next?

You cherish it.

You make the best thing possible to be great in it.

You make everyone proud.

You love it.

I think I'm ready.

Bring it on!

I wanna be Toby

2009-10-29T12:32:00.003+08:00

I was never a fan of Astro Boy.

Well, I like the way the artist drew him, a true heart-and-eye-catching.

But I never knew the story until I watched the movie.

BACK STORY: I really don't have any plans of watching the film. A free ticket made me. Who am I to resist?

Then, I found myself enticed with the little boy superhero.

I suddenly want to have my own Astro Boy, the genuine one, the robotic.

Then live in Metro City.

Have my own flying car.

Have that flying squeegee and glass sprayer.

But why so sudden?

Maybe the storytelling made me fall in love with Astro, or Toby.

It was very clear and smooth that even though I was late, I caught up with it.

I love the animation, the crisp movement and illustration of the film.

And of course, the humor is ageless.

So from now on, call me Astro, your wonder boy!

A wake up call

2009-10-26T11:49:00.003+08:00

Maybe I was just too complacent, or maybe not.

My career has always been rocky, or shall I call it, indefinite?

Yes, I, of course, know what I want to do in life. That I am 100% sure about.

But then, you reach that thinking where you ask yourself if that certain goal is really for you, or do you have what it takes to be what you want to be.

I have never doubted my skills.

Confident?

Yes, I am.

But I am starting to falter.

I am starting to doubt.

I am starting to fall.

"Lord, help me find my place here on earth. Guide me where you want me to be, where I can be happy."

Apple in a bottle

2009-10-22T16:24:00.004+08:00

Ever since The BaR launched last year, it has become a choice in drinking-forward-slash-chill out sessions with family and friends.

And now, it spices up its line as it launched The BaR Apple Vodka.

Now I say, wow!

I've heard of mango-flavored vodka, but apple? Wait a minute!

A friend who went to its launch last Friday, October 16 at Manor Superclub proved its irresistible taste.

I, too, had the chance - thanks to their free bottles.

And I said, yet again, WOW!

Adding to the sizzling launch are the new faces of The BaR. The oh-so-hotness Joyce So, the bubbly Jaymee Joaquin, the hunkie John James Uy, the serenader Jay-R Siaboc, and the alluring Wendy Valdez.

I can't wait for the next event.

That, I wouldn't miss.

With a bottle of Sprite and that good ole' The BaR, nothing can go wrong.

Joyce So

Jay-r Siaboc

Jaymee Joaquin

John James Uy

Wendy Valdez

More than your Twilight

2009-10-19T11:46:00.003+08:00

Legends say that before a vampire can enter your home, you have to invite him or her in.

Or else.

Discover it on your own as you watch Sweden's entry this year at the 11th Cinemanila Film Festival.

What's great about this film is how it veered out of the ordinary vampire story, love story at that. Stephanie Meyer made it in the big screen with her mushy vampire love story, but take this one differently.

Let The Right One In assures you of a different take in vampire's story of love and true friendship.

You still of course get those two fangs and bloody bites.

But rest assured, that's just it.

It's so good I even wished to have a vampire friend.

Anyone out there?

Catch Let The Right One In at the 11th Cinemanila Film Festival. Visit www.cinemanila.org for the schedule.

AIDS, careers, and paying the rent

2009-10-19T11:09:00.003+08:00

It really saddens me how the man who conceptualized and, actually, created a whole Broadway production died the night before its first show.

Yes.

Jonathan Larson, the man behind the Broadway musical, Rent, died by just collapsing in his apartment at around 3am of February 13, 1996.

Some say the success of Rent can be rooted with Larson's death.

But really, whether Larson died or lived, Rent is truly an extraordinary masterpiece from an extraordinary playwright.

The actors are simply the perfect ones for the characters.

The script is worth the $100.

Perfect. Just perfect.

Thank you Jonathan for such wonderful creation, for imparting to us that a year can be measured with love, with your friends, and by paying the rent.

What could happen in your last three days on earth?

2009-10-07T12:56:00.004+08:00

The world was awakened with the threat of total destruction. A meteorite will collide with Earth in 72 hours and the small town of Laguna listens to this news in despair and chaos.

Alejandro or Ale (Victor Clavijo) a carefree, happy-go-lucky lad decides to spend the few hours remaining with alcohol in his hand, cigarette in his mouth, and loud music in his ears.

But everything changed when Lucio (Eduard Fernandez), a person from his dark past, appears right on their doorstep.

He is now torn between protecting his brother’s children from Lucio and from the end of the world.

* * *

One thing's for sure, you wouldn't expect such story in an "Independence Day" inspired film.

I should say, this is not your ordinary end-of-the-world flick, where the character runs for his life.

What made the film extra special is its focus to a micro-story while the characters are moving around a macro plot.

The movie is a total package - from the cinematography, to the screenplay, to the sound effects, to the production design. Seamless. Almost perfect.

There would always be some flaunts you'll see, but when you look in a bigger scale, you'll realize, this is crazy awesome.

What would your really do on your last three days on earth?

I'd rather spend it in the streets, seeing people running around taking photos of them.

That would be perfect.

Proud to be Pinoy

2009-09-29T11:35:00.005+08:00

The whole country was take aback in a blink of an eye.

The whole world was alarmed.

Even I was grieving, tearful, and empty-hearted.

Then you saw how for a minute, everything was washed out, literally.

Houses, cars, establishments.

Worst, lives.

A downpour of rain that I thought would just be a simple shower resulted to a death toll of 40 (as of 1:09pm).

Part of me wants to say that this is what we deserve, Mother Nature's taking back what she gave.

But major part of me is depressed of the present calamity Philippines is experiencing.

Why us?

But what made me proud to a Pinoy is the help that all of us were willing to extend for those who are gravely affected.

Onli in da Pilipins, as they say.

Amidst the raging waters of Ondoy, we, Filipinos, showed the world that being a third world country is no hindrance to help those who are in need.

I am proud to be Pinoy.

Inside and out.

* * *

For those who are willing to help, the following establishments are accepting donations:

Caritas Manila Office
Jesus St., Pandacan Manila near Nagtahan Bridge
5639298 / 5639308

Radio Veritas
Veritas Tower West Ave. Corner EDSA
9257931 / 40

Burger Avenue
Fort Strip and Makati Avenue Branches

Manor Superclub
Eastwood City
4213930 / 4212047
ched.dayot@yahoo.com

Renaissance Fitness Center
2nd Floor, Bramante Building, Renaissance Towers, Ortigas
09298713488
luzonrelief@gmail.com

Inquirer Office
1098 Chino Roces Ave. corner Mascardo and Yague Streets, Makati City
and to any of its classified ads branches
8978808 loc. 260

McDonald's
All branches

Embassy Superclub
Fort Bonifacio

GMA Kapuso Foundation Warehouse
Charles Conrad Street, Doña Faustina Village II Brgy. Culiat, Tandang Sora Quezon City
Sheilana Ward 931-7013

Victory Fort
Call 813-FORT.

NoyMar Relief Operations
Balay Expo Center across Farmers Market Cubao
Clare Amador +639285205508
Jana Vicente at +639285205499

Miriam Quiambao
One Orchard Road Building in Eastwood
http://www.twitter.com/miriamq

Philippine Army Gym
Fort Bonifacio

GHQ Gym
Camp Aguinaldo

Team Manila
Trinoma, Mall of Asia, Jupiter Bel-Air and Rockwell branches

Aranaz Stores
Rockwell and Greenbelt branches

Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan Task Force Noah
Ateneo Cervini Dorm

Ateneo de Manila University
Loyola Heights, Katipunan Avenue
426-6001 / 09176312423 / 09177035357

Papemelroti
91 Roces Ave, Ali Mall Cubao, SM City North EDSA, SM Fairview, SM Megamall, Glorietta 3 in Makati, SM Centerpoint and SM Southmall branches

Our Lady of Pentecost Parish
12 F. Dela Rosa corner C. Salvador Sts., Loyola Heights, Quezon City
+6324342397
+6329290665

Binalot
All branches

Hillsborough Village Chapel
Muntinlupa City

Our Lady of Pentecost Parish
12 F. dela Rosa cor. C. Salvador Streets, Loyola Heights , Quezon City
+6324342397 / +6329290665

La Salle Greenhills
Gate 2, La Salle Greenhills

Relief Operations for San Francisco del Monte
Quezon City
Rache Gillego 09189241636

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
All branches

Petron
All Petron branches

Luca
Rockwell, Shang-rila, Eastwood, and GA towers branches

Moonshine Boutique
Rockwell

Erica Paredes
Katipunan Avenue
+632917 / 4741930

Gabriela Women’s Party Headquarters
118 Scout Rallos, Kamuning, Quezon City
929-5342

Citizens Disaster Response Center (CDRC)
72-A Times St., West Triangle, QC

Starbucks
All braches

San Antonio Parish
Forbes Park
+6329299820 / 22

Ministop Ibarra
Espana cor. Blumentritt, Sampaloc Manila

Megatent Pasig
Meralco Ave, beside Renaissance Towers

Whitespace
2314 Chino Roces Ave Ext

Sunshine Project
Brought to you by the management and staff of Tabu, Burger Ave, Ebs Photo Ali Atienza, Wency Lagumbay, J.M Rodriguez, DJ Christian Raueber, Marco Santos and Rob Leung
Call +639177907973

FOR CASH DONATIONS:

Red Cross Load Donations
Text: REDAMOUNT to:
2899 for Globe
4483 for Smart

TXTPower
accepts donations via:
SmartMoney 5577514418667103
GCash 09179751092
Paypal http://is.gd/3GvuN

ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya Center
Sagip Kapamilya hotlines 413-26-67, 416-03-87
Ondoy response: ABS-CBN hotline 416-36-41

Bank: Banco de Oro, Mother Ignacia branch
Acct name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.
Acct no.: 5630020111

ABS-CBN Foundation Inc for overseas donation: 1-800-527-2820 or www.abscbnfoundation.org
Routing code for international cash donations
BNORPHMM ABS-CBN Branch

Metrobank
Port Area Branch
Peso Acct.: 151-3-041-63122-8
Dollar Acct.: 151-2-151-00218-2
Type of Acct. : SAVINGS
Swift Code: MBTC PH MM

BPI
Port Area Branch
Peso Acct.: 4991-0010-99
Type of Account: CURRENT

UN Branch
Dollar Acct.: 8114-0030-94
Type of Account: SAVINGS
Swift Code: BOPI PH MM

For your donations to be properly acknowledged, please fax the bank transaction slip at nos. 527-0575 or 404-0979 with yourname, address and contact number.

FOR PICK-UP, CONTACT THE FOLLOWING:

Carlos Celdran
09279103919 / 09273770808

Ateneo de Manila
09279103919 / 09273770808

Red Cross Shaw Blvd.
09175370265

Ninth ray for our Philippine flag's sun?

2009-09-24T12:35:00.003+08:00

The ninth ray will represent our fellow Muslim brothers who fought for our country's independence.

Now, wait a minute.

Wouldn't it be too far-fetched?

The present 8 rays represent the 8 provinces that declared war on the 1896 Philippine Revolution.

The Muslims has nothing to do with the provinces.

I am neither a racist nor against our Muslim brothers.

But I just don't see the line that connects the two.

Tell me, do you agree?

Drag queens gone wild

2009-09-23T11:29:00.003+08:00

I first thought it would be the usual drag queen flicks where they will be just acting as drag queens because they witnessed a crime or something.

But I was totally wrong.

They brought the cliche story of drag queens to a notch higher level, no, much much higher level.

The company of Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes, and John Leguizamo shows the best part of being drag queens - fantabulous lifestyle, keen fashion sense, and that extravagant uniqueness.

What made the film more interesting maybe is the three's unique characters.

Patrick Swayze is Vida, the obsessive-complusive, life-intruder (in the most positive way), perfectionist draq queen.

Snipes, on the other hand, is the black drag queen, Noxeema, the usual black you see on TV, nagger, high fashion, individualist.

Leguizamo, Ms. Chichi, is the Latina beauty drag queen, the nonchalant, wild, and careless among the three.

One will surely love the film's humor.

Incomparabla, I should say.

A drag queen story only Swayze, Snipes, and Leguizamo do.

Word Play @ Tumblr

2009-09-18T15:28:00.003+08:00

I am starting a new trend in my Tumblr account.

World, I present to you, Word Play.

Using my photos, I play with words, showing how the photos would best be expressed in words.

Good thing I have bunch of those photos in my files.

Wish you guys'll love it.

The Kimmy Dora Fever

2009-09-10T11:49:00.005+08:00

It all started out with a viral video in You Tube. Then, everything spread like wildfire.

Kimmy Dora took the whole country down with its wit and humor.

I say, with Eugene Domingo, nothing can go wrong.

For the benefit of those who doesn't know the story, Kimmy Dora is a story of twins, Kimmy and Dora, who just can't be the best twin sister for each other.

Kimmy is the smart, sophisticated, and the nastiest person, boss, twin sister you'll ever know. While Dora, the special twin, is the most lovable, caring, and troublesome twin sister.

Where does humor comes in? You ask.

Eugene Domingo and Joyce Bernal's tandem is so perfect that the simpliest story warped into the best comedy film of the year.

Slapstick, some might say.

But maybe, just maybe, that's what the Filipino needs amidst the present crisis.

Or I am just making an excuse.

A very good excuse.

Not really.

It was just the best laugh I had with movies in years.

Excuse me?

Do you work here?

A good, worthy laugh it was

2009-08-27T20:43:00.005+08:00

I was there when Cinemalaya announced this year's Best Feature Film, Last Supper No. 3. There was a round of applause, even a standing ovation.

That stir my interest to watch the film.

Then Fat Lion came to my rescue.

They held a free viewing of the film. Who was I to resist a free film viewing? Time to eat culture again, I thought.

* * *

We all know of what the Last Supper is, it is in every table of every family in the country.

Last Supper No.3 tells us a simple story of a production designer, Wilson, with his assistant, Andoy, who lost a Last Supper image which they only used and paid for from Gareth.

Gareth's Last Supper was among the top three images, thus it's title.

Making the film more interesting is the way how Roni Velasco, the director, stitched a subtle bite against the ala-Turtle justice system in the country.

The actors even made it more brilliant. Joey Paras, an innate actor, brought to life on screen a story which ordinary Filipinos do experience but in the most comic way.

But what made this different is the fact that you laughed yet learned so much than you expected.

Yet, no matter how hard you laugh, after watching the film, you'll suddenly realize how unlucky we are with our justice system.

I still have high hopes for it though.

There is still a chance for change, I think.

A good laugh it was.

Worthy laugh, at that.

Araw ng Dilaw

2009-08-19T15:03:00.005+08:00

To commemorate the 26^th Anniversary of Ninoy Aquino’s assassination, the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Foundation is officially declaring August 21 as “Araw ng Dilaw”.

On August 21, 2009,
Make Ninoy and Cory’s spirit of sacrifice live within you.

Sa Araw ng Dilaw,

Wear something yellow.
Light a yellow candle
to remember Ninoy and Cory’s love for the Filipino.

And if you’re on the road on that day
Keep the flame of Ninoy and Cory burning.
Along with a thousand other cars, switch on your hazard lights from 6pm to 7pm
and spread the country’s Yellow Spark far and wide.

* * *

Taken from an email.

Please pass the word.

Let's make this another milestone, another Filipino history, another day to remember.

When families collide

2009-08-19T11:16:00.002+08:00

I admit, I am a family person.

I may seem not to be, but I love my family. And being a part of it, I always pray for my family's peace and understanding.

Jealousy.

One main abstract issue that my family usually encounters.

And I hate how it always emerge amidst us.

I belong to an extended family. Being such, it's easy for me to see how my family moves and lives everyday of their lives.

We are now back to where we were before.

Seeing and hearing your family members talk ill behind another family member's back wounds me.

This is not what I wanted my family to be.

Now that I am old enough to handle things, I need to do my part.

Every waking day and night, I pray to God, "Please do take care of my family, heal it's wounds, and listen to their prayers,"

Where else do you go when you're everything seems to be heavy?

But to the our Almighty Father.

Heal my family.

Heal it's aches.

Grant us peace.

How do you break the news?

2009-08-13T14:10:00.003+08:00

Goodbyes are the most overrated scene for me.

I hate goodbyes.

I hate the tears that go with it.

I've been to a lot, and I mean a lot, of farewells in my life for the past 22 years.

Everything started when my mom left for abroad.

When my friend and her family decided to live in Manila.

When my white cotton-like dog died (forgive me I don't know the breed).

Even when President Cory died.

I don't know.

But goodbyes pushes down a tear from my eyes.

Then I thought, it's a whole lot different when you're the one who's saying goodbye.

It's never an easy thing to do.

You lose your words.

You tremble.

Until you realize, you're crying.

Can anybody tell me?

How do you break the news?

The song that made EDSA

2009-08-10T11:57:00.004+08:00

The day Tita Cory died until her funeral, one song made it on top of my mind.

The song, as I call it, that made EDSA Revolution.

Magkaisa.

The song makes me smile, in one way or another.

It give me goose bumps.

And seeing that huge, gigantic, number of people falling in line to see Tita Cory for the last time, I said, "EDSA has never died. It just slept for a little while,"

Magkaisa.

It would always and forever play in my mind.

As long as the Filipino people will fight for what is right.

Will stand up for what they believe.

Will continue to have that faith.

Magkaisa.

* * *

Ngayon ganap ang hirap sa mundo

Unawa ang kailangan ng tao

Ang pagmamahal sa kapwa'y ilaan

Isa lang ang ugat na ating pinagmulan

Tayong lahat ay magkakalahi

Sa unos at agos ay huwag padadala

Chorus

Panahon na (may pag-asa kang matatanaw)

Ng pagkakaisa (bagong umaga, bagong araw)

Kahit ito (sa atin Siya'y nagmamahal)

Ay hirap at dusa

Magkaisa (may pag-asa kang matatanaw)

At magsama (bagong umaga, bagong araw)

Kapit-kamay (sa atin Siya'y nagmamahal)

Sa bagong pag-asa

Ngayon may pag-asang natatanaw

May bagong araw, bagong umaga

Pagmamahal ng Diyos, isipin mo tuwina

(Repeat Chorus)

Magkaisa (may pag-asa kang matatanaw)

At magsama (bagong umaga, bagong araw)

Kapit-kamay (sa atin Siya'y nagmamahal)

Sa bagong pag-asa

Salamat Regal Films

2009-08-07T14:33:00.003+08:00

Minsan ka bang natakot sa kanya?

Minsa bang naramdaman mo ang takot na maligo sa lawa o sa sapa dahil sa kanya?

Minsan bang natakot kang umupo sa inidoro sa takot na baka lumabas siya?

Sino ba?

Sino ba ang hindi nakaramdam ng takot dahil sa kanya?

Sino ba sya?

Undin. Ito ang pangalan niya.

At hanggang ngayon, nakatatak padin sa puso at isipan ko ang itsura niya.

Ang ingay na ginagawa niya tuwing tinatapakan ang itlog niya.

Ang haba ng kanyang kuko.

Ang lagkit ng kanyang laway.

Ang kanyang mahabang buhok.

Salamat sa Shake, Rattle, and Roll.

Salamat Regal Films.

Salamat sa obrang hinding hindi malilimutan ng bawat Pilipinong namulat sa palabas na ito.

Now, this is funny!

2009-08-06T17:07:00.005+08:00

What did you say?

President Arroyo's dead?

Really now.

Nah!

Printed today, August 6, 2009 is the above photo with the caption saying that the coffin of President Arroyo is out of the Manila Cathedral.

Now, this is a huge issue.

First, Manila Bulletin surely has a problem to face. An erratum will, of course, be one of their solutions. But, I don;t think that would be enough for President Arroyo.

Imagine being dead before your time.

Second, I just don't think President Arroyo deserves that large crowd for her death. She's just not the Cory Aquino type.

Never has been. Never will be.

What would happen next?

Let's wait and see. But surely, this is hilarious.

I was part of History

2009-08-04T18:02:00.003+08:00

The death of President Cory Aquino took a toll on me as a human being, as a Filipino. More than the death of Michael Jackson, her death made me realize more things than one.

But seeing her in person, in her casket, with her yellow beaded dress and exceptional make-up, is a whole different story to tell.

We arrived at Manila Cathedral surprised with the very long line. Or was I really surprised?

There seems to be a party, I whispered.

It was far from what I thought it is.

But then again, I realized, these people are rejoicing not because of Cory's death, but because they will finally see one of the greatest Filipino icon.

Ditto. I did feel the same.

Falling in line for a whopping four hours is not a joke. I hope I can draw how the line looked like in Intramuros, I would.

When I finally went inside the church, it was a bliss and mourning altogether.

And then there she was, peaceful, happy, and seemingly satisfied.

I even thought she's smiling.

When I went out, it was truly an affirmation.

An affirmation that after EDSA Revolution on 1986, I am now a part of history as it unfolds right before my eyes.

Seeing more than 40,000 people fall in line, not minding the harsh weather, is truly a history.

Once again, President Cory proved that Filipinos can be united and fight together for one goal, one reason, one purpose.

I am sure, as of this writing, President Cory is smiling, happy to see what I have realized.

I am Filipino, and I'm mighty proud to be one.

Tie that yellow ribbon

2009-07-29T14:59:00.004+08:00

I haven't been to any EDSA Revolution in my entire life.

I was told, during that time, yellow ribbons were tied in every lamp posts all over the Metro. And here we are again, tying those yellow ribbons, not for EDSA Revolution, but for Tita Cory.

Then I thought, does it have to take one person's life or health condition for us to unite and bring back what EDS Revolution brought our country?

Freedom. Democracy.

We fought hard, blood and sweat, for this.

Yet, apathy is slowly killing us, tearing us apart.

I say we need to get back on our feet, stand up, and do what a Filipino has to do.

Let's continue what our forefathers have started.

Let's take that one step to a journey of a thousand.

Together, we'll make it through.

Let's tie that yellow ribbon.

For Cory. For us. For the country.

Cinemalaya Cinco blasts in a speed of light

2009-07-28T14:14:00.004+08:00

Indie film industry has gone a notch higher. Thanks to Cinemalaya V (pronounced as Cinemalaya Cinco).

This independent film festival, which started on 2004, goes up little higher, grows a little bigger this year with more captivating films, world-class and worth-watching.

Observing what Cinemalaya has become from the time it started until now, it has surely gone a very long way.

Being a film fanatic, I should say that the quality of films has also evolved - better, stronger.

There were, of course, some film exhibitions that I doubted. But maybe, just maybe, I didn't get the film's essence.

Nah.

I know you might ask how many films did you watch?

I was able to watch 24k. And Shorts B, including the best short feature, Bonsai.

There, I can say that Cinemalaya truly grew to a sturdy tree.

You can even measure it via the clouds and clouds of people who went to the venue. It was overflowing. Box-office as they usually say.

Crowd's favorite was Dinig Sana Kita, this I have to watch and compare from Mike Sandejas' Tulad ng Dati.

The Best Film went to Last Supper No.3, again, this I have to watch. My friends told me it's oh-so-uber-duper-funny. Even Erik Matti laughed with it.

The one and only competition film I watched won Best Cinematography. I say. They deserved it. The film's crisp color and lighting was spectacular. Every little shot was picturesque.

Now, the audience expects a little more for next year's batch of films.

The truth is this...

2009-07-21T11:27:00.002+08:00

What is the truth?

I have never asked myself about that for the past 22 years of my life.

Truth is very abstract, very vague.

I know the truth about my sexuality. I know the truth about my family. I know the truth about my love life. I know the truth about my friends and my relationship with them.

But one thing has been very doubtful for me, my career path.

I haven't known the truth about it after a year of being a young professional.

Then a friend suddenly told me, don't just follow your heart, follow your truth.

The truth is, I wanna be a writer.

I may pass through a different route for now, but I know I'll get there.

Maybe not now.

But soon. In the near future, I will.

God speed my plans.

I am in Google

2009-07-10T13:31:00.007+08:00

I am working in a digital advertising agency, but there is still mystery whenever I type my name in Google and my name appears in the very first page result.

It still amazes me, puzzles me, boggles me.

According to my mentors here in the office, Google has this spider attributes wherein it crawls in all websites, searching for the keyword you entered.

However Google does it, the process and the technology in search engines creates the resounding disbelief in me.

On second thought.

I'm in Google.

Even my blog, a not so famous one, this one you're reading, belongs to the top 10 results in Google.

It might be just one of the activities we do when we go online, but online searching involves a lot of process and mind-boggling technology than ever thought.

So the next time you Google, try to think of how great the people behind Google is.

How technologically forward these people are.

Now I'm thinking, does anyone here knows their email?

I might send my resume.

Ageless Ice Age

2009-07-07T11:14:00.007+08:00

For the kids and the kids at heart, Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs will surely keep you awake from start until the film credits.

From it's first release on 2002, Ice Age has become an anticipation from those who wants just plain enjoyment.

This time, 20th Century Fox releases Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs.

Sid, Manny, Scratte, Diego and the rest of the team are back with more thrilling adventures.

In search for Sid, who's lost due to his carelessness, rather the feeling of being a mom, Manny, Diego, Crush, Ellie, and Eddie, went out and about to look for him.

Now, they find themselves in a middle of fun trouble.

The film is really meant for the kids.

However, for those who are up for just watching a film and laugh their heart out, Ice Age 3 will give it to you, ice cold and frozen.

What I like about the film is its humor, it flawlessly made it's audience laugh and appreciate the extinct age. The characters are strong and coherent, from the first up to this third installment.

Truly an ageless Ice Age.

Friendster is Facebooked

2009-07-02T10:33:00.006+08:00

After the tremendous success of Facebook, one social networking site, aside from MySpace which is still a choice for the youth of the US, Friendster has lost its fame and became nothing but ordinary.

I should admit that before, due to a limited number of friends in Friendster, I had 3 accounts - but none of them has been maintained since Facebook came.

Guilty. I am.

However, I still believe that Friendster has the chance of regaining its fame.

Reality bites.

Philippines is a third-world country. 70 to 80% of our population belongs to the CDE sector, to which Friendster caters.

Whenever I visit computer shops around my place, I still see Friendster browsed by internet addicts. Even a friend still prefers Friendster and finds Facebook a headache.

I'm not being sentimental here, but Friendster opened our minds and eyes to the world of social networking. Never underestimate the power of the one who conquered the online space first.

Where else would you go but to where you were before.

There is still that chance, that meagre chance.

I believe.

Do you?

A legend dies

2009-06-26T17:34:00.006+08:00

It was as sudden as the wind.

I was still walking through dreamland when a text message from a friend in the United States texted me, "Michael Jackson dies of cardiac arrest."

I thought, another story-telling-lies. And went on with my dreaming.

The noise of our television then woke me up, just in time for me not to be late for work.

Henry Omaga-Diaz, our local news anchor, then announced the death of the King of Pop at 50 years old. Now, tell me, am I still dreaming, I thought.

But no, I am awake, my eyes wide open.

Who would know MJ?

From his oh-so-out-of-this-world music videos to his remarkable songs, Michael Jackson has captured the world and held it on his hands.

Literally, the world went crazy over him. I just don't know if it's his looks or his music.

With all honesty, I love his music.

I love the way how I dance with every beat he produces, a wild rhythm put together to create magic. He is a true icon, legendary at that.

My officemate even said, "Music won't be music without Michael Jackson,"

True enough.

There wouldn't be Usher, Luther Van Dross, or 98 Degrees without MJ.

The world will surely miss MJ. I will surely miss him.

He may not be here on earth physically, but his music will resound through all generations.

May you rest in peace.

Father's day woes

2009-06-22T15:10:00.006+08:00

DISCLAIMER: I do not intend to be emotional here. This is just what I feel as of this writing.

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Where do you usually spend Father's day?

A movie with the whole family? a dinner date? Or even just a simple dining at home?

I wish I could spend such day with my father.

I've been living for 22 years now, and for that very long existence, I haven't celebrated even a single Father's day with my father.

Not a single movie date. Not a single dine-out. Not a single day with him.

Beyond the thought that my father left us without leaving a single word, I still am hoping to meet him one day - to at least see him in person.

I ain't asking for any money, not a single cent in my name.

I just want to meet him - to see him face-to-face.

It's not just a gadget, it's a lifestyle

2009-06-18T12:56:00.007+08:00

Below's my entry to MTV Asia's Blogger Contest. Read on and if you like, which i know you will *wink*, please do vote for it. To vote, click here.

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We just can't deny the fact that technology is immensely moving our lives forward.

From the pagers we used to hang on our belts gazillion years before up to the latest iPhone 3Gs from Apple, technology has truly become not just a gadget in our bucket list, but definitely a lifestyle.

With all the gadgets coming out, what would be the singlemost greatest invention of the 21^st century?

Was it the Apple Macbook Air, as thin as an envelope? Was it the internet that connects us all over the globe? Was it Japan’s robodog?

I say it’s the technology we call, mobile phone, cellphone, cellular phone, or whathaveyous.

You can do just about anything, everything with your mobile phone.

From just mere calling and texting, you can now have a full access on the World Wide Web at the tip of your fingers. Update your Plurk, Facebook, and Twitter status, blog the latest ins and outs, or even download Kris Allen’s No Boundaries with your mobile phone.

Throw away that old and rowdy alarm clock, stuck those planners in your closets, and keep your mp3 music players to rest, leave it all to your mobile phones, you won’t need those.

I agree with what most people say, even the simplest mobile phone is no longer a need, it has become a part of our life, a lifestyle, at that.

So the next person who tells you that your phone is just a meagre cell phone, slap him on his face, slap him really hard and say, “Nobody says bad things against my partner,”