Gurong Pinay

Quest for conceiving our first child

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:59:00 +0000

Last Wednesday, we decided to visit our OB-Gyne in Marikina since I was already two weeks delayed and my pregnancy kit showed two strips of line. We were both excited for this since we were already trying to have a baby for more than a year now.

We actually tried several ways and "strategies" for our baby-making. Please bear with the term, haha.

Medications/Supplements:

(1) Since I was a PCOS "victim" - PolyCystic Ovaries Syndrome, I tried months long of treatment of metformin, clomid and duphaston (progesterone hormone).

(2) We also tried FertilAid supplements for me and my husband. My husband actually saw these supplements in the internet and they are quite popular. And since they were available in the eBay at reasonable prices, then we tried them. The shipment cost is quite minimal since it was delivered through Philippine Postal Company.

(3) Another supplement that we tried was the Agaricus Blazei Murill, which was recommended by my sister. She and her husband tried these natural supplements from agaricus mushroom for three months and they were able to have a very cute and bouncing baby girl (my niece Caitlain Clare).

(4) Other supplements that we tried was Rogin-E (with Ginseng) and Enduranz (Tongkat Ali). This might sound desperate for some but trying these alternative supplements are still worth a try.

Prayers:

(1) Devotion to St. Clare, every Sunday at the St. Clare church along Katipunan

(2) Devotion to Mother of Perpetual Help (Baclaran Church)

(3) Prayers to St. Clare (Obando Church)

(4) Prayers to Sto. Nino (Cebu)

(5) Healing hands of Fr. Fernando Suarez (He held several healing masses in the Trinoma Mall in Quezon City)

And after several months of toil and tons of prayers and panata, we were greeted with a good news last Wednesday. All of our labor and hardwork seemed to have paid with good dividends.

I hope our tips above would help a lot of moms wannabe's there. We believed that a combination of hard work (through medications and supplements) as well as prayers and faith have been the successful recipe to our quest.

Healthy Vinegar also for Weight Management : Apple Cider Vinegar

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 03:18:00 +0000

My friend recommended a regimen to me years ago, of taking apple cider vinegar (2 teaspoon) with 2 teaspoon of honey and 8 ounces of water. She said that this is to be taken just before every meal in a day. This was very effective for her weight management and also said that this was healthy. I wasn't able to realize the full effects of this regimen since I didn't fully apply the regimen. But recently, while doing our weekly grocery, I came across the section where apple cider vinegar were stacked on the shelves of the supermarket. I just thought of doing some research about it and check on its benefits. Here are what I have found on the net so far:

(1) Detoxifies the liver. This is important since the liver has the main function of digesting fats and filters toxins in our body.
(2) Weight loss. It was claimed by some that ancient Egyptians use apple cider vinegar for weight loss.
(3) Reduces appetite.
(4) Controls blood pressure. Apple cider vinegar is said to be rich with potassium, an element known to make the blood thinner and control blood pressure at appropriate levels.
(5) Cholesterol control and glucose control. The fiber in apple cider vinegar is said to help in controlling the levels of cholesterol in our body and also control the glucose level in our blood.

I think with all the health benefits associated with apple cider vinegar, it is definitely worth it to try this regimen. But I think I should make sure this time that I stick to this regimen in order for me to realize its benefits.

Healthy Food bits that provide vital antioxidants!

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 07:02:00 +0000

Nowadays, no one is spared by the big C or the assassin like hypertension. Rich and poor alike are vulnerable to these fatal diseases. Although there are now a lot of supplements and 'organic' herbals in the market, still nothing beats the 'real natural', which could be derived off the market food that we buy. At the main forefront in preventing and battling the major diseases of big C and hypertension are foods that are rich in 'antioxidants'. But what are antioxidants exactly? Lets put it at simple definition with one that fights oxidation. And 'oxidation' reaction produce 'free radicals' that start chain reactions that damage cells. With both dreaded diseases, our cells are destroyed by 'free radicals' that mutate our cells and clogs our arteries. We could have that decision though to acquire that needed discipline to fight the oxidation reaction in our body through antioxidants.

Here is a list of the top food with most antioxidants content:

Rank	Food	Serving Size	Total Antioxidant Capacity per serving size
1	Small Red Bean	1/2 cup dried beans	13727
2	Wild blueberry	1 cup	13427
3	Red kidney bean	1/2 cup dried beans	13259
4	Pinto bean	1/2 cup	11864
5	Blueberry	1 cup cult- ivated berries	9019
6	Cranberry	1 cup whole berries	8983
7	Artichoke hearts	1 cup cooked	7904
8	Blackberry	1 cup	7701
9	Prune	1/2 cup	7291
10	Raspberry	1 cup	6058
11	Strawberry	1 cup	5938
12	Red Delicious apple	1	5900
13	Granny Smith	1	5381
14	Pecan	1 ounce	5095
15	Sweet cherry	1 cup	4873
16	Black plum	1	4844
17	Russet potato	1 cooked	4649
18	Black bean	1/2 cup dried beans	4181
19	Plum	1	4118
20	Gala apple	1	3903

Those I think that are widely available in stores for us to pick and be healthy are the following:
blueberry, cranberry (juice), prunes, strawberry, apple.

Philippines' Icon of Democracy Bids Farewell

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 10:32:00 +0000

Philippines' Icon of Democracy breathe her last, early morning of August 1, 2009. Former President Corazon Aquino's only son, Senator Noynoy Aquino announced to the media outside of Makati Medical Center that their beloved mother passed away at 3:18 am. The widow of former Senator Ninoy Aquino, also an icon of democracy in the Philippines, was well-known for standing steadfast against the iron fist of the then strongman of the Philippines, former President Ferdinand Marcos. A self-proclaimed plain housewife, who took care of her children and tended well to the welfare of her popular husband, ran against the then powerful and dictator of the Republic of the Philippines. She led the people in a bloodless revolt, popularly known as the 'People Power' in Edsa in order to force out of power the violent regime that curtail the freedom and lives of many Filipinos. Her signature 'yellow' colored outfits and 'laban' sign has been very popular during her fight with the regime of the dictator. She with the people and the clerics fought the tanks and guns of the soldiers that back the dictator regime, not with guns and bullets but with flowers, prayers and rosaries. And indeed former President Corazon Aquino triumphed in the end. Her tenure as president though was not easy as she was constantly mired with coup attempts from the military who want to wrest power from her. They thought that the first woman president of the republic and of Asia was weak then. But she proved to them that she was resilient and she has with her the power of her prayers.

Perhaps, early morning of Saturday, August 1, Mrs Aquino breathed her last, without ever seeing her beloved Filipino people totally rising out of the chains of poverty, corruption and oppression from the powerful elite. We the next generation though are hopeful that the Filipino people after twenty five (25) years from having restored democracy, a gift from former President Cory Aquino and her husband Ninoy, could soon rise up and have their heads up as truly 'Filipinos worth dying for'.

Harry Potter's Gold Pot reaches 1 Billion Pesos in the Philippines alone!

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:11:00 +0000

In yet another magic, Harry Potter casts his way to a billion pesos through the Philippine Box Office. A billion Philippine pesos is roughly around 20 Million US Dollars. That is half the total winnings in a year of Manny Pacquiao (Well, he was reportedly to pocket 40 Million USD). Anyway, the latest sequel to the J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter, 'The Half-Blood Prince' was reportedly to earn 157 Million Pesos in just 12 days of showing in Philippine theaters. This is very interesting because it is the first franchise among successful movie franchises such as 'Spiderman', 'Pirate of the Carribean', 'James Bond' (and perhaps we could add 'Mano Po' and 'Enteng Kabisote' and 'Tanging Ina' in the list) to be able to reach 1 Billion Philippine pesos in box office earnings. This is expected to even grow as there are still two movies lined-up for release in the Harry Potter franchise. They are going to split the last book of Harry Potter: the Deathly Hallows into two movies. Perhaps this is patterned in the style of 'the Matrix' and the 'Pirates of the Carribean'. Harry Potter fans in the Philippines will surely await these two movies and of course Harry Potter will surely be once again happy with the multi-billion franchise will once again thrive.

Stock Watch: Meralco's meteoric rise, another PLDT?

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:23:00 +0000

Meralco, the largest power company in the Philippines and previously controlled by the Lopez clan, has its stock price shot up to meteoric levels recently. Just 6 months ago, it has a flat price of around 60 pesos, now it has a current price of 272.50. This is 350% increase, if my math is correct. Simple investment example would be if you were able to purchase Php 100,000 worth of Meralco stocks last January 2009, then its current value right now would be Php 450,000. This is a quite amazing profit especially for a blue chip company like Meralco. The swings of blue chip companies are usually smaller because they are the more stable ones in the market. This is certainly because of the acquisition of shares from MVP and his PLDT group of 20% of Meralco from the Lopez family. Their plans of implementing smart grid and internet through power lines are catching the investor's interests.

Solar Eclipse on July 22, Will it be seen in the Philippines?

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 06:32:00 +0000

On July 22 Wednesday, for five minutes countries across Asia will be able to see the Solar Eclipse. From the above illustration from NASA, the Solar Eclipse will traverse the path of countries in Asia, which could include the Philippines. The Solar Eclipse is expected to last for 5 minutes. In Japan, the country that has not experienced Solar Eclipse for the past 46 years, they would be greeting the phenomenon with fireworks. In my case, the last great Solar Eclipse that I remember seeing was when I was in pre-school (around 6 years old), the Solar Eclipse that time I think it lasted for several minutes and I witnessed it with a glasses with plastic film on it. It was a spectacular site to behold. I think it was around noontime that the Sun was suddenly covered with a black ball ( the moon I think ). I am not sure if the same site would be seen on July 22 in the Philippines, but I think there are parts of Asia such as in Japan and China that could possibly be seeing this kind of Solar Eclipse. Many astrologers are saying that this could be a 'Dooms' day sign which could brought for natural disasters or war in the world. And some are saying that this could be a very good time to meditate and pray because of the powerful spiritual waves could be emitted by this phenomenon. I think we should constantly pray for blessings and protection from harm from our Almighty God everytime and anywhere irregardless of natural phenomena occurring or not.

Affordable LCD TVs, now in the Philippines?

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:04:00 +0000

Recently, I and my husband have visited several appliance stores. And we noticed their latest big budget blowouts, they are the affordable 32 inches LCD TVs at PHP 25,000 to PHP 30,000 price range. We were taken at awe by the 'cheap' LCD TVs at 32 inches of rich color and texture. The brands were Samsung (la-32a330), LG (32LH2OR), Panasonic (L32X10X), and Sanyo (LCD-32K30). These LCD TVs are capable of receiving High Definition channels (Of course there are no digital HD channels here in the Philippines just yet) and they are also great at displaying videos (DVDs). I am particularly interested with watching high definition videos on these LCD TVs and maybe playing PlayStation 3 or Wii or Xbox 360 on these systems are also very exciting (my nieces and nephews will surely love these too). I could just imagine watching my favorite movies such as the Transformers, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter and other effects laden films with large and 'affordable' LCD TVs coupled with home theater systems. These LCD TVs could also be plugged with the laptops with HDMI adaptors. That means more video watching through YouTube could be enjoyed. This certainly would be one of the tops of my want to list especially once bonus season comes.

Wonders of Wheatgrass, are they true?

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 06:30:00 +0000

I have been hearing a lot of buzz regarding herbals and wellness nowadays most especially the boom of direct marketeers (I hope not racketeers). There are those that bank on the wellness products such as derma products that revitalizes skin and restores its youthful glory. There are also those that even market bio-pluto-nic scanners that they claim to be able to determine the status of your health and which 'products' you need to be able to enhance it. Then there are those that gets your genetic signature in order for you to know the defects in your genes and eventually determine which illnesses are you bound to get as you age. O well, people nowadays are just abuzz on how to improve their longevity without much care on how do these products exactly work (or do they actually work in the first place).

Just now, I have heard of another miracle herb, as if there are new herbs being discovered everyday like goji (sounds like o-gy, not that wholesome). This herb is being endorsed by none other than the fitness buff, Ms Dianne Castillejo. She even claims to drink 2 sachets of wheatgrass powder complimented with 3 tablets of wheatgrass. Now thats a lot of wheatgrass staff in the system. This one intrigues me, and ran up a little research on the potential benefits of wheatgrass.

Claimed benefits of wheatgrass:

1. Increases red blood-cell count and lowers blood pressure. It cleanses the blood, organs and gastrointestinal tract of debris.

2. Stimulates the thyroid gland, correcting obesity, indigestion, and a host of other complaints.

3. Restores alkalinity to the blood. (Sounds like Fern-C, do they have the battery lighting test as well? )

4. A powerful detoxifier, and liver and blood protector.

5. Fights tumors and neutralizes toxins.

6. Works as a sleep aide. (Call Center Agents aide?)

7. Enhances your bath. (Does it stimulate the vitals too?)

8. Sweetens the breath and firms up and tightens gums. (No need for Colgate?)

9. Neutralizes toxic substances/ heavy metals like cadmium, nicotine, strontium, mercury, and polyvinyl chloride.

10. Turns gray hair to its natural color again and greatly increases energy levels when consumed daily. (Natural hair dye?)

11. Lessens the effects of radiation. (Maybe protection from cellular phone, computer monitor and microwave radiation? )

12. Restores fertility and promotes youthfulness. (This one I like, revs up the 'drive'?)

13. Can double your red blood cell count just by soaking in it. (More blood, this might be advisable for anemics).

14. It improves blood sugar problems. (Diabetics heaven?)

Now the list above is not even half of the benefits being claimed by wheatgrass advocates. Are these all verifiable or are these just marketing heists? This really disturbs me though, tablets of wheatgrass costs around 1,000 - 2,000 pesos. This is both affordable and expensive. This is expensive if the wheatgrass tablets is another sugar pill. And this is affordable if this miracle herb lives up to its expectations of better health with just a pop of a pill. I guess in the end, it will be my decision, my money and my body.

Bloggers as Pollwatchers

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:44:00 +0000

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has hinted an idea of bloggers as watchdogs for the coming 2010 elections in the Philippines. Their spokesman, Mr. James Jimenez, appreciated the power and influence of blogs on the dissemination of information across different classes of our society, whose majority are now users of the world wide web. The COMELEC is urging the blogging community to collaborate with them in order to provide education on voters most especially that they are now adopting a fully automated elections. They are suggesting that bloggers should organize a network of bloggers, who would carefully watch and guard the process of the elections especially in the area where they are based.

This idea of bloggers as pollwatchers is a very good venue for the tech savvy youth in order for them to be able to contribute to the upliftment of our society towards a truly democratic nation, free of corruption and manipulation. This would give the sense of social responsibility most especially to the youth whose majority are eager to facelift the deteriorating image of our country. I just hope that the call of unity towards a clean and free society doesn't go unheard among our youth. Apathy is the greatest enemy that our youth is facing amidst the continuous abuse of several manipulative elites.

PLDT excited on offering Broadband Over Powerlines through Meralco

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:50:00 +0000

After heavily investing on 3G infrastructure and bringing services such as wireless landline, telecommunications giant PLDT (Philippines Long Distance Telephone) is not just about to sleep on its laurels. They are now exploring the opportunity of offering another potential cash making product. And this is through broadband internet via power lines. Yes, those power posts from Meralco which has been delivering us electricity for many decades now, could actually supply us with high speed internet. Amazing and very futuristic. Actually this trend is being pursued by a lot of countries around the world led by United States of America. The end idea of this all being able to model the whole electricity supply chain into a 'Smart Grid'. This is a complex structural model wherein our homes will be equipped with 'Smart Appliances', and monitoring systems and sensors in order to be able to save on the electricity being consumed by each household. Currently, PLDT is pilot testing the 'Broadband over the Power Lines' in the area of Malabon. They are laying the infrastructure to enable this over the area. I just hope that their offering of broadband would be much cheaper and much better quality than the broadband we are using at the moment, which means reliable uptime and cheaper cost. This would definite be a technology that will bring us growth and for PLDT more cash. Investing in Meralco and PLDT would be wise if this would go into boom in the future.

Discovering Obando... San Pascual Baylon Church...

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:51:00 +0000

Yesterday was a typical rainy and traffic day for most of the Metro. Me and my husband were just wandering around for most of the morning. Just trying to relax from the stressful week that we had, especially that we were tending to my sick father for more than a week now. We accompanied my mother to the bus station in Cubao in the morning. She was to go back to our province because she needs to attend to her teaching duties in the school back in our province of Masbate. Afterwards, me and my husband were thinking of our next destination. And since there were some setbacks that were coming in our lives these couple of weeks now, we decided maybe its better to ask some additional blessing from Him, in order for us to be able to better face the low downs we are facing. The idea of Obando just popped on our heads. We just knew that it was in Bulacan and this church is especially famous for couples asking for a child through it, usually through the fertility dance during its feast day. Anyway, after our trip from Cubao, we researched in the internet on how to go to Obando, Bulacan. The best way are these:

by car: (1) Monumento -> (2) Samson Road -> (3) Sangandaan Market (Turn Right) -> (4) M.H. Del Pilar (Watch out for the Shell station and turn left) -> (5) Panghulo Road (You could now easily see San Pascual Baylon Church at this road).

by commute: (1) Go to Monumento either by bus or jeep (2) Take a jeepney to Sangandaan Market (3) Take a jeepney with the sign board Polo (this jeepney passes by Obando).

After a traffic laden trip towards Obando, we relaxed and wander about the Church. We were amazed by its majestic paintings and very intricate designs. We were expecting an old church with antiques in it. But instead the Church resembles a mansion house with nice chandelier and very rich altar, full of statues of the Holy Family, Mama Mary, San Pascual to name a few. After being taken in awe by the beauty of the Church, we proceed with our intention of offering a mass for the speedy recovery of my father and well with other intentions as well. We then proceed to go home after the strong rains. The road was quite flooded then but this is already expected since this part of Bulacan is near Navotas, Malabon, which are frequently flooded part of the Metro. Well, the trip was definitely worth it. I hope there are a lot of people from the Metro discover the Obando once again like us.

Iglesia ni Cristo Day is a 'Special Working Holiday'

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:00:00 +0000

Just a day after declaring 'Iglesia ni Cristo Day' a holiday, Malacanang clarified that this is a 'Special Working Holiday'. Now this simply does not make any sense. People from the Palace, who are obviously sucking on the powerful religious bloc of Iglesia ni Cristo, are making another blunder of misleading the public. What is the use of declaring a holiday which is a 'Special Working Holiday'? Does this mean workers get some special rate for working on a 'Special Working Holiday'? The incumbent administration can not simply do anything correct. We should just look forward onto next year and make sure that we choose wisely our future leaders.

July 27, Iglesia ni Cristo Day, Non-working Holiday, Smells like GMA Politics 101?

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 08:18:00 +0000

On July 27 Monday, the Iglesia ni Cristo will celebrate its 40th founding anniversary. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has declared this day a non-working holiday. This is a good news for students, teachers and workers (except those who are receiving daily wages). People could take some rest and enjoy a long weekend with their loved ones. President GMA has been known to declare religious holidays for Catholics and Muslims, but this is the first that she is announcing a holiday for a Christian sect, which is Iglesia ni Cristo. This religious organization has an estimated size of between 3 million and 10 million worldwide. It is said to be larger than the Jehovah's witnesses. But this powerful religious sect is also known for its culture of bloc voting during election time. It is said that is the only religious sect in the Philippines who command such influence over its members. And since the presidential elections is already nearing at 2010, this is strongly too coincidental perhaps. Is this another guise perhaps being pulled from the bag of tricks of a traditional politician?

Goodbye Michael, Farewell to the Greatest Entertainer Ever

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 04:10:00 +0000

On July 7, the whole world sendoff, for me and perhaps for millions around the world, the greatest entertainer that has ever lived. There were much anticipation as to what will transpire in his memorial service at Staples Center, the last site that witnessed him performed (it was here that Michael Jackson was rehearsing for his supposed to be final concert - This is it). 1.6 million people registered online for the lottery of the ticket for the memorial service, but only 8750 pairs of tickets were granted. During the memorial service, there was less of the songs and dancing that made Michael Jackson a legend, but it was more of a religious and solemn service that depicts another side of Michael that people around the world have never seen - the human side of the King of Pop. He was depicted as a deeply spiritual man, a loyal friend, innocent child who has the genuine laughter inside, and the best father that anyone could ever imagine. These testimonies by the people who were most closed to him touched the hearts of millions across the world. People from corners of the world responded with ways they can using the internet. Rates of visits and comments were fired off during the memorial service. This is indeed one of the largest sendoff for a celebrity. I for one would just like to finally thank Michael for the music and entertainment he shared with us. He inspired me and my generation in his music. His legacy will continue to live on and immortalize him as the only King of Pop.

Caring for my Father... I hope he gets well soon and learn his lesson to Stop Smoking...

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 03:07:00 +0000

Last Tuesday, my Father was admitted to the hospital because of his complaints of pains in his stomach. He together with my mother flew from the province here in Manila in order to get better consultation with a hospital and undergo CT Scan for his abdomen. But aside from the pain in his stomach, the doctor also said that he has water in his lungs that are needed to be extracted soon. We kind of expected that he would contract a lot of ailments because he has been smoking a lot of cigarettes all his life. He has been a chain smoker ( consuming almost 3 packs per day ) since his teens. Our main concern right now is that the doctor from our province, Masbate, said that he has mass lump in either his liver or kidneys and this could be further detected when he undergoes CT Scan (Liver Cirrhosis). I really hope that my father could recover from all the sickness that he is facing right now. My family has been with him all throughout his confinement. We are praying for his fast and complete recovery. I hope it is not too late for a lifestyle change. Smoking could indeed cause a lot of problems to our health. We may not realize it while we are still young and enjoying the relaxation brought about by smoking, but sooner or later, our body will eventually let us pay the price. He is only 61 years old now, but he is already feeling the ill effects of smoking. I hope this blog will reach people out especially the smokers. Our family also needs your help through your prayers.

Women holds power Worldwide, Kosor of Croatia adds to the List

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 04:08:00 +0000

Jadranka Kosor of Croatia, who has been nominated as first woman prime minister of Croatia, joins a list of women empowered to lead nations worldwide. Like in our own country and other countries as well around the world, people have already placed their trust on capable women to lead them. Not long time ago, women were considered as second class citizens, not allowed to vote, participate in public discussions, and were restricted from a lot of different types of work. But this has changed a lot over the course of time, women have asserted their rights in society. They have even excelled in fields that only men were allowed to occupy. In the United States, Hillary Clinton was the staunch rival of Barrack Obama for the right to be the representative of the Democrat party for the presidential elections. She was narrowly beaten by Barrack Obama during their race for the Democrat presidential nomination. But later on, President Barrack Obama entrusted her with the powerful position of being the US State Secretary. In our own country, the Philippines, we have President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who has been in power for almost a decade. She replaced President Joseph Estrada in 2001 during People Power Revolution 2 in the Philippines. I hope that these women leaders would show the world that they could effectively lead countries around the world. They should stop corruption and lead the people around the world out of poverty.

Source: Inquirer

Heads of government:

- GERMANY: Angela Merkel became Germany's first woman chancellor when she was elected in November 2005.

- ICELAND: Social Democrat Johanna Sigurdardottir became Iceland's first female premier in February this year.

- BANGLADESH: Sheikh Hasina Wajed became prime minister in February. She had held the post between 1996 and 2001.

- HAITI: Michele Pierre-Louis became the country's second woman prime minister in July last year.

- MOLDOVA: Zinaida Greceanii in power since March 31, 2008.

- MOZAMBIQUE: Luisa Diogo holds prime ministerial office since February 2004.

- UKRAINE: Yulia Timoshenko held the prime minister's office from January to September 2005 and then assumed the post again on December 18, 2007.

ELECTED HEADS OF STATE:

- LITHUANIA: Dalia Grybauskaite elected on May 18, 2009.

- ARGENTINA: Cristina Kirchner, elected in October 2007.

- INDIA: Pratibha Patil elected in July 2007 as the country's first woman president.

- CHILE: Michelle Bachelet, elected in January 2006.

- LIBERIA: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf became the first African woman president after her election in November 2005.

- PHILIPPINES: Vice president Gloria Arroyo replaced Joseph Estrada in 2001 after he was removed for corruption. She was elected in 2004.

- FINLAND: Tarja Halonen was elected in 2000 and then again in January 2006.

- IRELAND: Mary McAleese, succeeded another woman Mary Robinson in 1997. She was re-elected in October 2004.

Cory Aquino stops Chemotherapy and other Medications

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 02:42:00 +0000

The mother of democracy of the Philippines who has fought the mighty hands of steel of dictatorship during the 80's is now fighting for her own life. Corazon Aquino, the widow of Filipino hero Ninoy Aquino, has been reported to have opt out of the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) and also taking her chemotherapy and other sorts of medications. She has been battling colon cancer for several years now and has said that the past one and a half year 'bonus' to her life has been a blessing already. She is now joined by her family and closest friends in a private room at the Makati Medical Center. Healing masses were offered by her priest-friends in various churches in Metro Manila. I too am joining the throngs of Filipino praying for her healing. The last time I heard of her was through her message against the charter change through constituent assembly, which is being pushed by the administration allies in the Congress. A message from her was read by her grandson Kiko Dy. She was feeling weak and can not attend the rally at Makati but I guess her spirit was with those who joined the rally against those who want to 'rape' the constitution just to stay in power. We all should join in prayer for her healing. She still has a lot to contribute for our country's democracy. It is still not yet fully restored. After 25 years, there are still those corrupt and dark politicians who curtail our freedom. Only recently there are still threats of no elections because of the backing out of the TIM (Total Information Management) on their partnership with SmartMatic in order to deliver the country's first fully automated polls in the presidential elections in 2010. I just hope that she could live longer to witness a fully freed Philippines, a country that could enjoy the fruits of sacrifices that her husband and other heroes of Filipino Democracy have fought and died for.

Royce Chocolate Craze

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:45:00 +0000

Chocolates are often associated with courtship and love, well basically because its sweet and many said that it is an aphrodisiac. For me, it has been my favorite and a craving for my sweet tooth. There are a lot of variety of chocolates among my favorite are snickers, m&m, ferrero rocher, and of course royce chocolates. One of my husband's treat last Valentine's day was a pack of royce chocolate, which he bought at Rockwell Power Plant. At first he said that he ordered it directly from Japan through his friend. Originally, this chocolates could only be purchased through the Narita airport in Japan. Since he frequent Japan then because of he being employed by a top Japanese IT company, he was able to give me this chocolate as one of his gifts. But what is so special with royce chocolate. Let's just say that it tastes different. It is simply smooth and majestic. When purchased, it needs special packaging of dry ice in order to maintain its form otherwise it would melt. I guess every chocolate lover should try this majestic chocolate treat.

Sony PSP Go to add Phone Feature?

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 05:04:00 +0000

The next generation of Sony PlayStation Portable is reportedly being assessed to have a phone feature. This would perhaps rival the Apple iPhone, which has been a combination of iPod, wifi internet browser, and mini-computer with hundreds or even thousands of application available for installation. Sony is planning to integrate cellular phone capability to its PlayStation Portable Go units through Sony Ericsson, which is a joint venture cellular phone company between Sony and Swedish mobile phone make Ericsson. The cellular phone feature will surely pack a lot of kicks in this new device to be unveiled by Sony which is expected to go on sale by October 1 in the North Americas for a reported price of $249. Some of the features of PSP Go are: 43% lighter than the current PSP, screen slider, 16GB of built-in flash memory, Bluetooth capability (which could possibly mean that it could be used as a PS3 controller).

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, rakes $201 Million in 5 days

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 03:18:00 +0000

The much awaited Transformers' sequel, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, has raked in $201 Million in just 5 days. This is the second largest box office records payout since Batman sequel 'The Dark Knight' which stars Heath Ledger as the Joker and Christian Bale as Batman. This behemoth upstart by the iconic robots has smashed the top box office hits in Hollywood. There are those moviegoers who said that the story of the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen was a bit simplistic, but the battle scenes were simply astounding to say the least. The 2 and a half hour action packed movie will surely entertain most of the kids and action seeking adventurous movie goers, but it would almost certainly disappoint critics who are seeking more substance on the movie's story telling part. Nonetheless, this movie is truly a treat especially to the Transformers enthusiast because this movie introduced many new characters and more juggernaut robots.

Here are the list of this weekend's top 10 Box Office Records from Hollywood:

1. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen ($112 M)
2. The Proposal ($18.466 M)
3. The Hangover ($17.215 M)
4. Up ($13.046 M)
5. My Sister's Keeper ($12.03 M)
6. Year One ($5.8 M)
7. The Taking of Pelham 123 ($5.4 M)
8. StarTrek ($3.606 M)
9. Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian ($3.5 M)
10. Away We Go ($1.678 M)

Source: Yahoo! Movies

Sunday Reflection: Jesus said, "Do not be afraid; just have faith"

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 13:09:00 +0000

June 28, 2009

GOSPEL (Mk 5:21-43)

When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around Him, and he stayed close to the lake. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing Him he fell at his feet an pleaded earnestly with Him, saying, "My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her hands on her that she may get well and live." He went off with Him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon Him.

There was a woman afflicte with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, "If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured." Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction.

Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from Him, turned around in the crowd and asked. "Who has touched my clothes?"

But His disciples said to Him, "You see how the crowd is pressing upon you and yet you ask, 'Who touched me?'"

And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happene to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told Him the whole truth.

He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction."

While He was still speaking, people from the synagogue official's house arrived and said, "Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?"

Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, "Do not be afraid; just have faith." He did not allow anyone to accompany Him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James.

When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, He caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, "Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep." And they ridiculed Him. Then He put them all out. He took along the child's father and mother and those who were with Him and entered the room where the child was.

He took the child by the hand and said to her. "Talitha koum," which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!" The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said thats she should be given something to eat.

REFLECTION: In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus emphasized the power of faith and that nothing is impossible with God. He cured two people in this Gospel. First is a woman with severe hemorrhages, which has been troubling the woman for twelve years. This woman has heard of the miraculous works of Jesus and has said to herself that if only she could touch the clothes of Jesus then she could be cured. Jesus then said to the woman that her faith has cured her. In this statement from Jesus, He could have acknowledged His healing power being responsible for the cure of the woman, but He opted to say that her faith was the one that cured her. The second miracle that Jesus showed in this Gospel is when He raised from the dead a little girl who the people were saying was already dead. Jesus told those who were weeping for the little girl's death, to be not afraid and have faith. This is a very powerful statement coming from Jesus. It gives us the assurance that God will do everything if only we have the firm faith in Him. We should never lose faith amidst the trials and tribulations that we are facing in our life. But we should always put in our mind that we should not panic and do not be afraid to face all our problems because if we have faith then nothing is too impossible for God who has power over all things.

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, Passed Away at 50

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 01:14:00 +0000

The fallen 'King of Pop', who once sold undisputed number of albums around the world and electrified his fans through his breathtaking concerts, has passed away Thursday afternoon, June 25. Initial reports suggests that he was in coma because of cardiac arrest and he succumbed at around 1:07pm of June 25.

Michael Jackson has been the artist that contributed largely to the music industry through his countless hits during the 80's and 90's. Hits like 'Thriller', 'Billy Jean', 'Bad', 'Ben' has captured the hearts of his heard of fans across the globe. I still remember when he held a concert here in the Philippines. His voice and dancing prowess just exemplifies him as an artist. His legacy and image was tarnished though with numerous controversies and media frenzies for his alleged acts of lasciviousness with boys whom he invited at his mansions. I guess his life and legacy will forever mark the music industry which he once contributed for over two decades. May the people judge him for his great contributions to the music industry and not make any frenzy over his alleged involvement with acts of lasciviousness and his numerous physical alterations.

King James will get help from Old Superman

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 06:49:00 +0000

LeShaq attack coming next season! The Cleaveland Cavaliers has just acquired the old Superman from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Ben Wallace, Sasha Pavlovic and some cash. Lebron James who obviously did not have enough help when needed most during the NBA playoffs has gained a formidable big man in the person of Shaquille O'Neal. Superman Shaq could bolster the front line of Cavs that could compete against the young and mighty big men of Orlando Magics. Could Shaq deliver another championship to another super guy in Lebron? He has already provided support and leadership with teams such as Orlando, Los Angeles and Miami. He has brought them to the finals and championships in the past together with superstar players such as Kobe Bryant and Dwayne Wade. Could next season be King James'? Could the dream Nike match up of Kobe and Lebron materialize finally? Shaq will definitely hold the key to these questions. Many NBA fans will surely love Kobe - Lebron rivalry in the finals.

ZestAir Plane overshoots a runway at Boracay Airport

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Aplacador-Santos) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 06:08:00 +0000

A ZestAir MA60 plane overshoots a runway at the Caticlan airport in the morning of June 25. All the passengers and the crew of the plane were unhurt according to the local police. The incident was reported to Camp Krame at around 7:55am. The report says that ZestAir flight Z2-863 overshoot Runway 24 of the Caticlan airport. This airport is an access to the Philippines' most famous beach, the Boracay.

ZestAir is a new airline that was an offshoot of the old airline Asian Spirit. There were also many incidents involving the aircrafts of Asian Spirit. But ZestAir has been trying to repackage the airline to a cheap air transportation provider to compete with Cebu Pacific and PAL express. It was reported sometime ago that it has placed an order on A320 aircrafts during the recent air transportation show at France. I hope that ZestAir would also provide appropriate budget in maintenance of their current fleet of aircrafts in order to avoid these accidents.