The Provincial Life &Then Some

The Cheese Stick Lady

2012-01-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's been ages since I last wrote! Well, here's what's new. Gourmet Cheese Sticks by yours truly and you can have them in the newest lifestyle weekend market in the south: Soderno @ Molito. The Cheese Stick Lady is on duty during Soderno Nights. It starts Friday evening 6pm to 3am. If you can't come over on a Friday, come over Saturday night, 6pm to 3am again. I have 3 flavors: Adobo, Angus Beef Tapa and Chunky Chorizo. I also have 3 sauces: Pesto, Spicy Honey Dijon and Lemon Aioli. If you'd like to have it in the market it's just PHP 80.00 for 6 sticks with sauce of your choice. If you want to take it home to add to your midnight munchies or to make part of your dinner or lunch menu, one tupperware is filled with 30 sticks and with the sauce of your choice for only PHP 350. For orders, please call or text: (0917) 817.0326 or you can email: koyenskitchenette@gmail.com. Better yet, if you have BBM add us up, our PIN is: 2861EA51 we'd gladly take your orders! see all of you soon in Soderno! :)

Behind the Scenes

2011-05-16T19:34:00.000-07:00

It's been almost a year now since I took in my newest adventure which is delving into the Food Industry. Having a great, tried and tested product has been a blessing to sell. In every adventure, there are things that I have learned (the learning continues). For one, changing my scheduled office hours which is now during the weekends. On my week days, preparing for the weekend market and doing my own research and development with the award winning Angus Beef Tapa has my week full and has unearthed my long lost passion for food and cooking. Marketing the product to different types of customers has been one of my favorite tasks since I get to know my customers more. Basically, I now understand and know what it's like to be the despachadora and sometimes, cross over to being the customer in some moments. I've come to love and appreciate both roles which has been fueling my passion for what I currently do.

What I like most when I put my sales lady hat on is interacting with my customers. The long and hard work prepping for the weekend just pays off when you hear all sorts of stories from your customers that talk about your product. My customers have been extended family in such a way, when they order you know you are a part of something special- their meal. They bond while they eat your product, that to me is comforting. It's worth all the hard work preparing each meal that they have. I've made friends with most my customers, and I'm glad I'm their weekend treat since most of them are health conscious. The other bulk of my customers are kids that tell the truth when it comes to food. Thank you for being honest on how much you love eating our very own Angus Beef Tapa anytime of the day and any where you go.

Mercato has made me gain new friends and I'm proud to say we're the 15 most visited and sought-after food booths during the weekend. We have the same love and gusto for what we do which translates to making all our customers our favorites. We like to come up with ideas that would make the market exciting and, interesting and worth coming back to. We're lucky the organizers are understanding and supportive of our initiatives for the market. See, Mercato now is not just simply a place where I work in every weekend. It has become a community where I look forward to seeing, tasting, smelling and hearing what's new, what's been happening or, what just is. Visit us soon! We can't wait to see you! :)

*Mercato Favorites photo courtesy of Gail, thank you Gail! :)

The Paleo Project

2011-03-02T04:56:00.000-08:00

Cauliflower Rice with Broccoli and Lemon Chicken ala Paleo

I re-read one of my favorite books entitled "Jemima J." by Jane Green. It gave me further inspiration to have will-power on the lifestyle that I have decided on. I don't have the funds for Marie France nor Bello. So, as my mother and father would say: the secret is to diet and exercise plus- stay away from our mini fridge where the chocolates are at! Ok, got it loud and clear. I started cooking my own food, more like gourmet style minus all the preservatives. Little did I know, the food I started to prepare for myself is popularly called The Paleo Diet When I started to research about it and check out some recipes, apparently I am not that hardcore (yet). When I mean by hardcore, I don't make my own mayonnaise (yet), nor do I use ghee or tallow. Olive Oil is my best friend when I want something fried, if I don't need oil- I thank the inventors of Teflon. So, I now started to challenge myself. Well, not enough recipes online so thank God for Amazon! I can't wait until my books arrive. I hope I do justice, with the next entries to come. And when I mean justice, I hope I see a change with myself- in terms of size, and health. I'm not going to turn Julie on all of you and do some Julie and Julia project. Although I totally applaud Julie for trying to emanate Julia Child in this day and age. I don't think Julia Child liked what Julie did. So in advance, to any hard core Paleo lifestlye person reading this don't hate me, I live in a country where fresh herbs are still a challenge to find (maybe I'm not looking in the right places) although the other usual ingredients are highly priced but I'd still buy them, since it's cheaper than a trip to the hospital for being un-healthy.

For this evening, I tried Lemon Chicken with Cauliflower rice and Broccoli. I'm happy to have two awesome recruits and my awesome cheerleaders in the name of Mom and Dad. Let's do this! Cheers to embracing change for the better!

A Dose of Fear Factor

2011-02-08T05:33:00.000-08:00

Next to snakes, going to the dentist really freaks me out. For one, I hate the drilling sound. Second, I hate the cleaning routine because my teeth are so sensitive. Third, I just really really really hate the sound of the drilling! What I like though is how I somewhat made conversation with my dentist with out uttering a word.

I. Start
Dentist: Ok, I'm going to start. Remember it's just the sound k?
Me: (Mouth wide open) UHU
after 10 minutes...
Dentist: *laughing under her mask
Me: (while mouth was still wide open) waaay? (translation: What?)
Dentist: YOUR FACE! parang TRANSFORMER!
Me: (still mouth wide open) *laughing aaaahhaaaa? (translation: talaga?)
Dentist: Oo!

II. Middle after about an hour or so... that's what I get for not regularly facing my fear!
Dentist: At least we're almost done with the upper part.
Me: UGH... pero sige lets finish it na Doc!
Dentist: (after 15 minutes) pati pag manual ha... YOUR FACE!
Me: (mouth slightly open) Waaaa? (translation: what?)
Dentist: Transformer pa ren! hahaha!
Me: (mouth slightly open) Dok, nee uu ngakek. Ayaaii o eenis (translation: Doc, next to snakes ayaw ko dentist)
Dentist: Nako, baka awayin mo na ako. Mag second sitting nalang tayo next week?
Me: (mouth STILL slightly open) aaa i o aaai! (translation: Wag, di ako babalik dito!)

III. Crossing the finish line! after almost 2 hours! hahahaha!
Dentist: We have to finally take your upper right molar and your lower left molar out next week.
Me: (Before opening my mouth wide again) Pwedeng extra dose of anesthesia pllleeeaaasssee??
Dentist: Open mouth please, let me add the filler na.
Me: (mouth open) hahahahahahahahaha!
Dentist asst.: Sige Ma'am idaan mo nalang sa tawa!
Me: (mouth still open) HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!
Dentist: You want anesthesia na?
Me: (mouth still open) oooooo! (translation: no)
Dentist: Next week ha, we really have to get your molars out
Me: (mouth still open) hahahahahaha! ii reak u ii aaa oaars (translation: I'll break-up with my molars)
Dentist: Hahahaha! panalo! :)

Children Say

2011-01-28T05:39:00.000-08:00

During the Entrepreneurial Day in Poveda, I met new awesome gradeschoolers and Highschoolers that enlarged my heart with happiness because of all the nice stories I've shared with them. I shamelessly admitted my age and that even at 30, I still love watching Disney Channel especially Phineas and Ferb and now the new Disney series Fish Hooks. I loved hearing their comments of our best selling Tapa! Here are a series of conversations that I remember with some of them:

I.
Grade 4 student: Are you a chef?
Me: No I'm not, I'm a businesswoman.
Grade 4 student: But you like to cook?
Me: Yes I do.
Me: Do you know how to cook?
Grade 4 student: Yes I do. My Yaya has to watch me when I'm in the kitchen so that I'm safe.
Me: That's nice! So would you want to be a chef when you grow up?
Grade 4 student: Maybe...I think so.
Me: Wow, that's so cool that you know what you want to do when you grow up.
Grade 4 student: I'm so hungry, your tapa smells good- hurry please.
Me: oh ok. Sorry about that!
* after 2 hours, she comes back and orders 2 more :)

II.
A group of sophomores and juniors arrive the booth ALL AT THE SAME TIME :) feeling cool, calm and collected...
Me: Do you guys just want to come back lunch time?
Junior student: Nah, it's ok we can wait- it's just a career talk.
Me: Hey, those talks are important. They help you decide on what school to go to or what field you'd like to take when you go to College.
Junior student: Ms. it's totally ok. When you were here last Spanish day I was late for class too.
Me: Oh my gosh! come back lunch time!
Junior student: Pllleeeaaasseee giivvvee mee taaapppaaaa!
Me: LUNCH TIME :)
*She came back with 4 of her friends and they all ended up buying their lunch from me.

III.
A couple of high school kids walked by...
student: OMG...that smells so good!
student 2: stop it! remember our diet!
me: You probably are Juniors?
both students: YES!
me: Is prom coming up soon?
both students: NEXT WEEK!!!
me: ooohhhh...You know, you should reward yourselves since it's a Friday and cheat days are usually during the weekends!
both students: NOOOO!!!
me: Ok then :)
both students: sige na nga, Ms. can we buy!
*HAHAHAHA!

IV.
Before packing up to leave, a group of grade 4 and 5 students come back to the booth (most of them already ordered their recess and lunch from me...I love them! :) )
Grade 4 student: Ms. Your tapa really smells so good! I want to buy again but I'm so full na!
me: I think you are sweetie, didn't you just eat it for recess and lunch?
Grade 4 student: it's ok, we have training later and we have to eat a lot before training.
Grade 5 student: yes, we're all in the JUNIOR HARD COURT TEAM.
me: WOW, there's a Junior Hardcourt team?
all girls in unison: YES
Grade 4 student: Can I get your calling card?
me: sure you can!
Grade 4 student: I am so going to tell my Mom to call you when I have a party. Please cater, only tapa k?
Me (plus wide eyes and totally hiding my kilig laugh): Sure sweetie!
Grade 5 student: That would be cool! a tapa party! everything tapa!
another grade 5 student: So, you do this all the time? sell tapa? isn't it messy and you smell like tapa the whole day?
me: Oh yeah, I smell like tapa the whole day and my hands are mostly sticky and they also smell like tapa but if you like and love what you do- you won't mind at all.
grade 5 student: See, we can do this when we're done with school!
me: yes you can :)
* It's awesome how kids now a days are smarter and more sensitive to what ever their surroundings are. I guess it's just learning how to listen to them more to know how to understand them.

Keeping my Sister's Memories

2011-01-16T22:09:00.000-08:00

It's been years. I was 6-years old when my sister died so prior to turning 6, things were just a blur to me. My childhood was wonderful, I'd like to think at such a young age the color of my life growing up was rich. I was watching "My Sister's Keeper", I couldn't stop crying. It's been 25 years since Charlene's passing, but there are times I feel I've been robbed. Maybe because I was so young, and I always wanted her around since she was the keeper of my peace and I always felt so secure around her no matter how sick she was. Being the eldest she still played her role of making sure we were all ok, and she still took time to care for us.

I watched the movie twice, and it wasn't even from the start- it was more like chopped up. But I still caught myself crying. And in the last part, there was a dialogue that was said: "I'll never understand why Kate had to die and we all got to live. There is no reason for it I guess, death's just death. No body understands it." and then she goes on saying: "the point is, I had a sister and she was fantastic. One day I'm sure I'll see her again, until then- our relationship continues". I guess being older now, I know she can see me and she knows what's happening to me I just wish I can hear from her end. It's the awesome thought of her telling me she's fine (a part of me tells me that I know she is in a better place now) and that I'm doing ok or I'm doing good- I guess the affirmation from an authority and not just any authority but from her specifically because I've always looked up to her. I guess the best way to continue my relationship with her is to keep living my life. You know I love you Manang Charl, always and forever :)

To Whome It May Concern, Here's Closure Served For You

2010-12-27T11:08:00.000-08:00

In any downside of a relationship, either party who has been left would always want closure. No matter the situation of the break-up: ugly or mutually agreed on, closure is always at stake. There are some that demand an explanation, having the one-track mind to know and probably even making it their mission in life to know what went wrong or to blame who caused the fall into the relationship. A third party? Falling out of love? How about this: it just really didn't work out. No matter how long you've been together, or how far into the relationship you've been in- it will always be a matter of choice to stick it out or work it out even. But you have to admit, even choice has a shelf-life to those that know they have truly and brutally thought and contemplated on and even painstakingly debated with reason and emotion to end the relationship or continue on. So you've chosen the first, which is to end it.

Take it as a chance, or even think of it as re-birth for yourself. It's time to learn how to live your life and discover yourself once again. It brings out the resiliency that you have never imagined that was in you. Or, it could bring out the coward in you if you choose to make the situation eat you up. You can blame the whole ugly situation on some one else, or directly to the one that you lost. But really, at the end of the day- the relationship was between the two of you. Did you ever stop and think and even look beyond yourself that maybe, just maybe you were part of the problem since the whole relationship consists of two people. If I were in your shoes, I would look into myself. Of course I could hate the whole world, be mad, and probably have an insane streak since I lost the love of my life. Reality bites, and life has still to be lived out since you are still alive. Think of it this way, it was way better now than later on down the road. Where your marriage would have been in shambles and you would have eventually broken your vow with God.

I believe in having the right person come in the right time according to God. I now fully understand what my elders have said time and time again: Don't look for love, it will look for you. If you are truly worth it to the man- he will find ways and means to get to know you, woo you and be with you. A man will always be the hunter and the woman will always be the game. I'm sure, your time will come. Once in my life, I thought a certain guy was the one for me and I came to deciding that he wasn't. We weren't going to work. I couldn't stomach certain things that I knew either I just had to accept every bit of him, and stay miserable forever which felt like I was settling just because we were together for a certain amount of time. I had to be true to myself, so I chose to end it. There's more to life, believe me. So much have gone through hear ache. Maybe it's your time to go through it, to finally and firmly put your faith and trust in your higher power who honestly is the best person to be in a relationship with. Closure is really within your reach, no matter how many years or effort you put into finding an answer that you want, you might never even get. You can find it in you. Close the chapter now, and write a new one.

I wish you all the best. I wish you well even. Life is exciting and go out there and live it. God Bless you always.

Choosing Happiness

2010-01-02T23:36:00.000-08:00

2009 was a happening year. I guess I've learned the art of just sucking everything in- good or bad, believe it or not I've been grateful for everything that has come may way. I guess maturity is kicking in. Better late then never right? 'Tis the year to choose to be happy for me. I turn 30 in a couple of days and in all honesty, I'm quite excited. I know I should take a chill pill, so sue me for being way to positive or optimistic. I'm done with feeling the whole I'm-so-sad-and-depressed-birthday-feeling. I've left that with 2009, although I had an awesome celebration in Boracay with 3 closest women I have in my life :) That was the most depressing birthday I ever had though.

Things are starting to unfold...the start of 2010 has been pretty awesome. A little bit bitter-sweet, but I can't complain at all. I truly believe God will never lead nor give me situations that I can't handle. It's now 2010, and things are still unfolding for me. The latest would be my past meeting my now- who would have thought, looking back while concentrating on looking at the now would be such an exciting journey. The best is yet to come I guess, and this maybe just be the formula for me to truly look beyond and finally continue on with living my life, and maybe not forgetting where my now has brought me.

In a couple of days, I mark my 30th year. Big deal right? Age is nothing but a number. But I guess for me, reaching that specific age is some what monumental (I'm so optimistic- I'm not even there yet). Since last year was such a negative roller-coaster ride for me, I know there is no way but up for me since I was down last year. Bring it on LIFE- I'm ready to embrace what ever God and the universe will be giving me this 30th monumental year :)

Discovering Legaspi, Albay

2009-09-07T10:08:00.000-07:00

This was supposed to come out in a Travel Magazine. My first contributing piece. Anyway, I don't know what happened. I'd like to thank my cousin Val for being an awesome editor to me :)

Travelling alone to a new place can be a little bit intimidating. When you get there you either explore and get excited over the possibility of new discoveries, or you choose to be safe in the confines of your hotel room and indulge in a good book for some peace and relaxation. Since I was in an adventurous mood, I was feeling ready to visit Legaspi, Albay all on my own. Despite the unfamiliar territory and not knowing anyone from there, I was ready to learn new things, see new places, meet new people and somehow, learn a little more about myself in the process. Little did I know that this trip would bring out my true love for photography and discovery, and in some way redefine my definition of “alone time”.

And I was off! The 55-minute plane ride to Legaspi wasn’t that bad. I love riding airplanes.; they’re fast, there are no traffic jams up in the air, and just the thought of being up, up and away from the ground immediately relaxes me, I always fall asleep even before take-off. Just when we were about to land, I peeped out the window and looked out into the beautiful scenery. Legaspi, here I come!

Truth is, I didn’t know that much about this place, except the fact that the perfectly shaped volcano, Mt. Mayon was somewhere around here. I was told to expect to see some charming old churches and have my fill of Pili nuts, Bicol Express and Laing (both famous dishes from the local cuisine).

I decided to research about my destination and I found out a few things. I found out that there were just so many things to see and do here, so I decided to map out the historic and famous landmarks of Legazpi I would go and see. Of course I didn’t want to just hit the tourist spots, but I had to start somewhere! It is almost like going through a proper coursed meal. Entree first, then main dish then dessert, even in a que sera-sera moment I still like the feeling of being somewhat organized.

First stop: Rizal Shrine

Since he is the national hero of the Philippines, most of the provinces have a shrine or monument dedicated to Jose Rizal. If you ask me, this one looked pretty much the same as the rest of the other monuments dedicated to him. Those that really stand out are the ones in Calamba, Laguna and the Luneta Park in Manila.

Second stop: Headless Monument

This was built and dedicated to the unknown people of Albay who fought in the war during the Japanese occupation. It is Located on Lapu-Lapu St. in Legaspi City, right across the post office, and amidst the hustle and bustle. It acts as a continuing reminder to those around of the heroism of the everyday citizen.

Third stop:

I couldn’t go all the way to Bicol without checking out the majestic Mount Mayon. This incredibly symmetrical volcano may take credit for putting Albay on the map. Currently, it is the Philippines’ most active volcano.

I was brought to the Mayon Skyline where the Mayon Planetarium is located. A nearby café with a couple of adventure sport facilities like, wall climbing, attracted a number of adrenaline junkies and tourists who were taking a rest from their sight-seeing.

Unfortunately, it was a cloudy day, I wasn’t able to see the volcano in all its glory. Nevertheless, the lush scenery that surrounded the area made up for it by providing a calm and serene mood.

On the way down from Mayon Skyline, I asked the driver to pull over a couple of times when I saw possible opportunities to take good photos of Mount Mayon. Despite not being able to take the perfect photo because of the conditions, I was happy to be able to see for myself one of the nominated 7-wonders of the world. I really hope she wins a place.

Fourth Stop: Daraga Church

The Daraga Church is one of the oldest and most historic Baroque Churches in Legaspi. Named Nuestra Seňora de la Portera (Our Lady of the Gate), there are many versions as to how the church came about. Some say that it was built by young maidens, or daraga in the local dialect, after a catastrophic eruption destroyed the town. Apparently, the church was really built by Franciscan missionaries in the year 1773, 40-years before the eruption of Mayon.

As soon as I saw the structure from afar, I was in awe. I’ve always had an unspoken love for old architecture and historic religious sites; churches are at the top of my list. This Church really intrigued me, since I was only allowed to take a peek at what was inside; I couldn’t enter, but I was able to see a glimpse of the interior despite the grid bars that blocked my view. I could see that that day, the church was being set up for a wedding.

Fifth Stop: St. Gregory Cathedral

St. Gregory is the Patron Saint of Albay, so it is fitting that the Cathedral named after him is found at the heart of Legaspi City, near the Peňaranda Park. The cathedral has been renovated to update it from it’s original Spanish style architecture. I chose to hear mass in this church on Saturday night - God spoke to me in Bicolano. Although I couldn’t understand the dialect, I was happy to experience something new.

Sixth Stop Peňaranda Park

The Peňaranda Park is home to the Liberty Bell landmark. This famed bell constructed by Americans on April 1945 symbolizes the liberation of the people of Albay from the Japanese affliction. It’s an ancient bell that is housed in a mini-dome, and the park that was built for it is visited by young and old alike. Unlike most parks that are filled with green fields, this park was mostly concrete with little landscaping. This park is walking distance from the St. Gregory Cathedral, and is the best place to view it. Similar to a plaza or square, the park is centrally located, thus it is easy to spot the Legazpi City Hall, and other buildings connected to the government and business. I noticed that some young locals enjoy using the park as a place to get together and chat with friends.

Seventh and Final Stop : Cagsaua Ruins

The Cagsaua Ruins are remnants of an old Church that was buried due to Mt. Mayon’s explosion in the year 1814. I learned that there was originally a different church built in the same area way back in 1587. However on July 25, 1636, the first church was burned by Dutch citizens who were raiding bordering towns of Legazpi Bay. When I was taking photos, I was reminded of the set of the movie Braveheart. As ironic as it seems, the ruined Church surrounded by wild flowers and grass all around, was a romantic sight. What makes the place even more special is the view of Mt. Mayon that you can see from here. The entrance fee was PHP 10.00.

My adventure had come to an end after 4 short days. It was time for me to head back to Manila but I didn’t go home empty handed. First of all, I now know from personal experience just how beautiful this Filipino province is; something that I’ve heard so many people rave about. The history of the province and the hospitality of the people are mementoes that I will definitely keep close to my heart. Best of all, this trip taught me about more than just my country, but the serenity and peace of Bicol helped me reflect and get to know myself better.

Continuing

2009-04-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

Centenial Airport, waiting to board the plane for L.A.(October, 2008)

Getting old is inevitable. What's age really? To the obvious, its just a series of numbers that we go through year after year. Personally, this year was the very first year I truly felt withdrawn, reborn, taking hold of my destiny, facing certain fears, and basically just living my life each day. It was the birthday I felt sleeping through, not a tinge of excitement hit me. It was a countdown that I didn't want showing in my face- why? maybe quarter- life crisis hit me early. Although, looking back at my 28th year, I have come to terms with certain memories I was proud to achieve and of course will never forget.

Travelling has always been an addiction for me. It never mattered how far I was going to go, the mere thought of a road-trip or a boat trip, or my usual plane trips to wherever the destination maybe always has and always will excite me. What was new this time around was the start of being with myself . The comfort of knowing I can and will get through anything in life is now natural to me. Embracing my strength, weakness and longing for what has to come in my life has been a journey that I am aware of, and I'm truly looking forward to living out :)

Centennial Airport to leave for LA (October 2008)

I forgot who once told me, but who ever it was: the year before the 0 is always best to be celebrated and is a lucky year. I wonder if this year is and will be lucky for me. Personally, I believe and feel that luck is so vague. And it doesn't have to do with all positive outcome. I treat every opportunity, every learning experience that I come across with as a state of being in luck all the time. No matter how hard the learning that I have to charge to my own book of experience, I still take it as luck. So sue me for being optimistic, It's just plain gravity right? What comes up, must and will come down and vice-versa.

Laguna Beach, Ca. (October, 2008)

Welcoming my 29th year in Boracay was refreshing. I have so much memories of myself with this mystical island. My first trip to this island was when I was 9. It was still such a virgin. No electricity, just oil lamps in the evening with torches to guide our way back to our cottage in the resort we stayed in. There was only 1 cemented establishment with a generator for the resort to have electricity. Boracay then, up to Boracay now still all good and great memories for me when I would go back. Doesn't matter who I was with, this island is dear to me.

Bantayan Island, Cebu (March 2008)

My birthday get-away for 4 days was purely soul-searching and at the same time recollecting and making my new goals in life that I'd like to achieve. I knew what my past was like, I made the decisions then- I'm currently in my now slowly learning how to live each day to the utmost best I can. I don't know what tomorrow is going to be like for me, but I still look forward to it. My lonely travels have made me gain perspective and have made me learn about myself more to the point I would simply get surprised with myself. I love the fact I can out do myself once in a while, and of course there are moments where I just stay afloat. To continue my journey in life, cheers to more travels and maybe not do all of them alone sometime soon, obviously I'm shamelessly sending it out to the universe and claiming it :)

Boracay Island, Philippines (March 2009)

Approaching the LAX airport (October 2008)

I Love Quirino

2008-10-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

Quirino. I honestly had no idea where it was and what to expect since it was my first time to go. As my mother would tell me- better not to expect anything at all, to lessen disappointment that you would encounter. To ease my wondering about my new provincial adventure, I started to research. Here are some of the basics: Quirino is located in the Northen Luzon area of the Philippines which is also 2 hours away from the famous Rice Terraces and its 7 hours away from Manila. Not bad I thought, the feeling of excitement was building up and the more I craved to explore and revel in what I’ll be seeing, tasting and experiencing in Quirino.

It was a pleasant 7-hour ride from Manila to Quirino. Well, I was asleep most of the time. For this trip, I wasn’t alone. I was with 2 friends, Karen and Dax. It was also a first for Karen so we were both excited, and being the probinsiyanas that we are- our craving for the provincial life was about to be satisfied. Dax is the Governor of Quirino, and he’s also one of the youngest Governors in the Philippines. Dax didn’t really say much about Quirino, he just mentioned little things like its major industry at the moment is agriculture (roughly 85%), they speak Ilocano and then I probably fell asleep already while he was still talking (sorry buddie!). He didn’t say much because he wanted for me to see and feel what Quirino is all about. This is where my Quirino story begins.

The original plan to stay just for one night was thrown out the window. It’s all good, I thought. I found that to be a blessing in disguise since it was one whole week of self-productivity and some-what soul searching (yet again and again), and young minds working on great ideas for Quirino. If you ask me what my first impression of Quirino was: Virginly exquisite. It was my first time to admire and relish God’s beauty in my very own country. Lush green mountains and farm lands that can go beyond what my eyes can see. This scene sent chills to my spine, because I really felt the presence of God everywhere. I was telling another friend Elmer who met up with us there, that I hope and pray the next generations after us would still have all of this natural beauty to admire and discover. It may be a far cry as of the moment, but I hope you take it as a challenge (since you’re reading this). Since I’m a self-confessed travel addict, part of the whole travel experience is consuming the area’s food. Personally, I love food. Quirino’s food is simple yet replenishes not only your tummy but your soul. The whole provincial way of life revolves around food I noticed. It’s a source that binds and bonds communities together. What I love most is how they tell the story behind preparing the food- it makes me feel special because they worked and toiled with their utmost best for those that will consume the meal. Their food has an Ilocano flavour, being in the same mountainous region. Although, this is actually the place where I have tasted the best cold Carbonara, thanks to one of the priests who’s a foodie at heart.

Quirino is a developing Province that has a lot of potential. What I love most about it is the entire population is at work to achieve and move towards one direction in unison. The “I Love Quirino” Program is a brain child of current Quirino Governor Dax Cua. The program was designed to specifically save cost, create a clear definition of efficiency for all the sectors that are under Dax’s leadership, including the barangay levels. The goal of this project is to properly roll out and eventually sustain itself with precise planning which is first made and started by each barangay, together with specific sector heads of each government agency. Another sound reason this program was thought of is to curb the usual and long- running perception of provincial folk, that the government’s sole responsibility is to give or donate money when they solicit for it. This may seem like a far cry, but the idea of “I Love Quirino” is the holistic approach of government services that is attainable by all demographics of the province, which would also teach Quirinians what the government is all about and how it should be. “I Love Quirino” is stretched out from medical missions for every townsfolk on the spot of every “I Love Quirino” caravan, to farmers having the right crop productivity, also small and medium Quirinian business enterprises that have the chance of growing to their fullest potential. This includes the Quirinian youth to be pro-active not only in schools but in their community to make them feel that even as young people their contribution to the province is valid which is considered to be a piece in a puzzle that when finished, the picture is completed with their help. The value of proper communication and working cohesively together as one team across all barangays with one vision, one goal in mind: bringing “I Love Quirino” to the grassroots and for them to feel and clearly see that the government hears them, and the government will act on their necessities.

Programs like this with a leader that sincerely has vision and passion for his countrymen make me believe that the Philippines is not a lost cause. I’m not saying this just because Dax is a friend of mine, I’ve seen it with my own two eyes and I’ve felt the energy from the Quirinians myself. The Quirinians are very happy with what their beloved governor does for them. Dax isn’t stuck to his desk all day, he moves around and is very hands on with the different aspects of the province. From tourism, to agriculture and reforestation, even community development, and most especially education and the list goes on- he’s well informed and he doesn’t dictate, he listens to his people create the plan that they want and he works with them to achieve it. This is why I love Quirino, and I don’t mind going back to see it and the Quirinians prosper.

The Provincial Seal

"I Love Quirino" Caravan Tarp

Farmer at work

Fertile Land

Team Effort

Governor Dax in action

Medical Mission on the spot

Quirinians listening to Gov. Dax

It Just Had to Be A Woman

2007-07-23T04:22:00.000-07:00

I Didn't get to watch the SONA from the beginning, I got to turn on the TV in the middle part already.
She looked great! She didn't look harassed or tired, she looked genuinely happy to announce what her accomplishments are so far. In fairness to her, she has done a wonderful job raising the economic state of our country. Of course there's the usual side and snide comments by other officials at the end of her SONA. What can you do? you can't please everybody right? But no matter how hard you explain and you debate and reason with other people...some just don't want to think outside of their comfort zones. It sounds better in tagalog: Ang kitid ng mga utak nila eh (translation: their minds are too narrow.)

Who's to blame now? Of course it's so easy to point towards PGMA's direction because she is in full-authority and command. BUT, that does not mean SHE IS DOING ALL THE WORK. OR, SHE HAS TO DO ALL THE WORK. Have we ever stopped to ask ourselves what can WE do as citizens of our country? Especially we the majority of the economic pie...the middle class or the working class. Yes it is true that we make 80-85% of the economic pie with our medium and small business ventures. We hold the majority percentage of creating jobs for our fellowmen and we also hold the key to uplift the PESO. I'm just irritated with the fact that, after PGMA said her SONA I was watching the news. Of course the lower class of our society had the chance to vent out how and what they thought of her SONA when news people asked them. Most were annoyed because they couldn't understand her since majority of her speech was in English. Others were saying that she should get out of her post because they are still poor and they still have to work to eat. After hearing the last comment I couldn't help but blurt out: DON'T WE ALL HAVE TO WORK TO EAT?!

That's where I realize, it is better for you to teach a man how to fish for himself than give him fish for always. There's nothing wrong with being charitable. But look, these people have been depending on us all the time. When we teach them how to make a living for themselves they complain, when they don't have jobs, they complain. What brats! Sorry, I don't mean to be so harsh. But this is my point of view.

I voted for PGMA. I believe in her and look at where she has brought us. I'm not saying she's perfect and she's a saint. She has her short comings but hell, we're o.k. at the moment compared to the last presidency. Gosh, so much for politics! But to PGMA, I salute you. Keep up the good work! :)

No Punn Intended Pacman

2007-05-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

The elections are almost over. Although in some provinces, the term "failure of elections" has been welcomed which means the respective provinces have another chance of voting. Here in the city, more counting and tabulations have been on-going. I'm surprised that Manny Pacquiao didn't win in his province. It's obvious that the Pacman has a following since he has brought glory to the Philippines by winning the fights that he currently battled to victory.

Based on how our government officials have been elected, I was expecting for him to win. Not that I'm in favor of it but I was just expecting for it to happen based on our history and our present state. I guess we really are more conscious of who we would like to lead us. Cheers to the Voter's Education Programs! Well Pacman, you really are best in the boxing rink than in the Congress. Good luck to Darlene Antonino! She may be small but is one smart lady that sticks to her guns. Cheers to women who rule! :)

The State of the Nation

2007-05-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

The elections are almost over. The counting and tallying of votes have been in the process. The difference from the last elections to this year's elections is this: WE STILL CARE. I actually feel the hope surge in me. The type of hope that I have in me at the moment is not the type where I myself just ponder and wonder my lonesome- self. It's a collective type of hope and not the lonesome-self type.It's better said in tagalog: Hindi ka nag iisa type of hope. I'm really proud that people have been aware and vigilant. I know vigilance has been around, but it was suppressed and the violence was oh so quiet. Maybe because our nation was under a dictator (a very brilliant dictator at that) that knew how to cover and conceal the truth from us. The truth will always seer through no matter what. Hence, the very first EDSA revolution that not only woke the whole nation but the whole world and the Philippines was re-born.

I'm happy to see that we have been vigilant. It may not be as picture perfect as I imagined it to be but hey-this is one hell of a start! We started to decide and think as to who we think is best to govern and lead all of us out of poverty (crossing my fingers and praying for this), hunger, fight against corruption (or at least be discreet about it), instill human rights, and my list goes on. It's like we've all woken-up to reality that we all FINALLY want to get out of this rut. We don't want to wake-up in the same reality, but a reality that we have hope to see the silver lining and this starts with us. Who else can forward this change but we the people. We can't depend on the old government system, as a Filipino we have to do our share. It doesn't have to be something GRAND. It could start off with voting. So, did you vote? I hope you did. If you didn't then register and make YOUR vote count the next elections.

Confessons of a Yo-Yo Dieter

2007-04-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

Trying out different diet regiments was one past time I had 4 years ago (or so). Looking back, I was motivated to do the diets for the wrong reason: to fit into a bikini or to fit into fashionable clothes. The pressure of looking “presentable” to be noticed by others was also a motivation. Now that I look back on how my lifestyle was, I’m sure my body was screaming for help. Now in my mid-20’s, the realization has kicked in that I have to be truly conscious about my health. Coming from a family of diabetics and a couple of family members dying from the fight against cancer, I don’t know what else would sound the alarm for me to get moving on my fitness regiment and start living my life with a healthy lifestyle.

From the Atkins diet, to a bit of the South beach diet and to the fat flush diet and so much more, I did lose all the extra weight I had. I diligently followed the diets with even the help of diet pills, I definately lost all the extra pounds I wanted to loose and even more, I was also lean in all the right places. So my bikini body was achieved and my wardrobe finally got updated with trendier looks that were revealing and flattering. My then exercise regimen worked wonders with the diets and diet pills. I looked good and I felt good but I wasn’t happy. All because of achieving instant gratification, loosing weight at once but in the unhealthiest way.

I forget what month or week that was when I saw Oprah on her show, she was talking about Yo-yo dieting. She is one of the many victims like myself (minus the superstar status of course). While watching her show I realized, loosing weight is not only a physical battle but an emotional one too. Too dramatic you might think, but it is the reality we are facing. Just in our own culture and the many other cultures around the world, food is always present in any celebration. May it be a person’s birth, to a person’s death- food is present. Just like Oprah, I was an emotional eater. When I was happy, I’d eat. When I was sad, I’d eat. Comfort food was always the way to go for a quick fix to make me feel happy. Lard and sugar were at the top of my list. To be more specific: burgers and fries, cakes, ice cream, chips, candies. You name it, I ate it. Then I weighed myself and the numbers on the weighing scale stared right back at me: 185 LBS. Wow that was the heaviest weight I have ever achieved.

Articles have been written and reported that the battle of weight gain and weight loss is unending. Many new diets and diet pills are still in the mass market, with the illusion of the figure in the packaging that you can achieve after purchasing or at least even trying them. So much studies have been authored on how genetics play a big part of why and how we look the way we are. I’m no health expert, I’m just a normal human being like everybody else. But struggling with my weight has taught me one thing: Are you happy with YOU? Inside and out that is. For me, if you are then stay that way, be that way. Hey, to each his own right? We don’t have to be the same figure as any of the Hollywood stars that we see. It might be in at the moment, but what does your heart say? Or the better question to ask is: Who are you REALLY? My conclusion, I’m a work-in progress. I still have my moments, but I’m less than 180 plus pounds. Because I occasionally exercise and discipline is currently found in my vocabulary, which should’ve been from the very start. The old saying, “Health is Wealth” is definitely true. We only live once, so we all should live happily and healthy.

Cebu :)

2007-04-26T10:06:00.000-07:00

It was such a rush for me to finally see CEBU! Now I know why Cebu has a certain “Cebu-ness” just like the other provinces that we have in the 7,107 Islands of the Philippines. What made me fall for Cebu is that the progressive province has the ability to marry the cosmopolitan life yet, maintain the distinct character that it is also laid back. The nice thought of having the best of both worlds enticed me to think: what if I was based here? It has always been a question that I would ask myself every time I had the chance to travel in any part of the world or the Philippines. But there is NOTHING like home. Home for me is the Philippines J Don’t get me wrong, the best way that I personally would like to live my own life is to immerse myself in different cultures of the different parts of the world. BUT, before I start that I MUST start with my own country. And I am J See, now I understand the true meaning of living through experiencing and relishing each moment I have while in transit. Just like my Cebu trip.

I went with my AIM classmates and our beloved Guru. It was a whole 3-days of fun, sun, laughter and of course learning (how can I forget the non-stop eating! That is part of the whole travel experience!) What I learned about Cebu and the Cebuanos is the reason why Cebu exists is because they are proud to be Cebuanos and they will never stop loving their own. Like, their own products and their way of life, their traditions and many more. This is what the entire Philippines needs. A sense of pride and recognition as to what is truly ours and ours alone that we can so proudly show the world. I know in other provinces these traits come hand in hand. It’s just that in Cebu, it is so visible. You could really see and feel that sense of pride: “ I am Cebuano and proud.” I hope we can radiate this to the entire Philippines and finally say with all truth and honestly: I AM PROUD TO BE A FILIPINO

I love you Mitzie

2007-04-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

The sweetest most gentle Golden Retriever that we have ever had. Rest in peace sweetie. You were my favorite walking companion. You were my super favorite live pillow when we let you in the house and I'd be watching TV with you as my companion and "teddy bear". I know I can get another dog like you...but there will only be one Mitzie in my life :( I love you Mitz!

The Very first “Blootootanay” Issue

2007-04-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

Tina and I have been friends since our working days in Ayala Theatres Management, Inc. (ATMI). We were instant friends, and the more time we spent with each other I knew she was my long-lost sister. Not only are we half ilonggas, we also have the passion for food and for good conversations and most especially movies. Our birthdates fall in the same month (although I was born a year ahead of her) and my list can go on and on.

We couldn’t spend our birthday’s together since I was in Boracay for mine and she spent hers with her family. We decided to have dinner just last week and we had seafood in Penang and dessert in Cibo. LOVE THE TIRAMISSU! And where was I when everyone else was eating this?! It was my first time to eat the Tiramissu in Cibo. I LOVE it! It’s not your usual Tiramissu with a creamy type of filling and a strong coffee flavor. This Tiramissu has a suprpise of the creamy icing and once you’ve had a bite you realize the body of the cake is sort of like sansrival! BUT the Tiramissu flavor just kicks in as you savor one bite from another.

It’s cool how my relationship with this galpal of mine has eveolved from the office to more of a sisterhood. We hardly see each other (especially when she was in Australia for almost 2 years), but when we do…as if we saw each other yesterday J Friends like this are truly golden. Thanks for everything Tins! Once again: Blootootanay ‘ta liwat!

2007-03-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

I got this from Karlo De Leon's multiply. I have to admit, mejo napikon ako sa unang beses binasa ko na pinkon ako pero may katotohanan naman ang insinulat niya. Eto lang, kung sino ka man at kung nakatira ka sa ibang bansa sana umuwi ka nalang at tumulong ka sa pag sulong ng Pilipinas. Imbis na mag sulat ka nito. Wala namang perpekto sa mundo, ngunit ginagawa na nga nating tumulong para talgang umahon ang Pilipinas sa anumang kahirapan.

Nga pala, yung 51 sinulat ni Karlo. Salamat!

51. Where even its people hate their country, or make fun of her circumstances... and this is why we have fact 0 to 50, because of these people.

Solve fact 51, and you solve the 0-50 list.

**********

50 Facts about the Philippines

50. Where the most happening places are not where
the party is. Instead it is where the gang wars
happen, where women strip and where the people
overthrow a president.

49. Where even doctors, lawyers and engineers are
unemployed.

48. Where everyone has his personal ghost story and

superstition

47. Where mountains like Makiling and Banahaw are
considered holy places.

46. Where everything can be forged.

45. Where school is considered the second home and
the mall considered the third.

44. Where Starbucks coffee is more expensive than
gas.

43. Where every street has a basketball court and
every town only has one public school.

42. Where all kinds of animals are edible.

41. Where people speak all kinds of languages, and
still call it Tagalog and where it is fast becoming
unfashionable to speak English/Spanish.

40. Where students pay more money than they will
earn afterwards.

39. Where call-center employees earn more money than
teachers and nurses.

38. Where driving 4 kms can take as much as four
hours.

37. Where flyovers bring you from the freeway to the
side street s.

36. Where the tourist spots are where Filipinos do
not (or cannot) go.

35. Where the personal computer is mainly used for
games and Friendster.

34. Where all 13-year-olds are alcoholic.

33. Where colonial mentality is dishonestly denied!

32. Where 4 a.m. is not even considered bedtime yet.

31. Where people can pay to defy the law.

30. Where everything and everyone is spoofed.

29. Where even the poverty-stricken get to wear
Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.

28. Where the honking of car horns is a way of life.

27. Where being called a bum is never offensive.

26. Where floodwaters take up more than 90 per

Am I mean? or Maybe The Truth Just Hurts

2007-03-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Yes I have the tendency to be insensitive, and I can also be SUPER sensitive. But I'm a work-in-progress and I do try my hardest to hold my tongue. I have the gift of stretching my patience way far than my usual length. Today was just IT. I couldn't hold back nor burry the issue that I have been faced with so many times. Maybe now that I have my own mind, and I make my own decisions, and have gone through life realizing that everything that I go through is not all sugar and spice and everything nice just like all the chick flicks I love watching. Maybe I'm the one that is more conscious about reality like bills to be paid, work to be done and the list goes on.

I don't know how in the world other people live as if they could just do what they want to and not care nor think about consequences that would happen even before they do whatever they want to, just because they want to! Meanwhile, other people are in denial that they suck at multi-tasking. Still they try their hardest but they really can't juggle. The sad part about this is, all they do is again: what they want to. This time forgetting to narrow down their priority. Wherein, they pass the priority to someone who's not even supposed to be responsible for it. Maybe in the years to come, that's when I can play the part. NOT NOW.

Obviously, I'm just ranting. I can't really say specific points because I wouldn't want to be known as a blogger that would air her dirty laundry. But so much for the drama that can eat me on a Sunday night! Monday is just around the corner and my countdown for Boracay is getting exciting! I'm way excited since this is the first time I'm breaking my usual tradition of spending my birthday in Montemar.

5 more days to go! :)

A Ray Of Light

2007-03-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

I got this through my e-mail. I just had to post it since the elections are coming up, maybe these candidates are just what we're looking for. Hopefully, their green monsters don't come out and forget why they decided to run in the first place. Be a responsible voter, your vote counts! :) --Koyen

THE UNKNOWNS
Senate bets run on God-centered politics

By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 03:05am (Mla time) 02/18/2007

MANILA, Philippines -- The tall man, grinning, offered handshakes to
shoppers. A total stranger, he was welcomed anyway at the Greenhills
"tiangge" in San Juan yesterday.

"I am Dr. Martin Bautista. I am running for senator under Ang
Kapatiran (The Brotherhood) party. I am not a traditional politician,"
he told curious strangers huddled around him.

"Bautista who? Ang Kapatiran what?" was the quietly polite reaction of
the shoppers. One went further and asked: "Do you have any chance of
winning?"

Bautista, 44, knows only too well it's a tall order to go against a
bunch of senatorial hopefuls parading celebrity wives, prominent names
and bottomless campaign kitties.

But the gastro-enterologist would not have abandoned a lucrative
medical practice in the United States if he was not convinced of
victory, or at least a shot at it.

Bautista left for the US a year after he graduated from the University
of the Philippines in 1989. Throughout the 17 years that he spent as a
physician in New York and Oklahoma, he said he never applied for a
green card.

Last year, he came home for good, bringing with him his wife, a
UP-trained pulmonologist, and four young daughters.

Life is short

"Life is short, so better spend it by doing something good for your
country," he said in an interview at the Ang Kapatiran headquarters at
Greenmeadows in Pasig.

Ang Kapatiran (Alliance for the Common Good) is a political party put
up three years ago by Nandy Pacheco, the well-known advocate for a
gunless society. The party promotes God-centered politics and calls
for the abolition of the "pork barrel" and gambling, among other
advocacies.

Aside from Bautista, the party is fielding three other candidates for
senator?Mario Ongkiko, Zosimo Paredes and Adrian Sison, who are all
lawyers.

Except for Ongkiko, who is acknowledged to be one of the country's top
lawyers, the others are unknowns in politics.

"All the pundits are saying that we won't win, but that's a defective
concept," said the 50-year-old Sison who specializes in family law and
taxation cases.

Abundance of idealism

"We're praying that the people will finally wake up and realize that
there are genuine alternatives to traditional politics and
politicians," he said.

There's an abundance of idealism among the four candidates, including
Ongkiko who has been practicing law for the past 50 years. At 75, he
doesn't really need the prestige and clout that come with being a
senator to cement his place in the sun.

"I can earn enough to last me my lifetime. But I'm not thinking of
myself. I'm doing this for my children and my grandchildren," he said.

So it is also with the 58-year-old Paredes who is best remembered for
publicly criticizing the transfer of an American soldier, the
convicted rapist Daniel Smith, to the custody of the US Embassy.

It cost Paredes his job as executive director of the presidential
commission monitoring the implementation of the Visiting Forces
Agreement.

Paredes clarified that he would not use the issue to land a Senate
seat. He said he had no intention of even mentioning the name of the
Filipino woman who accused the US Marine officer of raping her.

"I won't mention anything about it unless I'm asked. I didn't even
know that many Filipinos appreciated what I had done," he said.

Educating voters

Pacheco said the decision to field senatorial candidates in May was
meant in part to educate Filipino voters who have become inured to
traditional politics.

"The people are truly fed up with what they see," he said.

"If [the Kapitiran candidates] win, it will be a clear sign that
Filipino voters are becoming mature," he said.

But what can three lawyers and a doctor do in the Senate?

They all vow to vigorously pursue the Kapatiran vision "to bring back
the teachings of God into the center of politics." This is the
response of Pacheco and his peers to the Second Vatican Council's idea
of an "empowered laity."

"The laity must lead in the renewing of politics," says one of the
group's leaders.

Pro-life party

The party is clearly "pro-life," is for "progressive disarmament" in
the national and international level, and regards as a priority
projects for the homeless, elderly, prisoners, disabled, veterans and
the youth.

Kapatiran is also unique in vowing to discipline members for any
wrongdoing.

Ongkiko said theirs was the only genuine political party, noting that
both the administration's Team Unity and the Genuine Opposition were
carrying candidates who used to belong to the other side.

"There's no opposition or administration, it's just a fantasy. They
don't have a platform. All they want is to win," he said.

Paredes said the administration and opposition candidates would
eventually "cancel each other out," paving the way for Kapatiran
candidates to be noticed.

"It's like seeing a streak of white in a backdrop of black," he said.

The Kapatiran candidates are banking on the honest support of
well-meaning Filipinos to make up for their lack of political
machinery.

"We ask the people to run our campaign, to champion the cause of
change," Ongkiko said.

No gimmicks

The party has launched a project called "Alay Panglinis Pulitika" to
invite campaign donations. It has also quietly enlisted the support of
a number of parish-based organizations, including the wide-ranging
Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs).

Not being entitled to poll watchers, it will rely on groups like the
Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting to ensure honest
elections in May and indirectly safeguard their votes.

The campaign strategy is quite different from the traditional
political gimmicks?the sunny smiles, colorful dress, catchy jingles
and celebrity endorsers?that this early are threatening to dull the
taste of Filipino voters.

Ongkiko, Paredes, Sison and Bautista will basically rely on the best
of intentions and work to effectively communicate them to voters.

"We will talk sanely to the people," Paredes said.

The Holy Spirit

For Bautista, the presence of God will help in the communication job,
much like what the Holy Spirit did for St. Paul and the Apostles when
they spread the good news nearly 2,000 years ago.

Yesterday, Bautista was on a one-man campaign at the densely populated
Greenhills area. Offering nothing but flyers, a sincere greeting and a
clear legislative program, he was not shunned as just another nuisance
candidate.

It's a good start for someone who doesn't ride on the popularity of a
former president, does not sing or dance, and is not the husband of a
movie star, and is a movie star himself.

Do You Know Who You Are?

2007-03-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

My teacher in AIM mentioned if we wanted to live an interesting life we should do interesting things, meet interesting people, read interesting things and I forget what else he mentioned. So over the weekend I took the plunge of doing something interesting. I finally decided to formally join Ytrip and go through the first "class". It was so interesting that I felt more empowered to start and refine the business plan I have been working on for my very first business venture. Finally, something to really say that is MY OWN and something that I have started to obsess on. The nice thing about my venture idea is, it focuses on my passion. Believe it or not: The Philippines.

You maybe wondering why in the world am I passionate about our country that's basically psycho in so many ways and at the same time so beautiful, and about to go down the drain. As to what most of us think...yes I have my moments, BUT who said I'd just take this sitting down and procastinate 'til my dying day?! So here I am about to venture into a business that won't only benefit me but a lot more people. Thanks to Ytrip (www.youthtrip.org) I have seen the light at the end of the tunnel.

The first "class" activity of Ytrip was held in Intramuros. I was floored when I was entering the Roxas Blvd. area. Passing the Rizal Monument and seeing the Manila Bay just brought back so many memories. My grade school days where we had field trips to this area to watch cultural shows in CCP and visit Intramuros. Seeing this area after a long time made me feel ashamed, how in the world can I say I'm proud to be Filipino if I haven't even seen the entire Philippines yet? Not only that, learn from the many different provinces their way of life and their culture. How can I move forward if I don't even know my past and my present?

My mom is 100% Ilonggo and my Dad is Ilocano. Which makes me a half breed- half Ilongga and half Ilocana. My Mom's family is such a big clan and we're all close to one another, while my dad's clan on the other hand is sort of small and I don't even know most of my dad's relatives. Unlike my Mom side: even a third cousin is treated like a sibling. The Ilonggo way of life is still so evident in my life. Going home to my Mom's province and learning so much more than eating Batchoy and Puto Manapla or Chicken Inasal has been a work-in-progress. Little by little I have not only been discovering new insights on the culture or values that my mom and her siblings were raised with...I've fallen in love with the province, and I now feel more at home in compared to Manila. I have yet to see Ilocos and my Dad's ancestral roots, I most probably would understand my dad more. I know there are so much more places to explore and learn from. This is just the beginning of my adventure to living an "interesting life" and falling-in-love with being a Filipino, over and over again and again.

My One True Hero

2007-03-07T08:31:00.000-08:00

From August of 2004 up to March 2007 was one hell of a ride for me. I left the corporate world, thinking I can find myself outside the confines of the corporate industry. I sort of did and now I'm loving every minute of my life. Not that I always have good days there are days that I wished I was back as an employee in the corporate world because of "financial stability". I get some money because I'm employed under our family corp. My mom thinks I was more disciplined when I was working outside the family business. Yes that is true, but I wouldn't have the nearest chance of going back to school if I were employed all over again.

There is a saying that money is the end in all. There are times when I have to agree with this, there are also times when I don't. Realistically, I wish I just had the time and leasure not to think about money but then again we live in the real world and I have bills to pay and other ideas to achieve that entail money. I honestly hate money. But I know I can't live without it. Life would have been simpler if we all lived in the age of Fred Flinstone and Barney Rubble. Simple yet thriving, and sort of low-key. Then again I guess we wouldn't have evolved to this day and age. Because if you don't innovate, you die. You're stagnant- I hate that feeling. Hence, my adventure of living out my new life journey begins.

I have found myself. Now to live an interesting life and meet interesting people, and do interesting things to see how far I can go. Who said I have to be frustrated with my current financial state?! It's not like I have a major financial problem that I have to beg in the streets. This is where I admire my father so much. He was born with nothing and worked hard to give me and my siblings the lifestyle that we have now. We had the chance to go to the best schools, travel around the world. It wasn't an easy journey for my Dad but hell, he's living proof that if you work hard and have faith in God- you can achieve and become who and what you want to be. The next challenge for me is, how do I define my own life since I was born to this blessed lifestyle. I'm not complaining, but you have to think beyond as well. Sooner or later, I will have to think of ME. I know I'm not old enough, nor am I young, I'm in the middle moving forward to facing the reality of responsibility and LIFE in general. My father's story will always be in my heart. I will forever admire his efforts and his passion for giving us the best. At the end of it all- the best "thing" in life is free...it's LOVE that would fuel you to succeed and believe in yourself.

Sink or Swim

2007-02-25T01:34:00.000-08:00

I had the priveledge to chat with my Entrepreneur guru and my classmate today. we didn't only talk about school stuff but surprisingly, life in general. It's rare to talk with your teacher about life or anything outside of a school topic, some teachers won't even dare help you out in a love crisis. But this teacher would go out of his way to answer questions of your personal pursuit to happiness to how to conquer your own life. The list can go on but to me these are questions that have been clouding my mind, and finally I get a piece of tranquility after a wonderful conversation over YM.

So, do you sink or swim? Personally, I'd like to think that I'm a swimmer when I face whatever comes my way in my life. But of course, there are certain things that I know I can't take control of. How do I handle them? How do I get through these things? I can't. Just let it go...and ride the wave. I guess what's key to handling those tough situations are to just totally surrender the situation to God and do the best you can to at least alleviate your own pain. Dramatic? well, that's just me :)

There are certain times where I feel I'm just staying afloat. I hate it when I have those moments, I know patience is a virtue. It also pays to be patient because the best things in life come to you when you are patient enough at the right time too. In the current state of my life, I already know what I want and how to get there...problem is, anything can happen in life. And not all you plan does happen. After all, you are not the final say as to what happens to your life... God is the only one that has the final say. I just hope and pray that when my life is over and I get to reach the gates of heaven, I can actually face my creator and tell him how I lived my life and I also hope I have lived it as he willed it for me to be lived out :)

I think I'm going in circles! My point is, whatever it is that comes to your life...just enjoy the ride and at the same time try to course it as to how you want to live it out.

Peace out!

Filipino and PROUD!

2006-11-19T08:11:00.000-08:00

The fight is over and Manny Pacquiao once again has emerged as the Philippine Hero for this day and age. What I loved most was how he kept saying that he won this fight not only for himself or for his family, but for the entire Philippine nation. After seeing Morales down on the 3rd round, I felt goose bumps all over my body! The last time I had that feeling was when I saw the late Pope John Paul II up front in his second and final visit to Manila. I know they are entirely different people, but the feeling of love that was outpouring not to one's self but to others was the same concept as Manny Pacquiao's as to the late Pope's love for our country.

What I liked most also was that Manny kept thanking his higher power...GOD. His mother raised him well to instill his faith in God and to never forget HIM in all his endeavours. It was quite a day today for all the Filipinos around the world. To all the Filipino artists, athletes, businessmen and entrepreneurs who have made a difference for our country I salute you and because of you I am truly proud-er each day to wake-up as a Filipino :)