As Told by Angel

Of RPG and Piko

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 30 Mar 2014 08:18:00 +0000

Has anyone seen the movie RPG Metanoia? It's the first Filipino 3D computer animated adventure film. They said the idea for this film was brought by the writer's intention to show his nephew what he is really missing as a kid. As we all know, kids of this generation are now exposed to all kinds of technology aka game consoles. They still play and have playmates but at the confines of either their homes or internet shops.

I have no deep analysis or whatsoever in relation to technology and RPG games. I have nothing against technology. I'm a proud owner of modern gadgets. I praise how technology progress so fast. But I just missed being a kid!!!!

Try to watch the above clip and it will really touch your heart and make you yearn for years that passed. Years when were young, wild and free. Years when the major problems that we would have are food, toys and clothing. Years when the biggest pain that we would be suffering are from bruised elbows and knees. Years when money were treated only as tool for buying sweet treats.

Those were the years. Those were the memories of the past. But, hey, stop. We can bring back memories to life di ba? Re-live it! Just as the old games that we used to play. From siato, piko to patintero. Luksong tinik, holen, agawan base and taguan. Name it. Nalaro ko na yan!

We can teach the younger generations how to play these games.We can still in their minds that these are pure-blooded Pinoy games.We can part them memories of our younger years and make them love it too. We can make them go outside, line in the streets, group themselves and sing the game's song. We can help them grow healthy and strong as they run, jump and try to catch their playmates. As oppose to spending hours sitting in front of computers. We can make their minds work by letting them think strategies on how to catch their prey. We can help them promote camaraderie and be sport.

There are so many "We can.." only if we do so.. Only if we take the initiative and take these ideas to life. So, come and let's help promote and preserve Pinoy culture. Game na? Taya!

Gastronomic Adventure at Pino

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Thu, 20 Feb 2014 07:49:00 +0000

Little did I know that there are multitudes of resto in Teachers Village, particularly in the long stretch of Maginhawa street. Not the fine dine nor the cheap type, but has the best reviews received and delicious foods served. One them is Pino Bar and Restaurant. Attacked by my curiousity, I invited my friends to come dine with me at Pino. Pino's known for their dooddled walls, flavored beers, oversized margarita and kare-kareng bagnet. I did not let the chance pass not to have these things except for the oversized margarita. I did not even dare pass for the dessert (chocolate tempura) which is really sinfully delicious!

No need for any second thoughts when I've learned (and much to my surprise) that Pino is the brainchild of my idol couple, PJ and Alessandra Lanot (http://www.lifeafterbreakfast.com/) and chef Ed Bugia, along with Pipino and Burger Project.

Grab 'n Go

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Opportunities are life’s way of saying it’s giving us another chance to show what we are really capable of doing. Opportunities make us realize that there are still more as compared to what we usually see, feel and hear. That is why opportunities are not to be missed.

We often tend to question ourselves if we are capable of doing something beyond our control and imagination. We haven’t started yet but we’ve already anticipated what’s going to happen. And most often than not, we see ourselves failing. Not that we lack the confidence to take the chances but we fear that we’ll soon fail and succumb to the scrutiny of the people around us.

We always say life is unfair but is truly not. We are the one being unfair to life. Life never fails to present us countless opportunities but we also never fail to give life countless declines to its invitation. So, why blame?

Why do we allow other people to decide if we are or not capable of trying something worth doing? At the end of the day, their decisions won’t matter. They won’t be the one at risk. They won’t be the one to miss the chances. They may say or do something hurtful to tear us down, only if we let them do so.

Opportunities won’t be presented to us if we are not capable of taking it. We may lack some skills but it can be learned. Opportunities are telling us that we have something that other does not have. Isn’t it something that we should be proud of?

So, when life presented us with opportunities, never have doubts. Take it. It’s risky but fulfilling. But sure thing is, we get to learn something from it. We get to experience life.

Writer's Block

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 01:48:00 +0000

Think! Think! Think!

Writer's block is a condition, primarily associated with writing, in which an author loses the ability to produce new work. (Wikipedia)

Am I really suffering from writer's block or simply lazy to write? Lol. Hard to distinguish, really. Sometimes, I have this dire need to write, all my thoughts collated, but just do not know how to put everything in writing. Or just do not how to make a start. Probably, I'm thinking of a good and catchy phrase to start with. Or I'm more specific with my choice of words. (Admit it, we tend to be more conscious with our grammar selection.. and I'm feeling it right now, and not that I do not blog with my native tongue, but as a courtesy to my non-Filipino readers)

I've been away with blogging for months now and I regret doing it. I should not have done that. I have loads of stories to tell, in which, I promised to share it with my readers. But it feels like I'm not fulfilling it, eh.

If blogging happens to be my bread and butter, I'd be dead by now. If I will compare blogging to a produce, it'd gone off. Spoilt. Eww.

Writing is my passion, but I will find it more fulfilling if it's being appreciated. A recognition as simple as that wont hurt that much, right? I just had a realization not to stop blogging when a friend commended me for my works. I did not expect it. Really. He said I have good command of english and that my posts are worth-reading. I did not see it coming that there'll still be someone out there who'll pay attention to my blog.

Wake up call! Can I redeem myself for continuing to blog? Of course, I can. So, move over writer's block. I am now feeling the itch to write.

Norman Reedus

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:13:00 +0000

Survi-BER!

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 04:26:00 +0000

Survi-BER: one who survives the challenges of the BER months. These 4 BER months (September, October, November, December) normally scare the hell out of me. It poses a great threat to my budget and time.

But no matter how big the challenges are and how much gravity the threats poses on me, I (try) to manage to pass through it. Not by playing dedma, because sweeping things aside wont really make them away nor solve it. Be brave facing it.

One challenge for me is the budget I need to allocate for the many celebrations BER months has in store for me. Birthdays, christening, wedding and Christmas parties. The celebrations are endless. And these are not usually on the list but additional. That would make me end up tightening my budget. But if it calls spending them on my family and frineds, budgeting wont be that hard at all. Might lessen spending on some not-so-important matters like going out or buying stuff. And, after all, it's only for 4 months.

Another one is the time I need to do everything that needs to be done. From preparing parties to attending them, I need to maximize every little second so as not to miss a single bit of fun and memories. These are the times that your presence is badly needed. Hard to miss if you don't want to be the topic of their chismis. So I have to make way and try to insert bits and pieces of these activities in my daily schedule.

Time and budget at these crucial months of the year may be at risk if not played properly. So even before the -ber months come, we must all be prepared. Save some for the rainy days, ika nga! Make the most of the days where things are at sale and our time permits.

The Grey Effect

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 04:33:00 +0000

It's a guilty-pleasure novel..

Name some most sought after fictional male characters: Edward Cullen, Harry Potter, Jacob Black, Peeta Mellark, Robert Langdon, etc. These are the men every girls (of all ages, race, religion..) are longing for, every girls would bring to meet Mama and Papa, every girls would be proud to introduce to their friends, every girls would soon want to marry and spend their lives with.

But.. all these men were ousted by the charming Christian Grey. The most coveted eligible and millionaire bachelor, the enigmatic CEO of Grey Enterprises Holdings, the proud owner of Charlie Tango, Audi SUV, The Grace.. and the grey tie!

But not everything in Christian Grey glitters in gold. Grey has his own share of deep dark secrets, only unfolded and uprooted by the fierce Anastasia Steele. His childhood is far different from any other children. Abused in so many forms: physically, verbally, emotionally; Grey has built a certain wall no one dared to break. A wall that hindered him from feeling certain emotions such as love, care and trust.

Enough for the brief introduction, Christian Grey has captured the hearts of so many women (including me), from single girls to married moms. There is really something about Christian Grey. And I'm in dire search of that something!

Truly, the book speaks of Greygasm (def. When anyone, while reading 50 Shades of Grey, has an orgasm) But, hey, this is an erotic novel! Reaching for an orgasm (in this novel) is... given and not far-fetched! hehehehe...

Now to answer the question: What is Grey's effect on me?

Grey's character is trying to unleash every women's sexuality. Be more open to it. Sex, in the 21st century, must no longer be considered a taboo. Di kailangang bulgar. Di kailangan maging malaswa. But every women must learn how to express themselves when it comes to love making. To satisfy their needs. To gain respect for themselves and from their partner. To have control over things. To learn when and how to say no. To decide for their own happiness. Everything, through sex.

Christian Grey's unfolding of his dark secrets and weaknesses to the girl he love the most is one brave act. Every girl will feel proud and honored that one tough man will dare speak of his would-be downfalls. That a man of power, strength and strong-will will entrust his life to a girl and trust her enough to know everything about him. Having witnessed such a heart-breaking moment (that of Christian Grey down on his knees and slowly disclosing the dark days of his life) will make every women feel the responsibility of caring and loving a helpless man.

Christian Grey dominates the inner goddess in every women. Truly, a knight in shining armor, yet equipped with the deepest and darkest of secrets. The story of Cristian Grey surely tells of unconditional love.

And as I quote Christian Grey,

Tagaytay: People's Park in the Sky and Picnic Grove

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 02:45:00 +0000

Spectacular view. Cool and fresh air. Lush greens. Bountiful produce. These are the few words I will use to describe Tagaytay.

It was my sister's birthday and Easter Sunday celebration when we went there. There were lots of people doing their usual weekend pasyal but that didn't stop us from witnessing the breath-taking view of Tagaytay. People's Park in the Sky and Picnic Grove are major attractions one shouldn't miss to visit when inTagaytay. Known for their popularity, people can go at ease as there are public mode of transportation available to take you there.

These places doesn't only offer amazing view of Tagaytay, including Taal lake and volcano, but also cheap finds, produce and crafts. From souvenir items down to baskets of pineapples at a very affordable price, one can hardly leave Tagaytay without these.

Our's wasn't just a normal trip to the park, but to celebrate my sister's birthday too. So we held a picnic, exchanged some chitchats with other family members and, of course, no one left without their pictures taken.

The climb uphill at People's Park wasn't tiring. Thanks to the cool fresh air which didn't leave us sweating. For elderly people and children, they offer a jeepney ride going up and down. I was in total awe when I saw the view. Di sya nakakalula. But it will make you hold your breath for a few seconds because of amazement. God is such a magnificent Creator. I mean, the view were definitely not man-made. Maybe part of it but not all.

After few hours of wandering and picture-taking, we've decided to go to Picnic Grove to eat lunch. The place was jam-packed with people, not only to have their lunch, but to enjoy the many facilities the place has to offer. There's zipline, cable car, henna tattoo, animal shows, etc, just to name a few.

I felt the itch to try their zipline but since it was holiday, the price was doubled. I felt I may not enjoy nor feel the worth of my money. I spend my money na lang on getting a henna tattoo and buying souvenir items.

We didn't leave Tagaytay without paying a visit to out Lord's home. We heard mass at Ina ng Laging Saklolo Parish. We paid respect and offered thanks and praise for a safe trip and great family bonding moments. We didn't let the chance pass of buying produce like pineapples, bananas and mangoes from stores along highway.

Sama ka sa Panagsama

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Go and wander Panagsama beach in Moalboal. Fine white sand. Crystal clear waters. But hey, where is Moalboal located? Moalboal is one of the southern municipality in the province of Cebu. It's a 2-hour bus drive from the city.

So, how'd we get there? What drove us to travel all the way downsouth? Aside from it's being a famous diving spot, Moalboal houses beautiful beaches. The drive going there almost filled the excitement I was feeling. Again, Mother Nature showing it's finest.

The cool about this trip was that we didn't exactly know where to stay and who to contact to. We just worked it on ourselves. Did a little research. Asked the locals.

So, we hailed this tricycle which eventually became our official service. Manong driver was totally friendly and accommodating. He helped us look for a place to stay, even toured us from the Orchidarium up to Kawasan Falls. And what's funny though, he asked for our facebook id's, but the sorry manong driver didn't get a single info on my fb.

Good thing, my travel buddy was about to meet a fellow blogger, like himself, and told us where he's staying. Not too pricey but not cheap as well, we rented the room for an overnight stay.

Then we had a little chat with a newfound friend. Ate an expensive yet delish beef dish. Then set our feet off the sands of Panagsama. Took some, i mean, lots of pictures. Bodies half-dipped on clear waters.

We pretty much enjoyed the waters of Moalboal and it's serene view. Someone can really find peace here. Since it's a small municipality, no one will dare disturb your silence. To each his own.

Our stay did not only satisfy our hunger for food and for rest but the hunger for personal space and time. That only this place can wondrously offer.

Fort San Pedro

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 12:04:00 +0000

I never knew there are also forts existing in some parts of the country. Geez! The only forts I knew were Fort Santiago and Fort Bonifacio.

When I went to Cebu (March 2011), visiting Fort San Pedro was on my list. But since we've spent most of our vacay in Bohol, we didn't get the chance to visit it. Plus, we hardly know how to get there! Now I know that it's very near the provincial capitol. Or near the port.

Fort San Pedro is no different with the other forts here in Manila. Stone walls, canyons, dungeons and bars. But it's tiny as compared to Fort Santiago. Baby fort?!? hehe..

And usually, forts were built to serve as a military defence structure. Maybe tons of guns, ammos and even canyons were stored here. It might also housed the high-ranking Spaniards. Or served as the seat of government back then.

The fort today serve as a park/museum to the Cebuanos. It houses a museum of paintings and artifacts. From torn dresses of Spaniards to paintings of the people and their way of living back then.

Smallest as compared to other forts but still holds history that made and shaped us Filipinos.

Unfortunately, I can't give you the how-to-go-there instruction, should you want to pay visit to the fort. I must admit, I took the cab. But I'm pretty much sure almost all Cebuanos know this place.

Taoist Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 10 Jun 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Taoism is a religion. From China. Defined by temples, adorned with dragons. That is Taoism for me.

Wikipedia. Taoism (pronounced and also spelled Daoism) is a philosophical and religious tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao. The term Tao (or Dao) originally means "way", "path" or "principle", and can be found in Chinese philosophies and religions other than Taoism.

I am not gonna discuss Taoism. I am no master to that field. I will just shed you some little learning and pictures from my visit at the Philippine Taoist Temple in Cebu.

Philippine Taoist Temple is located inside Beverly Hills subdivision. One can go there by simply hailing a cab. Or dare to ride habal-habal. Since it's located uphill, we opted to take a cab.

There is no fee when you enter the temple. Cameras are allowed but no shooting inside the temple. The place offers a breath-taking view of the city.

Dragons are common to be seen in ALL Chinese temples. It doesn't only serve as an adornment but dragons are also regarded as gods by the Chinese.

Before we left, I felt this itch to try throwing some blocks of woods then utter some wish. But my friend told me that it is something to be taken seriously. Not to be treated like a wishing well or a falling star where we can simply whisper our dreams. The praying area is to be treated sacredly, just like our adoration chapels.

Going back to the city is quite painful. For there's no public vehicle passing by, we opted (again) to take cab.

I may say this place is really worth-visiting. Especially those who aren't only after the view, but those in need of time and opportunity to reflect.

Grilling station of the South!

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 27 May 2012 11:51:00 +0000

Welcome to Larsian sa Fuente! Probably, the largest grilling station I've ever seen!

Getting inside Larsian was like getting yourself inside a "just-fumigated" place. Smoky to the highest level! That could be the reason why there are so many electric fans and they are scattered everywhere. To fan smokes that's so painful once it hits your eyes.

Larsian sa Fuente reminds me of the Banchetto here in Manila. Surrounded by food stalls were an array of tables and chairs, adorned with colorful lamps, flowers and other table accessories. Pagandahan sila ng table to attract customers!

The foods are not only tasty but cheaper too! They offer varieties of foods to grill. I opted for the pang-masa foods. Isaw. 10 pieces of puso or rice wrapped in coconut leaves. A liter of Coke. Solb!

For those frugal travelers like us, this is the best place to eat without hurting your pocket! Nakatipid ka na, nabusog ka pa! Just don't do it on a daily basis. There are other food stops that are also way cheaper. And too much eating of grilled foods aint healthy!

Where there's smoke, crowd and totally loud, that's Larsian! Better live with it!

Be proud of the pig!

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 27 May 2012 10:05:00 +0000

Cebu is now making waves when it comes to food. Dried mangoes, danggit, otap, etc. But the one dish that placed Cebu on that spot was the tastiest roasted pig in town aka Cebu Lechon!

Even the No Reservation's celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain hailed it as the best pig.. ever!!!

Balat pa lang ulam na! The crunchy and tasty pork skin is the culprit. We didn't let the chance pass. We tracked down the famous CnT Lechon near SM City Cebu.

Syempre, what else is to order but the delectable lechon!! They also sell veggies like chopsuey (para di naman puro lechon na lang!). I love the puso (o hanging puso) or rice wrapped in coconut leaves (ung pang-suman). Your choice of puso or steamed rice.

The food is not pricey (to think I have lechon as viand- making our lunch sosyal!) And it's really nakakabusog!

If only I have some extra moolah, I would have bought a kilo and bring it back home.

Cebu: Mactan Shrine

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 27 May 2012 09:23:00 +0000

Cebu. Im still amazed by you.

This a (very) late post of my wanderlust at the Queen City of the South. I just noticed I've forgotten to blog this wonderful escapade. I only have myself to blame. Shocks! So let me now start making this up to you my fellow readers.

It hasn't been a year yet when I've set my feet on the grounds of Cebu when another promo was launched and I hurriedly booked for a flight not to any other place but Cebu. Why Cebu? Because I have only visited much when I went there. Not really much. The usual landmarks like the Magellan's Cross, Taboan (for pasalubong) and Crown regency for it's famous SkyWalk. Most were spent in Bohol.

Together with my friend Chino, we went to tour not only the city of Cebu but also the southern part, particularly Moalboal. We didn't have any idea on what to expect, we just want to wander. I've searched all landmarks my feet has never set yet. I've read several blog posts on where to go and what to do. Looked for the cheaper place to stay and resto to eat. Luckily, all the efforts has paid off well. Because the trip went successful!

Let me start with Mactan Shrine. I've never thought that it's quite far from the city. One funny thing that happened was when I tried to hail a cab going to Mactan, no one can understand me. I did try to speak both in english and tagalog. I tried but I failed. The moral: learn some basic Visayan words..

The Shrine was simply a park, with Lapu-Lapu's monument as the highlight. There is a wide array of Bakawan or Mangrove trees at the south side. Some statues that resembles like totem poles on both east and west side. Souvenir stores lined up selling shirts, accessories and home decors.

Sidcor Sunday Market

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Mon, 21 May 2012 07:56:00 +0000

I love weekend markets. I am a fan for a couple of years now. I love to eat, drink, buy and explore. I've been to the weekend markets of Makati, Ortigas and QC, and I'm still in search for the best, budget-friendly and accessible weekend markets in town.

They said that of all the weekend markets in town, Sidcor Weekend Market is the largest. It houses more than 400 stalls. It comes in varieties of food, drinks, fruits, veggies, clothing, accessories, furniture and even pets! You can never ask for more!

Sidcor Market was located at the old Lung Center compound until 2004 then transferred to Eton Centris compound. It's now more convenient and accessible to everyone. Anyone can go there by riding a cab, jeep, bus and even MRT. They have wide parking areas. And traffic isn't even a problem.

Together with my food buddies, we headed to Sidcor one Sunday morning. I want to see it for myself. Feel the warmth of the weekend market, savor the delicious food and buy some produce to my heart's delight.

The choices are definitely endless. There's nothing that you could ever wish for. Foods, drinks, fresh produce, fish, meat, poultry, dairy products, pet animals, clothing, accessories, handicrafts and even furniture. A one day visit isn't enough. And don't forget to bring pocketful of money. You can never tell how many can you buy and how much can you spend. But each peso's worth spending and each item's worth buying! So, go and explore Sidcor, the country's largest weekend market.

Newsman Fan

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 06 May 2012 11:43:00 +0000

I am an avid fan. To the cutest newsman. Ever.

Atom Araullo (Alfonso Tomas Pagaduan Araullo) Now, even as a full-pledged reporter/journalist to some of Kapamilya's News & Current Affairs' shows, he will always be the 5 and Up kid reporter I used to watch. I knew back then that this very articulate chinito kid has the potential of becoming an amazing journalist. And my intuition (or prediction?) did not fail me.

I may not be a member of his fan club. I may not know every bits and pieces of him. He may not have the perfect set of six-pack abs, pearly whites or killing looks. But that did not stop me from admiring him. True beauty can't be seen. And that's what Atom is made of. A man that doesn't need to flaunt his physical attributes.

Smart. Witty. Captivating. Dedicated. Passionate. Few words I dared to use to describe Atom. Needless to say, he was tagged as the Cutest Newsman in the Philippines.

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

Thanks to Cosmopolitan Philippines for featuring Atom Araullo as April 2012's Man on Fire!

Labor Day

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Tue, 01 May 2012 03:56:00 +0000

Labour day or Labor day is an annual holiday to celebrate the economic and social achievements of workers. Labour day has it's origins in the labour union movement, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation and eight hours to rest. - Wikipedia

Question: What about those working 4 days a week, 11 hours a day with 3 days off? Is there such a thing like eleventh-hour movement? Are they also part of the annual holiday?

Well, just me and my silly thoughts!

Spelunking: Bayukbok Cave

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 06:54:00 +0000

Spelunking (def) The exploration of caves for recreational purposes or just for fun. Spelunkers do not collect scientific data. Spelunkers are bot trained in advance cave exploration techniques. People who enter caves with the bare minimum of equipment are said to be spelunking. Spelunkers do not venture to depths beyond 300 meters, or lengths beyond 2 kilometers.

So what went into the mind of a claustrophobic/acrophobic's person like me to dare this kind of risk? Fun and experience. I really haven't the slightest idea of what's gonna happen. But as they say, what you don't know won't hurt you. So why bother myself of countless thoughts less I experience it?

My first spelunking happened inside Bayukbok Cave. We hired guides as all of us are first timers. We have to pass a very spiky yet short trail. And the not-so prepared me suffered a lot. I might be full-geared, from the outfits down to the gadgets but not with the shoes! I am wearing a pair of chucks (it's name is Chuckielyn!). Chuckielyn endured the spiky trail, mud, sand and water.

To get inside the cave, we have to pass a narrow passageway and climb down by means of rappelling. Rappelling is one activity I hate doing the most. I don't have control over my body weight and the thought of falling scares me to death. But I don't have a single choice but do it. My hands and legs were literally shaking. That was just the first part. And I was told there's more to come.

The more we go inside, the more the air gets cooler and the area darker. Reminds of the movie The Descent, a group of cavers who went down on an unexplored cave, met and devoured by creepy creatures! Yikes! I am pretty much comfortable and sure that we won't experience it. That was just me and my imagination.

Another activity inside that almost made me faint was the makeshift ladder made of bamboo and rope. The ladder's consist of 6 steps. Short as it may seem. But the climb will definitely eat the most of your time. You have to push your body up amidst the shaking of the ladder.

Climbing and crawling combined. An experience where your flexibility and endurance get tested. The main objective is how to get out. There's no turning back once you're inside. Eat your fear or let your fear eats you.

I did not mind tracking the time it took us to explore the cave. I simply had my eyes feasted on the beautiful and sparkling stalagmites. Wander the wonder of nature. My mind's also focus on the my steps and the body movements as one false move will lead you to deep down nowhere. I did not mind getting bruises. I did not mind stretching my arms and legs. I just want to be out.

This is one experience I won't forget. My first spelunking experience, my first rappelling, my first to see crystallized rock formations. I've also met new faces and made new friends. I must say I want to try this again. I am now looking forward to my 2nd spelunking experience.

Little by little, with the help of these outdoor activities, I get a hold of my fears. I am slowly battling them. In due time, who knows, it will all be gone.

Embarrassing Moments Need Not Be So Embarrassing!

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 03:04:00 +0000

We all get caught in embarrassing situations every now and then- but there are tried-and-true techniques to help you escape form these little troubles:

1. Stay in control. You can always deal with the situation later.

For instance, if you're dining out with friends and your mate criticizes you, just shrug and say nothing at the time. Don't increase your your embarrassment by openly quarreling with your mate and creating a scene in public that your pals will never forget. Once you and your partner are back home, you can say, "I feel you embarrassed me for no good reason. What's the problem? Let's discuss it."

2. Laugh it off.

Former US President Ronald Reagan was good at cracking jokes to cover up flubs. Whenever he forgot something, for example, he'd say that he could remember what Abraham Lincoln told him years ago, but he couldn't recall what he heard last week!

3. Put a positive spin on the embarrassing situation.

It's a common situation. You walk out of a rest room with your fly still unzipped and someone points it out. Don't get flustered. Just smile and say: "Thanks! Sometimes I'm such a klutz."

4. Don't make a big deal of your embarrassment.

Suppose you knock a cup of coffee over while at a neighbor's home. Don't say "I'm sorry" over and over. Instead offer to clean up the mess- and then switch the subject.

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

MoneySaver Magazine
Vol 3 No 6 June 1994

iBlog8: The 8th Philippine Blogging Summit

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:18:00 +0000

iBlog8: The 8th Philippine Blogging Summit will be on May 25 and 26, 2012 at the Malcolm Theater, UP College of Law, UP Diliman, Quezon City from 8 am to 5 pm.

Note that the first 300 registered participants to come early (on or before 9 am) will be given food stub and participant kit. Afterwards, remaining food stubs and participant kits shall be given to early walk-ins.
iBlog8 is a 2-day FREE event. The first day (May 25) is targeted for bloggers, marketers, businesses and entrepreneurs wanting to understand how to tap blogs as a medium to promote their products and services. Also as a means to generate income. Day 1 also tackles advance topics on blogging – taking blogs to the next level. The second day (May 26) is meant to everyone interested about blogging.

Day 1 AGENDA (May 25)

8:45 Introductions of bloggers in the audience, National Anthem
9:00 – 9:20 Unboxing the true potential of your blog (Carlo Ople)
How to get direct advertisers and investors in your blog. How to turn it into a full fledged online publishing business.
9:30 – 9:50 Creating a Blog Activation Campaign (Mark Joseph Delgado)
Today, blogs and social media networks in the Philippines are not just mere online marketing tools – they already evolved towards becoming effective platforms or springboards in creating activation campaigns for brands. Brand Activation, in the point of view of marketing practitioners, is simply about bringing brands to come to life. Today, blogs (like brands) can come to life too – in both online and offline world. This is achieved through contests, events, promos and other experiential marketing activities.
10:00 – 10:15 BREAK
10:15 – 11:00 SEO and Social Media Marketing Panel

On Site Optimization 101 (Sean Patrick Si)
Inbound Marketing – Merging SEO, Social, Content Marketing, Conversion Optimization and Online Branding (Jason Acidre)
Utilizing Blog Networks for SEO and Social Media Traffic (Kim Tyrone Agapito)

11:20 Keynote Talk: UNILAB
LUNCH
1:00 – 1:20 Blogging, social media and journalism: The use, misuse and abuse of freedom of expression (Danilo Arao)
- Responsibility vs anarchy: Is there such a thing as “borderless” freedom?
- Limited freedom amid absolute control of social media and blogging accounts.
- Dos, don’ts and maybes in blogging and social media.
- Yes-yes and no-nos in blogging and online journalism.
1:30 – 1:50 Social Media and Social Change (Tonyo Cruz)
Social media, especially blogging, play a role in propelling advocacies and causes, whether by individuals or organizations. What the trends and tools in the arsenal of social media that have been and could be used for social change. The age of social also brings about new causes — like #betterinternet, bridging the worsening digital divide and making governments and business more accountable to the public.
2:00 – 2:20 Unwritten Blogging Etiquettes (Gellie Anne Abogado)
Unlike journalism, blogging doesn’t have its own specific code of ethics that is why there would be times when some companies think that bloggers have been becoming abusive of their title as a blogger. Internet is a free space and owning a blog is as simple as 1,2,3. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have the fancy buttons and banners in your blog because once you post a controversial write-up, it will definitely create a stir. Will discuss the importance of researching a topic first before blogging about it, thinking twice before posting that blog post, attending events and why we should blog about it, and what is expected from bloggers.
2:30 – 3:00 Youth and Blogging: The Next Generation Bloggers Are Here (Lloyd Salac)
Fresh perspectives about the youth and their impact on the blogging community and social media. What’s next for the blogging community and social media with youth bloggers.
3:00 – 3:15 BREAK
3:15 – 3:35 Grow Your Blog, Keep Your Voice: Maintain Quality While Expanding Your Blog’s Reach and Brand (Martine de Luna)
Many people begin blogs as an outlet, not chiefly as an income generator. With review blogs, niche blogs and monetized blogs sprouting up like mushrooms, how can YOUR blog stand out in the saturated blog-world. Though ONE key ingredient: quality. Quality writing, quality voice, quality that is YOUR brand, online. Maintaining your unique voice online can be used to build an expansive online space that is uniquely YOU. Talk will look at: How to make quality, intentional, meaningful blog-writing that helps amplify your brand. How to develop and transition content from a blog to other potential platforms that can help expand your brand.
3:45 – 4:05 Bloggers the new PR community (Boris Joaquin)
Marketers and PR peeps nowadays spend a lot of time, money, energy and creativity to actually put together a plausible and meaningful PR campaign to track bloggers top post and promote. Bloggers did not fall off a turnip truck. If they don’t see the value in the pitch, they won’t post. If they fancy that you’re just asking them to post because you want to vampire bat on their Google juice, then you’re likely to be in a whole lot of #fail and possibly a whole lot of pain. The white-hat link-farm organic SEO pwn effect is only secondary if you are, the entire way along, a total Mensch and have amazing assets, viral-quality video, a great pitch, an accurate target, and a gentle, kind and generous follow-through.
4:15 – 4:35 Financial Planning for Bloggers (Garry Zaldy De Castro)
Each blogger should be equipped with financial education as early as possible. Bloggers can also help spread financial literacy even more.
Raffle of sponsor items, iBlog8 shirts, and group photo shot.

Day 2 (May 26)

8:45 Introductions of bloggers in the audience, National Anthem
9:00 – 9:20 The Soul of Blogging (Rem Tanauan)
We have been learning about blogging from only one side of the coin: blogging as a marketing and money-making tool to grow one’s business and organization. To balance the equation, we must also explore the other side. The Soul of Blogging focuses on how to tap this deep inspiration to write, share and blog, how to see and unfold those insights, and how to use blogging as a tool not just to connect, but also to share oneself to the other.
9:30 – 9:50 How NOT to blog (Jay Jaboneta)
“In late 2009, I started blogging using Posterous. The idea that inspired it is the quote that Steve Jobs made famous: Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish. I wanted it to be a blog about people and books for people who are “hungry” for these new ideas. Because of the nature of my work in the corporate world, I really didn’t have much time to think through things and blog about it. So I had an idea! I would ask other people to write for me. But I didn’t actually ask other people to write for my blog. Instead, I interview a few dozen people about what makes them tick and what made them successful. Unfortunately, I had to stop it for an unforeseen career change. I still get some hits from that blog. I want to share how that brief blogging experience changed my life and the life of a few other people. And how it led me to my current path.”
10:00 – 10:15 BREAK
10:15 – 11:00 Blog Writing Panel

Making your blog post work: Inspiring Quotes and Posts (Wendell Glenn Cagape)
Using Public Narrative In Blogging (Bien Eli Nillos)
Blog comedy writing for the not-naturally-funny (Marcelle Fabie)

11:20 Keynote Talk: McDonald’s Philippines
LUNCH
1:00 – 1:20 Teaching and Learning through EduBlogging (Noel Feria)
1:30 – 1:50 How to make your blog stand out from the crowd (Victorino Q. Abrugar)
Guide aspiring bloggers on ensuring that their blogs will become competitive amidst the tough competition in the blogosphere. It will have a quick yet intense discussion on building up the foundation of a blogger, which include acquiring the right personal attributes, choosing the right investments, becoming unique and influential, achieving world-class quality and excellence, leveraging SEO and social media marketing, and ensuring consistency.
2:00 – 3:00 Social Media Panel

Social Media Marketing Shiznit (Carlo Angelo Gonzales)
Optimizing your Blog thru Social Media. Using Hashtags, tags, and keywords (Jeoffrey Solas)
Twitter as an ally in learning (Arvin Antonio V. Ortiz)
Social Media in Business and Advocacy (Grace Bondad Nicolas)

3:15 – 3:30 BREAK
3:30 – 3:50 Leveraging Video for More Traffic and Conversions (Glen S. Dimaandal)
Covers the importance of video blogging, the opportunities that it brings to the table and how you can create simple videos and market them to your target audience.
4:00 – 4:20 Increasing Health Information Access through Blogging (Alvin Cloyd Dakis)
Health Professionals like doctors, nurses and midwives are the front liners in healthcare. They provide health services directly to their clients. But with the advent of “telemedicine” wherein health & medical services can now be accessed online, how are health professionals gearing themselves to include blogging as their means of educating their clients? How is blogging an essential tool in providing accurate and sound health information of health providers to the general public? How can health professionals maintain patient confidentiality & professional ethics especially when they blog about their experiences or even use social media as their tool? How can blogging help in advancing the issues faced by health professionals?
Raffle of sponsor items, iBlog8 shirts, and group photo shot.

DAY 1 & 2 EMCEES / Co-Host are: Flow Galindez and Rod Magaru.

Major sponsors: UNILAB and McDonald’s Philippines.
Silver sponsors: Villar Foundation and TV5.
Patron sponsors: Proactiv Solutions Philippines, Sulit.com.ph, and Gizmo Pro Computers and Gadgets.

For more information, please visit the site: iblogph.org

All of Me - BLAKE

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 03:21:00 +0000

Marvelling Mt. Maculot

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:09:00 +0000

Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.

Mt. Maculot, Cuenca, Batangas (02042012)

This famous quote was coined in the post-war era but later on adopted by most hikers/climbers. There's no greater need to expound what the quote has to say. As a sign of respect to our dear Mother Nature, we aren't suppose to alter it's beauty. We were given the privilege to wander it's beauty at no cost, and I know it's really tempting to bring something home, but it's really better to leave them as it is. :)

I really don't have the head for heights. I easily experience panic attack on high places. And I cry a lot. But I can't resist a friend's invite. I told myself, this an outdoor experience I'll surely won't forget. To go or not to go. I chose to go.

My minds were filled with countless images of me climbing a mountain. I've watched several videos and read articles of people who've dared climb Mt. Maculot. These added fuel to my enthusiasm to go hiking.

And so the big day came. With a backpack-ful of clothing, foods, toiletries, gadgets and some safety kits, we boarded a JAC bus bound for Lipa. Then a jeepney ride to Cuenca. And tricycle ride up to the foot of the mountain.

It's already noon and we've decided to get some rest first then eat lunch. Prepped a bit as we prepare to ascend. It rained but it didn't stop us. It's even more fun to trek where the trail is muddy and wet.

Lunch

Trek na!

I thought of hiking as just plain, long hour of walking down a grassy field. Not a sight of tiredness can be seen on each one's faces.. til we no longer see houses and cemented roads. But rocks, grasses then trees. All lined up. All the images pictured in my head suddenly vanished. I'm facing a real mountain. Not the one I've seen from movies where I can picture meadows (Twilight-type) and tall trees, and hear the birds humming. Hahaha..

At the foot, we offered a prayer to God to bless and guide us as we start to walk the trail, climb over rocks and trees, brave the strong winds and rain til we reach the top. And God did take good care of us. No one felt sick nor harmed. Amen!

How will I describe the trail? For a first timer like me, it's definitely H-A-R-D.. I can't picture how I managed to clinged on the roots and branches and pulling myself up from rocks to rocks. Good thing I wore myself a pair of gloves as there was no moment that I didn't see myself grab whatever my eyes has landed on.

Regaining strength

Stop over!

Helping hands

I already thought of collapsing and giving up. But I know there's really no point for turning back. Glad that there were several stop overs and my friends were all willing to heed my request. Some stop overs were manned and they sell fresh buko juice for 10 pesos. We got the chance to meet fellow hikers who were already descending at that time. And it felt great to hear words of encouragement. There's the famous greeting among hikers, "Good morning sir/mam.. Ingat po kayo sa pagakyat/pagbaba.." The trek took 2-3 hours. Blame it on the stop overs!

Up above, the view was now clearer. There were no more trees but grassy fields. More difficult to climb as there were no more roots nor branches to hold on to. We didn't actually climb upon reaching that part, but crawl. The trail was somewhat steep and since it's now an open field, it's scarier to look down. One false move and you'll see yourself rolling down the trail, leading to nowhere.

It's a messy climb!

Grassy fields

Multi-tasking it is!

Upon reaching the camping the camping site, we unpacked our things and started to put up our tents. We cooked for dinner. Shared some drinks and stories. Our friend Jansen told some stories of Mt Maculot like the girl who committed suicide by jumping off the cliff at Rockies and the guy (..if im not mistaken!) who hung himself at the mango tree. The camping site was once burned so setting up a bonfire is no more allowed. Creepy stories.

Sleeping was a bit of a problem. I'm not namamahay, but the strong gust of wind kept me awake. Katakot! And it's freezing cold outside. I'm already wearing a thick jacket and a blanket but it still sends shivers down the spines.

Pancit and sinigang for dinner

Cold morning

Brekky

After breakfast, we all headed to the Rockies. It ain't that easy to go there. You have to descend a bit then cross a bridge-like formation. Very steep. The climb to Rockies was very challenging. Lots of huge rock formations. I was able to climb but I had to cry first. I haven't climb yet but I am already thinking how are we gonna go down. Again, I felt the urge to give up. But I am already there, few more steps and I will reach the Rockies. And I don't wanna be left behind when all of them are rejoicing reaching the top. With all my strength, I pushed myself up. I didn't dare to look down.

The gust of winds became stronger. Harder to breathe. But the view is so much magnificent! 360 degrees of Taal lake. Some dared to take their pictures on the cliff but I preferred to stay in just one place. I am already consumed with the beauty of the place. Cried. This is truly an unforgettable experience. I patted myself for showing bravery and determination. I thanked God for making me reach this far. Getting up there made me appreciate the beauty of nature and the beauty of life. Mine is one life worth-living.

The mountain experience surely left everyone with a big smile on their face, with a handful of bravery and with a hope-filled lesson that for as long as you believe in something worth doing, you can do it. Always equip yourself with positivity that no one can stop you unless you let them. Let not fear control you but your faith in God. It might leave you tired and wounded but these can be easily remedied.But the experience you shared with other people and with the nature is so much priceless.

Liebster Award

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 06:07:00 +0000

Taken from Romz of To Fit a Miniskirt: Liebster is a German word for dearest..

And Romz found my one and only blog dearest.. So sweet! Only few out of the millions and billions of bloggers out there would find the time and exert much effort to read a blog like mine.. and rate it dearest! Huwaw! It feels great to have received my very first ever blog award! I appreciate it much!

As told by Romz, "Last but not the least eh ang akoy isang tripulante by Angel. Its a travel blog at ang sipag niyang mag-update. Inggiterzz din much ako sa kanya dahil talagang marami siyang napupuntahan. " Bow naman ako jan!

Well, this blog of mine is a mixture of everything: travel, food, lifestyle. I can't focus on just one topic. Because I want to share every little bits and pieces of me to my readers-slash-followers. I don't blog to earn. I blog to share. So, it's really a great honor for someone like Romz to consider mine dearest. Kahit sari-sari ang laman ng blog ko, dearest pala sya sa ibang tao.

And to keep the good tradition, I have to pass this Liebster Award to 3 deserving bloggers. And must abide to these rules:

> Pass this on to three of your favorite blogs

> These blogs should have less than 200 followers

> Let them know about the award

> Link back to the blog who gave you the award

First on my list, Sendo of Sendorero.com. This guy fascinates me. I simply love his posts. And thanks for being so visible in my blog!

Second, I will give it to MomDaughterStyle. Not only a deserving blog she has, but a deserving mom too! Can hardly believe how she's able to manage her blog and her kiddo! That's what you call time management.

Lastly, ate Daryll of I Am Dial. I have personally met this great girl and, she is, oh so, lovely! She has a very adorable kid. She also knows how to manage her time wisely between her daughter and her blog.

Hope you'll all like this award. Because I know you all deserve to have the very best! Just don't forget to do your share!

A New Year has Begun

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 06:23:00 +0000

♪♫ We're gonna party like, party like it's the end of the world

We're gonna party like, like it's 2012

You know that it doesn't matter as long as we got each other

Turn it up, turn it up, mash it up, it ain't the end of the world.. ♪♫

Happy New Year everyone! Happy 2012!

Everyone's so excited to face the new year. New chances, new hopes, new promises. Time to start with a clean slate. We're loaded with a list of resolutions as we aspire for a better us. We're putting extra care and effort to avoid things we don't want. We try to be the nicest of who we are.

Let us pray that we'll all be able to fulfill these new chances, hopes and promises. Let's open our hearts and minds amidst the changes. Nothing is impossible. Just have faith in God.

Are we all in this together? Let's make a pinky promise and welcome 2012! =)

Best I Ever Had

noreply@blogger.com (Angel) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 12:54:00 +0000

A few hours from now, 2011 will be gone.. And comes 2012. People are all agitated to create their list of New Year's Resolution. A list of what we want to be and not. But I am not going to create one when I know that I won't be able to fulfill what I just had written. Sad but true. Tons of promises await only to realize that they will simply stay as mere promises. =(

What I can possibly create is a list of the best things I had experienced for the entire year of 2011. This is something I can truly be proud of for I was able to do all the desires of my life. 2011 was not a perfect year for me. I still had my share of not-so-good moments. But I did try to exert the best possible effort to turn things into something positive. And I've somewhat won that battle. =)

I was lucky enough to have survived under the knife. It was indeed a new life for me. I still have a clear picture in my mind of what has transpired on those days. A moment I truly did not expect to happen. I did not only learn that operation was certainly something one should not be afraid of but I also learned to value my family as they've shown me the true meaning of unconditional love.

2011 also paved way to my travel adventures. Big thanks goes to my travel buddy. First stop was Daranak Falls. It wasn't planned properly but it did go through. First encounter with falls. And I fell in love with it. Weeks after and I just saw myself standing before Taytay Falls in Majayjay, Laguna. First time I went camping. It felt weird and I can hardly sleep as I hear the loud gushing of the waterfalls. It felt like we'll be swept away by the waters any moment.

The year was so grateful that I had my most number of "My First..". My first Hot Air Balloon encounter. Such a huge balloon I've seen my entire life! First jet plane exhibitions that I've never imagined I will witness. The first concert I've seen from an international and famous singer-composer Stephen Bishop and Dan Hill. It made me love their songs more.

My first out of town trip. First destination went as far as the Queen City of the South, Cebu. I can only imagine Cebu on postcards, internet and word of mouth. I didn't really dream of setting my feet here as early as the third quarter of 2011. My love for Cebu had it's second course when I sailed off again come third quarter of the year. My goal then was to witness at least half of what Cebu has to offer. From the city up to it's provinces, I've wandered. Marveled by the beauty of it's people and nature, I said to myself that I will go back here. There's still more that i missed. The islands of Malapascua, Bantayan and Camotes were already on top my list.

I've also set my foot to what was regarded as God's Little Paradise, Bohol. And I didn't miss to pay the marvelous Chocolate Hills a visit. From the man-made forest to a river cruise, it left me in awe that everything happened in just one day. The white sand of Panglao beach made me love the waters more.

My first encounter with my dreaded fears, water and heights. I maybe hundreds to thousands of feet away from the ground but the feeling itself inside an airplane provided comfort. Thanks to different sorts of diversion like magazines and entertainment from the flight attendants, I almost forgot I am an acrophobic! But not with my first sail on the deep blue sea. I can't help but equipped myself with tons of rubber vest for the fear that in any moment the ferry might sink. Well, just me and my wild imagination! But then again, my trips went safely.

My list doesn't end here. But I am gonna stop for now. I've just shared some of the major highlights of my life. And I'm pretty sure everyone has. Learn to discover it and cherish it. These made us the person we've become now.

The many social gatherings I've attended. The many people I've met and mingled upon. The heaps of knowledge I've learned from them. It somewhat molded me to become a well-rounded person. Gone were the days that I would just sit and stay alone all by myself. Gone were the instances that I would pretend to be happy when I am really not. For I have learned that true happiness can be achieve by doing the things I loved the most, without any hesitations, without any regrets.

2011 has brought me not only the best but also the worst. But I didn't dwell on the worst much for I know that it wouldn't just do me any good. I've learned to focus on my strengths. I've learned to minimize my errors. Whatever it is that has happened in the past must stay in the past. As a lesson and not as my biggest regret in life.

I loved what 2011 has provided for me. Because I've learned to love myself more than anybody else. I've realized the value of people, of things and of time. I've regained my self-worth. I am slowly recuperating from a painful heartbreak. I can now laugh at my mistakes. I am free as a bird.

2011. It unleashed my free will. It made me developed my confidence. It made me act natural and true to myself. Thanks 2011. Just had the best of my times served.