My Life is My Message

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http://anthonygaupo.wordpress.com

That is all. Thank you so much peeps! :))

Yesterday, I received a text message from a friend with regards to Lady Gaga’s Alejandro. Honestly, I was shocked with what I have read. I really didn’t think of that exciting, melodramatic yet danceable song (for girls maybe) has a double meaning, far different from how others interpreted this Lady Gaga’s crazy lyrics.

Lady Gaga

But as usual, hindi ako nagpadala agad sa ‘kalokohang’ to. I love Lady Gaga. Who doesn’t? San ka makakakita ng magandang babaeng nagpapakabaliw para sa career? And the songs? Well, it is really applauded. That is why the first time Poker Face hits the Billboard’s Top 100, I started being crazy to her ( not to the extent, of course :) ). But let me tell you the two different meanings of her song Alejandro!

According to answers.yahoo.com, Alejandro is a song that reflects Lady Gaga’s attitude towards men. She actually base love towards men’s wallet, which in the first place is not actually a form of love. The following are some lines that proves this behavior:

 

She hides true love en su bolsillo. Bolsillo is a Spanish word for pocket. And this line actually plays a large part in this song.

 

She’s got a halo round her finger, around you. This lyric actually reflects Gaga’s innocent act to men by wrapping men around her fingers.

I know that we are young, and I know that you may love me; but I just can’t be with you like this anymore…Alejandro. This part shows how she treats men while in a relationship, that is all about lust and financial assistance.

 

Alejandro, Fernando, Roberto. This multiple changing of 3 names actually reflects her fear of commitment to the point that she even forget what was the name of her lover.

 

But that’s not all. There is a chain message that has been spreading through out the world with what this song was all about. Maybe if Lady Gaga would know this, she could perhaps ask herself why the meaning was given like that. I mean, maybe she still don’t know what religious views does her song impacted to some. Making it intriguing! Anyway, this was the message I have received regarding this song and was supported by readings stuffs in the internet.( blurtit.com )

 

Alejandro, Fernando and Roberto actually mean Man’s defender and Protector, Ardent for peace, and Bright or shining fame respectively in which in Christian views actually pertains to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Aside from that, Hotter than Mexico pertains to hell and the babe used in the song was actually pertaining to a child. (given exodus 2:6 which uses baby instead of child).

 

Incorporating each to the song will produce a lyrics of blasphemy. Here it goes.

 

“Don’t bother me Don’t bother me Alejandro (God)”

“Don’t call my name Don’t call me Name Bye Fernando(Jesus)”

“I’m not your Babe (child) I’m not your Babe (child) Alejandro (God)”

“Don’t call my name don’t call my name Roberto (Holy Spirit)”

Got it? Well, I do not know how true this one is? But through researching, I’m honestly about to believe. And that she really is Satanic. I better leave to you your choice. I do not want to influence you with this realization. This is just a personal thing being published publicly. I have nothing against Lady Gaga although the content itself is against herself.

MRT, LRT Fare Hike

                      

     If I were to ask you whether you agree to this fare hike in railway transportation, I know I shouldn’t wait an answer for the answer is obvious (or maybe I shouldn’t ask in the first place). It is a big NO, isn’t it? Well, it is really another box to carry on our back. Sino bang valued passenger ang hindi papalag sa planong ‘to ng Department of Transportation and Communication (DoTC)???  AKOOOOO!!!

                         

                        LRT 2

     When I enter college, I started riding LRT 1. And in one of those days, I have asked myself ” Bakit kaya 15 pesos lang pamasahe sa LRT?” Really, it made me curious. When you try to figure it out, 20 pesos ang pamasahe from Baclaran to Monumento using jeepney, 5 pesos higher than LRT fare. E sympre kung ikaw pupunta ng monumento mag-LRT ka na di ba? Aircon na, traffic free pa. Unlike jeep na after mong bumiyahe at kung pormang porma ka, better visit comfort room first kung ayaw mong pagtawanan ng mga makakasalubong mo!

     Dahil sa murang pamasahe, pati mga sidewalk vendors ng Quiapo at Divisoria, sa LRT na sumasakay kaya lalong nagsisikip. Single ticket lang binili nila pero sakop hanggang tatlong tao dahil sa ‘imported baggage’ nila! Whew. The worst, amoy mamang pagod pa yung makakatabi mo! Saklap.

     Eto pa. Dahil sa murang pamasahe na ‘to, kung hindi ikaw ang mananakit, ikaw ang masasaktan! Kung gusto mong makalabas ng buhay, siguraduhin mong close-fisted ang yung kamay while in a boxing position. It is really indeed a battle! And always ready your speech dahil inevitable ang debate inside the train. :))

     What is the point? Dahil sa murang pamasahe, lahat ng tao napapamura sa pangit na service ng LRTA. Imagine, the purpose of having railways is for the ease of traveling, both from ordinary transportation and train, and to avoid heavy traffics around Metro Manila. Ang tanong, naresolba ba yung traffic sa EDSA? Hindi naman di ba? What’s worst nagkakaroon na rin ng human traffic (not human trafficking HAHA) inside LRTs. Mas nagkakagulo tuloy sa loob ng train lalo na kapag delay yung dating ng tren dahil sa pa-VIP pilots! And that is all because of very cheap fare!

     I am not selfish to those who also wanted to ride LRT. Hindi naman sakin yun, in the first place. But the mentioned above were not really my only reason why I agree to this fare hike plan. There is a much deeper reason and much consideration with those in need, those who belonged top the poverty line!

     Maybe you were asking kung anong kinalaman ng mga mahihirap sa usaping ‘to. Let me go back first to my previous question “Bakit kaya 15 pesos lang pamasahe sa LRT?” The answer is because it was subsidized by the government. By how many percent? 75 percent! According to sunstar.com , supposedly 60 pesos ang pamasahe sa LRTs and MRT. But for the paramount consideration of its affordability to the people, the government less it down to 15 pesos as the maximum fare. Which would mean 45 pesos ang pasanin ng gobyerno. Eh how many commuters, all together, do LRT 1and 2 and MRT 3 have everyday? It’s Million men!

     And approximately, 2 BILLION PESOS were alloted by the government for this subsidy every year. Imagine, tinutulungan tayo ng gobyerno ng ganung kalaking halaga sa mga bagay na kaya naman nating gastusan. Or if not, kaya naman nating gawan ng paraan like magjeep or bus na lang instead of riding trains. If you know your burden, better know what is/are other’s burden because of you!

     Marami ng matutulungan mahirap na Pilipino ang 2 BILLION PESOS lalo na’t ibinulgar pa sa atin ni PNoy na 100 Billion pesos na lang ang natitirang budget ng gobyerno. Wag na nating ipagdamot pa sa mga taong ‘to ang 45 pesos na subsidy from the government. Hindi natin ikamamatay yan pero para sa mga taong tinutukoy ko, 45 pesos is already a 2-meal-in-a-day budget!

Street Kid and so helpless! :((

     We better think of our fellowmen first before we complain and condemn. Siguro mas maganda kung tignan mo muna ang paligid mo. Observe what you can see around the streets. Observe what is being situated in every avenue you pass through. Kahit saan ka pa magpunta, you can see only the same scenario.

     Hence, am I being selfish? I don’t think so. So for those who are trying to hit the Aquino government for this move, you better ask yourself if you have been in the right place. Hindi na ako magbabanggit ng militant group na nagbabadya ng ganitong senaryo for they have already knew themselves. Mag-isip naman muna kayo bago kayo magrally, manira at magkalat sa Pilipinas! >’<

Reference:

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/269864

When Passion is not the Basis

    Before I entered my current school with my current course, I have think of so many times of what I wanted to be and what profession shall I focus on. And with my decision, I am pretty sure that I will grow more on that course. But suddenly, Benilde came into my life that turned my world upside down.

     Like the words I have said in my previous blog, I never really imagine myself getting involve with computer career nor even think of getting a course like the one I am currently at. In short, everything happening around me is not the actual plan I have prepared for myself before leaving secondary school. The worse is I have no plan B to consider. But I have no time (and maybe no right) to change this plan yet holding back was the only way I did for the sake of myself!

     I just accepted what fate has provided me. The right to complain has no place in my world. So silence is what I've practiced the moment I have faced this reality. I am mute but not this time!

     Honestly, I gradually learn and understand that maybe this program is not really meant for me-- that maybe my skill will never meet its requirements. Everyday is becoming hell day though most of the major subjects are not yet involve. Well thats the point! No major subjects yet, nonetheless, I found the program hard to deal with.

     I was just triggered with this agony when a friend ask me as to how passion and purpose would possibly be combined. I guess I answered the question incorrectly since I, myself do not know how to--perhaps--apply it with this kind of situation. Well, I have the purpose but the passion? I am hardly trying to bring it in.

     The time she asked that question was also the time when I almost gave up with the activity given to us. Twas just a simple program and yet I roughly spend all of my braincells to critically understand the logic and the structure of it. Same thing with the previous activities.

     There were times, perhaps, that I was able to do the correct coding. But that was because of the codes presented by my professor. I just copied it then make some modifications then done. I really haven't done any codes that I did alone. That's why I felt not learned only accomplished.

     I am not giving up. I am just trying to scrutinize my current status. And just trying to figure out what the word passion meant to me.

     There were times that I found the interest I am chasing for yet I am no help in pursuing it. Aside  from the real passion I have, I found diplomatic affairs more interesting than what I am holding on. Social analysis, current news, social situations, Public services, cultural differences, foreign relations, etc: These are the things I prefer more than facing the computer while dealing with dang codes!

     They say follow what your passion is telling you and you will succeed. Yet, how will I follow it if there were people trying to hinder me with whom I owe much. Do I still have to go after my passion or shall I consider how they pulled off my life to reach where I am currently at.

     Right now, adjustment is the exact term to use to say that I am okay. I really am okay! I am a great fighter yet a soft hearted man. I have adjusted so many times so giving up is a none sense discussion or even a useless vocabulary. Anyway, no option doesn't necessarilly mean no chance of going out of the box. I have dreamt of something big so being stranded in a box is not actually a pleasing imagery.

Philippine Airlines take two!

     I was watching GMA news yesterday evening when I read a headline regarding the Philippine Airlines' (PAL) suspension and delay of flights. This so happens because of the mass resignation of the pilots of our flag carrier PAL. (read: yahoonews by GMANews.tv)

PAL logo

     It really caught my attention for I have remembered what my professor in Economy have told us about the "near-to-death" situation of PAL few years ago. (I just don't know how many times did this problem happen in the entire life of PAL). According to him, Lucio Tan had already been decided to permanently sign a certificate of bankruptcy to the government. Why? Let me tell you the story.

DISCLAIMER: I really do not know the exact story. This is just according to what I have heard from I guess a reliable professor. If you think there is something wrong with my story, do tell me about it to edit it again. Or if the story wasn't really true and if you are really well-read about the real point, I may delete this post! :))

     During late 90's, pilots has an intolerable offer abroad. There is really an in-demand call for great pilots. And who the heck would not accept hundred thousands salary for just a month. Here is the deal: The PAL pilots decided not to leave if they will only be given a higher salary, which PAL management unfortunately could not afford.

    This is the tragic. These pilots agreed to flew to several parts of the world, then ran off the planes!!! Saklap di ba? How much does a plane costs? Multiplied by let's say 5 equals hundreds of million. What more if there were more than 5? But it's not just that. The PAL management had to consider the casualties. Of course because of that affair there were delayed flights which means, for businessmen and VIPs, there were delayed transactions and business appointments. So the PAL have to appease these VIPs (although all the passengers shall be given the same treatment, but to this matter let me focus to influential people). How will they do that? Of course if these people bought class A tickets, they shall have a class-A-like treatment. That means if they bought class A tickets and the flight has been delayed, preferably they shall stay in a class A or five star hotels! Eh how much is one night in a five star hotel including the other expenditures aside from checking in? And it is not just a single passenger. There were a lot!!!

     That was the disastrous problem of PAL during those times. And for this reason, PAL was about to close. But the government didn't allow it to happen that is why PAL is still on its working ground. But the question is why? Why the government didn't allow it to happen if it has nothing to do with the government or if it was privately owned by Lucio Tan?!

     Remember Philippine Airlines is the very first Airline to be erected in the entire Asia (that is why it is called the country's Flag carrier in terms of Airlines). We are the first country to have it, not China, not Japan, not Thailand and not the other developed Asian countries. Which means it was very shameful to the Philippines if bankruptcy of the very first Airline of Asia had been filed. In that case, the government assisted PAL financially. And in that way, avoidance of disgrace arouse.

     And now, another dilemma has been threatening the PAL's accountability. And I just wonder why these pilots can actually do that. It is really hard to leave an on-going responsibility most especially if a lot of people will be affected. And I guess, lugi na naman ang PAL with this problem and I know the government will still be taking over PAL if not remedied by the management which could possibly happen lalo na't pinag-uusapan na 'to sa senate!

     But this is different. But still a form of boycott! Many of them did not show up in their works. Pathetic people! Well, they have reason that they already passed a resignation letter. But be professional men! You know that it has to undergo process. It is not like an excuse letter of absence from an elementary school that after issuing valid reasons will exempt them from absence!!!

     As far as I know, PAL has been spending millions of peso for the training of these pilots. How come they have the guts to boycott Philippines?! They do not just put PAL at stake but the entire country.  Wala man lang utang na loob. tsktsk! Kawawang Pilipinas! :((

     And if all the people will think similarly to these "indebted professional", naku sa kangkungan pupulutin ang Pilipinas and it might be better if Philippines will be obliterate in maps of the world!!! tsktsktsk!
 

'I had lived a full life!'

      I remember one morning, an appalling text message from a friend woke me up. It says there, ‘Patay na si Cory’. Without further ado, I turned on the TV and the replay of Noynoy’s official statement was exactly flashing. ‘Totoo nga!’ The only thing I had said to myself.

President Cory Aquino 'The Mother of Democracy

      Today is her first death anniversary. And I wanted this day to be her’s alone for I know she had given her remaining life to us many years ago yet she had also given us a gift that we and the succeeding generations still enjoy.

     I didn’t know her personally but I have known her through her loving heart, through the great things she had done, and through the sacrifices she forgo. Hindi pa ako pinapanganak when she became the president of this country but through articles, and reading materials, as well as the history itself proved me how great this woman was.

     You must be thinking of like I was just going in to the flow of how she was described, praised, admired, commended, congratulated and paid tribute by our people. Well, sino nga naman kasing maniniwala sa mga sinasabi ko kung in the first place, I didn’t witness all these ‘stuffs’ I am saying. But who the heck would not know her?

     Who the heck would not know the woman who lead the subversion of the will of the people during the EDSA Revolution in 1986? After which was being installed as the new president of the Philippines holding democracy in her hands.

     And who the heck would not know the 1986 Time Magazine Woman of the year? Because of her determination to dismantle the dictatorship of the previous administration, he spared no time to set into motion the order of political democracy.

     Lastly, sino bang Pilipino ang hindi magiging proud if you have learned that a Filipino had been awarded by the Europe-Based A Different View as one of the 15 Champions of the World Democracy along with Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr, and other great people . And has also been awarded of various titles in the world. That must be a whoa!!!

     These are the proofs that I shall not be questioned to how I admire this person. Too, these are the proofs that the forthcoming youths shall have a valid reason to honor her.

     I have read a lot of articles, mostly from Philippine Daily Inquirer writers, who has expressed their emotional yet uplifting praises to our president. And how I wish I could also become one of them, of having a personal connection to President Cory, of having a chance to be with her even for once, and of having a time to know her better. (read more of different articles through this site: http://coryaquino.ph/ca_articles-tributes.asp)

     I just wonder sometimes why are we fund of appreciating other people when they are already gone. Honestly, I have just learned a lot about President Cory when she already left. I really examine a lot of reading papers to know this great woman. And I even wrote a poem about her to express how grateful I am to have a fellow Filipino like her, to have a ‘one of a kind’ president!

     And I guess, there is no doubt that she really had a full life. Through these praises, admirations and honors, which is because of what she have done, I could say that she really had a life to the fullest! I even remember how Kris described the last minute of our beloved president in her bed. That in a deep long smooth breath, it all ended peaceful!

     Hopefully, and I guess everybody hoped for, to have another Cory in our history. To have another leader that will truly lead our way to the straight path. Yet, all of us can possibly be like her. We can be the change we looked for. We all have the capability to do our tasks the same way she did, to accomplish our role the same way she achieved. But there is one thing beyond our doubt, that there’ll be no other Cory Aquino in this world! :))

Reference:
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/213914/farewell-president-corazon-cojuangco-aquino-country-s-first-woman-leader-exemplar-fa

Immersion Photos

     The following are some of the photos taken from the 3-day immersion-team building event of the volunteering unit, Center for Social Action (CSA) of my school held at Botolan and San Felipe Zambales.

This is the view outside the bus. MEdyo malabo kasi gumagalaw e hehe.

                  
                        Two of my very good friends in CSB.

At the mayor's office for welcoming us. kakaiba office nila kitang-kita sa labas yung mga ginagawa sa loob. Transparent glass kasi yung gamit. Anyway, before we went here, we ate our lunch. Pagdating namin dito, may mga handang pagkain. Whew. puro pagkain sobrang busog ako! haha

Stopover going to LAKAS Pamayanan. So quiet and peaceful place with fresh air and very relaxing ambiance. The guys were on jeep while the girls are walking through that way! whew! iba na talaga haha :))

Just caught that picture and guess it's interesting. Hindi ko lang alam kung madumi na ba yan o sadyang brown lang talga kulay niya! But then nice scenery pa rin :))

 Habang nagkakagulo ang lahat habang naglalakad, si MJ hindi napigilang magpost for a super nice shot! hahaha. Beautiful pose! whew! good job MJ hahaha =)))

Assembly at pala-pala (di ko sure kung yan yung tawag). This is to welcome us and to designate us to our host families. :))

The Aetas while dancing. Nakalimutan ko rin yung tawag sa sayaw nila e. Anyway, everybody enjoyed it! thanks a lot. :))

My host family. Sa likod ay yung bahay na tinuluyan ko (yung bahay nila). Great experience from this house! :))

My baby brother Gerald and sister Izel. Si Izel ang nagluto ng ulam naming 'sinabawang sardinas' Grabe talo pa ako hahaha =)))

This is Justine Bieber! whew. hanep ang alaga international teen idol. hahaha. Hindi nga ako pinapansin nito e everytime tatawagin ko. Suplado si Bieber hahaha =)))

Camera shy hehehe. Pinilit ko siyang magpapicture. Child abuse? di naman hahahaha. Kyut! :))

Lobena the archer. Yun oh! meron nang pwede pumalit sa logo ng la salle! hahaha. peace tayo dude! :))

Social Analysis activity with Sir Yoks at San Felipe Retreat house. Got such great learnings from it! :))

Meet Sadako "The Hair". hahaha. Peace tayo MJ! Whew. Enjoy talaga with this company! =))

At the beach. Whew before we went home, nagswimming muna kaming lahat este sila lang pala. Takot ako sa tubig e hahaha. joke lang! :))

Whew, ang kyut din ng pic na to. What name shall I call your group? Power puff girls times two plus one! hahahaha. ang haba! =))))))

The presence of the siren! hahaha. peace tayo MJ. Ulo-ulo lang wag kasama katawan! hahaha. peace ulit! weee =)))

Lakas ng alon. Sa sobrang lakas lahat sila nadadala. Pero sayang di ko naexperience hahaha. Pagnagkapera ako magswmming lesson ako! whew =)))

My favorite shot. Ang ganda ng kuha di ba? whew! Sarap palitan ni Sir Yoks dian at ako ang ilagay para may primary photo na ako sa FB hahaha =)))

One of our activity. I forgot din the name hahaha. (sorry alzeichmers) This has something to do with goals in life with the presence of Yin Yang principle. This was headed by Tita Winnie (the girl standing in the middle) :))

Commitment Net. We all wrote a commitment statement as a volunteer of CSA. Cool idea. :))

LAst luch namin. Sinagad ko na. Kain rin ako ng marami hahaha. Sarap ng ulam e! hehehe =))) 

And goodbye. :((

     

   
     This experience really marked in my life. That after several years, I could still remember how was my stay in Zambales. Thanks to CSA for this opportunity. I know there will be a lot more and I hope I could still be with you! weee =))

SONA (Son of Ninoy Aquino)

     Below is actually a reaction paper about the 2010 SONA which I did for a friend. I just want it to share to you! and hoping a positive feedback! :))

Note: if you are wondering why Son of Ninoy Aquino, it's just nothing. I just saw it in facebook and thought it's interesting weeee! =))

************************************************************************************************************

     Last July 26, 2010, our newly-elected president has delivered his very first State of the Nation Address (SONA). This has to be done to carry out one of the powers of the president so called The Informing Power. As a practice, the president shall report to the people the accomplishments and progress of the country more particularly in Economy.

     But since he was only been the president for only few days, what shall he report to the people? Maybe that was the reason why some critics have been questioning the credibility and accountability of his speech, that the speech itself was not entitled to be detailed in the annual SONA.

     Well, I guess, there is nothing wrong nor questions to be asked with his address. What shall he brag out of the things he has accomplished if in the first place he actually done nothing yet? I have read several reviews about the speech and most of it agreed upon the negatives.

     President Aquino has clearly emphasized the need of cooperation in his line ‘how do we move forward if we keep others putting down.’ True that finding faults to someone else will not contribute to the growth of the whole. And so, appreciation in his speech shall be specified or else we will be stopped and hindered by this destructive thought.

     Several political analyst and professors has candidly expressed the dismay on their part regarding the substance of the speech. But as an ordinary citizen, I have reassured by the government to have a society that is just and humane and guaranteed the continuance of our development.

     As young mind, I felt the sort of comfort and confidence in his words for I still hope for the betterment of this country. I really believe that one day will come wherein all of us will walk through the right path of life and I do believe that this day has already come with him as the following light.

     Our future will pay for the greed of yesterday. I want to quote this line for I know this SONA has been our mere evidence to his promises. With this line, I can see the determination to really restore the country from scrape. He strongly stressed out that there is a need of total renovation to the management of the Philippines.

     He has presented several glitches of the preceding administration and I was really stunned to this anomaly. How come these people did that even if they are aware of the present situation of the class E Filipinos? There is really no shame with these people or even conscience residing in them. *(you better read his speech and get surprised more importantly on MWSS issue!)

     I thought the so-called Midnight Appointees are just “stuff” that merely contributes to the corruption of some government officials. Only after his speech that the “stuff” I am calling is actually a major great problem of the society. Well honestly, I am tired of hearing corruption in any political units, to the point of taking it as a normal scenario. That is why midnight appointees were not so big deal to me.

     But then I have come to realize that whatever setbacks, minor or not, are still affecting the country as huge as it can be. That is why I am supporting what our president has affirmed. He has really given enough assurance that this country will wake up from nightmares and, in a short process, will definitely boost the economy.

     Let us all become one in achieving a fulfillment of our hopes and aspirations for our country. --- President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III

Vee Immersion

     Last July 23-25 the Center for Social Action (CSA), the volunteering unit of my school, had a 3-day immersion-team building program at Botolan and San Felipe Zambales.

Team VEE

     This posting is I know not enough to show my gratitude, enjoyment and learnings that's why for now i will try to sum up the highlights of that wonderful event and gonna post another blog for some details. (sorry ahh maarte lang haha)

     But before that, I just wanna brag out what good thing happened in my life. Well, hindi lang naman ako nasuka at nahilo sa biyahe. Ito lagi ang kalaban ko whenever I travel lalo na  kung ang biyahe is 1 and up hours (see ) That is why mas gusto ko pang maglakad ng ilang kilometro kesa magtagal sa jeep o bus o kung alinmang sasakyan!

     Enough to that. First stop is at Botolan, Zambales in LAKAS PAMAYANAN as Aetas called it. You read it right! LAKAS PAMAYANAN is an Aeta community. This was their residing area after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. CSA have been organizing different community services to them since late 90s. And the partnership between them is getting stonger and binded.

Bahay Kubo. Ganyan ang mga bahay na tinirahan namin.

     We slept at our host family's house. They have taken care of us for more or less a day. They prepared us dinner and breakfast and provided a bed to sleep on. They too mingle on us. Talked about our goals in staying at their area. And have shared indifferences in our cultures.

     'Sinabawang Sardinas' shall I call it? Honestly, first time kong kumain ng ganung luto ng sardinas. Hindi masyadong masarap but I didn't complain. I just enjoyed the food as they do and that is what important. And it is really hard to eat using your hand lalo na kapag sabaw ang ulam. Actually, there were only 3 spoons in that house. One as the serving spoon for rice, one for the ulam and the other for the other ulam! But I really enjoyed it! yumyum!!!

My host family --> from left MJ, Jeric, Lola Dayrit, Nanay Nenita, Baby Gerald, Izel (yung dalawa di ko kilala hahaha

     The morning after, we went to the farm. Unti lang kaming nagpunta dun, yung iba sa ilog yung iba naman sa kung saan lang! The best thing there was when we planted rice plants. Totoo nga talaga ang kantang 'Magtanim ay di biro' Imagine We all started at exactly the same time pero yung mga kasama namin nakatapos na ng ilang line kami wala pa sa kalahati. Ang bilis nila kumuha ng itatanim. E kami feeling ko kumukuha ako ng sampaguita garlands na kelangan pang bilanging para pare-pareho ang dami e.

Me and MJ at the farm. (Framville mode!)

     And that was the first day! After which we went to San Felipe retreat house to carry out the team building proper. And from that I learned a lot. That being a volunteer is not just about offering your time to the community but submitting your life to those who are in need. That being a volunteer is not about your deeds but purpose. That being a volunteer is not about presenting material help but sustainable aid.

     The night of that day, we had our 'Special Last Supper' This was really unexpected. I thought they will give us exotic foods or something that would make our stomach move upside down. Only after it when my confusion became apparent and got learnings from it. Whose creative mind deliberated that? I should  commend you!

At the retreat house

     Then we had our 'Solidarity Night' were we did showtime-like program. Labasan ng talent but of course we still have to be considerate with what we have learned with the Aetas. And well , we won! weee!!! But honestly i really enjoyed the performance of everyone kahit PANGIT hahaha. Dalawang bagay lang naman ang nakakatawa e. Yung talagang maganda at yung super pangit! wahahaha. BUt I have to thank them for giving laughter to each of us! =))

     Refreshment came after. We all went at a beach near the  retreat house. The place was very peaceful, approriate for relaxation. Pero dahil hindi ako marunong lumangoy nagtampisaw lang ako sa pinakamababang area ng dagat, sa seashore wherein mababasa ka lang everytime the water waves toward the shore. HAHAHA.

At the beach!

     And that was the immersion slash team building all about. I guess all of us enjoyed it and all of us will crave for another same event. weeee! =))

'Hapag ng Pag-asa'

     Last June, during the opening of this school year, my Cathwor Professor let us watched a video-documentary named 'Canvass of the Society' inspired by a painting of Joey Velasco shown below. Because of its meaningful thought, I do even posted my insight about that video (title: Canvass of the society ; Tags: poverty, society)

     The point of writing another similar blog over again (although not discussed what's the painting was all about) is because of the bad news I have read in my twitter account (shown below). Joey Velasco has passed away. Shocked but not dismayed for I know it was God's purpose to let him leave the earth and for I know that leaving this sinful world does not and will never rub out his greatest art work as a product of his God-given talent.

 Retweet of ANCAlert account

 
     "Hapag ng Pag-asa" is a painting of 'The Last Supper' but in place of the 12 apostles are the 12 impoverished children of our society. These kids were not an imagination for he had paid for these people to pose for him.

   The Last Supper with the Street Children

Reference: katoliko.org

   In his video, he said that he found himself with this painting. That among his high-paid wonderful paintings, this one was the best, meaningful and PRICELESS! It invokes so much virtues of life yet not everyone has already imprinted to their minds what's this painting all about and what is it for.

     Isn't it obvious that he is calling us to save these people? Or we are just insensitive to these realities of life? Anyway, conscience always knocks. It's up to you to whether bury yourself in guilt or live in heaven with them.

     Every children in this painting has their own story. They may differ on forms of how bitter life was to them but they all have the same ending: hunger, pain, difficulty, and impairment. Some were garbage collector and has taken the risk of being hit by the garbage truck, some were out of school and tended to work for their family and some were malnourished for they haven't fed enough nutrients to their body. (The video below entitled 'Canvass of the Society' tells the story of these children narrated by Joey Velasco)



     I remember during my Filipino subject, we were asked to make a short story of any topic. Then my professor had shown us a sample which entitled 'Sa Hapag Sila ang kasama Niya' (not really sure to the title but somehow it's sounds like that). It is a story of where Jesus prefer to be with in line of this social problem and discrimination. And according to it, those that attend parties, bar and classy gatherings were those that didn't notice the presence of Him because they are busy dealing with themselves alone. While people laying on the streets with no foods at all, if there is maybe came from trash, are where He is.

     And how keen I was to make such story like that because it really speaks the truth. That whenever we satisfy ourselves we tend to set aside our Creator and even thank Him not for the happiness we had. And I guess if I could just write such composition that way, I might perhaps bring the message of the Lord and influence their minds like Joey Velasco had done to me with his painting.

     And I do hope that there's a lot of Joey Velasco in this world to let everyone realize that life is not about us but about Him. And we must live in His purpose and not in our own will and fulfillment. In which our prime purpose is to help others, Or if not, at least don't hurt them!

When Would Next Time Be?

     In life, we have to face the reality that people get in and out of our lives. That after happiness and glee, we all end up saying goodbye to each other while next time would be unpredictable of its arrival. 

     A day is not enough to fill the presence of each one for the long time of missing. And sleepless night together would not load the missing moments of bonding. And sometimes, these day and night would only make you feel alone 'coz after that time, you know in yourself  that the one seating beside you will be gone for unknown period of time. 

     'I know, I have to go away!' A line in a song that we kept on singing while trying to spend the rest of the hours with each company. We sing while an arm was held in each of our shoulders, while drinking tonic water, while eating crispy pata, while seating in a sofa, and while trying to make the most out of the limited time.

     I didn't feel asleep for I know that closing my eyes would mean wasting my time. Watching the sky is the very best thing to do to maximize time, to slower down the hands of the clock. The lights coming from outside would be gone when the day comes out and as goodbye will shortly be uttered. 

     The time was kept on running while the both of us was trying to impede it. But who else can stop it? None does not even one! 

     Laugh. Laugh. Laugh. The only thing we did from that time. Sad emotion has no place between us although I know that emotional is us. No one would let the other know how sad it was to leave a friend. But deep inside is a feeling of strong attachment that was forcefully trying to detach.

     And the time of goodbye came. How hard it was to step a foot outside the door. How hard it was to give last words and advices to the both of us. And how hard for us to turn our backs to each other.

     I hope Spain and Philippines are not distant countries nor different nations so that we could still see and visit each other. How I wish to be with a true friend that really cares about me while in return being a true friend too. But this is not about gives and gifts. It is the love that generate us to be like that and do it that way. 

     We yet promise to see each other again while giving presents to each of us. We just don't know when would that happen. I don't wanna wait forever nor for a single day 'coz someone special is worth having and living for. How I wish that next time would be so soon while soon is tomorrow! :((

I wish you the best my friend!!! ;(

Where's my blog life!

     For the past two weeks, I almost get rid of my blogging life as I faced so many problems in life. Well I thought this was just about academic dilemma for every midterms and finals period, I always end up cramming. But I don't really set aside blogging during the past terms because everything I have to do was, I know, under my full control. Alam kong after all those projects and exams and minor hitches, matatapos ko rin yun without sacrificing writing. But this was a different one yet I still wind up composing thoughts and bring these thougths out!

     I do write my drafts every night. Ito yung after-a-day-thoughts sa buhay ko. Kung may maisip akong topic better, at least, my day would end up with realization/s. Kung wala naman okay lang. I still write but not publish. Reason? it's a personal thing! 

Kaya for the past two weeks, I felt somehow and something incomplete or curtailed or unfinished. Parang may kulang but I know it was blog. But I can't help it. Sa dami ng iniisip ko, wala ng idea na pumapasok sa utak ko. At sa dami ng gagawin, I find no time for it.

The previous term kasi, the projects were more on academic or let me say creative scheme unlike now, very technical. At ang major problem ko si Alice (3d programming). Paano ba pagalawin ang mga virtual objects like real. Ni palakarin nga ang tao hindi ko magawa ng maayos e what more if I have to adapt fairytale story and use alice to present it. tss

Damay mo pa ang research paper sa Sociology, professional photography in Aesthet, debate in Poligov, every-meeting-quiz of literature, and the worst midterm exams. Plus I have to attend school activities and of course my work and personal problems. Nyay! So far half of it were done but in near future I will be gone. HAHAHA

See? I have to keep back the least (although the most interesting part of my life) important among all. But then, parang hindi tama sa pakiramadam ko na gawin yun. Kaya lang wala naman akong magagawa e. Important is important kahit ayaw mo!

Everytime I visit my site, parang wala na ngang taong bumibisita e. Twas like, the moment I set aside blogging was also the time that my readers set aside my site. And I am so helpless about it. Ano nga naman kasing mapapala ng mga taong bibisita sa isang site na walang bagong makikita o mababasa. And that what writers (although I am not a good writer! sheez.) never wanted to happen. And sorry to me 'coz it happened!

What I can do for now is to keep on writing and try to get back my readers and my kablogs! And hopefully that would be an easy thing to do. On the other side, alam kong makukumpleto na ulit ang araw ko with this great thing I have. :))

Ready???

     It is really hard when you have to make decision out of nothing. I don't know if it is right to say 'out of nothing' because something big was really in there only that myself kept on complaining making the situation more complicated to handle where in fact I could really set up options and choose among them swiftly. That's how easy it is.

     I was really very much affected to the point na nakalimutan kong kelangan ko pa lang magreview for the midterm exams and do my assginment. I actually didn't pass or even do my assignment because of that simple-turned-complicated-problem case ng buhay ko. It sucks.

     I am not ready. This was the line that always popped-up to my mind, that even I tried to convince myself to attend that activity, I still ended up saying ' I am not ready!' Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit on whatever compelling power na ginamit ko, wala pa ring epekto. I still stood with what is not right although I am consciously aware that it will help me a lot.

     It is not that I am trying to hinder myself. I have the will and the courage to attend. It's just that I felt something missing regarding my sense of belonging. It's the same feeling when you are new to an organization or stranger in town, or peculiar from the majority.

     Only when a 'strange' girl talked to me with my fellow friends. I was inspired by what she've said. Nagulat lang ako for a while kasi parang siya yung naging sagot sa problema ko. I mean, napakatuliro ko kasi before we've met. As in, like what I've said, hindi na ako nakapagreview for the exam at there's a feeling of sluggishness during that time. Kaya naisip ko it is really a God's will na makita ko siya at marinig ko yung mga sasabihin niya.

     She said that an individual can't help himself by means of himself alone. He needs to be involved with fellow people to grow. And what's make me realized things was when she said that hindi naman kelangan ng tao maging matured muna bago makisama sa mga taong may alam na sa buhay. Kaya nga makikihalubilo ka sa kanila para may matutunan and apply it to your life.

     I have this perception kasi na nakakahiyang makisama sa mga taong, let's say, 'professional' na sa ilang mga bagay. And what's worst is when you saw someone younger than you! Di ba mas humiliated yun! Kaya I have the tendency to make myself 'professional' first before getting involve with them. At least kahit papaano pumantay ako sa level nila. HEHEHE

      Thank God that at least hindi na nagtagal itong kakaisip ko. That in just a day nabigyan agad ako ng sagot! Ang sarap pala sa pakiramdam ng ganun e! That after you've wasted your time for that dilemma, you will still end your day up with answer! :))

Probinsyano

     Simula pagkabata, dito na ako sa Manila tumira. Dito na ako lumaki at natuto. Maraming mga bagay na nakikita na dapat sa edad ko e inosente pa ako. Mga bagay na natututunan na sa tingin ko hindi pa dapat natatanim sa utak ng isang batang katulad ko.

     Pero ganun talaga dito. Na kahit anong pilit mong paglalayo ng sarili mo sa mga bagay-bagay, hindi ka pa rin makakatakas. Kahit anong gawin mo wala kang ligtas.

     Bata pa lang ako mulat na ang isip ko sa kasalanan ng lipunan. Hindi ko man malimit ginagawa hindi pa rin makakatakas ang mga mata ko sa ganitong bagay. Ilingon mo lang ang sarili mo sa paligid, makikita't makikita mo ang dungis na meron ang mga tao.

     Dahil sa mga bagay na 'to hindi ko rin maialis sa sarili ko ang mga bagay na alam kong makakasira sa sarili ko, sa buhay ko. Alam kong mali pero anong magagawa ko, tao lang ako. 'Talo lang ako' laging rason ng mga taong nagkakamali. Isisi ba sa buhay ang mga kagaguhan natin. E ganun talaga, sorry naman tao lang. :|

     Minsan nga gusto ko na lang lumayo dito sa Manila e. Parang sa mga oras na nandito ako, hindi ko pa rin maititigil ang mga kalokohan ko. Sa mga panahong magstay pa ako dito, baka hindi na kayanin ng katawan ko at bumigay na sa mga kabaliwan ng buhay ko.

     Nung nagbakasyon nga kami sa Laguna, nakilala ko dun yung isang kaibigan ko. At napakabait ng taong 'to. Malayong-malayo sa ugaling meron ako. At inosente sa karamihan ng nalalaman ko. Parang taong malayo sa sibilisasyon. Taong gusto rin kumawala sa kamangmangan kaya nangangarap na makapunta at tumira sa Manila.

     Kabaliktaran naman ng iniisip ko. Mas gugustuhin ko na lang maging inosente at ignorante sa buhay kesa magexplore at malaman ang lahat kung ang kapalit naman nito e sarili kong kabutihan. At mas gugustuhin ko na lang mamatay ng ganun at least heaven ang patutunguhan ko hindi impyerno.

     Meron din akong nakilala na taga-Pangasinan. Unang kita ko pa lang sa taong 'to alam ko mabait 'to kaya naging kaibigan ko na rin. Inosente pa sa kung anong meron sa Maynila. Only then ng malaman kong pati pala siya nahawa na sa sakit ng lugar na 'to. Kawawang bata. Nagpunta lang dito para magtrabaho at makaahon sa hirap pero ngayon may trabaho nga lapitin naman ng demonyo.

     Ano bang meron sa lugar na 'to at halos lahat na ata ng tao malapit sa kasalanan. Pati tuloy ako problemado sa gagawin ko. Pwede bang may bumababa na lang na angel at kunin ako para hindi ko na kelangan mamatay para lang makapunta sa heaven at para matigil na rin tong kahunghangan ko.

      Sana probinsyano na lang ako na nakatira sa bundok o sa isang remote area at halos sinauna ang pamumuhay. Siguro dun, peaceful ang buhay ko. Walang gulo, walang ganito. At wala rin sigurong Anthony Gaupo sa mundo. Doon tignan ko lang ang mga puno, ang langit o kaya ang dagat, ayos na. Naaksaya ko na ang isang araw ng buhay ko. Hindi ko na kelangan magbukas ng laptop at pumunta sa lahat ng sites na alam ko para lang sumaya at maubos ang isang buong araw ko. Hindi ko na kelangang pumunta kung sansan para lang magliwaliw at magpakasaya. Sa mga simpleng bagay, kuntento na ako. Hindi tulad ngayon na ginagawa ko pang kumplikado ang lahat para lang mahanap ang 'satisfaction' sa buhay ko kahit alam kong mali na. :((

    Pwede ba akong ipanganak ulit? Sana totoo na lang ang life after death at sana  sa susunod kong buhay maging probinsyano na lang ako na inosente sa mga maling bagay. At least hindi man ako nasa uso, malayo naman ako sa mga nakakamatay na kasalanan ng mundong 'to. :((

Hello Philippines, Hello World!

     As we open our televisions to watch the reality show craze Pinoy Big Brother, we often hear Toni Gonzaga spieling this line. But as the famous house in the Philippines temporarily closes its door, can we still utter 'Hello Philippines and Hello world!'?

     Hopefully yes, as the new administration governs the country. With the new president, vice-president, senators, congressmen, cabinet members and others, optimistically the Philippines will situate herself to something in line with the first world countries or even to something  that is far more than us before.

     A while ago was the inauguration of the newly-elected leaders of this country. I have this feeling na parang something will happen. Something good will happen out of it. I mean, that time will be the reference point of all of us to a new Philippines.

     It was like the movie 2012, that after the catastrophy and dreadful tragedies, despite of impossibilities, life still exist and men have survived. And welcome themselves to a world of commencement, a world where everybody will start from scratch.

     I am not condemning the previous administration for this 'scratch'. I know they have done something favorable to us. It's just that it wasn't enough to meet the standards of  how we want this country to become. And, with honesty, somehow blemishes the name we were known ahead of.

     While watching, honestly kinikilabutan ako. Parang nagtataasan yung mga balahibo ko sa katawan. I don't know if this is a sort of overacting, but then parang affected ako sa inauguration na yun. Parang tears were suspended in my eyes. Overwhelm, I guess and thankful na rin siguro.

     Hindi ko makakalimutang sinabi niya sa kanyang speech ang "sa lahat ng mga nagkasala sa akin kaya ko kayong patawarin at ngayon pa lang pinapatawad ko na kayo. Pero ang pagkakasala niyo sa taong bayan, wala akong karapatan limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan!" (paraphrased) Tama nga naman. And I salute him more when he said "There's no reconciliation without justice" I remember former President Cory had said it already. I just don't know where. But then, The legacy his parents had left is a legacy that should have been bear again.

     Hindi ko na iisa-isahin ang speech niya 'coz I have already absorbed it. What I can only say is he gave a heroic and patriotic talk. Speech na pangmasa. Kung kaya everytime he utter promises,  the audience (most of which belonged to class C, D, and E) were shouting, cheering, yelling and screaming. An act that made me feel I belong, all of us belonged.

     Hindi na ako magpofucos to the program proper 'coz I know the program have been very successful. I just want to  thank everybody for coming although I didn't attended that history (but I planned to go to, wala lang akong kasama e hehehe).

     I am hoping that the promises he has given and the pledges to us would assure everybody. And that he guarantees and we are guaranteed for these reforms and amendments. Sana ung cry ng mga tao while listening to his speech are worth. And like  what he's said, 'ang pamahalaan ang inyong tagapagtanggol!'

     With his new supervision (pertaining to PNoy), alam ko hindi niya tayo papabayaan. In hours from now, I could sense a water that will quench our thirst. He will give us power in return  to what we have given to him. Ika nga niya, 'kayo ang aking lakas'.

     Before, I really hate that line (title: label:) But gradually I accepted that he mean what he said. Well I should  have accepted it because he is now the president. But going deeper from that reason is something that will hook you up for a better understanding. Somewhat more reasonable for this consideration.

     Anyway, I am not expecting him to make the state as great and as huge as US or Japan. That is too much. But bringing back the name we was once known at was the immense assignment he could do in his period of governance. The Philippines that was known for being a fast growing economy during the early 60's. The Philippines that was esteemed by the neighboring nations. And the Philippines as a number one country in asia.

     And by that, each of us will be proud to say hello to everybody. Hindi na lang si Toni Gonzaga ang babati sa atin ng kanyang famous opening line at hindi lang natin ito maririnig sa PBB. Because everybody will be capable of saying hello to the world by greeting the new Philippines  first a warm-welcoming hello and hearing it in hearts of everyone. Let's  do it together folks. "Hello Philippines, Hello World!" :))

P.S

Galing ni Noel cabangon (?). Pati ako nadala sa kanta niya. And when he asked everybody in the grandstand to raise their right hands, I followed it to and sang his song. Ang galing pa nung message nung song. The best!!! =))

Im'ma Vee

     Before I graduated in high school, one of my teachers gave some pieces of advice to me to get along with the college life and a college life that is meaningful.

     One of which was to help others. Well the word help is a vast term. I do not know what specifically she's talking about. And I guess it's a  challenge for me to seek to what's that thing she told before.
 

     When I get into college I found CSA, Center for Social Action where students can be considered as volunteers. I joined the group. I undergone screening and more. I also have attended several general assemblies and even gave flyers for the victims of a certain typhoon. And thought that this is the 'help' my teacher talked about.

      But then I found time so unwieldy. I mean, from that time, I got a work which I prioritized. Gusto ko kasing makatulong sa parents ko. In that way, hindi na nila problema pag-aaral ko. I will support myself as what I've said when I get that job. So instead of alloting time to my volunteerism views, I focused on my job and on my studies, of course.

     I felt sorry that time. And even thought that I have opted money in exchange to the help somebody was yearning for. Sa pakiramdam ko parang mukha akong pera. Money isn't really valuable to choose in between. But then why did I decide on money? A question that I do not want to answer anymore.

     I was also ashamed to sir yoks and the others. Sometimes I don't want to walk through the corridor along their office. Or even 'deadma' mode whenever I saw one of them. And I felt guilty and envy whenever I receive emails from him saying congratulations and goodlucks to the volunteers. Even without mentioning my name, I want to read those emails as if it was sent to just me. At least I know that he is pointing it out not just to other volunteers but also to me. Kaya from that time, sinabi ko sa sarili kong magiging active na ako next term. And how I wish to be said congrats and goodluck and thank you! :))

     I really wanted to be a volunteer not just by name but by whole heart. Sumali ako dito  hindi dahil sa free shirt or sa pagkain or sa credit na makukuha ko dito. I know some  students are like that (sorry. tamaan peace! :P). But I am different from them. I could work on my part without anything in trade.

     Because of that spirit, I passed my application form, got interviewed and attended the first GA. This is it. This is really it. I don't want last year to happen again. And I have the will to not let it happen over again.

     My volunteerism experiences will nuture me more and will help me to grow. But to make it evident, I should have put myself out as a volunteer by making it as a career and as an obligation as a Filipino for Filipinos. A responsibility indeed that we should take into account. And that is what CSA will teach me. And that is how they'll lend their hands to me and lend my hands to the depriveds.

     By that I'll be free to walk in the corridor without any setbacks. Free to face the world without negative conjectures. And someday I will be proud and not shy to say I'm A Vee! (vee for volunteer) =))