20-0-9 wrapup

With so much going on, days from now, 2009 will be over -- A new decade on the rise...And like when everyone's in school or work, time for some little recaps of the year that soon will be a "was"...

1. Naturals and a not so natural...
--- the wrath of Typhoon Ondoy and Pepeng in the Luzon island
--- major earthquakes in Indonesia
--- Mayon volcanic eruption
--- Maguindanao massacre

2. Mournings...
--- Farrah Fawcett [1/3 of Charlie's Angels]
--- Michael Jackson [Pop Superstar]
--- Brittany Murphy [actress]
--- Francis Magalona [Master Rapper]
--- Johnny Delgado [Pinoy actor]
--- Former President Cory Aquino

3. Triumphs...
--- Pinoys unite as we rise above the ruins of the Typhoons
--- Manny Pacquiao [7-title World Boxing Champ]
--- Efren Penaflorida [CNN Hero of the Year 2009]
--- Muelmar Magallanes [Time Magazine's top 10 Heroes of the Year 2009]

4. Scandals and a few WTF's...
--- Tiger Woods and his women scandal
--- Hayden Kho - Katrina Halili sex video scandals [here in the Philippines]
--- Manny Pacquiao - Krista Ranillo ish...
--- Kanye West shuts up Taylor Swift
--- Miley Cyrus shuts down her Twitter
--- Paula Abdul quits American Idol and Ellen Degeneres replaces...

5. Concerts here and there...
--- Eraserheads reunion concert
--- Lea Salonga
--- Craig David
--- Lady Gaga
--- Akon
--- Katy Perry [benefit concert]
--- David Archuleta and David Cook [sooo love it!!!hope this one gets a repeat]

6. Movies and TV
--- Glee!!! need i say more???
--- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
--- Transformers 2
--- New Moon
--- Avatar
--- Slumdog Millionaire

7. [more] Watch outs
--- Glee [by April]
--- American Idol Season 9
--- Philippines' Presidential Elections 2010
--- Danny Gokey's 1st album
--- David Archuleta's sophomore album

8. Personal Events
--- 1st year as Ex Presidenta of YOCASOCI
--- E-heads concert experience
--- the David Archie highness in Manila [lots of thumbs up on this one ^_^]
--- Uniquely Singapore self-adventure
--- reunions with former colleagues-friends
--- new work environment and new found colleagues [hopefully, to become my new friends]
--- more new found friends [thanks to being a David Archie fan]>> Naree, Ferj, Larissa, Bill, Izz, Debz, Pui, etc.
--- single but inspired...wahaha

9. Future What-I-want-Endeavors-Adventures
--- more travels!!!!!!! a Pinas island and an out-of-the country pleasseeee!!!
--- a new cellphone unit [yebba...^_^]
--- drive the family car with a license...
--- buy new household stuff to renovate the place...
--- learn to swim again or a new sport...
--- anything art or fashion related...

10. wishing unity and strength amidst adversities for myself and country; and to be the one-less-lonely girl for 2010 *fingers crossed*...sheessshhh...I won't be saying this often...Just gonna play it in my head...

Well, of course, there's much more that can be added to this list. One thing certain, we're moving forward to a new year -- to change, improve, maintain -- always for the better.

Happy New Year and Hello 20-10!!!

Pinoys on the rise...

For two weeks now, the Philippines has been getting reasons to rise above the ruins and celebrate...

Another world record for the country in the field of sports, as Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao won his 7th world division title against Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico. 12 rounds of hard hitting boxing amused the world and despite getting body pains, the Pound-per-Pound King gave his all for the pride and honor of our country.
Just today, in New York, a simple educator from the streets of Manila won the CNN Hero of the Year for 2009. Efren Penaflorida, together with some volunteers formed Dynamic Teen Company, has been making education accessible by teaching kids and bringing books / educational materials via pushcart. With his sheer acts of kindness and love for the country, his efforts were paid off that now some of his students are joining him to teach other street children. And of course, he was nominated and won CNN Hero of the Year 2009. Besides the cash prize of US $100,000, he brought honor and hope to this country that with hard work and patriotism, the Philippines can still be a better place to live in.

To these two, CONGRATULATIONS AND WE SALUTE YOU!!!

To all of us, CHEERS AND MAY THEIR ACTS AND LOVE FOR COUNTRY BE AN INSPIRATION TO MAKE A CHANGE FOR A BETTER PHILIPPINES!!!

source: CNN News

a basic need that shouldn't be wasted...

Days ago, it was all in the news that UN [United Nations] mentioned that there are around 1 billion people all over the world who are suffering from hunger. It is neither a joke nor an announcement to the public just to inform...

I'm sure we are aware of our surroundings that there are beggars in the streets, financially challenged people who struggle everyday to survive. It's just that we ignore or we don't seem to care. Yes, me and my family work for a living but not just for food alone...I admit, there are times I ignore this issue because I don't feel what's it like to work so hard not for buying luxuries or material things but just to eat. And that is the effect to the rest of us who are financially capable [if not really filthy rich], we tend to be complacent and not thinking of other people but ourselves.

What makes this issue of hunger worse are the people who don't care and at the same time, who don't eat wisely or properly. I admit again, I used to buy food before in big servings or get food filling up the plate in parties and end up not finishing them up. But years ago, when I had a heartache that caused me to eat one meal a day only [yes, you read it "one meal" only] for months, that became the turning point for me to learn the value of food. When I got back to my normal eating routine [breakfast-snack-lunch-snack-dinner], it isn't just about filling up my stomach but realizing that I have to give my best not to waste whatever food is placed on my plate. Having food trips with family or friends as past time, I feel bad when I so much leftovers going on with the plates/food packages in restos or fastfood chains. It's not because I wanna eat them all up but because I know there are a lot of people getting really hungry everyday --- hungry because they can't afford to buy even a piece of bread. Those leftovers couldn't have been leftovers but rather have ended up being shared to the rest of the world. And the hungry wouldn't end up eating leftovers but rather healthy and fresh meals. Plus, it isn't easy to keep going and working if a person skips a meal. Been there, felt that -- I used to skip meals during my high school and college days just to finish an assignment or project and I ended up being acidic and diagnosed with gastritis [which I have in me for life...].

Actually, there are ways how to end up with less leftovers of food...They may not bring out big results but collaborated little efforts per person could contribute soon with the hunger situation the world is going through at the moment...Let me share just a few of those...

1. Plan what you want to eat -- There are those who make abrupt decisions on what to eat. The result: They can't finish up the food or they are forced to finish it until they end up with the vomit feeling.

** Before falling in line to order or before calling a waiter to take the order, plan first what meal you can finish up then decide which is your crave to eat. In short, don't order by impulse.

2. Eat in groups -- This is if you'll be eating out with friends. Instead of ordering individual meals / plates, order a "to-share" or a meal good for how many persons. You don't just lessen the chances of leftovers but you also spend less. Just make sure to ask first the resto's meals if they're good for how many persons.

3. Take out what's left -- Ok, I know some wouldn't appreciate this tip, but really, this might help. Of course, this will be based on your judgment. Take note of two considerations: if there was so much left on the plates and if they wouldn't spoil easily even if you take them home.

** If you're in a resto, you can ask the waiter to have the food wrapped for take out while asking for your bill to pay. If you're in a fast food chain, simply ask for a plastic or container at the counter.

NOTE: Do this if you're with your family and friends or if you're with someone comfortable. Of course, don't do it on special functions or events you're attending.

4. Know your eating ritual or habit -- In this way, you would know how much you should eat per meal. Honestly, this was one of the things I did that changed a few of my eating rituals. I'm not saying this for you guys to be on diet. I'm NOT ON A DIET =)

** Try to observe how much you eat per meal for a week. If you end up having leftovers often for that entire week, try to lessen your servings week after week. If writing it down would help, then do so.

NOTE: Again, this is not to make you guys stop eating but to lessen leftovers, meaning you will end up finishing up your food without ending up vomiting.

5. Learn to say "NO" -- As simple as it is...

If somebody offers you food even if you're full, don't hesitate to say NO...It's more shameful if you end up biting from a big piece of bread or only consuming a spoonful from an entire plate, just because you don't want the one who offered to feel bad...We can say some negative things in an honest yet positive tone, if we would want to.

Well, my intention of posting this is not for you guys to feel bad or pity while eating. The purpose is to make each one of us realize that hunger isn't a petty problem. It increases each year. Let's not wait for the future generations to experience this at its worst. I'm sure each government all over the world is putting its best efforts to minimize this, but in our little ways we should realize and work as one than just aware-then-ignore. For now, we only have one world, so let's utilize our need -- FOOD -- properly.

make yourself count...

Months away from now and it'll be 2010. Next year will be a significant year for our country as we make a change by going through the 2010 Presidential Elections. I got a text message from a person close to me saying that he is finally a registered voter for next year's elections. He's excited to be able to exercise his right to vote and contribute to the country's history.

Sincerely, I'm happy for him because he really loves the Philippines. He is a very patriotic individual in words and actions. I seriously admire him even more for that. Congratulations...you are one true proud Pinoy. Kudos to you =)

I may not be very vocal about my thoughts on politics as I always say, but I'm excited to vote one more time and make my voice count for this country. I've been a registered voter years ago and it's gonna be my 3rd time to vote next year. But, whatever happens soon and whoever is placed in the highest position in the land, I will never tire of voting and making 1 vote bring a change to this nation.

So for those who aren't registered yet [who should be...], c'mon guys, STAND UP AND BE COUNTED. DON'T WASTE TIME...REGISTER NOW at the nearest Comelec office in your area...It's only until Oct. 31, 2009 =)

sweet tooth Pinay from the heart

How're ya doin' peeps???

Haha...just a little amped up for blogging again...THANK GOODNESS!!! ^_^

If there was one of the few things that I enjoyed during my bumming month, it was having a new crave again. This time it's froyo [frozen yogurt]. For as long as there is a yogurt that can be mixed with toppings of your choice, I'm in for it. Well, seriously, I'm a Red Mango craving being now...haha

Besides my sweet tooth craving, the past calamities made me appreciate and love my country, the Philippines, all the more. I know it shouldn't just be through words but more on actions. But, can I just say that through fashion too? I've been eyeing to start collecting bracelets or accessories that spell good causes. I've been wishing I could buy the "Invisible Children" bracelet, but for now, Philippines first. And to start with, I bought a "Yabang Pinoy" bracelet...It's made of pure abaca woven by folks in the province. Proceeds of buying the bracelet will go to the local foundations or organizations that Yabang Pinoy is supporting. It only costs P50.00. But, there are a lot of personalities and celebrities that have been wearing this bracelet in support to promote our one and only country, the Philippines. For further details, on where you can buy the bracelet or help the organization with their cause, check their website -- yabangpinoy.com. You can also click the ad that's posted here on my site to be linked directly to their website.

Finally, it's all in the music news now -- David Archuleta's "Christmas from the Heart" album is released. It isn't just an album for the super loyal and loving David Archie fans but for everyone who would love to play a Christmas song or two to feel the spirit of the coming season. From the generic songs of every artist for a Christmas album [like Joy to the World, O Come All Ye Faithful, etc] to Christmas songs in a different language [Pat-a-pan and Riu Riu Chiu], I'm sure there will be one of the 13 tracks that you would love to play over and over again. Personally, my super favorite is his version of "Ave Maria". Everytime I hear this on his album, it reminds me of my chorale days when we used to sing different versions of "Ave Maria" in church. This song is actually one of the few that give me goosebumps. I must say, David Archuleta's version drew me into tears of joy and goosebumps on the CRITICAL LEVEL...hehe...For those who have been exposed and learned a few about music, David Archuleta draws a connection to the listeners to feel the Christmas spirit minus melancholy. It's not a sad album. And once again, his vocal skills -- his tenor prowess -- proves him to be one of amazing young singers we have in this generation.How I wish I could see and hear him on his Christmas tour in the US next month, but I'm completely aware that my financial capacity ain't enough to make me get there. Just hearing his voice now and the way he interprets every song, I'm deeply moved and deeply satisfied.
And now, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas right??? ^_^

bittersweet and blessed...

Back from the ruins...

Yesterday, Sept 25, 2009 was another tragic event that made the country united in efforts and in prayers...Typhoon "Ondoy" hit Luzon, went away now and obviously, left sooo many traces -- flooded areas, destroyed houses, homeless and evacuated people and deaths.

After the storm, I'm thankful that me and my family are intact. We just ended up having no electricity for one day and a few hours. As I went to church this afternoon, it made me even more thankful and blessed that our family was ok. Despite that, the pain is sinking in to me at the moment because the rest of the country -- those who were hit hard by the storm -- are still in the process of being saved.

Our country may have been left with bad traces, but this made us see that Filipinos can always come together and unite for their fellowmen. A lot are volunteering to rescue and donating material needs for those who badly need at the moment.

I won't prolong this further...I still feel that even if I'm ok now, I don't deserve to splurge so much at the moment...If you would like to help in the least possible way you can, you can check on these two websites how:

abs-cbnews.com
gmanews.tv

"Lord, thank You...and I pray for those who still need help right now, please keep them under the mantle of Your protection and love..."

to keep it short and sensible...

it's another Monday holiday...

i won't keep this a bit long cause i want to spend this holiday well...

just want to post this shoutout...

to all my Malaysian friends, Happy Merdeka Malaysia!!!

and to every Filipino, Happy National Heroes Day!!!

lastly,,,one sleep to go...it's BER month once again...SEPTEMBER!!!

the start of the longest Christmas celebration...here in the Philippines!!! haha^_^

can't feel that at the moment, hopefully, soon i would...

what i learned from a female President???

Aug 1, 2009 -- The first day of new month and what a way to start it but with the passing of another prominent individual, a mover and shaker of Philippine history. It's all in the news around the world. Former President and the First Female President in Asia, Corazon C. Aquino died at the age of 76 after a year and four month battle from colon cancer.

Growing up with the knowledge that she was a part of the country's political and current affairs, I would say she's really contributed a lot. She may not have pleased everybody, but she has been admired and emulated by many. In the world of politics dominated by men, she triggered changes from being a politician's wife and widow to the Philippines' 11th Commander-in-Chief. Being a mother of 5 siblings, she took the place of leading a revolt against a dictator made her the mother of the entire nation.

Honestly, I'm not a big Cory follower. I still remember my grandmother scolding me because she can't sway me to be a Cory Aquino loyalist like her. She would misjudge me to be a Marcos loyalist, whereas I wasn't even born or a grown up by the time Marcos lead the country. But despite that, through the years, I learned some things from her. In passing, her prayerful life never decreased that even up to her last hours on earth she kept praying the rosary with her children. She died asleep after the 5th Sorrowful mystery -- the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In her achievements and tragedies, she never lost faith. In making major decisions in her life, it was the power of prayer that was her greatest armor. Lately, I've been going through difficulties, confusions and so I need to surpass some major decisions in my life. I'm on the process of taking some baby steps towards change that the negativity pricks me. I guess God is really showing His manifestations that I shouldn't give up and that prayers work wonders, through President Cory's story.

Her simplicity and strength amidst adversities lead the entire country and the world see that a woman can make a difference. Above all, her patriotic acts catalyzed every Filipino to take initiatives waking up and making a change for this country -- not losing that hope of working ways to have a better Philippines. Whether taking it to the streets or taking it silently by helping other people, she lived and died with love and Filipino pride.

Sad to say sometimes, we don't just bury the dead but also their memories and the things we can learn from them. But with the way things are going on in our country, I still believe that it was only her physical being that has died. The legacy she left lives on and in fact, it has to keep going. As we say goodbye to a Philippine history icon, let us start a new beginning of uniting and keeping this country better, with a sense of pride and love.

Rest in Peace and Thank You for the selfless dedication and love for our country, Former President Corazon C. Aquino. The legacy shall continue; the love for the Philippines shall remain in me...

**photo: c/o gmanews.tv

politics really ain't my cup of tea

Ever since, I have always been vocal about this when I'm asked about any opinion related to politics --- can we just talk about something else? --- It's not because I don't care about the concerns that politics results into, but because when I see it in the news, it becomes an endless exchange of bickering and backstabbing from opposite parties involved...That makes it sooo sick -_-'

Just this Monday, our country's President, her excellency, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo gave her ninth and last [i hope so...] State of the Nation Address. This has been a yearly event where she addresses her accomplishment report and plans for the year as president of the Philippines. Well, every incumbent president does that here...And every year, whoever is president never pleases everybody. There is always the opposing groups of people commenting on every word uttered in that speech. But of course, being the blogger that I am, I took the initiative of printing the copy of that SONA...

In the news, there were only certain highlights seen like when Pres. GMA was saying some stuff about the presidential aspirants and her critics. Well, it's true that it shouldn't have been an avenue for her to say her "revenge" statements against them. After all, it is a "State of the Nation Address" -- what our country's status is. It isn't necessary to talk against the critics cause after all, each president who lived in Malacanang got his piece of negativity.

On a positive note, it's nice to know that throughout her term, somehow, there were projects done and dealt with concerning the Filipino masses. True enough, despite the recession the whole world is experiencing, our country, our government was able to make measures that can withstand the effects of it. It may not have made the country soooo rich, but still, we still earn. In every problem, alternatives were provided. It may not have been 100% effective but of course, let's still put into consideration the fact that success and progress don't take come overnight. I understand the sentiments of the masses who believe they haven't felt the touch of progress or development. Those who are jobless, undereducated, homeless --- there are still a lot of them in the streets. But here's my thought about it, let's not make our entire lives to be saved by our government. These politicians are not heroes who have special powers to make us rich. At the end of the day, it will still depend on us if we really want to be successful. Just like in any other country, the government should just provide programs to lessen our burdens --- provide free education for the poor, give homes to the homeless, provide jobs. But the poverty can only be alleviated if we work hard for ourselves. It is useless if they provide jobs and we don't save even small amounts for future use. It is useless if they provide free education and the parents would make these kids work instead of study. It is useless if there are housing projects and yet these people would still prefer going back to their usual place -- near the riverbanks or railways.

Instead of expressing all our concerns in the streets all the time, why not stop feeling so much pity and just taking the initiative of doing things for ourselves. Trust me, if each Filipino would do so, plus of course bringing back the "bayanihan" spirit that we should have, there is no need for so much rallies...Doing little efforts can make our country better...With that, more people would be interested to talk about politics -- on a positive note -- like me...But until that time comes, this is still not my cup of tea [thank God i took Engineering^_^].