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SONA 2019 Notes

2019-07-23T23:13:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the fourth State of the Nation Address of President Rodrigo Duterte. This is SONA 2019 in 280 characters (max).

Another SONA success story. #SONA2019 https://t.co/dFkc1y0aVu
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

14 minutes past four in the afternoon. Ano na naman meron? #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Noong college ako kapag 20 minutes late ang prof, wala nang klase. Uwian na dapat ito. #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

#SONA2019 finally enters Top 20 worldwide trends. pic.twitter.com/JMF30Y8pin
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Kung maka-Filipino time naman si Mayor. #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Bleep. #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Ayaw niya raw sa "too much adulation." To whom it may concern: O, nakikinig ba kayo? #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Wala siyang kaibigang mayaman? Mahirap lang si Bong Go? #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

The president is not just pushing for China BFF of the year, he's now transitioned as their apologist. Sorry, Philippines, priorities lang. #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Kailangang isali ang girlfriend sa kwentuhan. In front of the daughter. Walang kakupas-kupas. #SONA2019 https://t.co/0qTSTSOAhU
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

"Thank you very much." Best part of the speech. #SONA2019
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Also, action speaks louder than words. #SONA2019 https://t.co/wJU0m84Ot2
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 22, 2019

Cheerdance 2018 Notes

2018-11-18T12:28:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. Here's the 2018 UAAP Cheerdance Competition in 280 characters (max).

Wow. Trending already. #UAAPCDC2018 pic.twitter.com/ax1fIhs1hq
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Okay. Here we go. Cheerleader mode on. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

These courtside reporters though.

Promise hindi ako tatawa, promise. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Dali naman. Inaantok na ako. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Ah, the pressures of being the first performers. That was, um, interesting, UE Pep. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Let me just say, we all feelin' the pinch, eh? #UAAPCDC2018 https://t.co/Ra3kHoT5xZ
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Am I the only one who cringes whenever I see people doing the finger heart thingy? #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

That moment when the pyramid wasn't completed perfectly, heartbreaking. Great dancing though, UP Pep Squad. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

It wasn't devoid of errors but UST Salinggawi, that was spectacular! #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

We out here slaying Saturday Twitter. #UAAPCDC2018 pic.twitter.com/4iVozBv7pv
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Audience participation saves this one for the Animo Squad. Better luck next time? #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Nationalians talaga? Really? Okay. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Guess who just slayed #UAAPCDC2018? NU Pep Squad, that's who.
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

This is so in the bag. Way to go, NU! #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

That was nice and pretty, Blue Babble Battalion, but I'm afraid we all haven't recovered from the last performers. Sorry. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Okay, it's only now I'm realizing it's Babble, not Bubble. Sorry, Ateneo. My bad. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

That was refreshing, FEU Cheering Squad. Not enough to challenge NU for the top spot but good enough to rattle UST and UP. Good luck, judges! #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

That fall though. The whole of NU heaved a sigh of relief. "We got this!" #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Good effort from the Adamson Pep Squad. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

I have said this in 2015 and I will say this again this 2018. The problem starts when they try to challenge themselves with more. They tend to bite more than they can chew. Then they fail. #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Just putting it out here for #UAAPCDC2018. https://t.co/P8wD4yCuxO
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Mahirap na po talaga ang buhay sa Pinas. Kahit ang UAAP Cheerdance apektado. #UAAPCDC2018 pic.twitter.com/7pIxgqcJNC
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Congratulations to the NU Pep Squad, FEU Cheering Squad, and the Adamson Pep Squad for winning the Group Stunts competition. Well done, teams! #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Big congratulations to the same teams, NU Pep Squad, FEU Cheering Squad, and Adamson Pep Squad for making it to the podium of #UAAPCDC2018!
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Well done, NU Pep! Champions once again! Congrats! #UAAPCDC2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

Still trending, huh? @ABSCBNNewsSport #UAAPCDC2018 pic.twitter.com/siVWQ0CUck
— Che. (@chegeronimo) November 17, 2018

There you have it, the UAAP Season 81 Cheerdance Competition. See you all next year!

SONA 2018 Notes

2018-07-24T01:24:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the third State of the Nation Address of President Rodrigo Duterte. This is SONA 2018 in 280 characters (max).

Nine minutes to four in the afternoon. Trending already, eh? #SONA2018 pic.twitter.com/zxFZrEu5jU
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Only in the Philippines. A former president accused of plunder, jailed, and later freed by the present administration is now the Speaker of the House. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Professor Umbridge, er, Congresswoman, what kind of sorcery is this? #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Pack up na tayo, Direk! #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

These comedians in the house. Under state of calamity po ang maraming lugar sa Pilipinas, anong ipinaglalaban ninyo ngayon sa Batasan? #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

"These comedians in the House. Under state of calamity po ang maraming lugar sa Pilipinas, anong ipinaglalaban ninyo ngayon sa Batasan? #SONA2018" [edited]

Human lives? I'm sorry, what? #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Corruption daw, uy. Grabe, ako naman ang nahiya para sa mga tao sa audience. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

"My God, I hate drugs." Ay, wala ba? Sorry, my bad. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

How many mentions of China now? I've lost count. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Bong Go for...

P-Noy once congratulated Joel Villanueva for a job well done in one of his SONA. Look where he is now.

I rest my case. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

"Bong Go for...

P-Noy once congratulated Joel Villanueva for a job well done in one of his SONAs. Look where he is now.

I rest my case. #SONA2018" [edited]

In fairness, Direk, walang uncomfortable artsy shots. No cringey moments. So far. Congrats! #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

TRAIN law is already helping poor families? How? Where? When? #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

This is 35 minutes? #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Now it can be said, GMA the House Speaker stole the thunder from the President and his SONA. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

"I will not bore you with a list of projects completed."

But, sir, it is what the State of the Nation Address is all about. Not making a bunch of promises again just like in the campaign. #SONA2018
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 23, 2018

Kaya mo pa ba, Pilipinas?

Four. More. Years.

Cheerdance 2017 Notes

2017-12-02T23:49:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. Here's the 2017 UAAP Cheerdance Competition in 280 characters (max).

Okay, here we go. Cheer mode on. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Is it just me or this opening cheer segment by the courtside reporters is really the most cringeworthy thing ever on national TV? It's like saying, "okay, let the bashing begin." #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Too much energy can kill you. Hurting my ears, to be honest. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Sorry, #NUPepSquad, I don't think number five is happening. Too fast-paced. Everybody seems to be scrambling at some point. But the second part is really nice to watch. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Um, this is, um... simple? The #DLSUAnimoSquad played it safe. Too safe. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Wow, #AdamsonPepSquad, that was something. It wasn't as flawless to ensure a podium finish at this point of the competition but it was good. You did good. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

It's truly sad when a failed pyramid ruins a good performance. I feel you, #FEUCheeringSquad. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Did the courtside reporters write their own spiels? They're interesting. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Can you finally make me proud, #UEPepSquad? #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Whoa! #UEPepSquad, I actually feel like a proud mom. You did great this time. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Signature fighting spirit? There is such a thing? #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Welcome back to the #UAAPCDC2017, #UPPepSquad! Maybe it's just me but the hype of being back translates to some kind of pressure. I miss the difficult routine with the effortless performance by the whole squad.
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

It wasn't as clean but the pyramids were awesome. It's almost like having my old #USTSalinggawiDanceTroupe back. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

That was actually good, #AteneoBlueBubbleBattalion. I am surprised. No offense. Some falls, yes, but you did better as expected. Again, no offense. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

It's not that I hate it but I don't particularly like it when other teams include another team's signature move in their routine. But it's just me. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

I haven't been to a live UAAP game in nine years. I miss the cheering and the drums to be perfectly honest. The PBA has its own brand of cheers and most of them I don't like hearing. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Nagmamadali na si @gretchenho. Gusto na yatang umuwi. Traffic na. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

We all did that. #UAAPCDC2017 pic.twitter.com/TMckae8RQw
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

What's taking so long? This long break is making me entertain cooking conspiracies. #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Third! Wow! Back at the podium, eh? #UAAPCDC2017 https://t.co/YW6X67Fl4l
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Runner-up! My old Gawi's back! #UAAPCDC2017 https://t.co/UbLspfrY7T
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Champion! Wow! Congratulations, you guys! #UAAPCDC2017 https://t.co/yCC6EOLdl1
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Less errors, less mistakes. Simplicity is big this year. That's the story of #UAAPCDC2017. Congratulations to all the winners!
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Wow! #UAAPCDC2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) December 2, 2017

Group Stunts winners are FEU Cheering Squad, Adamson Pep Squad, and UP Pep Squad. Congratulations everyone! To the other schools who missed the podium this year, there's always the next.

Cheers to all the cheerleaders in today's competition. You're amazing, all of you.

SONA 2017 Notes

2017-07-25T11:33:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the second State of the Nation Address of President Rodrigo Duterte. This is SONA 2017 in 140 characters (max).

Here we go. #SONA2017 has entered the top 20 worldwide trends. pic.twitter.com/wfEMJa0xjQ
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

The thug life. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Freddie Aguilar, really? #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

"Loyalty to friends and co-workers..." #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Brillante Mendoza said no more artsy shots. Well, he's going for weird and uncomfortable to watch shots now. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Direk, ano bang gusto mong iparating sa presidente? Kailangan na niyang bumisita sa derma para magpa-facial? #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Ted Failon, FTW! #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

I'm sorry, but why is former President Fidel Ramos with a headset? He needs interpretation for this? #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

The Speaker of the House applauding enthusiastically to the two family system. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Wait. Wait. Okay lang na kami ang lindulin? Rural areas? Did I hear that right? #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Direk, please stop. Enough of the nose shots. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Direk! May contest ba kung ilan ang open pores ng presidente? Tama na po. Parang awa mo na. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Para na akong nasa comedy bar. 😂✌ #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

But you don't judge me
'Cause if you did, baby, I would judge you too 🎶#SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

And we're back to the ramblings of an old man. My apologies, but it is. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Teacher: So ano ang narinig at natutunan natin sa #SONA2017 speech ng Pangulo?
Student: *bleep*, *bleep*, *bleep*.
Teacher: Class dismissed!
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Ha! We actually agree on something! #RHLaw #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Free of charge? China? Ows... #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Also, this time next year, the Philippines will officially be a province of China. #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

How to speed read when you're not interested in the topic. The state of the nation, ladies and gentlemen! #SONA2017
— Che. (@chegeronimo) July 24, 2017

Yes, I am not a fan. If it isn't obvious yet. Yes, I did not vote for him. I didn't vote for any presidential candidate, period. None of them deserved my vote.

I realized at some point last year that I have become that person. You know that person who complains about everything that's going on in the country? That person who irks friends and followers on social media because of continuous rants it's almost necessary to unfollow? Yeah, that person.

And I didn't want to be one.

It wasn't my intention but I wasn't one to be quiet about what I see and hear. I don't like him, that much is clear. He probably doesn't like me either. I'm assuming but just to make me feel better I'm claiming that.

I have a very different idea of how my president should act. I have watched and heard leaders around the world conduct themselves in public. Most importantly, I have a very good idea of how older people should behave so the younger generation would do well with them as role models.

I did not grow up in a household where curse and foul words are okay. I did not grow up thinking those words are normal enough to be spoken on a regular basis. If any of you reading this knows someone from my family and knows firsthand he or she is not as proper as what I am trying to make them, remember I said I did not grow up hearing foul words at home. No, not in my house. I am not naive to think they don't either outside with friends and at work. It didn't happen with me within hearing distance, that much I'm sure.

If they did and still do, they probably are not on top of my favorite family members list.

I know of and use some. I'm not entirely clean of everything that may be considered bad words. I have the occasional S and D words slipping out of me; the Tagalog T and G but nowadays it's with the less mean (I think) E and I ending ones. Never directed directly to any person, that I'm conscious of. If I can't help it, I use the words parang and lang before and after the T and G words. I heard it said directly to me in school before and I didn't like it.

There was a time in high school when I caved. A small group in my class was so fond of the PI words, I thought fine. They practically used them in every sentence. I knew it was bad but in a moment of weakness, a lapse in judgment kind of thing. I embraced it. For a couple of days. A junior, yes, a junior told me off. I was a senior. He asked why I was using the words. It doesn't suit me then, so out of character. I'm a girl, first and foremost. I had no answers for him. The next day I completely erased them from my vocabulary.

I have a few more things I don't like about the president. His close relationship to questionable families and entities; his propensity to joke about women that often borders on being disrespectful; his breaking the laws of the land; and his handling of the drug war; but this is getting too long I have to end it. I probably need to write another piece to further explain myself.

I do recognize the fact he is the elected president of the Republic of the Philippines. A very popular one, even I have to acknowledge that. I'm just taking offense, constantly, of hearing him assault my ears with words I never wanted to hear. If I have children, and I'm very thankful I don't, I wouldn't want them around when the president delivers his speeches. Sorry, but no.

Cheerdance 2016 Notes

2016-11-19T21:43:00.002+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. Here's the 2016 UAAP Cheerdance Competition in 140 characters (max).

The @Jollibee Chi-Cheer Kayo Challenge! Yay! #UAAPCDC2016 https://t.co/QbMU159rnJ
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Okay, boys and girls, cheer mode on! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Why are we using two different tags, may I ask? #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Wait. Where's @gamedaywithboom? #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Welcome back to the UAAP, @gretsfullido! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Wow. The judges' box has gone international. Parang United Nations General Assembly. ✌ #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Those sponsor's logo prints on the mat are pretty annoying to look at. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Level up, Animo Squad! Refreshing to watch. That was cool, the other schools in your routine. Nice! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

I'm sorry but I'm so tired of the PUSO bit. Wala na bang bago? #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Gawi, you've always been the best dancers of the lot. It wasn't the most solid performance but PAK! You rock! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

This is too painful to watch, BBB. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Hope everyone's okay though. Physically. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

That was really entertaining, FEU. You nailed it with the theme. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Wow, Adamson! I think you have a very big chance of making it to the podium this year. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Aw. A marriage proposal. Cheers all around! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

You started strong and you made me very proud, UE. It just didn't go well in the middle. You all are real troopers. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

I think NU has this in the bag. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Who knew you can find the best gymnasts of this competition in the heart of Sampaloc? #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Those who fell, twisted an ankle, or pulled a muscle, go find some ice. Better yet, get checked by your team doc. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

When you're trending even if you're not in this year's competition. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016 pic.twitter.com/Hy8BtWvZWt
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

I pity the Star Magic talent to co-host this next year. Having @gretsfullido now just took it to another level. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Kudos to @AlyssaValdez2 for doing a good job. Sticking to the language she's most comfortable with did the trick. 👍 #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

I miss @gamedaywithboom but @NikkoRMS did good as replacement. I just thought he was @robertmarion at first. ✌ #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

See, I told you they'd make it to the podium. Good job, Adamson! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Let's go to Broadway, FEU! Congrats! I did say you nailed it. Ha! 🙅🙆🙇 #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Wow! 4-peat! Super mega sale na sa SM! Yes! Congratulations, NU! #UAAPCDC2016 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

This is why I need that EDIT button, Twitter!

"Wow! 4-peat! Super mega sale na sa SM! Yes! Congratulations, NU! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016" [edited]

Reviewing my tweets. I got them all three. Ha! I'm a UAAP Cheerdance freak! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

My heart goes out to my beloved Gawi. Next year you come out stronger and better. No way but up. Remember that. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

To my alma mater, you were warriors out there. See you next year. #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

Before I switch to Azkals mode, let me just say that I will forever be in awe of the student athletes. Mabuhay kayo! #UAAPCDC79 #UAAPCDC2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) November 19, 2016

SONA 2016 Notes

2016-07-26T01:00:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets about the first State of the Nation Address of President Rodrigo Duterte. Here's SONA 2016 in 140 characters (max).

Was it my TV, my cable, or the microphone really was faulty? #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Wait. This is the first time I'm seeing GMA. What happened to the neck brace, madame? #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Okay. So we won't stop until the population is back to a manageable 75 million. He said under the ground, right? #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

"Okay. So we won't stop until the population is back to a manageable 75 million? He said below the ground, right? #SONA2016" [edited]

I like the term. Fanatical terrorism. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

The thing is, Mr President, I don't think China is willing to share South China Sea with us. It's not in their system. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

I honestly believe every peace-loving Filipino has that dream, too. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

I find it funny the whole of Congress and government officials are applauding on lowering taxes in the business sector. I mean... #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

I honestly don't understand his fascination with the federal system of government. Should I go back to high school Social Studies? #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Who's directing this gig? Interesting shots. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Doesn't @enjoyGLOBE has the 8888 number already? #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Joke time pa more. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Senator Loren's facial expression. Best of the day so far. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

RH Law without reservations? #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Oh, stop it, Mr President. You're making Secretary Gina blush. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Sorry couldn't resist. Mahaba pala ang kuko ng presidente. He likes it that way, huh. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

So now we'll pay double the money for that double the validity time, thank you very much. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

But I like the no waiting, no lines. If only it's possible. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Free wifi everywhere! Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram galore! Goodbye worker productivity! Yehey! #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

"Free Wi-Fi everywhere! Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram galore! Goodbye worker productivity! Yehey! #SONA2016" [edited]

I believe he really wants change and hopes for a better Philippines but then I remember who are in the audience, so yeah. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Check that. Wala rin po akong natatandaang pagsusunog ng effigy at kaguluhan back in 2010. #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Delayed reaction on the national broadband plan. Oh, are we inviting ZTE again to bid? Hello, Mikey and Glo! Happy days! #SONA2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) July 25, 2016

Well, we have six years of him. Let's see. Enjoy the ride, Pilipinas!

Five Little Things I Learned in Singapore Part 3

2016-06-20T22:11:00.000+08:00

Oh, hello again, Changi!

1. I was so busy holding off sarcasm and incredulity I totally missed the fact I may have been subjected to discrimination. But I'm giving the immigration officer the benefit of the doubt. He's just doing his job, after all.

Immigration officer: Is this house? (pointing at the address on my immigration card)
Me: Yes.
IO: In a building?
Me: What do you mean?
IO: Is this apartment?
Me: No.
IO: Condo?
Me: No.
IO: A real house?
Me: Yes.
IO: On a land?
Me: Uh, a house built on a land, yeah.
IO: Stand alone house?
Me: Yes.
IO: Not building?
Me: A house. A real house. Built on a land with neighbors next door, yeah. Near the American School?
IO: Ah. Okay. Here you go. (finally hands my passport back)

2. 13th floor exists in Singapore! Ha! I didn't know that from previous visits.

3. Me and Orchard Road? We click. My cousin and I would leave the house together and then split once we arrive in Orchard. She would go about her business and I was left to my own devices to explore. And explore I did.

4. Traffic. There's traffic now in this city-state, even along the expressway. What's happening? I asked the taxi driver on my way to the airport.

Me: Is there traffic?
Taxi driver: Here and there, ye.
Me: I noticed that. What's with all the road construction everywhere?
TD: Ha! They keep digging and digging.
Me: Why?
TD: We don't know! The electric company is digging and then when they finish, the telephone company will dig again! And water also. They dig and dig on the same spot. Never-ending!
Me: That's sad.
TD: I know! That's why there's traffic. We don't have them before.

5. I saved the best for last. Let me just take a moment to fully appreciate and celebrate this. My phone is working! I mean, I had a working phone. In Singapore! The first time I was in the country I didn't have roaming service and that's when cellphones don't have Wi-Fi connectivity yet. Then I lost my phone the same hour I arrived on my second visit. This time was a success.

Singtel was having problems the whole week so the internet at the house comes and goes. Sounds familiar, eh? Props to Takashimaya, Paragon, and Ion for their very good internet access. The other malls have to keep up. I can get network reception at Causeway Point better than the other malls in Orchard. We had breakfast every day at Starbucks but their Wi-Fi access is asking for a Facebook password. Not happening. We didn't feel comfortable with that.

Overall, I had an exceptional time. I didn't get to sight-see but that wasn't the purpose of the trip. I learned a lot about myself that I didn't know before. It was raining also so any spur of the moment plans I may have had were immediately canceled. The wet season in Singapore is not until September so it was a bit unusual. The taxi driver told me climate change did that. He was very chatty, that one.

Did I mention it was my birthday week? By far my most memorable one.

PiliPinas Debates 2016

2016-04-25T02:48:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the third and last presidential debate organized by the Commission on Elections. It was hosted by ABS-CBN and Manila Bulletin. Here's the PiliPinas Debates 2016 in 140 characters (max).

Let's see who's gonna be the busiest. Game on! #PiliPinasDebates2016 pic.twitter.com/XgOyItWqD4
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Miriam is making me sad. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Ha! There's actually something Binay and I agree on. I wanted that DOTC broken into two since last year. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Transportation and Communication are too much work for one department. Too many agencies under both of them too. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

"Transportation and Communication are too much work for one department. Too many agencies under both of them, too. #PiliPinasDebates2016" [edited]

There are paramedics on standby, right? #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Senator Miriam is making me and everybody uncomfortable. Is she well? #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

All good for the ears but sadly, reality doen't work that way. Some things just aren't possible. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Turn off that microphone when their time's up! #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Evasion. Still the name of the game. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Me is me. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Thank you, Mayor. Yes, ma'am. Are you okay? #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

"With all due respect, Madame Senator, it's not black propaganda. We are just genuinely concerned for you. #PiliPinasDebates2016"

I find it funny that he is demanding answers from her when he himself refused to answer the questions asked of him. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Yes or no! #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Fast talk Binay round: Karen slays! #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Fast talk Santiago round: Funny girl, this one. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Fast talk Duterte round: Candid. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Fast talk Poe round: Charming. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Fast talk Roxas round: Kampanya pa more. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

No taxes and everything is free? How is that even possible? #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Oh, this is getting nasty. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Oh no, he didn't! He said the DECENT word! #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

He is the VP, they are senators, cabinet secretary, and mayor. They keep forgetting the fact they are all part of the government.
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

I've been waiting but so far nothing. They were all wrong. Poverty is not the root of the problem. Overpopulation is. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

The government has difficulty providing basic services because there's just too many of us. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

There's traffic everywhere because there's just too many of us on the road. #PiliPinasDebates2016
— Che (@chegeronimo) April 24, 2016

Overall, it was entertaining. Informative, yes. It certainly drew a clear picture of how the presidentiables react to certain situations presented to them.

So on May 9, vote wisely. Listen to your conscience. Do not be swayed by what social media is bombarding you with every single day. Ultimately, it's your choice.

Cheerdance 2015 Notes

2015-10-04T13:15:00.001+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. Here's the 2015 UAAP Cheerdance Competition in 140 characters (max).

Frustrated cheerleader mode on. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Gigil pa more! #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Define energy. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

UP Pep Squad

Um, requirement ba ang ❤? #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

It wasn't as clean and as perfect as in years past but they had some wow moments. Very un-UP Pep Squad though, those misses. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

DLSU Animo Squad

That gave me a headache. I guess I'm not the rock and roll type. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

That was really interesting, Animo Squad. Interesting. That's all I can say. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Ateneo Blue Bubble Battalion

One word. Tanked. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

They weren't good dancers nor good gymnasts either. What were they thinking doing a routine with that level of difficulty? #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

NU Pep Squad

It was pretty engaging. Truly. I was hanging on to every toss and flip. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

I like it when a squad sticks to simple stunts, then concentrates on perfecting them for a flawless performance. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

The problem starts when they try to challenge themselves with more. They tend to bite more than they can chew. Then they fail. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

UE Pep Squad

In fairness, UE Pep, that was a hell lot better than I expected of you. You. Surprised. Me! Isn't it amazing? #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Adamson Pep Squad

Good dancers, this Adamson squad. A little more polishing here and there, and they will be up there in the podium every year. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

FEU Cheering Squad

So puso talaga? #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

"Ay, puso ba 'yon? #UAAPCDC2015"

FEU got the moves, and the skills. Too bad with those errors though. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

"Puso na naman? Valentine's? #UAAPCDC2015"

UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe

Oh, wow! This is spectacular, Gawi! Amazing performance! Super flawless! #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

You made me cry, Gawi. You're back! Old formula is magic. Daanin lang sa sayaw. Because it's what you do best. Good job! #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Nothing's wrong with keeping it simple, and safe. Why complicate a routine with stunts you have trouble executing perfectly? #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Awards, prizes

"Daming 'pinapamigay na malalaking tseke ah. #UAAPCDC2015"

The most dangerous job for a Star Magic artist: Hosting the UAAP Cheerdance Competition
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

The moment of truth. Here we go. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

Oops. UP Pep Squad is this year's 2nd runner-up. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

1st runner-up is the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe. #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

NU! Wow! 3-peat! #UAAPCDC2015
— Che (@chegeronimo) October 3, 2015

The camera distance made it impossible for me to watch the cheerleaders up close and made me missed the painting job some teams did on their supposed to be joyful, smiling faces. Good thing though because they were definitely nightmare image material.

Congratulations to all the winners this year. Good job, all of you. To the losers, well, there's always next year! Cheers!

Simbang Gabi 2014 Notes

2014-12-18T14:48:00.001+08:00

Day 1: You know it's the first night when there's that distinct smell of sweaters and jackets on their first excursion out of their owners' closets for the first time in months, maybe a year. Good for them. Cheers to temporary freedom!

Day 2: I fully understand the need of parents to bring the kids with them, I really do. Bring a toy if you must. We all know how kids are. But please, DO NOT let your kid play with a singing, dancing fish while at church. Seriously, DON'T. EVER.

Day 3: I tried to ignore them, truly. I reminded myself I was in church. That I was there to hear mass. Not to go grammar and spelling police so early in the morning. But... but I'd like to know who was responsible for the... the mistake? Who made those teenage boys wear green sash that says USHERETTE? You know what's even more sad? Those boys have no idea they are now, uh, girls.

Day 4: Wonderful singing voice by the one leading the Responsorial Psalm. You close your eyes and feel every word go right through your very veins. Yes, that kind. His voice quality is so outstanding I was half-expecting The Voice PH coaches to appear out of nowhere.

Chilly morning. Very Christmas-y. So refreshing especially since the mass is being heard out on the patio. You get a whiff of dog poop when the wind blows but it's just a tiny blip to enjoying Christmas mornings in Morong.

Day 5: I am officially an old maid. I get bothered easily by misbehaving kids, no, tweens, during mass. I can understand children. Those small ones have no concept yet of what's appropriate or not. But tweens, they're 10 to 12-year-olds, pass First Communion age, I'm pretty sure they know the difference between a church and a park.

Four of them, initially, were seated in front of me. Two steps down the patio stairs to be precise. One boy and three girls. Boy at far left has his head down on his arms that were resting on his knees, sleeping. And so was the girl at far right. The girl beside the boy has her cellphone out, checking out photos. I mean you can't help it. She had it out in the open, for everyone to see. No effort whatsoever to hide it or something. She had it on her hands, elbows on knees. It wasn't possible to miss really. The girl beside her was chatting with her, occasionally looking on what cellphone-girl was showing her.

The lector finished with announcements, prayers before Processional, priest arrived at the altar, officially started mass and so on. They group never stood up. Still sleeping, phone still out, still chatting.

I was confused, annoyed, flabbergasted, you name it. At some point they were joined by some of their friends, how many I wasn't sure. I tried desperately to concentrate on the mass, looked straight, never looked down. There was a rustling sound some time, I ignored it. Gospel, Homily passed, they were still in their own world. I guess I lost it at Offertory. I can't hear the priest, the group's voices were drowning what's being said. I let out a "Shhh!" then look down at them for a second. They got the message, for a minute. Then back on. I was at a loss for words. Just before the Lord's Prayer, cellphone-girl stood up. I was like, 'Oh finally!' But no, she got out of her seat, stepped down the steps and walked away, presumably to the restroom. Before the Lord's Prayer!

Thankfully, at long last, the group stood up to sing Ama Namin. Praise the Lord! Then sat down again after. Cellphone-girl came back to sit again. I was dying in disappointment. And believe it or not, when Communion is about to start, they stood back up again, to receive the Holy Communion. I was about to go crazy. For the love of... I stepped down, fell in line. Didn't come back there after. I chose a spot meters away from them and just stayed standing up until the end of the service.

i don't believe they were still there but for my own sanity I let myself in the fantasy.

I'm... I'm... What was the point exactly? Why bother getting up so very early in the morning just to... just to... hang?

Oh, I discovered the reason for the rustling sound before I walked away from them. They were eating! Like Chippy! That also explained the coughing fit I heard. Too much salt with no drinking water. Well...

I tried my best to concentrate but there's too much going on in front of me. I was so bothered by the utter disrespect for the church and of the Holy Mass of those young people.

I felt guilty myself for not being 100 percent into it. I hope to do better tomorrow. But please, kids, if you can't or won't participate in the service, don't bother coming at all.

Mass distraction, that's what they are. May they receive enlightenment hopefully before Christmas day.

P.S. Dear teenage girl in a blue Apartment 8 dress. You look good. Dress looks great on you. But the transparent part on the midriff area and down below close to the hemline is too inappropriate to wear to church. Seriously.

Day 6: As I have said before, I understand why parents bring their small kids to church. What I don't understand is why they felt the need to buy them a toy that is sure to disrupt the service. The twinkling multicolored lights are disturbance enough but tolerable. One that yells dancing tunes, that's just too much.

You have a toddler, you should know by now how to deal with your kid. A little manipulation never hurts. You give a child a toy that squeaks and sings, chances are he will get that thing to squeak and sing, over and over again.

I wanted very much to snatch the toy away, take out its batteries then give it back to the kid. Tell him the toy got tired and decided to sleep. Maybe he should sleep, too?

Day 7: Visiting priest from Pampanga was late for 45 minutes. Nothing else to do but people watch. Kid from yesterday turned up with his family clutching the source of my irritation. I chanted silently, "Oh no, not here. Not here. Move along." Lucky they did.

Service was fast but insightful. Morning chill chills. Seven down, two to go.

Day 8: Quiet service. Almost done.

Day 9: Done! It's raining though so the mass was held inside the church. And I was a bit late because of two nieces who decided to join me for this last night. Church was packed. But people here are nice and merry they lent us their plastic chairs so we weren't standing all throughout.

I could do with some Christmas carols at the end but it's just me. I feel like we all need cheering up after the rains somehow managed to 'rain on our parade' literally.

Anyway, I did it. Again. From start to finish. Although it didn't finish the way it started, it was still the same old Simbang Gabi. Dawn masses, not the anticipated ones for me this year.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME AND TO YOU ALL!

Let us not forget the reason for the season.

Too Close to Home

2014-11-09T11:03:00.001+08:00

14 days after Yolanda, I found myself in a makeshift movie set as they simulate a Category 5 hurricane in New York City. I stood there horror-struck, feeling sick and completely unable to appreciate the movie magic happening before my very eyes. All my brain could process was that's how it was in Tacloban and Samar, maybe even worse. It was distressing.

I totally wanted to go out the moment I realized what I was about to see but I didn't think it was possible when the ushers closed the door. That was by far the most uncomfortable experience of my life. I told the sis-in-law on our way out, "Parang mali we even watched that." Too close to home.

I felt like posting a sign at the door for Filipinos not to proceed as it may be troubling. And damaging to the soul, really.

As the nation remembers the anniversary of Yolanda, I will continue to pray for the people of Samar and Leyte to have never-ending strength and courage to help them through the rest of their lives.

(Photo from the Universal Studios Singapore website)

Cheerdance 2014 Notes

2014-09-16T02:08:00.002+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. Here's the 2014 UAAP Cheerdance Competition in 140 characters (max).

For the first time in forever... #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

For the first time in forever... Replay ang pag-asa ko. Mamaya at 8PM! #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Okay, here we go. Replay mode. #FrustratedCheerleader #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Annoying but entertaining, these courtside reporters. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Uh, Jessy... I have no words. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Too painful to watch, UE Pep. Your halftime performances are more enjoyable. So sad. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Practice, practice, practice. #UEPepSquad #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

And FEU reminds me why I didn't become a cheerleader. Hands on the wrong places. Gee. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Just when I thought they would all stay on their feet the whole routine, they didn't. #FEUCheeringSquad #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Adieu, Jessy. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Galing, UP. With obvious demerits but still, galing! #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

I finally have them pegged. They absolutely have stronger bones than all the other teams. #UPPepSquad #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Writer gaffes. Kanina pa. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Konti pa, UST. A little bit more and my old Gawi is back. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

My theory about stronger bones is so true. More hours at the gym? #USTSalinggawiDanceTroupe #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Always been a mystery to me. Ateneo has been cheering long before the other schools even thought of forming their own teams. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

They surely have all the resources so why is it so hard to make it to that podium? #AteneoBlueBabbleBattalion #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

I wonder how many times they perfected their routine before today. Too complicated for La Salle. But, are those lightsabers? #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Maybe next year? Again? Basketball na lang! #DeLaSalleAnimoSquad #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Not bad, Adamson ha, not bad. You did better than what I expected of you. Cheers! #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Surprise me next year? #AdamsonPepSquad #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Wow. Kayo na, NU. Kayo na ang bagong cheering icon. Hang galing! Ibang level. Ang linis-linis ng performance. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Awesome performance. Can you let your neighbor borrow your coach? Please? #NUPepSquad #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

I find it hard to believe that half of the eight teams in this competition have similar ideas at some point in their routine. #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Either someone is spying or some people are selling ideas to more than one team. That's so Bring it On. Uso pa pala? #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Ano raw, pleyks? #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

The lady from Purefoods Hormel is wearing a dress that looks like an old UE Pep uniform. She wasn't warned? #UAAPCDC2014
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 14, 2014

Big, big congratulations to the NU Pep Squad for defending the crown, the UP Pep Squad for always introducing something new to the world of cheerdance, and to the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe for making it back to the podium after years of absence. To the other teams, you did well, but you can always do better next year. Cheers to all of you!

Five Little Things I Learned in Singapore Part 2

2014-05-23T23:39:00.002+08:00

Me, my cellphone and Singapore? We're not meant to be. On my first visit, my international roaming was just an idea. It didn't work. It was something I counted on the moment the plane landed but left me so out of reach for the whole trip I didn't know what to do with myself . I felt like a drug addict undergoing withdrawal. Every single day I would check my phone in the morning hoping to see something on the signal indicator. Nada. One week I was depressed because I can't use my phone except to take pictures. It felt ridiculous charging it twice because it didn't serve its main purpose. Five years later, I finally have that "Welcome to Singapore" message on my mobile the second I turned it on. But then in two hours, whether I have roaming or not didn't matter. I have no mobile device to speak of. Welcome to Singapore indeed!
New shoes, new sandals, never a good idea. On the fourth day, my niece, the curious child that she is, asked why I have bandages (yes, plural) all over my feet.
Short pants equals mosquitoes. I was so traumatized by my last vacation I promised myself to never go anywhere wintry again. Or at least the next time I go out of the country. And I was happy, deliriously so, to be able to go out and about not wearing jeans or any warm clothes. Not a fan of layering, me no deny it. Funny how you don't factor the little things when you think you had your way. I got home from a day of fun with mosquito bites all over my legs. Off! lotion failed to do what it's supposed to do.
City tour, never again. You wait and wait, and wait, and wait. Precious time wasted.
This one's so unusual it took me a while to get over it. Dog poop in the sidewalk. Like seriously. The Singapore we all know is changing and I should have realized it after my mind reconciled with the fact I actually lost my phone in this city-state.

Cheerdance 2013 Notes

2013-09-16T16:15:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. Don't ask me why. I stopped asking myself that a long time ago. Here's the 2013 UAAP Cheerdance Competition in 140 characters (max).

Here we go! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

When courtside reporters make "annoying to the highest level" your most abused term of the day. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Kamag-anak ba ng mga pusa, tigre, cheetah, atbp. ang tamaraw? What is the FEU courtside reporter's outfit all about? #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

FEU Cheering Squad and their gapang moves. Bow. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

In fairness, ang funny mo, UP courtside reporter. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Um, UP Pep, hindi ako sanay makita kayong ganyan. Kulang kayo sa tulog? #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Er, delikadong gumamit ng "burn" sa intro spiel, you know. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Sabi ko naman sa inyo matagal na, UE Pep. It's time to hire a new coach. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Pero explosive ang ending ha. Ah, that's the BURN? Ooh! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Aliw ako kay Alex. I want her back next year. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

See, that's what a new coach does. Only the second year with the squad and it's been a complete 360. Animo La Salle! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Ang galing ng NU! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

I'm still asking. Where is my old Gawi? #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Level up, BBB! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Halftime performance mode. Go, Adamson. #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

"Halftime performance mode. Go Adamson. #UAAPCDC2013" [edited]

Taray talaga ng NU ngayon! Ibang level na! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

O ha, galing ng NU! #UAAPCDC2013
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

NU rules #UAAPCDC2013!
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 15, 2013

Congratulations to the NU Cheer Squadron, the UP Pep Squad, and the De La Salle Animo Squad for making the podium this year. To the other schools, there's always next year.

Five Little Things I Learned in Hong Kong

2013-08-27T02:41:00.000+08:00

It's extremely helpful to travel with friends who take it upon themselves to read maps and train routes for the whole group. Follow the leader. Life's easy that way.
People can be mean. I have learned of that so very early in life. In Hong Kong, they can be meaner. When the maitre d' sits you in a table right in front of the restaurant entrance with its automatic sliding doors -- the radar sensor kind, take note, that makes her meaner than all of my childhood tormentors combined. Do I have to mention that the place is located in a very busy street? That every time someone stops to read and check out their daily specials posted outside, the door opens? In winter! I don't need to tell you that, no? She can't give us a table anywhere else but she happily assisted the other locals who came in after us to tables upstairs. I told you, mean.
You want a Coke? Just say Cola-Cola!
When the weather center says temperature could drop to five degrees, believe it. They know better. I had that moment -- that confusing, terrifying moment when I made peace with the world and entertained the idea of me dying of hypothermia right there in Disneyland. No kidding.
I don't like big airports. Period.

Five Little Things I Learned in Macau

2013-04-03T13:23:00.000+08:00

My mind refused to acknowledge the fact the hospitality industry doesn't seem to require their workers to learn basic English. I know it's China and I don't expect them to be fluent in the English language but life could be easier if they show more patience in trying to make their point across. I was the visitor, a guest, they are the host but they were the ones who gave me exasperated looks when they can't answer my questions. There was even one who turned and walked away from me. Rude, eh? I was always the one with the apologetic smile. Shouldn't it be the other way around? If you cannot articulate it, there's always the pen and paper. A little sign language can help, too.
If you're on a budget and trying your best to save more shopping money, don't fret. Just take a stroll up and down Senado Square. Trust me, you'll be fed. There's free food everywhere. You just have to buy yourself a bottle of water and you're set.
Seeing a senior citizen carry a stack of trays up the second floor of McDonald's kind of broke my heart. While I must commend the company for employing the elderly, I couldn't help but imagine her as my own grandmother. Yes, her. She's a she. I guess there are no issues of discrimination with regards to hiring seniors in the region.
The best thing about Macau? You can actually get around without paying for transportation. All you need is a map and the ability to read one then hop on the complimentary shuttle buses operated by the major casinos and hotels. Totally free. I love Macau -- with the free stuff!
It would do you so much better if you can remember your hotel room number. My friends and I always go out as a group so despite my wrong hallway turns a couple of times, I was good. Or so I thought. I had to go back to the hotel alone when I got separated from them on our last night. Not only did I go up the wrong floor, I also tried to open the wrong door, repeatedly pressed the buzzer and knocked for a really long while before I realized I was in the wrong floor and definitely the wrong door. I also did the same on another door in the other wing believing it to be my other friends' room. Epic. I was four floors up. Good thing no one seemed to be inside those rooms at the time. My butt being dragged to the security office wasn't exactly my idea of a fun-filled vacation with friends had my realization took another minute to set in. Lucky me.

Cheerdance 2012 Notes

2012-09-25T02:11:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. The 2012 UAAP Samsung Cheerdance Competition in 140 characters (max).

UAAP Cheerdance 2012 now on.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Oh, you, UE courtside reporter, you're too funny for words. University of the what?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Um, Ms Mendiola, I know it's Cheerdance not the Star Magic Ball but shouldn't you be in something a little more appropriate for the gig?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Ooh, Adamson, I like the sparkly pants. My mother is chuckling during your routine though, I don't know why.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

One miss, DLSU, but aside from that, it was truly refreshing. You've come a long way from the old Animo Squad. A long, long way.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Love the Disney theme, NU! Cute! But I'm still no fan of men in white tights, just sayin'.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Gotta say, for her first hosting gig, Jessy is doing a fine job.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Competition-wise, FEU, you did good. But you always make me question what Cheerdance is all about. Must you stay on all fours most of it?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

"Competition-wise, FEU, you did good. But you always make me question what cheerdance is all about. Must you stay on all fours most of it?" [edited]

WTH, UE Pep. They did it last year!
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

I'm confused, UE Pep. I'm speechless. You really need a new coach.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

UST Salinggawi has been lacking of the magic it used to have. The ballet bit never fails to amaze me but... it was just that now.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Cheerleaders in leather. Who would have thought? Only Ateneo.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Only the UP Pep Squad would pull something like this.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Oops. A girl fell. But dang, this is phenomenal.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Wow. NU wins third place.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

FEU is second. And they aren't happy. Oh well.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

UP Pep Squad wins 3-peat and their eight overall.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

Congratulations to the winners and all the participants of the UAAP Cheerdance 2012. Next year ulit! On to the Final Four!
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 22, 2012

This year's winners are the UP Pep Squad, the FEU Cheering Squad, and the NU Cheer Squadron. UP truly is always a treat to watch but the biggest winner in my book is NU for barging in the top three for the first time in the history of the competition. Way to go!

Dear Becks

2011-12-18T23:49:00.003+08:00

A bit late, I know. Two weeks after the Philippine Azkals versus the Los Angeles Galaxy match here in the Philippines, I thank you. For giving the Filipinos the chance to experience soccer ala Becks and for fulfilling the dreams (and fantasies) of many others--players and fans alike, a huge, huge thank you. I guess it's safe to say that you have earned my respect.

To confess, I first knew you only as Posh Spice's hubby. That I have watched enough E! News to know that you play football, or soccer, or whatever you want to call it. I learned things about you not from sports channels but from E! and TMZ.

But I have seen the Goal! movies in which you were a part of and that's the first time I saw you on a football pitch.

Let me just say that I have never seen you play in an actual game before the Dream Cup. The Goal! movies doesn't count, right? I caught the tail end of the E! True Hollywood Story: Posh and Becks so I pretty much have an idea how big a football star you were in England before your big move to the United States.

I have read and heard about the "bend it like Beckham" phrase many times before while watching the entertainment shows from the US. Majority of which were, um, just dissing you and the wife on national TV for something you or you both did. It seems to me that America doesn't respect your talent as a football player because sometimes they are just plain mean.

I was under the impression that this Bend It Like Beckham is some sort of documentary about you, like Yao Ming's Year of the Yao or Kobe Bryant's Kobe Doin' Work. You know, something like that.

And boy am I stupid. I am this clueless. I just Googled it now, as in now that I am writing this and I learn that it is in fact a movie about football. Oh, for the love of all things holy, this isn't about you at all!

Well, that changes things.

Anyway, Becks, you came, you saw and you conquered. As much as I don't understand why you are so popular and why our national players were all so excited (giddy as a schoolgirl I kid you not) by the mere idea of playing against you, I changed my mind after the match.

Scratch that. You had me at hello. Not so much but it was a start.

You landed on Philippine soil and you were all smiles. You sure know how to work the mob, er, fans. Bloody brilliant. A reporter shove a microphone to your face and you said "Hi!" with a smile that almost reached your ears. A group of women reporters from a TV network asked for a photo-op and you grabbed the BlackBerry to take the picture yourself.

I have no words to describe how heartwarming it was to watch you with the kids at the football clinic. I assume some of them don't even speak English. And your English, is well, as English as it can get.

One could argue that you were good with kids because you have four yourself. Okay, point taken. But still, Payatas kids meet David Beckham is a once in a lifetime thing. You don't see that every day.

And you were smiling. All throughout.

Then the game. Remember I said I don't understand the popularity? I attributed it to the obvious fact that you by all and any definition is an eye candy. I thought it was just that. That you were just that. I was wrong.

Your passing skill is something, like straight out of a computer game. To say that it's calculated is an understatement. The precision is outstanding. All right, I need to stop now. I'm about to talk physics, it's bad. I was in awe, period.

Do I even need to talk about the goal? The one we saw coming but stunned us all anyway? That was one mean goal, Becks. Seriously, did you kick it in? It looked like you just touched it with your boot and then it went straight for the net. Wicked.

Though Landon Donovan stole my heart when he said he was quickly falling in love with the Philippines just hours after getting here. And the tweet to Aly Borromeo, the Azkals' team captain, made me an instant fan. That "Kita kits!" tweet bought him a year of adoration from me.

But for Filipino football fans, the Dream Cup was The Becks Show and everybody just went along for the ride. My Landon love notwithstanding, I had to agree.

You gave us quite a show and Phil Younghusband was giddy as a schoolgirl when you gave him an autographed jersey after the match. When our best scorer is happy, we're all happy.

I wish I could say we'd love to have you back but I'm afraid we can't afford it anymore. Even if Manny Ott, our German fairy of the Azkal variety said that you are "f***ing beautiful" in an interview, we'll just content ourselves with the memory that you, David Beckham, was in Manila to play the Azkals on the third day of December 2011.

So, Becks, maraming, maraming salamat sa iyo at sa LA Galaxy.

P.S. Can you please tell Landon that we're all looking forward to his "Kita kits!" and we promise to put up a ban on too much lipstick on girls when he flies into town? Can you do that? Thanks!

Cheerdance 2011 Notes

2011-09-28T05:10:00.000+08:00

A compilation of my tweets on the most anticipated event of the season. The 2011 UAAP Samsung Cheerdance Competition in 140 characters (max).

Sardinas mode sa Araneta.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Ateneo always have the best costumes, the best themes and probably the best gymnasts in all of the UAAP but they always fall short.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

"Ateneo always has the best costumes, the best themes, and probably the best gymnasts in all of the UAAP but they always fall short." [edited]

Parang kulang sa praktis lagi.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

UP makes cheerleading look real easy.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Gawi: Wala lang mode. Halftime performance?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

I knew it. La Salle's routine was special this year.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

"Oops. May laglag na naman."

"Congrats, UP Pep! Nag-iisa kayo!"

I've been watching the cheerdance competitions since its inception in 1994. I know a winning performance when I see one.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

And I think I can differentiate spectacular from mediocre. I also know what wow means as opposed to okay.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Cheerdance replay on Balls. Might flood your timelines and news feeds. You have been warned.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

My apologies to my alma mater but when was BOMBA, UE, IMA KADIGMA! first used? And what does it mean exactly?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Pirated ang video ng Adamson performance. Thank you, Studio 23. Parang commercial ng wireless internet ito.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Love the tutu, Adamson Pep.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

The thing about using props and placards is there's always that 50 percent chance of holding up the thing and it's upside down. Oopsie.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

"The thing about using props and placards is there's always that 50 percent chance of holding up the thing, and it's upside down. Oopsie." [edited]

I've always been in awe and so full of admiration of the BBB for daring to show their bellies even if they aren't belly dancing material.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

NU has an almost perfect routine (with emphasis on almost) but lacking in the wow department. Maybe next year? You guys are almost there.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

The best thing about UP Pep is they always seem to enjoy every toss, every throw, every twist, and every turn. No hint of nervousness.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

What's with the Bollywood theme? This isn't Slumdog Millionaire's year, right?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

FEU is well, FEU. Neither here nor there this year. They have always been seamless in their routines. What happened?
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

"Gawi is playing safe. Too much safeness. Lacking in oomph."

I don't even know where to begin with UE Pep. Ask for a bigger budget maybe? Trust me, it could get you somewhere.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Note to male cheerleaders: Couldn't you wear something underneath that will make something not visible to your audience? Distracting.
— Che (@chegeronimo) September 17, 2011

Congratulations to the UP Pep Squad, the DLSU Animo Squad, and the FEU Cheering Squad for topping this year's edition. More luck next time to the other five teams.

Dear Prosecutor Princess

2011-06-22T03:58:00.006+08:00

Why did I ever think of watching this drama?!? The actors are killing me!! And the script, my gulay! What kind of twisted drama logic is this?! [26 February at 00:11]

Four episodes down and I still can't relate to ANY character. Prosecutor Princess is taking the cake from La Dolce Vita/Bittersweet Life as THE most time-wasting K-Drama ever. At least La Dolce has Lee Dong-Wook in it. Prosecutor Princess has who? Grrr... [26 February at 05:26]

I'm fighting a losing battle. Six episodes and still nothing. [28 February at 22:16]

Three whole months of not watching anything online and I only have you to blame, Prosecutor Princess. You killed my addiction but you know what, I ain't thanking you. And since I'm not one to drop a drama and move on to another just because it's killing me, I will finish you. I got ten more episodes to watch. You, drama, is extremely annoying, do you know that? Haisst! [22 May at 01:35]

My Facebook status messages pretty much summarize how I feel about you. The last Korean drama that annoyed the hell out of me was One Fine Day. Annoyance factor was so great that I wanted the leads to die at the finale. No kidding.

I wished the same for you, Prosecutor Princess.

Why do I hate you so much? Ah, let me count the ways.

Animax on cable is currently airing you and teasers led me to believe you are a romantic comedy in the mold of My Girl.

Wrong. Five minutes into the drama and I'm full of regrets. Your female lead is super annoying I can't find it in me to sympathize. Forget sympathy, I can't get her. And she's a lawyer? A prosecutor? She passed the bar exams with a mind that works that way? Come on.

The scene with the molested child still send chills down my spine. One doesn't need a degree in Child Psychology to know that it is the worst approach ever. Even a perfectly normal child wouldn't answer to that line of questioning.

Your male lead is stiff as a board. So is the second male lead. Their characters call for it? Bite me. Lee Dong-Wook is a lawyer with so much emotional issues in Partner but he never appeared to be that stiff. Revenge-seeking Joo Ji-Hoon is also a lawyer in Mawang/The Devil yet he managed to exude charm when needed.

And the princess' office? The first thing that came to mind? Professor Umbridge. Yes, that cat-loving, evil Ministry of Magic official from the Harry Potter series. Is your writer a fan? Of Umbridge, not J.K. Rowling.

Somehow the show's obvious resemblance although toned down, to Legally Blonde escapes my overthinking mind. Well, for one, Elle Woods is stupid-funny, your Ma Hye Ri is annoyingly stupid.

Also, what's with the lead actress' hair? It's... it's... I can't even find the words to describe it. That hairstyle completes the fashionista's overall look? Kill me now.

So what happened to everyone involved in the conspiracy to mislead and hide actual facts in the murder of which the male lead came back to Korea for? Nothing. Serving time in jail clearly isn't your priority.

I do understand what the statute of limitations is. I do. Really. But I have a problem with it being used in a drama like you did, show. There is no comeuppance. No real punishment. In Woo elaborately made all things happen to pin down Ma Sang Tae and it just ended that way?

He went bankrupt? That's enough payment? What about the others?

That's why I mentioned Mawang. What I like and absolutely love in that drama is the final scene of the two actors. They both die in the end. Fitting. Because to let one live and the other survive is doing the drama and its loyal viewers a great disservice. No one deserves to live just as no one deserves to die.

As for you, Prosecutor Princess, I wanted a tragic ending. For putting me through three months of hell. Goong S also made me stop watching at some point. It was boring. I was disappointed because it didn't have the humor and spunk Goong has. But when I decided to finally finish it, there was this sudden shift halfway and it suddenly became interesting. The last ten episodes I remember watching in one night.

You, on the other hand, doesn't pick up anywhere. I don't really understand it. I know a friend who even recommends watching you. Maybe you annoyed me too much at the start that made me shut my mind to anything good about you. I simply didn't give you a chance to recover. Is that the case?

I do not have an answer to that. Maybe. Maybe not. All I know is that I hated you from start to finish. That I didn't get my desired ending just made me, if it's even possible, more frustrated.

For now, I'm glad to be done with you. I'm moving on to another drama. A real rom-com, thank you very much. After that, another rom-com. I guess another one after that. Because you, Prosecutor Princess, totally bombed on me.

10 Things I Miss About You

2011-03-16T04:21:00.015+08:00

The drums. Swear, I miss the banging. Even if it makes me incapable of hearing anything else I sure miss the drum beats.
The cheers. Oh, the cheers. Some so darn good I always feel like joining in. My side or not, sometimes I don't care. Unfortunately there are also some so ridiculously-sounding and composed that I have no other choice but roll my eyes and pretend there is nothing to see and hear.
The cheerleaders. I'm a frustrated cheerleader. I've had opportunities to become one, mind you. Had I known back in freshman year that the dance troupe I was being asked to audition for by my PE teacher is the same group that does the cheerleading, I wouldn't have said no. Then by senior year at my second school, pep squad coach came up to me and asked if I wanted to join the team after an almost perfect I-don't-think-I-can-ever-do-it-again cartwheel I did at the gym. The mat on the floor made me do it, okay. It was there and screaming to be used. I acted on sheer impulse. Too bad her recruitment spiel included a "you don't have to do PE if you join the squad" line. I was on my last term then, woman, there really is no more PE . I just waited for my last term to do that last PE because of scheduling hassles. I graduated a month later. So I miss them cheerleaders. The performances that put a smile on my face or a frown as the case may be, I want to see them live again. Those sprinkled around the venue for ultimate cheer-leading purposes I think I can forgive you now for shouting right at my ear a couple of times.
The groupies. I hate to admit this but I sort of miss them. They are one of my pet peeves mainly because they take away my concentration. No point listening to them converse with each other as they will only make you be concerned of your own mental health.
The girlfriends. They can be a source of irritation, along with the groupies, just by being there. And also because they act like you're going to steal their man, er, boy, whatever. I do have high respect though to a few who do not call attention to themselves. Additional points to those who understand everything there is to know about the reason why they are there.
The alumni. They led me to where and what I am today. They made me question my loyalty and how far I was willing to go. My deepest admiration to certain groups I call the regulars, for being there all the time no matter where the venue is or how small the stakes are. But what I really miss about them is how they behave when things don't go their way. The look on their faces when a supposedly inferior team does what is unthinkable to them, is priceless.
The schools. There is nothing more satisfying than to check out the competition's home base. They say understanding leads to acceptance, true that. Personally, it's easier to accept a loss if I know what they have at home that we don't. You gotta blame it on something. Better to point at some thing rather than on someone.
The players. I always wonder if they ever get sick of each other's faces. They live together at the dorms, they train and practice six days a week, they even go to the same class, and then they would hang out during free time. And it's not just among teammates, they even get along with other players from other schools too. The brotherhood amazes me. Another thing about them, I take pride in knowing a player before they hit it big. Not big-superstar-MVP-big but big enough to be recognized anywhere he goes. That's when you catch them at their humblest and most natural. Because sad to say, things would change once people they aren't acquainted with start to approach and ask for photo-ops. And the thing about meeting young players is you know a potential head case when you see one.
The coaches. Sometimes when I get bored during games I people watch, more like bench watch. Who else would you notice first but the coach. I find them entertaining. How they react to calls and botched plays to how they give or yell instructions amuse me to no end. Coaches from the professional league lack gentleness that is so evident in every college coach. Which makes perfect sense since the coach in the pros is doing his job and the players too are being paid to do their job. A varsity coach on the other hand treats his players as his own children, hence the gentleness. He knows that he can make or break those kids with anything that he asks and tells them to do. It's a big responsibility on the part of the coaches but to help mold young, talented and decent athletes is always a good thing, right?
The atmosphere. It's different. A lot more exciting and interesting to watch, that's college basketball. It has been over two years since I last went to a live game and although the idea brings painful memories (the reasons I will explain at length in another piece) I still want to be back. I miss the live games. PBA games are fun but college ball is ten times more fun. I can attest to that. Playing for school pride is much more noble a reason than bonuses and contracts. Not that college basketball doesn't offer those but school pride more than anything is what matters most come game time. There's also the simple joy of watching young dreamers realize their dream. It is fulfilling even as a fan to see players you used to watch playing college ball make it to the pros. They made it through and you are one of the firsts to see them play.

So when will I be back to watch? Soon. I hope.

Top 10 reasons why you shouldn't waste your time greeting me on V-Day

2011-02-11T02:33:00.003+08:00

I'm recycling old post again. Pathetic. Choosing to repost than writing a new one is going to make me lose again what I had recovered two years ago. But as it is Balentayms, I don't think there is anything new I can say about the matter. This is all there is to it.

Here's something I wrote last year but edited (just a tiny bit) to adjust a time detail.

* * * * * * * * * *

Top 10 reasons why you shouldn't waste your time greeting me on V-Day

I don't give a damn about Valentine's Day.
I find it corny.
I find the sight of flower-carrying girls out on the streets hilarious.
I believe, along with many others, that it's just an excuse for over-the-top commercialism designed to rob you of your hard-earned money.
It's not even a national holiday so why bother?
Bows and arrows are for archers not cupids.
It's Kris Aquino's birthday and our TV will once again be full of "Happy Birthday, Kris!" all weekend long.
It takes away the Chinese New Year out of February, or at least the red part of it.
Thirteen years ago I agreed to watch Titanic with a dear friend on the condition that we go days, even a week after V-Day. He died in a car accident two days before the weekend we were supposed to go see Jack and Rose.
I think reasons number 1 and 9 pretty much scream I DON'T HEART V-DAY.

* * * * * * * * * *

Reason number 7 will drive me crazy. I just saw a teaser of her new show set to premiere this Monday. Good luck with that. Our evenings (or days) will never be as quiet as it was the last few months she's off hibernating, or pretending to be, whatever.

This isn't election year yet, right?

2011-01-22T03:45:00.000+08:00

Election na ba ulit? Why is the Vice-President texting me?

1/2 We all look to the New Year with optimism. Together, we will build the nation of our dreams - a nation where our children and the coming generations can

From: +639063569371
Received: 13:56:20 20-01-2011

2/2 live in peace, prosperity and dignity. Isang Maunlad, Maginhawa at Magandang Buhay sa Bagong Taon sa ating lahat! - Jojo Binay

From: +639063569371
Received: 13:56:35 20-01-2011

Spam, Mr Vice-President, spam. I do not want you or anyone from government texting me. I do not appreciate it. Live in peace? How can I when you know how to contact me? Oh, right, my phone isn't under my name, so I'm safe? Load of dung.

Pretty early for election and kinda late for the New Year, are we talking Chinese New Year then?

Some people are making money selling off their company's database (or a part of it) and you know what, HINDI AKO NATUTUWA!

Related post:

Election Trash Goes Mobile

Giving gifts, exchanging cards

2010-12-21T03:33:00.002+08:00

This is my post from six years ago. I was fussing over the delayed gift-shopping with seven more long days to go before the big day? How to call the present-day me then? I still have nothing. Zero. Nada.

It's already the 21st of December. My oldest godchild is off to the United States tomorrow and all I told her was to just see me when she gets back after the holidays.

What will the post office people tell me if I come bearing a stack of Christmas cards to mail any day now? Oh shoot, is December 24 a holiday?

Going to the mall is too daunting a task. Hay.

* * * * * * * * * *

Giving gifts, exchanging cards

My holiday sense is slowly turning from bad to worse. It's the second day of Simbang Gabi and I still haven't bought a single Christmas gift. Where have all my time and plans gone?

I was a professional crammer back when I was still in school, the only explanation I can give myself and it's not even a reasonable one.

I started okay, really. I finished writing cards for friends abroad as early as the last week of October. My list survived countless revisions but ready by last week of November. I mailed the cards first day of December. They have reached their destinations here and abroad, save for the two sent to Iloilo and Quezon, got lost probably. They will turn up, I have great faith in our postal service. I just hope it reaches my friends before the middle of next year.

I even have one big blooper, the Christmas cards I got this year were so small my annoying little cousin said it looks like an over-sized gift tag. I honestly didn't realize it was small until I opened the box at home. To think that it took me a good thirty minutes to decide which one to get. I had trouble picking from three different sets but I didn't want anything too red and too gold so I got the one with cute little bears. It cost more than the other two but I liked the box at first sight. Lucky me, they're really small, but hey, it's the thought that counts!

And the gifts... maybe because I haven't thought of a particular theme until now. I started a themed Christmas two years ago and actually thought it was easier to get gifts that way. From friends to godchildren and everyone else, I gave them books. Then went all sleepwear last year.

I partially blame the book I consulted just before the -ber months came. It even got me more confused than ever. I should have trusted my instincts at the start.

I'm dreading the trip to the mall especially at this time of the season but I don't really have a choice, do I?

* * * * * * * * * *

Gosh, I miss the old me. When I still can write a piece with less than a thousand words. This one in particular only has 359. Imagine! The last one I did was a sickening 3,496. Global warming did this to me?