Just Yes or No

Grief

2011-06-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

Grief is the world's greatest killjoy. It does not allow you to enjoy the day's little accomplishments in as much as you should be celebrating about them. While it gets you into drowning in barrels of beer, you still end up crying and deeply hurting.

Grief is the world's most inconsiderate creditor. If you delay in entertaining it and allowing it to sink in, you will have to pay a price so big that you could not afford. Its interest grows by the second and accumulates everyday. The next thing you know, its already right at your doorstep with an army of sheriffs, ready to take everything that is in you - heart and flesh included.

Grief is the world's most dangerous tag team. It makes you also hate those hated by the subject of your grief. It makes you want to wrestle and have them thrown into Mars, where they should belong.

Beat this

2011-05-14T00:50:00.000-07:00

Get a small table and a board. Make a signage . Find a nice space in the corner of a busy street. Then voila, sell notarial services like candies. And by the way, you can sell cigarettes, candies, balut, and e-load on the side. How's that for a living?

Only in the Philippines.

Superman no more

2011-05-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

I'm not ready to make nice. I'm not ready to back down. And I don't have time to go round and round. (Dixie Chicks, 2006)

Yeah, I'm still bitter and hurt. And I don't plan to play Superman or Miss Universe - suppress what I feel and hope for world peace. I kept on doing this before, you all know that, and it didn't just work. You even wronged me for being a vanguard for peace and blah-blah. You forgot the pact of blood that the heavens did for us.

I don't want this. No one does. But your foolishness is just too loud that I could hear it beneath my pillow at night. So I am left with no other option but to deal with you and the things that you do, head-on.

But worry not. This isn't revenge. My father did not like any versions of it (revenge); although to you, he used to appear like otherwise. You know me. I can do way better than taking things to the streets. Let's just say, something just has to stop and someone just has to do it. And let's not do it overnight. There's a process for this, some matrix that the heavens allow.

So there. I'm still bitter. My brother, too. And for now, that's all I/we know.

By the way, I miss my father. Very much.

Wet

2011-04-20T03:43:00.000-07:00

Its raining cats and dogs. The traffic is jam-packed. The road gladdens the obsessed ghost.

(Not) Studying

2011-04-20T02:28:00.000-07:00

Review notes, coffee, and a view of people shopping. Focus, where art thou?

Miton and Lionel Richie

2011-04-19T02:08:00.000-07:00

Back in my teens, I used to wake up every morning with the music of Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers, Stevie Wonders, England Dan and their contemporaries. Even now, I still get to memorize the lyrics of their songs. Thanks to my father.

This one, in particular. I keep playing this while driving to office everyday. I could hear my father singing with Lionel Richie. Oh, that voice.

The February Moon

2010-11-25T05:44:00.000-08:00

After calling it a day, you suddenly feel messed up and disrupted. Your mind is almost restless; your thoughts are in disarray. You want to shout things out and throw off everything into the air. Driving around just doesn't help in cooling you down.

What's happening with the world, Momma? Bad day at school? Cruel exam? No substantial accomplishment for today at work? Road snafus? Annoying people? Blah blah? Who knows. Everything just doesn't feel right and you don't know why.

Not everyone gets this. Only those born in February do. Oh well.

So, you're going to drown yourself with Snow Patrol and sleep tonight with a heavy heart and yeah, anxious mind. But you're still hoping that tomorrow will be a better day.

Pi Water and Good Food at Pi Pan Ya

2010-11-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

In search for a nearby place where I could read and study for an exam while waiting for Mama and Tabet to finish shopping, I ended up at a pretty and small kiosk along Mabini-Torres, PI PAN YA. I decided to pull over because it has huge parking and there were only a few people inside. By how it looked, I could say that the place offers nothing but good food.

When I got in, the smell of oven-fresh bread and scrumptious cupcakes reminded me that I still hadn't eaten lunch yet. I picked some foods at a random - plain bread, ensaymada, chicken hinalang, banana caramel cupcake, and cream puff - and tasted them all. And oh-la-la, they tasted like they were wonderfully cooked by meticulous hands. They were the very opposite of those in the fast food.

I used to know Chicken Hinalang as a soupy dish where chicken is broiled with chili and some other spices to extract the very glory of chicken. But this one's different. The meat was cooked with thick coconut milk and I think, that yellow green chili which is only found in Bicol. Imagine the flavors of Bicol Express and Chicken Hinalang mixed into a saucy dish. Very Filipino! I got too excited to eat the bread, cupcakes, and the cream puff that I was not able to take pictures of them. Haha. And yeah, I was able to finish a chapter of my readings.

When I was about to leave, I read in their signage that Pi Pan Ya only uses Pi water in all their breads pastries, and dishes. The owner explained to me how he got into this food business. He used to work in Tokyo for two decades, where healthy and balanced living is always a top of mind. He said that the pursuit for a healthy body and lifestyle starts with the very basic element, water, which by the way comprises 70% of the human body. And when it comes to water, it's not just any ordinary one. It has to be healthy (because yeah, there are waters which have toxins and even too much acid).

Some bits about Pi Water


from http://ultrapiwaterintl.com/

"Pi Water is the water that is very similar to your body water (Living Energy). Living energy means “the energy to live.” Do you know anyone who rarely gets sick or recover quickly when they get hurt? These people have strong living energy. Pi Water has the same function (energy) that your body water has.

Pi Water was discovered in 1964 during the study of physiology of plants by Dr. Akihiro Yamashita, a professor at the Agricultural Department, Nagoya University. He was studying about FLORIGEN. What makes the bud become a flower? Researchers thought it might be related with hormones. They had named the phenomenon FLORIGEN and studied it.

During the study, Dr. Yamashita discovered “body water,” which affects the difference of the bud change instead of hormones. He also discovered that the body water contains a very small amount of Ferric Ferrous Salt (Fe2Fe3) and the water has the function to control our body function normally. After that, through many studies and research, Dr. Yamashita succeeded to make the water that has the same function with your body water artificially and named it Pi Water.

Pi Water is known as the water that enhances living energy. It is well known especially in Japan. According to the book, “Origin and Future of Science,” Pi Water enhances energy in the body, improves the condition of incurable and chronic diseases, grows plants faster and healthier, and keeps food fresh longer." (Credit: this piece of information was taken from here).

"It balances your body’s pH because it acts as a natural antacid in your body, making it less acidic. It boosts energy because its highly energized state recharges your vitality. It increases oxygen because it effectively increases oxygen intake of cell. It gives rapid absorption because it penetrates cell membranes easily. It detoxifies because it flushes toxins out of your cells. It is safe for infants and babies because it has a natural and pleasant taste that babies love. It acts as anti-aging because it is in itself a powerful anti-oxidant in the body, destroying harmful free radicals." (Credit: this piece of information was taken from here).

The Arki, the Doki, and their Driver

2010-11-07T20:12:00.000-08:00

Last week was not that good. First, I felt very unproductive at work because I could not seem to finish a paper on a property dispute. Second, I cut my supposedly long weekend to study for an exam and to prioritize it over all the others only to find out that the teacher wanted it moved to some other day. Coming from these snafus, I could only wish and look forward to having a good weekend.

So when Bjoy called up for a good lunch with me and George, I could not say no. It has been like a month since we last met up and laughed things out together. We chose the least crowded place then, Bigby's. Although we were not so happy about the food, we still had a good time celebrating for each others small joys and milestones - Bjoy is about to go full-time in OB-Gyne and George is planning to leave her current firm and start her own architecture firm. Listening to them was definitely therapeutic.

The girls wanted to have some yogo after but I had to leave for a meeting. So there. (And Michelle, go back to earth now, Bud! We miss you.)

Dr. Ivy Joy Dafielmoto wears brogues.

Arch. Sahlee Grace Cereno in hues of blue.

Regal Doki

Arki Georgie

Food for the Big Boy: This is what I had - Rodeo Pork Chops. But nothing beats pork chops at Miko's.

George had Grilled Chicken Carbonara. And she was asking for salt, pepper, and some more cheese. So, go figure how it tasted.

Bjoy had Deep Sea Pasta . Imagine aligue on your spaghetti. The girls found it weird. But I liked it.

The pretty brogues.

I got so bored waiting for them to finish shopping. They know that I am not a good shopping buddy.

George bought this. Bjoy is the culprit.

Paella Lunch at Tiny Kitchen

2010-10-14T20:37:00.000-07:00

After more than a month of craving over Paella and good dogtalks, Jessa and I finally barked it out and had lunch at Tiny Kitchen last Monday. I was kind of sick after a very busy weekend; I had an exam in Tax and two events hosted. Jessa arrived looking great with yeah, shoes that almost broke the earth. Just like the old times, we vented out all negative cavities in our systems, laughed at the whacked out things like kids, and talked like we did not have works to do after.

As usual, Tiny Kitchen never failed to give us good company and good food. That small room with five tables offers Davao's best paella (they have great pastries and breads, too), cooked just the way mothers do it at home. And you know that its good food because you can see the owners, Chef Enteng Rodriguez and wife, working in the kitchen, hands on. No wonder why people flock in there every day.


We ordered Paella Negra...

and look what happened. Lol.

Tiny Kitchen is at corner Torres and Mabini Streets, Davao City.

Photo Credits: http://adventuresofabeautyqueen.com and Atty. Jessa Wong-Cantano.

Stars

2010-10-13T23:33:00.000-07:00

I can't exactly explain why I always end up looking at your pictures. Your candid shots just make me feel like a child again; a fifth grader who secretly grins after being asked to stand near a crush in a speech choir. Your smart and fierce look is my fervor in conquering this world's damnation and the everydayness of life. That steamy and drunken mien of yours tells me that nothing can be more exciting than partying all night and getting wasted with you and you alone.

Oh well, I only have pictures of you (and some civil encounters). But wait until I get out of this grind. By then, I shall breathe on those pictures and make them real. I shall press heaven's button until the stars connive to make a brand new world for both of us.

Weddings planned in heaven

2010-08-08T01:11:00.000-07:00

When a match of two wonderful people is made in heaven, getting married is everything. But when the would-be-brides are obsessive-compulsive, getting married is just one story and the whole preparation that comes with it is another. And when they plan things out, you should expect a grand production where all the bits and pieces, colors and shades, foods and drinks, music and harmony, and the people they love are in unison in celebrating with them.

Engr. Michael Cantano and Atty. Jessa Wong's Grey Day
18 June 2010


Grey day. Just the way Jessa likes it.


With friends from all over the world

...and Jane Uy.

Engr. Tyrone De Mesa and Natasha Go's Autumn Celebration
and Thanksgiving, 25 July 2010

The Go Family

Law School friends

With Tina and Jessa

They didn't hire full-time planners and coordinators. They pulled these off by themselves. And these are what love (and OC brides) can do.

Congratulations Mic and Jessa, Ty and Sasha!

Photo Credits to: Atty. Matthew Irasga, Jong Landeta (for Mic and Jessa) and Lito Sy (for Tyron and Sasha)

Some related reads:

Take me back to KL

2010-06-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

On exactly the same week last year, I was in KL. Aside from the IHL Debates, I was there for some well-deserved break after the first year grind and before another set officially got to start. AH1N1 Virus did not even stop me from roaming around KL and enjoying Malaysia.

For this year, the week has not so far turned out to be a well-deserved break . It actually started pretty okay. I woke up earlier than I usually do. I finished some big tickets at work during the first half of Monday and feasted over crabs for lunch with Tanya and Tet. On Tuesday, I spent lunch break with Jessa and visited her office at Pryce Tower after.

But on Tuesday night, I was told that my grades were already out. I found out that I missed half a point to get some colors for the last semester. No, I never craved for colors and stars. But the thought of missing half a point is something that could bring any reasonable man into quickly and blankly staring at the wall with jaws slightly opened.

Today, I had to say bittersweet farewells to Rev. Tranilla, Ate Cora, Jireh, and Daisy and send them off to their new assignment up north. Sundays will no longer be the same from this time on. Oh well.

I hope what happens tomorrow and Friday will not bum me out. Otherwise, take me back to KL for another weekend break before classes for this year start next week. Fingers crossed.

Revisiting Cagayan de Oro City

2010-05-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

I only wanted to get a weekend break from work, school, and some snafus. Tet needed to have her retainer taken by her dentist based in Cagayan de Oro. And Tina just wanted to check if we can really start pulling off our travel plans listed on her organizer. The next thing we knew was that we were already trailing through the mountains of Buda, with only Cheetos, Snickers, and some bottles of water.

Cheetos!

Quick stop at Seagull Coffee Shop

Seagull Coffee Shop is a new development in Buda.

After a five-hour drive, CDO's most popular Sisig
at Butcher's Best welcomed us.

The gigantic trees in Initao, Misamis

Bougainvilla Gardens in Laguindingan, Misamis

Maria Cristina Falls, Iligan City

Back to the City. Pizza and Buffalo Wings at Big Fat Bread

Must try: Crispy KangKong and Adobo at Cafe Laguna;
Procaccia and Pasta at La Tegola

Steak at Del Monte Golf Club tomorrow, before going back to Davao. Oh yeah.

Top 3

2010-05-17T04:17:00.000-07:00

Top 3 things in mind

2010-05-17T03:00:00.000-07:00

Three great moments in mind:
1. Sundays with the whole family, Bubbles, Waray, and Tappy included
2. Singing/Jamming at Fat Bobby's
3. Shading the eighth circle in my ballot

Three questions in mind right now:
1. When will Kris Aquino, Boy Abunda, and all their cohorts shut up?
2. Should I go to Nami or not?
3. What's my grade in Transpo Law?

Three nice people I met today:
1. Rowena, for preparing my breakfast and lunch
2. Mr. Client, for not giving me crappy answers during the meeting
3. Mr. Guardo, for attending to some of my errands at work

Three beautiful people you talked to over the phone today:
1. Michelle
2. Dr. Dafielmoto
3. Tabet

Three jobs to be done for tomorrow:
1. Three pleadings-assignments
2. Preparing my notes for Nego Inst Finals
3. Cleaning my room

Three songs for today:
1. Scientist by Coldplay
2. Slow dancing in a burning room by John Mayer
3. Seven years by Norah Jones

Three places I wish to go to tonight via teleportation:
1. NY
2. London
3. SG

Three people whom I should never have dealt with:
1. Stupidoes
2. No. 1
3. No. 1

Sunday afternoon with Ella and Gibo

2010-01-10T07:01:00.000-08:00

Ella messaged me this afternoon and asked me to get a copy of the Philippine Star's Sunday edition and check the Lifestyle pages. Knowing that she was in Seventeen last year, I thought that she's in the news/mag again (yeah, she's a celebrity). I asked her why, she replied with this:

"But what does a rich boy know about poverty, which is the country's gravest malady today? His answer: a doctor treating a leprous patient does not have to have leprosy himself to treat the disease."

Oh, politics came to mind. I remembered how she and her equally beautiful mom adore Gibo. So there. Here's the article: Gilbert Teodoro: Light at the end of the tunnel By F Sionil Jose, published in Philippine Star, January 10, 2010 issue.

Credits:

Article by F Sionil Jose. Photo from gibo.ph, gibo's facebook account.

Eleven long weekends in 2010

2010-01-05T21:52:00.000-08:00

I got this from GMA News Online.

According to Proclamation No. 1841 signed by President Gloria Arroyo on July 21, 2009, the regular holidays and special holidays (indicated in parentheses) for 2010 are the following:

January 1, Friday - New Year's Day
February 22, Monday nearest February 25 - EDSA Revolution Anniversary (special holiday for schools)
April 1 - Maundy Thursday
April 2 - Good Friday
April 9, Friday - Araw ng Kagitingan
May 1, Saturday - Labor Day
June 14, Monday nearest June 12 - Independence Day
August 23, Monday nearest August 21 - Ninoy Aquino Day (special non-working day)
August 30, last Monday of August - National Heroes Day
November 1, Monday - All Saints' Day (special non-working day)
November 29, Monday nearest November 30 - Bonifacio Day
December 24, Friday (special non-working day)
December 25, Saturday - Christmas Day
December 27, Monday nearest December 30 - Rizal Day
December 31, Friday - Last Day of the Year (special non-working day)

Eleven of these fall on weekends. Assuming that no exams would fall on these long weekends, I have in mind some places for escapades.

1. Singapore and its new casino at Sentosa. (No, I'm not playing. Jane is just inviting me, Jessa, and friends to hit Sg again.)

2. Hongkong-Macau-China with Michelle, George, Bjoy, and (hopefully) Genie.
3. Anawangin with (Kong, Luv, Carmel, Ella, Anj, Bodj, Han, and Martin?)
4. Nami Beach, Boracay.
5. UN, NY (Oh, please!)

World Universities Debate Championship 2010 - Finals Video

2010-01-04T21:42:00.000-08:00

Debate - WUDC - Finals 2010 Turkey - Media Should Show Horrors of War from Alfred Snider on Vimeo.

This is Crazy Love

2009-11-29T18:31:00.000-08:00

I want to buy this...

and sing this...

and this one too..

"[You]Make Me Work So We Can Work To Work It Out." Oh yeah!

Five disturbing headlines

2009-11-25T07:12:00.000-08:00

Here's my take on five disturbing headlines that I have read today. (Click the headline for the complete story)

Arroyo vows justice as death toll hits 57

With such a high political debt that she owes to the alleged perpetrators, we must now know what the word justice means here. It's another gimmickry, of course. We should not be surprised that in the next few days, some people will be like actors, playing as accused to be indicted, put to jail, and to dramatically answer for this unforgivable brutality. For the director of this upcoming show, no, we will not buy this.

Ombudsman wants to know why a gov't backhoe in massacre scene

After getting out alive from the impeachment rap, this eloquent head is trying to get another media space again. Surely, this is a valid point of legal inquiry. But this is not the main and pressing issue. A word for this honorable head --- nitpicking on the backhoe and why it was used appears more like a cheap diversionary tactic than a showcase of diligence.

No evidence yet vs Arroyo ally linked to massacre - PNP

This is nothing new. We always hear this especially when the ones involved are friends in high places. Don't wait for the time when public hatred and strongest condemnation would force you to see, eat, chew, and swallow the link that is in front of you now.

"I did not ask him that. I went there to tell them about the creation of the Crisis Management Committee, and about the investigation." --- Dureza

Alright, another committee is created. And what's the purpose again? Whatever it is for, the act of visiting and talking things over with them right in their palaces are just so unusual and foul. Gladly asking for cooperation with the alleged perpetrators is not just found in the rules.

“We cannot be affected by that… This has nothing to do with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo or the administration,” Lorelei Fajardo, Ms Arroyo’s deputy spokesperson

Now, this one's very offensive to the hopefuls, including myself, who still have some respect and faith in the government. In shocking moments such as this, we expect the government to get itself primarily affected as this is generally a crime against humanity. Otherwise, we would have reason to believe that the one on top is just inutile, or a puppet of the monsters that she created, or co-perpetrator herself, or all of these.

Pardon me for the heavy words. But reading these disturbing headlines today, I could not help but yell at the people who have the primary moral and political obligation to deal with this and get this thing solved the earliest time possible. People's anger is getting stronger and deeper by the minute. And when they explode, there's no way for all of us but down.

We're not losing hope. But we're losing patience. Lead and do something, for heaven's sake.

Will you tell us why did you have to do this?

2009-11-23T18:24:00.000-08:00

(Photo by Inquirer.net news story)

I wonder why they had to do this. If the reason is to protect a political turf, the means is just off and does not justify it. If this is about religion, I'm sure that at least the word respect is written in every Bible or whatever you call it. If this is a sheer gimmicky, you don't have to go this low and be ruthless unless you're eaten up by some demon and you have lost your humanity.

Some brilliant souls, for reason's sake, are trying their best not to hastily judge and condemn you for what just happened. People are waiting to hear why did you have to do this. They're waiting for your story which must be too wonderful and humane that reason can't comprehend.

Because for now, looking at the video and whichever angle you look at it, this is an utter evilness. And no, you don't talk to people about peace and how you are fervently praying for it. You can't blame us for thinking and really believing that you don't even know what that means.

Give Gift Cards this Christmas

2009-11-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

The sweet November rain made me realize that it's almost Christmas time. It also made me think of the gifts that I want to give to people. And because I am not a shopping person (I only drive people to shopping places and then pick them up when they're done), I tried to search for gifts and better ways to give them online. I came accross SHOP.COM .

People say that giving cash during Christmas is not that sincere and thoughtful because it doesn't require much effort to get something from your wallet and hand it to people. You should go through the whole thing of walking, shopping, and finding the perfect present for people. The bad thing about this, however, is that you don't always get to find that thing which exactly makes them happy and Christmasy. With GIFT CARDS, you get to strike a balance between not-giving-cash and giving-them-exactly-what-they-want. They're like tickets to shopping spree. They come in brands like GAP, Old Navy, Nordstrom, Kohl's, iTunes, Home Depot and in other preferences. Check some of them:

Happy Holidays!

Do you know Gilbert Teodoro?

2009-11-15T23:31:00.000-08:00

One must come out and say that this guy has a pretty background. He was a bar topnotcher. He also has a Law degree from Harvard. He served in Congress for quite a while. Recently, he was the Defense Chief of the country. (He just left the post to officialize his bid for 2010 elections. Read here.) But it must also be said that he's the least popular presidentiable, landing at the bottom in the most recent Pulse Asia Survey. This, to my mind, is one of the reasons why LAKAS Kampi CMD got Edu Manzano to run as his Vice.

Nonetheless, you have to witness how sharp and smart this guy is. This is how he answers questions:

This is his early TV campaign.

I like the part which says "Leader... 'di lang puso ang alay, kundi pati galing at talino." I can smell good marketing here.

By the way, his wife is a congresswoman.

Based on records, very promising. But we'll see.

Jesus in Yellow by Pat Evangelista

2009-11-09T17:59:00.000-08:00

"You are not alone, they say, but who stands with you? Anne Curtis? Ate Shawie? Marielle Rodriguez?"

"For months he has been leading headlines. The Aquino son, soaring on the wings of heroes. His rivals have not stepped back; the field is still open. A fever sweeps through the media, crowning Noynoy, the man who has yet to say anything that is not an echo of the old revolution. Remember my father. Remember my mother. Vote for me, and you vote for them. And that is all. It has been months since he became suddenly the nation’s moral choice, and there is little resembling platform, policy or position. Miracle, they call him. This is the revolution, say his supporters. This is Edsa. So he may not be as intelligent. So he may not be as articulate. So he may not have proven himself. And because we are faced with the usual array of the corrupt and the devout, we wait, we believe. And we are rewarded, in all its cinematic splendor, by a music video."
"Nothing has changed, the same songs, the same names, the same injustices."

Read Patricia Evangelista's Jesus in Yellow in Inquirer. Click here.

Manny Pacquiao in Time Magazine

2009-11-07T04:14:00.001-08:00

“(Pacquiao is) a fighter with enough charisma, intelligence and backstory to help rescue a sport lost in the labyrinth of pay-per-view. Global brands like Nike want him in their ads." This is how Howard Chua-Eoan and Ishaan Tharoor describe PacMan in the cover story for the November 19, 2009 issue.

Should you ask why, there's a simple explanation. He won world boxing championships in six different weight divisions and is eyeing for his seventh. He beat Oscar "Golden Boy" Dela Hoya. He guested in two national TV talk shows in US. He had the ceremonial pitch at a Major League Baseball game. Let's not forget how his story ignited a ray of hope to most of the Filipinos --- from humble beginnings as laborer, street hawker, and others to being a sports superstar, comparable to that of Muhammad Ali, and a media magnate. And this Time Magazine feature should sum up his iconic destiny.

“In the Philippines, Pacquiao is a demigod. The claim goes that when his fights are broadcast live, the crime rate plummets because everyone in the country is glued to a screen."

I find this kind of funny. At the outset, you can see the part how they adore PacMan and the Philippines for breeding such a "demigod". But there's something between the lines that describes what the country is like and how the people therein think. People love the drama of small beginnings and happy endings like Cinderella Story. People love it when there's some sort of a battle or any competition where a fellow emerges as champion. They get overwhelmed. They forget about their thing (even doing crimes) and celebrate with the world. They get glued to the drama of winning and the wonder of his fellow's feat.

A brilliant mind will not get me wrong here. The story is amazing. It gives a great sense of hope, a drive and passion for winning, and a determination to get through every odd in life. But being glued to this is another thing. So, you should not get stuck. After celebrating and being inspired, you go back to your lifeworld and make it better. This is how we should apply stories and wisdom of people, I guess.

As Manny puts it, "now you know!"

Watch how Chiz Escudero answers questions

2009-11-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

This is the good thing about unsimulated interviews. You get top-of-mind answers from people. And with their answers, you will know how they actually think or even unthink. You will know if they're sincere or just trying to win listeners by rhetorics and drama.

As to Chiz, Tina Monsod-Palma had to repeat the first questions all over again and to brush aside poetic attempts. No wonder he remains undecided as of the moment. Oh well.

My opinion.

Let's do the first day funk

2009-11-04T00:32:00.000-08:00

It's first day of the second semester. KONQUER said that she's gonna start the semester right. I asked how she can start it right if the first semester has not ended yet. We still have five exams to be taken to finally end the first semester. So practically, there's an overlapping here. But I am no longer moved or scared. I chose this. So let's get it on, baby.

By the way, I just remembered the First Day Funk campaign of Rexona. When I was still with Unilever, I was told this has been one of the brand's most successful campaign. The campaign/activation tried to connect to teens by making them confident on the first day of school. Parokya ni Edgar gave it a good hype through its music. No wonder the campaign was one for the books.

Oh, there's a trivia here. Being funky means having a strong smell (negative). I dont know how a deodorant brand got itself associated with this. Go, figure.

Choose only the best anti-virus

2009-11-02T23:04:00.000-08:00

A fine collection of billingsgates in a glass fronted display box pops out when you don't use the best anti-virus. So choose only the best.

As for me, Im using Avast!

Bench Fix Salon customer gone wild for the love of Jessie

2009-11-02T17:40:00.000-08:00

I've been hearing a lot about Jessie. Arch. Sahlee says that he has great hands when it comes to haircutting and coloring. Dr. Bjoy insistently recommends him if you want some fabulous fix in your hair. So after accompanying Michelle in the airport, I went to his salon at Gaisano Mall - Davao.

I arrived at 2 PM and was told that Jessie was fully booked. I got my name listed and was scheduled at 3:30 PM. I came back at said time and again, the receptionist rescheduled me at 5 PM. After patiently waiting for 3 hours, I went back and checked if I could already be served. The receptionist politely asked me to wait for another hour. I almost thought that Jessie must be god because people are lining up for him and he got them into waiting for at least 3 hours.

And so I waited. While waiting, a woman with a tattoo on her right leg came in and asked if Jessie was already available. I heard the receptionist apologizing and explaining to her that the most that they could do is estimate the time when Jessie would be available. She raised her voice and demanded that she be served by Jessie. And because it was just impossible to hold two scissors and cut at the same time, she was asked to wait.

But she did not. She nagged at all the polite girls in the receiving desk. Before she opened the door to go out, she shouted "Never again. Goodbye Jessie." Ten seconds after she left, everyone laughed and joked about what happened.

True, it was just funny of her to nag and shout farewell to Jessie. But it tells a lot about how people, even those in the service-based establishments, forget about this primarily important thing called customer service. It's like this: anyone can have the greatest skill, the best brand in the industry; everyone can be at equal footing here. But when it comes to customer service, not everyone gets to make customers happy and satisfied. This sets the difference. That is why even top companies spend billions for this. These companies know that most, if not all, of the time, only those who make their customers really happy get to survive and be successful. After all, its not just about skills. And every entrepreneur should know this.

To Jessie, you're doing great. To Jessie's boss, don't wait until you dont get to sell Jessie's skills anymore. In highly competitive markets, no one, nothing is indispensable.

What will you GIVE UP this Christmas?

2009-10-27T18:48:00.000-07:00

This Christmas, don't just give to others. Let Santa do that because it's his job. But also give something really good to yourself because I am sure the whole year round has not been easy for you. And by "really good," I don't mean the most extravagant thing because I am sure you can't afford that which will really make you feel rewarded.

Give yourself the most essential things, those which really matter in your lifeworld - wonderful life, sound health, or a better sense of living and loving. You can start by giving up and letting go of bad things. Or by cleaning up the clutter in you. Or by rectifying mistakes and screw-ups. You can end the year right and start anew.

A colleague of mine just gave up smoking and is managing the withdrawal aftermath. A beautiful friend just lost some unnecessary pounds and is wonderfully getting her shape now. Someone's also resigning and pursuing a better endeavor. I'm also thinking about giving up something wild and bad.

What will you give to yourself this Christmas? What will you give up?

Issey Miyake

2009-09-12T00:46:00.000-07:00

Great day starts with this. Trust me.

Drama

2009-09-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

Alright, drama is good. A good dose of it keeps you stable and sound. But too much of it gets you blinded and dumb(er), which is of course the scariest state you can get in your life. So sometimes, its best or at least safer to use your sense of logic, which is free by the way. At the end of the day, Spike Milligan and others are right in saying that it's all in the mind.

So, let's figure these out:

"He has been driving me home for some days now and he's not doing this to anyone else, at least, as of the moment. And his friend told me that I am special to him. There must be something (between us)."

Don't get overwhelmed, baby. He's driving you home because he owes you a lot for some angelic things you did to him before. Let's call it gratia. And the fact that he doesn't do it to anyone else doesn't mean you're romantically special to him. Perhaps, you're the only good and kind soul he has ever encountered, at least, for the past weeks. So when he does it again, say thank you and that's it. There's nothing mushy going on between both of you.

"He asked me how I was doing. It's strange because he doesn't usually do that. He must be showing some care."

Strange, really. He asked that not because he cares or whatever. You're not (close) friends. And even when you guys are, he won't bother asking that. Real friends don't need to ask that because looking at each other, they know what's going on with the other. So in the most civil way of putting it, he's just showing some courtesy, which he can also show to others, even to monkeys. Or putting a bit of evil, he's doing that because he wants to know what's going with you (read: fishing). He does so because he might get some newsbits which might be useful to his own pursuits and interests e.g. your prettier friend - boy or girl.

"He told me that he misses me."

This one's vague. If he usually or randomly tells this to you, consider it his default line, a template in his phone. In other words, he does not mean that. If this is like one in a million line from him, breathe first and don't do your shrill shout just yet. Friends say this to each other, at least to those who are expressive of what they feel. Surely, he misses you. But more than that, he misses your company and the utility he can get from you. Now, shout.

"He told me that he loves me but it's not just the right time" -- this is like England Dan's its to sad to belong to someone else when the right one comes along and Barry M's we have the right love at the wrong time (Somewhere Down the Road).

Finally, he nailed it. But the bad thing is that you can't have it, baby. If he really loves you, there shouldn't be but's or its-just-that's. It should be like "I love you, period." But in this case, he's trying to sound polite by sugarcoating it. He's breaking it to you in the most gentle way so that you'll have some sort of consolation. So read this like "I only see you as a friend and nothing more." This hurts, I know. But living in illusion and false hope will hurt you even more. So cut the crap. Get back on the track. Let go. It's not for you.

These are the thoughts I shared with some people who ambushed me last week, believing that I can help them figure out the mushy issues they have. I hope I got these all clear and sharp.

Some more snippets to follow.

Wishful thinking

2009-08-24T04:59:00.000-07:00

I'm back after a long sojourn in some place called wonderland. Generally, the place and everything in it were fine and oh, colorful. But it was not as good as I thought it was.

The lights were great. When it got to shine on me, everything seemed to look way better than it actually did. Those that needed to be hidden or at least, concealed were wonderfully done. Everything I saw was radiant and stunning.

The people seemed able and intelligent. When I got to talk to them, I heard words and wisdom I hadn't heard before. When I asked questions, I got sharp answers just right before I finished my last word. Amazing, that was.

But when I left the wonderland and got back here, those lights that wonderfully managed the "seeming" are all gone. The hidden is unveiled. Everything is already plain and quotidian. No more stunning shades that would excite my senses.

Some have become dense. This time, you need to repeat your words in order to be understood. You need to get some scorch in order to have the right answers to your questions. And sometimes, you need to be rude in order to connect to some people's not so ordinary nutshells.

I won't dare say that the wonderland experience is unreal. Neither would I say that this one now is undesirably bad. Some things and some place are just different. Some call it different shades of a spectrum called reality.

But I hope this shade of reality where I am now will get any better. Better than what I had in the wonderland. No more unwanted seeming. Just beauty at plain view, reason at a snap. No tiresome pursuits. Everything is just right on my face.

Possible? Why not.

A gentleman's argument

2009-06-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Henry Tacio.

Here's the article.

One Big Fight

2009-06-04T02:58:00.000-07:00

THE IHL Debate Team: (L-R) Tin Ferrer, Vince Juan, Atty. Bobet Torreon,
and Tateen Castrodes

THE ANC Debate Team: (L-R) Atty. Bobet Torreon, Kim Ledesma,
Xyza Gemelo, and Vince Juan\

When it rains, it really pours.

The Ateneo Law Forensic wins again.

The team, composed of Vince, Tin, and Tateen, routed UP Law Team in the Championship round of the 1st International Humanitarian Law Debates held last June 2, 2009 at the University of the Philippines College of law. The team will represent the country in the regional rounds on June 12 at KL, Malaysia.

Another team, composed of Xyza, Vince, and Kim, routed University of the East's team in Quarter Finals of ANC Square Law Debates. Watch for the next round soon.

Kim and Vince will also compete in the ALSA IHL Moots on July in Brisbane, Australia.

No more cricket moments. Just One Big Fight!

Special thanks to the following:

Dean Manny, Maam Gina, and Boss Edwin for the operational support;

THE Fr. Gus, Atty. Sagmit, Atty. Bobet and Jing Torreon, Atty. Jaja Rosello, Atty. Jessa Wong, Atty. Inan Tugas, Atty. Ces De Vera, Atty. Apple Amolata, and our alumni, Hann Sevilla, Tippi Chavez, Sasha Go for sharing their brilliant thoughts;

Carrie Mae Bangayan, Thyrza Marbas, RR Roque, Percy Donalvo, and the Forensic Officers for their significant contribution in research and analysis;

Chico Versoza, Jopet Go, Agnes Padilla, Nikki Bangayan, Kenneth Abarca, Samae Kanda, and Anna Gatmaitan for their on-field support.

This is Forensic's destiny. Jai Ho.

Alec Baldwin joins the list of Philippines' persona non grata

2009-05-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

When asked about having more children in an interview in The Late Show with David Letterman, Alec Baldwin, 51 year-old Emmy-winning actor, said that he was "thinking about getting a Filipino mail-order bride at this point ... or a Russian one." This turned out to be very derogatory a statement that angered some of the Filipinos. Perhaps, he intended it as a kneejerk laugh but he went out of the comedy's way. Of course, a person such as Senator-Action Movie Icon Bong Revilla can't just let it pass without saying his movie lines. To Baldwin, he said "let him try to come here in the Philippines and he'll see mayhem." Oh well, let's see.

If we could remember, a lot of foreign icons have been declared persona non grata in the Philippines for saying belittling and demeaning statements against the country and its people.

Claire Danes was banned by former President Estrada for describing Manila as as "ghastly and weird city", in an interview in Vogue magazine. More recently she descibed the city in an interview in Premiere magazine as "smelled of cockroaches, with rats all over, and that there is no sewerage system, and the people do not have anything - no arms, no legs, no eyes."

In one scene of ABC's Desperate Housewives, Susan Mayer played by Teri Hatcher was going to be checked by a gynecologist but refused to be examined. She said, “Okay, before we go any further, can I check those diplomas? Coz I would just like to make sure they are not from some med school in the Philippines.” For this, the government demanded for a public apology from ABC and form the actress herself. I just don't know what happened next.

Chip Tsao, a Hongkong-based columnist, called the Philippines as a "nation of servants" in his article titled “The War At Home” in the March 27 edition of the famous and widely-circulated HK Magazine. I heard he personally asked for apology.

The Beatles was publicly denounced by former First Lady Imelda Marcos for refusing to have dinner with the presidential family. The band, however, politely declined and explained that they were too tired to go. The Imeldific must have failed to get this part and cried, "The Beatles have let me down."

But sans emotions and subjectivities, aren't some of these statements true? Aren't these pointing to some sort of a mirror of what the country is or some parts of it?

Truth sinking in? Let's do something.

THE Eric Clapton Music

2009-05-04T06:05:00.000-07:00

Talk about great music and fiery guitar solos, THE music of Eric Clapton just naturally comes to mind. Randomly checking on some cool finds and gigs online, I've come across Eric Clapton's website, which highlights among others, reviews and music bios of this English blues-rock guitarist, singer, composer, and songwriter. All would seem to emphatically describe how stunning his music has always been since those great years of The Yardbirds and the Bluesbreakers. Read the full bios here.

Although his music prowess mainly focuses on rock and blues, for which he was inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Eric Clapton's music has been heard in different genres. A glance at his discography would reveal his seamless innovations in a wide variety of genres. Among others, he topped the charts by also dominating the pop music with his Change the World and the reggae with his I Shot the Sheriff. These and more are definitely alive and crystalline clear in the audio-memory of the children of the 70's and 80's.

And even the bubbly artists of today would definitely pay tribute, in more ways than one, to his music as their interpretations are but echoes of this great artist for all time. Today's rockstars, including the wannabes, can't completely get into the hype of Clapton's music. And those who are into the acoustic and other guitar-led mellows can't fathom the depth of Clapton's Wonferful Tonight and Tears in Heaven. That's why it's no surprise that he got his audience into their feet during his r ecent concert in Auckland. A complete and updated schedule of his tours is available here.

There can only be one legend when it comes to a package of stunning guitar solos, rock and blues, and even mellows. Its THE music of Eric Clapton. Get full details here.

Swine Flu Outbreak

2009-04-29T04:48:00.000-07:00

The outbreak of Swine Flu has struck its first victim, a child in Texas, USA, who is considered as the first fatality so far (full story here). As of this writing, reports have shown that the Influenza Virus endemic in swines is found to be spreading across the world. For one, there have been confirmed cases in Mexico, which have potentially spread across the Americas. Asia as well, including the Philippines, has been on an alert level for potential cases of Swine Flu.

Here are some important tidbits we might need to know about Swine Flu:

1. What is Swine Flu?
It is a kind of influenza caused by any strain of the influenza virus endemic in pigs (swine). Strains endemic in swine are called swine influenza virus (SIV). For complete information, read it here.

2. How does it spread?
Typically, the virus spreads from pig to a person. However, there may be transmission from person to another person.

3. What are its symptoms?
Just like any other kind of influence, symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea. In the cases confirmed, vomiting and diarrhea seemed to strongly indicate that the influenza is Swine Flu.

4. Is there a vaccine for Swine Flu?

There has not been any vaccine particularly for Swine Flu. But based on reports, the CDC and the World Health Organization is currently taking steps to develop such vaccine. It may take months though.

5. Is there a treatment for Swine Flu?
Tamiflu and Relenza have been known to be effective in treating Swine Flu virus. However, this may not always be available. While there may be such known treatment, it is still best to prevent being infected by the Swine Flu virus.

6. How do we prevent it?
Among others, the following may greatly help in protecting yourself from being infected by the Swine Flu Virus:

Avoid having contact with people who are sick;
Stay at home if you are sick;
Wash your hands regularly and properly;
Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing;
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to avoid infection;
Observe good health habits such as having plenty of rest, eating the right food, and drinking a lot of water.

Read some precautions here or Dr. Sanjay Gupta's pointers here.

Susan Boyle

2009-04-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

It all started in Britain's Got Talent. Watch the video here.

Many a time I have been told not to judge the book by its cover. The wisdom it tells springs from the idea that the value of things is not merely found on their face. One has to dig into the core and find what's inside.

True, things are not and should not be judged by its cover. But, I dare say, one always starts at the surface. One gets a valid sense of what a thing may be upon looking at the physique, the surface, the skin. One makes judgments - sometimes untrue and bad. And its crap to say that one purely has nice thoughts at this point.

I'll surely get a flak on this but I fully understand why some were cynical upon seeing Susan Boyle before she sang her piece. The candor will really say that she doesn't look good, as pleasant as typical screen icons do. She only turned out to be angelic when she started to sing a Les Miserables piece, which in itself is powerful. In a manner of speaking, if she did not sing it the way she majestically captured the hearts and the ears, she would have remained like any ordinary page of a book. And even when she looked way better than Paris Hilton, she would still not get the same regard as she got. Its because based on such a hypothetical look, it is but expected that she would do well and shine.

But her case is different. There seems to be a gap between how she looks and what she can do. And the gap has overwhelmed the people who watched except Simon Cowell if what he said was true (that he knew that Susan had that power voice). From being cynical and scoffing, their faces exuded awe and wonder. Perhaps, their earlier judgments were disproved and those fell flat on their face. This is but normal.

Brilliant minds will not get me wrong here. This isn't really being cynical about the public's appreciation of Susan Boyle. More so, this is not a case against Susan Boyle. She really has that voice of an angel. I'm just sharing a piece of understanding why this thing about her has become this phenomenal.

I dare admit that just like all of us did, I judged her at the surface. But when she showed what she can do, I thought she was amazing. Oh well, I stand corrected.

Happy Thoughts

2009-04-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our friends:

1. Jessa Wong (Monkey) and Jaja Rosello (Pansit) for passing the 2008 Bar Exams.

2. Ivy Joy Dafielmoto (Bjoy) for finishing her Medical Studies, Medicine 2009.

3. Sahlee Grace Cereno (George) for passing the 2008 Architecture Board Exams.

4. Aimee Keziah Nerida (Kisha) for passing the Licensure Examination for Nurses.

5. Hanniyah Sevilla, Cum Laude, Tippi Chavez, Mitos Shiela Perandos, Allan Lozare, Agnes Padilla, Christ May Andolana, Sheng Solis, Teen Pague, Blithe Cartujano and other Seniors-friends for their Bachelor of Laws degrees.

5. And to many others who have passed exams, finished their studies, and for other diadems and humble accomplishments they've received.

To end this up, gonna share Bjoy's 250-word message on her graduation:

"My life in the medical school is a wonderful story of God’s greatness.

Like any kid who admired doctors in brilliant white, I used to think that there's always glamour in learning new things everyday, running along the hospital hallways, and being able to make patients feel better. But this has not always been the case. I’ve experienced sleepless and taxing preparation before examination, the fear of failing in some subjects, the usual drama of going through ups and downs, the inevitable thought of quitting, and the everyday face of life and mortality.

But all of these point out to God. From these experiences of running and squeezing every time to read and prepare for exams, I have seen the power of praying and kneeling down before Him in humility. From the fear and trembling, victories and failures, I have seen how He reveals his grace in my life. From these experiences of life and mortality, I have valued every single thing that He has blessed me with.

These are more of a story of God than of me. These are more of living testimonies of His love and faithfulness than of my efforts and sacrifices. Perhaps, this is the point of human life. Everything about it is meant to give glory to its Maker.

Although these four years in the medical school have ended, the story of God’s greatness continues in my life as there are even better years coming. And so I say, to Him be all the glory!"

Messed Up

2009-03-28T00:17:00.000-07:00

...doesn't matter how tough we are, trauma always leaves a scar. It follows us home, it changes our lives, trauma messes everybody up, but maybe that's the point. All the pain and the fear and the crap. Maybe going through all of that is what keeps us moving forward. It's what pushes us. Maybe we have to get a little messed up, before we can step up. - Alex Karev

Big Boy

2009-03-14T21:04:00.000-07:00

Don't you think that its time drop it all off?

Such an inevitable question that comes to mind when you feel like you have more than a handful of stuff to handle. You have three complicated and bloody cases to handle and their papers are due in less than a week's time. You have yet to prepare for three big exams, which (ideally) demand full attention. You have to finish reading a book and make a review of it in a particular context (read: forced fit). And the list goes on.

But I'm a big boy. I can decide when I've had enough of these. I am not afraid. I am even challenged. And I'm gonna sail through all of these.

Smug people see it this way. And just like what Cristina said, it's going to take more than a bad dream to scare me off.

Barbour – the best thing about country living

2009-03-02T04:52:00.000-08:00

Here’s a bit of trivia.

Everyone loves life in the country. Everything is just fresh – the cool breeze of the air that soothes and regenerates the torn part in you, the morning dew that bathes the greenery, the real food cooked straight from the veggie garden, the rich heritage, and a lot more. These and more are the reason why people prefer to grow old and spend the rest of their lives in the country, including those who are so tired of getting through snafus in the city.

What makes country living even greater than the typical is Barbour. For over a hundred years, Barbour clothing has established itself to be the best thing about living in the country. From jackets, outdoor wardrobes and a lot more, Barbour clothing perfectly reflects and suits the country lifestyle. It has evolved over generations and has showcased world-class sense of durability, quality, and amazing designs. The brand is definitely a legend when it comes to country attire, part of the wonderful heritage of country living.

Simply said, country living means Barbour.

The weekend that was

2009-03-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

Alright, it’s Monday and I don’t feel like working or at least, reading in prep for tonight’s another encounter with the Mocking Bird. Perhaps, I just had an oh-la-la wonderful weekend and that right now, the Monday-mode is not sinking in yet.

Some random things and pictures:

1. I felt happy after taking the Obligations and Contracts exam. Since I started working, I've been squeezing time for reading and prepping for exam. And its good because I get to make the most out of the limited time and accomplish much.

2. I had a yummy pasta-and-pizza lunch with Dianne and Sheng at Boyd’s after. It was nice hearing love stories of friends. Oh, love!

3. I went home on Saturday night and praxed for the Sunday's singing. I finally got to sing and lead another piece of Casting Crowns. It was indeed a lifesong.

4. As usual, I spent Sunday at home - father doing Iron-Chef-America for lunch, laughing out loud with folks, and pinching Dora, the bubble explorer.

5. Went to George's thanksgiving party. She's officially an Arki now. Had wonderul time with high school friends. And oh, bestfriends ditched into George's room and it was guh-great. Someone from Miami must have missed a lot. You know who you are. Dont worry because you're going home naman anytime soon.

Now, I feel like working.

Hello Stranger

2009-02-22T08:14:00.000-08:00

In crossing a London street, Alice Ayres looked at the wrong direction and so she was hit by a cab, right in front of Dan. While lying on the road with some blood falling down her face, she looked at Dan and said "hello stranger." The whole chase started thereafter.

Love is an accident waiting to happen. Desire is a stranger that you think you know. Intimacy is a lie we tell ourselves. Truth is a game you play to win. And you don't swear love if what you only want is excitement, or sort of a chase.

You meet as strangers. You part ways as such.

Chase.

Love Actually, Happy-ness

2009-02-15T00:18:00.000-08:00

There goes Vday. I have seen sights of red, people in pairs or groups (for singles, who didn't want to feel bitter on a Vday), and oh, the rush and the heavy traffic.

I had an early and HEAVY dinner with pretty friends after an exam and then headed home after watching Changeling with the thought of yet another exam on Monday. I had a wonderful talk with someone over the phone and then dozed off. I woke up the next day and bingo, found a copy of Love Actually from Bodjie. There goes Vday.

I'm posting some snapshots of this all-time favorite (even if its normally watched on Cmas) and a candid shot taken last Conflicts of Law. Happy vibes and more!

Just do it

2009-02-12T21:54:00.000-08:00

Letting go is a categorical imperative, I think.

The issues that you have with people and even non-people like dogs and rats of this world, the snafus that bug you off everyday, and all the sources of bad and negative energies can be dealt with by asking straight and clear-cut question answerable by a yes or a no. Its either you like or you don’t, if something is for you or not, or if things just have to screw up or not.

You are lucky if you get a yes. But if you don’t, or if you are being refused to, or if things just screw up and do not turn out to be what you intended it to be, then let go. There’s no sense holding on to something which isn’t good enough for you or simply, not for you. It’s a futile fight, a lost cause. People die doing this while they could just have let things be, let them go, and move on.

The world is such a ball of wonder and I believe, there’s more to life that what you have now. And if you get yourself stuck on something, you miss the bigger part of life and living. So if you get a no, take it, chew it, and swallow it until its gone and over. There’s always a better thing, a better way for you.

So when its over, let it go. Don’t ask why. Just do it.

In re: Ungrateful Dog

2009-01-29T10:41:00.000-08:00

An ungrateful dog must learn not just tricks and manipulations, but also some human stuff. If it has to learn it the hard way, then it has to.

Read Kong Kong's blog and you'll see more about this.

iPod: the world in your ears

2009-01-20T07:37:00.000-08:00

Aside from post-it notepads, pens, and markers, iPods have also become a law student's companion. Imagine a complete orchestra majestically playing while you're absorbing what you're reading or a big band playing while driving. Its truly the world in your ears.

I've come accross this very informative iPods Site which gives a complete guide in buying iPods. While everyone thinks that an iPod is just any ordinary pocket-size music player, this iPods Site shows a line-up of iPods which may fit to different preferences. Like if you're into visuals, you may want to get a large-screen iPod like iPod touch. If you want it slim, just enough to fit like a clip in your ID, and iPod shuffle is best for you. And for the working buddies, an iPhone is such a breakthrough product that provides relevant services on top of music and videos like internet communication and a lot more. All these utilities packaged into one hot piece.

And oh, buying an iPod isn't just for the buyer. This iPods Site features the good cause when you buy one. A significant part of the purchase price is donated to a global fund that fights AIDS in Africa. You dont just play music for yourself. More importantly, you're giving others, those who are less in life, the chance to hear life's music and enjoy it to the fullest.

This is really having a world in your ears. So there, visit this iPods Site and hear the world's greatest music.

No Weekend Break

2009-01-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

Here's a good laugh for law students:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8ABhatAfsA

I got this from Teen-teen, the bar bet!

Elephant in the Fridge

2009-01-10T22:32:00.000-08:00

I'm having another tightly schedule weekend, as usual. I skipped one make-up class in Criminal Law for a meeting and team brief. I hurried home for Saturday dinner since I'll not be there for the Sunday lunch. And I will have to accomplish some stuff - start prepping for the Crim and Oblicon Exams, StatCon Recits, finalize master plan with other class heads for the incoming Conflicts, process necessary documents for the Beijing Moots, and some personal errands. Whew.

Now I remember this childhood question, how do you wholly put an elephant inside the fridge? One important thing to develop here (which I am still mastering at the moment) is the skill to get both big and small things done within a limited time like putting elephant inside the fridge, like finishing a supposed to be two-hour StatCon exam in less than an hour and still ending up with a good mark. Heads up, Mistervince.

Anyway, I've been closely looking at some extra-curricular stuff worth writing about. The war in Gaza isn't over yet. The release of Alabang Boys opens up issues that are hitting the DOJ and the justice system, in general. Very interesting.

Here's something about the war in Gaza from the Economist:

http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=12853965&source=most_commented/

Happy Weekend!

War in Gaza: More than the bombs

2009-01-04T09:17:00.001-08:00

Some questions are playing in my mind about the war in Gaza.

At the surface, Israel claims to be provoked by the missile attacks in the southern part by Hamas. On the other hand, there's this explication that this is Hamas' way of sending a message to Israel to sign the truce and stop blocking the borders and allow economic passage and aids to get to the Palestine.

There must be more than this. Interesting.

Scribbles again.

At the center again

2009-01-04T07:19:00.001-08:00

There’s an image that comes with the striking of the clock from 12:00 midnight of December 31 to 12:01 AM of January 1. There seems to be a kind of abyss between these times, which is being crossed by us. It’s like a leap from one platform to another, a stepping into a new space and time. Once we get to this another platform, we joyfully greet each other a happy new year. And there goes the line-up of rituals or whatever you call it – the feast with “good luck” menu on the table, majestic fireworks in the sky, and the most commonly practiced listing of (new year’s) resolutions.

All of these perhaps spring from such an image. The mindset is that because we are stepping into a new point in time, some things have ended and some will have to begin. And as these things begin, we employ our set of beliefs on how to start it right like inviting good vibrations and fortunes. We list our things to start doing based on how other faired in their lives. And the list goes on. But such a mindset is crucial, if not dangerous.

I remember some bits about anthropocentrism. This thought espouses the idea that man is the center his world. As such, while nature and things around him have very influential forces upon him, he is still able to have control over them. The operative word here is control. Simply said, man is in control and he should keep it that way. Whatever happens to him starts from him. He chooses and decides on his actions. He lays down his intentions and works on them. Consequently, he assumes responsibility over his actions and becomes accountable on whatever effect it may produce.

But such is not the case here. We seem to give to the heavens this gift of control. We tend to depend upon others, those vibrations and fortunes and place our hopes in them. When things go wrong, there’s this thought that the object of fortune displayed at home may not have been in proper position or that the fruits during the new year’s eve were not as round as they should be. Another case is that we look at others and benchmark from them. We make them our points of reference in our pursuit for life’s bounties. We tend to forget that at the end of the day, no one else is primarily involved in our everyday actions but us, mismo.

It is important to be at the center again. Fulfilled individuals are not necessarily those who are fortunate and with good vibes, those who have reached the top or those who have earned more. Those who are responsibly in control of their lifeworlds and who are making the most out of it are generally the most satisfied ones and even the happier ones. They’re not afraid to explore the unfamiliar territories. They take the lead in their undertakings. Surely, they cry over failures and get frustrated when things screw up. But they’re not afraid to give it a better try. They reach not the top but that place where they intend to be at according to their values and abilities. They live better lives.

Beginnings and Endings

2009-01-01T05:21:00.000-08:00

So, its a new year.

I've got many things to write about. Some things have ended. New things will have to begin.

Scribbles. Will post it asap.

Happy New Year!

Christmas and Chocolates

2008-12-29T01:49:00.000-08:00

Here's one for Christmas break:

Love is the understanding between you and your favorite flavour.

-Dove Chocolate

Silence

2008-12-17T06:20:00.001-08:00

Sometimes, its best to be silent and just not say anything at all.

The normal rule is that when you have something to say, you say it and make yourself understood. Being able to speak your mind is perhaps one of the best things about being here, in this lifeworld. We all have our opportune times when we got to exercise this, share our thoughts, be understood, and oh well, make things work. I remember debating at my best, being able to sell my arguments, and winning over others. I remember my short corporate stint where I was able to convince a boss, a business partner, or a staff about a crucial undertaking. Or just that simple chit-chat over coffee, talking about anything, from lousy issues and whinnings to deep reflections and good talks. Oh, freedom.

But these days, something's strange. I haven't been talking much or at least, I havent felt like saying something except for instances where I really have to. Instead of saying a word about something, I prefer being silent about it, crack my knuckles, and just do the never-mind spiel. A lot of things are surfacing, methinks. Perhaps, my tolerance to crappy and dispensible snafus have become full to the brim. For one, I got struck by an old realization that from the people you are dealing with everyday, some just do well with the business of lies and craps and some with manipulating people at their whims. This isn't a new discovery. I know this so well. So there, this serves as a caveat that when I say something, I make sure that Im talking to the right heads, that my words are clearly understood and valued. But just lately, the caveat fell flat on my face. You really can't win over lies because in the first place, there isn't any battle or at least, only a mismatch. What you have are true cards while the other has phoneys.

So why the silence? This is the better way of dealing with people and circumstance like this. If you and your words are true, they will have to be directed through proper medium and to proper subjects. If they dont, they become futile and of no value at all. The worst thing, you're fooling yourself.

This is very strange, I know. Like someone just said to me, I'm strange these days. That person needs to read this.

On an another note, my Christmas season will officially start on the 21st, after my last exam for this term. This year's season doesnt seem to be very promising. But we'll see.

Never get pinned down

2008-11-29T04:15:00.000-08:00

"Don't concede. Stick to your position. Difficult questions are not meant to pin you down. Use them to build your case."

Thus said Dean Celicious after our first round in the Moots, when Kim and I almost uttered never ending crickets-crickets-crickets. For one, the moot court experience taught a lot of things about the practice, the road we're going to. The laws and principles should be at least mastered. Thoughts should be clear and refined like black and white. And everything else like the presentation and delivery will just smoothly follow.

More importantly, such tells something about life and living in general. Snafus and any other form of difficulty are truly not meant to destroy our sandcastles. When we get struck by them, we get to know how strong can we be and in the same way, how vulnerable can we get. And when we know this, we get to aim for more, move, strive for the better, and do bigger things. Sometimes, we need them to push us to go beyond and do things we once thought we could never do.

Methinks that such is just part of being here, in this lifeworld. And when we fail to see snafus as that, we're missing one huge part of life's goodness. We easily give things up. We easily get lost, so lost. And its like living six feet under the ground. And certainly, nobody wants this.

Point is clear. As one old chorus says, we are pressed on every side but never crushed. We're perplexed but never in despair. In persecution, we are never abandoned. And though we're struck down, we cannot be destroyed.

Let's keep things up!

PS: Team Ateneo placed 3rd during the National Moot Court Competition on International Humanitarian Law. I placed 2nd in the Mooters' Ranking. Kim ranked 5th. Next stop, Beijing come February. Thank you everyone!

I'm back

2008-11-24T08:04:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah. I'm back.

It has been (more or less) three months since I last posted. And it feels good to be back here.

How is Mister Vinchi? Oh well, not everything is doing pretty well. But I'm coping well. I'm fine and I'm keeping things fine.

Some random things (for updates):
1. First Sem is over. So far, things are guh-great. But it can be better, or greater. So, help me God.
3. New set of teachers in second semester. They're all good except for one who deliberately scares people. Alright, we're scared!
2. Season 5 of Grey's had been aired, at long last. Awaiting for episode 10.
3. "Power Rangers" (see entry below) is dead. Some aren't just true and not worth keeping on.
4. I have experienced bar operations for the first time. The road to go. Whew!
5. I'm working for a big project. Hopefully, it gets done at the start of the new year.
6. Christmas is coming but it isn't christmasy yet here except for the weather. Strangely or amazingly, mondays are rainy days. Geez.

I've got lotsa things to write, to update. I miss this.

Off for Moots in Manila. Go Ateneo!

Cars, Dodge

2008-08-31T00:15:00.000-07:00

In spending much for something, it's normal that you want to get the best of its value and benefits. And when you're done with it, you don't just throw it away. You, of course, want to get the returns from your investment.

This is especially true and crucial in buying cars. Cars inevitably depreciate over time. And the greater its depreciation value, the small you get in time. Your thousands then turn out to be just for the time you used the car. Worst case then is when it doesn't have after-value, or usually called trade-in value.

The Automotive Lease Guide released its result on cars which are Best Value Holders. Dodge Viper is the list. Of course, Dodge Cars market themselves with their names. When you say Dodge, you just mean the best muscle cars on earth. Dodge Viper is kinda pricey. But it pays much after. It has residual value of at least 38% of its purchase price. Now, talk about almost half of the price. Really good deal.

Now, there's always an equally good option but of lesser thousands needed. 2009 Dodge Challenger just came out online. Being the most recent, it features the best of Dodge's innovation and the Dodge Quality. This is such a muscle car. No one, I guess, can ever challenge this.

http://www.dodge.com/en/2009/challenger/

In less than ten year's time, I'll read this again and perhaps, claim my right to splurge.

There.

Certainty

2008-08-11T20:43:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, what one needs is a sense of certainty. This is something I have learned after having to get through snafus recently.

Take the case of someone who's taking an exam at law school. Facts are given. Issues are implied. Questions are asked. This must mean that principles and oh well, laws have to be applied and discussed. But if one doesn't know about what is to be applied or at least, a strong grip of the lessons, what is there to be written and answered? Nothing. It is an established lie that bluffing's gonna save you. It is even like crap. So there.

Yes, it is virtually impossible to know everything. Socrates frowns at this claim, I know. But one must have a grip of something. You must know something. Otherwise, what is there to live if reason is of no use. It is deadly to just say "I dont know." This one's for the nuts. No one wants to go nuts and screw up, deliberately. Its stupidity at its best. Reason must always be at work. It's a gift. It's life.

There's a caveat here though. If you take it to the extremes, that is trying to know everything, you'll also lose grip. You can only know so much. You're not God. And if you try to be one, you're bound to something like an explosion. Airheads explode and when they do, they are broken into pieces and even die. The message here is to make do of what you have. Going underboard and getting overboard are equally bad.

Certainty.

Steve Jobs

2008-08-03T22:09:00.001-07:00

Here:

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/07/25/business/wbjoe26.php?WT.mc_id=newsalert

Power Rangers, Exam, and Babies

2008-08-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

So, there goes another week at school. Just some few things worth posting:

Power Rangers
Remember that old series adapted from the Japanese Tokosatsu Super Hentai Series? Or those five mighty men in Red, Black, Blue, Pink, and Yellow gears? They're back! Its not because Walt Disney bought the franchise from Saban. Power Rangers have landed in town and are studying law.

This one's so kiddo. This is what you get when you've put all in for the love of schooling (again). You seem to have developed that Mighty Morphin power. And you only get to use it (power) when you're with fellow rangers. Power Rangers! Lol!

Exams
I have finished the last of three major exams for prelims. The first one, I got a pretty good mark. The second one, results are coming out tonight and I dont see any ray of light there. But I have three more sets to catch up. The third one which was last weekend, it was normal. I got some things right and some wrong. But WTF, its done and over. No room for sourgraping and counting bad tomatoes. I only have time to keep things going and just make things way better.

Babies
I went home for Sunday lunch. I was able to visit two babies. Tita Ki and Tito Bobby's first born is a baby boy. His name is Khalil, a pretty boy. Oh well, its bloodline. Lem and Mapet's first born is also a baby boy. No name yet, they're gonna say it (name) on the day of Christening. Talk about thrills and surprises.

I can't help but want to have my own, too. Bud said that it's too early. When is "too early" and "just in time"? Hahaha. Seriously, that's one thing worth looking forward to. Its not gonna be that soon but Im sure, Im gonna have that moment of joy - the Gloria, the Upsurge!

There. Memes I had over the weekend.

Life!

Evil

2008-07-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

Maturity doesn't necessarily come with age.

Yesterday's open meeting showcased how people of some age still get to think like kids in a prep class, or even the latter think better than them. They seemed to have done an evil conspiracy with evidently just one aim to fire some issues and humiliate someone. The bad thing about the consiracy per se is that it was done so poorly that it fell flat on their faces. Evil really devours itself.

Oh well. Reality.

Just venting out.

Waiting for Grey's Season 5

2008-07-16T23:31:00.000-07:00

Season 4 ended up pretty well. It actually thrilled everyone to see the next season. Four seasons down and I have been wanting to write my thoughts, not really scholarly reviews, but just meme's and thoughts about the previous seasons and episodes. Not to mention the music and songs it employed in the show. Will try to start it over this weekend, hopefully.

As per Wiki, Season 5 might be a little more delayed because of some geezos caused by Screen Actors Guild strike. But definitely, Season 5 is coming and they're doing the production. So there. Let's wait.

And oh, I'm joining the Yang Club. Who else is joining? Haha.

Snow Patrol

2008-07-14T20:23:00.000-07:00

The first time I heard the song of this Northern Irish band (Chasing Cars played in the second season of Grey's Anatomy, May 2006), I felt the push to really buy its album. And there goes Vinchi, splurging on REALLY GOOD music - Snow Patrol, Gavin de Graw, and a lot more.

Here's the thing: if you think that music really keeps you company during idle moments and even during euphoria, here are albums and songs that tell great stories about life and love. Really good company. Their songs can get you into absorbing the purest of your thoughts and feelings, sparing you from craps and false hopes. Just real thoughts, just truths.

Now, I cant wait to get a copy of Final Straw and that of Rascal Flatts. Unfortunately, even Music One in Greenbelt still doesn't have a copy of the latter.

Waiting.

Apples, anyone?

2008-07-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

This week's a time for apples.

I had wonderful time buying some groceries last sunday with Dr. Dafielmoto. What made it so wonderful is that apples' buy-me colors and crisps got my attention and really made me buy lots of them. Its unusual because for one, I am a grab-all junkie who sees grocery-ing like a drive-thru at McDonald's and two, I'm not into apples. Really.

Now, let's talk about apples.

More than being perceived as serpent's fruit (Garden of Eden Stories), my doctor friend said that this one's best for your health.

One, it has cardio-protective fibers and flavonoids which aid in curbing cholesterol in the body.

Two, its juice is one of highly ranked sources of antioxidants. Now, talk about antioxidants which is now has phenomenal market in the Philippines due to its "skin-whitening effect." More than this, this one takes control in keeping our antibodies and DNA's strong and stable.

Three, its natural sweetness takes it source from fructose, which is a very simple sugar. This just means that you dont need to get paranoid about your sugar levels if you take apple.

Fourth, do you want to reduce your risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones? Drink apple juice. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that when women drank ½ to 1 liter of apple, grapefruit or orange juice daily, their urinary pH value and citric acid excretion increased, significantly dropping their risk of forming calcium oxalate stones.

These are but few things that apple can do to get you rid off health geezos and oopsies. For really complete details, a lot of references online are available. You may also try this - http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?dbid=15&tname=foodspice.

Now, there's a reason why kiddo's favorite line really makes sense. An apple a day keeps the doctor away!

Thanks doc!

One Page Down

2008-07-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

Now this is one big thing about being free.

Effective 2 July 2008, after two years and three months in Unilever, after finishing at least four business models and setting up two of them, after totally managing at least four business organizations, after being directed by three CEO's, two VP's, two Directors, and a line manager, after wonderfully working with only one work-family and just working with geezos, after countless times doing presentations, templates, financials, and operational updates, I am leaving Unilever to finally pursue Law.

I have learned a lot, including managing people - business partners, workmates, and bosses - who are gifted with amorphous personality.

More, more, and more blogs about this.

Soon.

The Survival Game

2008-06-21T02:38:00.000-07:00

I always hear about studying law as something like a survival game. The job here is tough and it gets even tougher when you can't seem to find some people to share with the anxiety, the shrills and thrills.

With my two weeks (and counting) here, I think that this has some truth in it. It can mean as simple as someone who's gonna save you from falling in line to get photocopies of materials or it can be as serious as doing mindwars in aid of understanding them (materials) and getting through the nosebleeds and geekos.

Some things are really tough. But I dont think we should leave it at that. There's always a way to make it better and even easier. In this case, its about being with the right people and just getting pretty well with them.

This is the start of the survival. And you only see it as that when you're sure that you're gonna survive.

As for me, I say YES!

As for the Magic 9 (+2), we say YES, too!

Don't Ban the Booze

2008-06-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

So, classes have already started. New people around. A long list of reading materials. And a lot more time to set all of these aside for a night, and just drink your way up.

For a couple of years of responsibly drinking, a few things should be kept in mind before getting up (and down) with the booze:

1. Before the fun, be more than sure that your emergency keys are in place - keys to your house and your car, your monies, and oh, your zipper.

2. Here's a mindset. Don't be afraid to mess up. Come on, drinking and not messing up is no drinking at all. This is the best time to speak the unspeakables, laugh or cry things out, and yes, throw it up.

3. And because this is the mindset, don't expect for good samaritan to pick you up and to give you a warm and relaxing lather at home. Hence, make sure you are with real buddies, not with walking craps. For when you mess up, your friends will mess up too with you.

4. And when you're already so down with it, just shut up and sleep.

Here goes responsible drinking defined.

One Big Yes!

Stressing Stress

2008-06-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

This is about stress. Its about waking up at wrong side of the bed and hating the harsh shrills of the alarm clock. Its about driving to work without even a crumb to munch. Its about talking to big people with very small nutshells, that no matter how hard you try to keep things reasonably easy and better, things still screw up with them. And this made you skip a decent lunch, forget about hot choco, and just drive home with just simple stuff in mind - an ice-creamy yogurt and a good sleep.

The yes-or-no thing part of stress is that it's perfectly normal. The disruption of homeostasis is inevitable. We get tired because our body can only do so much even though we eat everything in the world twice. We fret when there's a reason to. We respond to stimuli. And when we say that we're fine-alive-and-kicking at the end of the day, we don't just deserve a pat on the shoulder, but also one good whip in the head to remind us that we're really not. More than just being normal, its being human.

Over 500 Million results come out when you google the word stress. Each tells you about how to cope with and go through it, disguising the kick-ass business behind. Some tell you to get a Caribbean escapade and a "wherever-whatever" climb to Everest. These and more come with a promise to destress you.

But there's just one thing that you can do about this. One thing that doesn't require you to spend like there's no more tomorrow. One thing that you forgot to do all for the love of work and fun. One thing that's just free of tax and all.

Sleep. Lie down and spread your legs in its most comfortable flex. Close your eyes and dream about wonderland. When you get up in the morning, its another day to do what is ought to be done. And when you have good sleep, you even forget about the bad breakfast, the bad drivers on the road, and the small minds at work. You only have one thing in mind - its a beautiful day to sing out loud with Michael Buble, U2, and the shrills of the alarm clock.

Stress is just telling you to doze off.

Oh yeah, I'm talking to myself.

Dozing off.

First Principle Here: Yes or No

2008-05-30T00:56:00.000-07:00

For some good number of years, there have been different disciplines and opportunities in learning that I have seen. First in the list is my encounter with Sophia and the love of it that introduced me to the formal (read: scholarly) way of seeing things while not necessarily losing the subjective realm. Second, the practice of public speaking and reasoning has taught me to think-quick, like real time encounters. Third, my stint in the corporate practice has shown to me how can the first and the second be balanced.

One lesson explicated from these and perhaps, a principle is worth mentioning here. All essays and written thoughts, conjectures, long talks, communication hypes, corporate advertisements, and anything that involves language and reason starts and ends as a Yes-or-No case.

The speech of a politician, employed with best rhetoric and no-more-tomorrow promises, just seeks for the people to say “Yes, I will vote for you.”

The laws of the land, which mirror our culture, values, ethics and all, simply tell either do this (yes) or not (no).

The media and all its endorsements definitely is a good try in commanding us to “yes, buy this and you’re life will be better” or “no, you don’t deserve this.”

Point is clear. Intentions are said straight to the point. Everything, most of the time, boils down to this categorical question that saves us from irrelevant and “unjust” usage of language and oh, effort. We start at this. We end at this.

Brief. Concise. Candor. No Crap. Just Yes or No.

Here's another start

2008-05-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

The OC in me wants everything right at the start. But the bad thing here is that I can't even decide on how to start it right. For one, I haven't been writing some meme's and thoughts recently. I tried to but ended up finishing the leads and firsts.

This one's another start. And this time, it will not just be leads and firsts.

Here goes Vinchi, again.

Yes. No. We'll see.