Vernon Go's Frustrated Life

iMez - Aboitizland, Made for Life Tour

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 03:14:00 +0000

iMEZ, a modern multi-use facility that is located within Pueblo Verde is a compact, self-sufficient, commercial hub that seamlessly melds modern convenience with laid-back lifestyle. The five-storey building with approximately 4,500 sq. meters of floor space forms the heart of Pueblo Verde; ringed by retail stores on the first floor and crowned by the business process outsourcing set of offices on the rest of the floors. iMEZ has a retail and recreation lifestyle advantage that gives it proximity to shopping, dining, and service establishments within Pueblo Verde.

iMEZ has 200% power back up to make sure all systems are kept running and the demand for power is sufficiently met, this is for the immediate technology demands of BPO companies. AboitizLand offers the same strength and dependability to Pueblo Verde and iMEZ. This latest venture offers the benefit of tax incentives as it is under PEZA Zone, as well as competitive rental rates for prospective locators.

iMEZ is located at Brgy. Basak, Lapu-Lapu City. If you’re from Cebu City, you can take the old Mandaue-Mactan Bridge, east-bound(AC Cortez Avenue) then once on Mactan side, take M. Patalinjug Highway, east-bound (towards Marigondon). Now if you are coming from the Mactan Cebu International Airport: Take ML Quezon, south-bound (towards Lapu Lapu City proper) after that make a left on M. Patalinjug Highway (east-bound, towards, Marigondon).

iMEZ amenities: 200% power back-up, modern Filipino-Spanish Architecture, Ample, convenient parking area, Al Fresco Dining, underground utilities. For its area allocations: Ground Floor: Retail (approx. 550 sq. meters); Second to Fifth Floors: BPO Offices (approx. 4000 sq. meters); Coffee Shop, Fastfood Outlet, Casual Dining, Bakery/Pastry/Dessert.

If you're a businessman, investor or BPO owner, then iMEZ is the place for you!

Photo Credit (and for more info): Aboitizland

Infant Accessories at ShopWiki

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:57:00 +0000

Spending time on ShopWiki is like getting your money's worth for every time spent. With ShopWiki there are so many online shopping sites to choose from. But, if you are looking for Infant Accessory items such as strollers, boosters & seats, walkers and carriers, then accessing Shop Wiki is your best option. ShopWiki gives you several categories or even sub-categories to look for what you need. Each category includes a guide with more information.

Subcategories or types for more information about a particular product, are available. Example - strollers: Tandem Strollers, Jogging Strollers, Light weight strollers, Full Featured Strollers and many more! Additional information about its features are also available such as safety and ergonomic designs up to wheels, handles, fabric and the like.

ShopWiki is designed to help customers find specific products on the Internet with ease. It is consumer driven website where customers can begin their online shopping adventures, research products, compare deals, feedback and find reviews. Shopwiki helps you decide the best products to buy and where to buy them.

Shop at ShopWiki now for Infant Accessories or any other products you may want!

UK Moving and Removal Services

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:07:00 +0000

For UK Moving and Removal Services, I recommend for you to acquire the services ofthis FIRM. They provide you with Everything you need when moving your home. This UK Moving and Removal Services provide you with planning and organizing your move, local removal quotes, utilities transfer, and even price comparisons.

They help you find a a surveyor, appoint a solicitor, pack up scheduling, box orders, broadband, gas and electricity transfer and the like! Having a web presence makes them stand out among the rest. There website is easy to navigate and can easily find the desired information you need for your queries and quotations for specific services. You can easily find sections such as removals, gas & electricity, Phone, broadband & TV, Change of Address, Solicitors & surveyors and many more! They even have a packaged free service in case your on a tight budget! Truly one of the stand out UK Moving and Removal Services.

Here are some testimonials from there clients to name a few:

“Fantastic service - the e-mail reminders alone are an absolute godsend - keep it up”
“VERY helpful staff. Nice to have ONE dedicated point of contact. A real person!”
“An excellent service that anyone thinking of moving should use”

For more information about the UK Moving and Removal Services, please visit there site here.

Try it yourself!

Graduation Kunohai – Aligutgut sa usa ka graduado nga Tiknoy

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:40:00 +0000

Graduation Kunohai or gimmick kumbaga ang akong istorya karon kay usa sab ni sa akong mga aligutgut sa aning eskwelahana.

When Chip Tsao, the Hongkong columnist caused a stir in our country by broadcasting to the whole world that his Filipino domestic helper who “cleans his toilet and washes his windows”, is a degree holder of International Politics from the University of Manila?

Now on to the ceremony or pre-ceremony. As I recall and compare my high school and college graduation, the ceremony standards are world’s apart. In my high school, we practiced a week just for the graduation ceremony while in college, we did it in 1 and ½ days. In high school we didn’t dress or wear a toga, we simply wore our uniform which is a barong type design with blue pants. It was not only comfortable but professional as well. The ceremony took almost half a day or almost 5 hours with mass, tribute and ceremony. We congratulated our teachers after the ceremony and even our director at the time re-congratulated us after the ceremony.

Fast forward to college again, it was weird, foreign and in some ways degrading somewhat. Yes, I was happy that I finally finished my degree but at the back of my mind, a little disturbed. Practicing for 1 and ½ days..do you expect something to go wrong? What does this imply of the school standards?

Medals honor achievement. It is also a healthy form of incentive, encouraging competition and excellence among students. But the disturbing thing was that only those who had achievements were the only ones whose parents were allowed to come to stage with their sons/daughters to receive the diploma. What of those students’ who were struggling and yet was able to graduate? And what of those parents who came from cebu province and for those who come from other visayan islands and were simply instructed to stay on the bleachers and watch?

Poor parents. Most of all, poor students. While the president and other so-called officials were congratulating the students, I wondered, CONGRATULATIONS FOR WHAT?? You congratulated them for being in your school, for paying tuition fees and whatnot? It’s not a graduation, it’s a send off. If your course has no board exam they couldn’t care less, I’d say. The deans/department heads have more right to be on stage for they were witness to our struggles and challenges while we were in college. But we ended up like a line assembly who just took the diploma, shook hands to people we met for the first time and back to their seats, that’s it. Most of my batch mates didn’t even know the batch song (even I didn’t know) and most for most of the ceremony we were restless and noisy (complaining about the song, the heat and the ceremony itself). It’s sad simply sad.

Although I have forgotten where I placed my high school graduation pics, I will describe the ceremony nalang:
We don’t have a toga attire, it is hot and uncomfortable (parents can save from renting one); We practiced to instill discipline to show to our parents and also display the school’s values; I can say we were fairly disciplined and dignified. The diplomas are uniformly held by the left hand (or was it the right hand?) with both arms at the sides. It was a simple ceremony (Mass, message of thanks from the school director, message from the batch president, our teachers). A student receives his diploma with one or two parents and express gratitude and respect. The backdrop was a simple description with school logo and the Philippine Flag. For some students while singing the graduation song on stage had tears streaming down their cheeks, others were obviously holding them back and I was a bit teary eyed.

Here in the Philippines, I don’t know about other schools but some if not most Filipino graduates can’t wait for the ceremony to finish so they can enjoy their party (being the cam-whore that I was, well I looked for my friends and teachers and had a photo-op with them and gave thanks of course-almost 1hour after the ceremony). I don’t know how other schools do their graduation but I hope they at least make it worthwhile for the parents.

Kamu mga tiknoy? Sugut mo na dalidalion inyung pag graduate aron maka save daw sa oras para makakaon mog sayo?

Pueblo Verde – Aboitizland, Made for Life Tour

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:55:00 +0000

Pueblo Verde is a well thought-out neighborhood commercial hub thought up by Aboitizland. Pueblo Verde is based on a clustered town center concept that encloses an inspired mix of dining, retail, service facilities, and modern office space.

Shops in Pueblo Verde are envisioned to enhance the shopping and relaxing experiences of visitors such as: al fresco coffee shops, pastry and dessert shops, and a bakery, several casual dining restaurants as well as fastfood outlets. Pueblo Verde also has a wellness outlet, convenience banks and other service outlets.

Pueblo Verde locators, MEZ II community as well as tourists and local residents living nearby, will soon benefit from a master plan for a top-choice Supermarket to be conveniently placed right next to the transportation terminal. All these modern conveniences are housed within an area with a distinctly modern architecture accented by charming Filipino - Spanish design influences, only at Pueblo Verde.

Pueblo Verde is located right in front of MEZ II and along Maximo Patalinhug Hi-Way, Brgy. Basak, LLC. Pueblo Verde serves the growing market of MEZ II community of at least 18,000 employees; Pueblo Verde is conveniently within ready to reach hospitals, hotels, resorts, and Mactan's beautiful beaches. It is also near the growing residential communities that is favored by Cebu's skilled work force.

The Pueblo Verde complex is positioned for easy accessibility - its closeness to the international airport, public transporation routes, commercial establishments, and terminal area make it a convenient destination. The area enjoys a stable, dependable power supply at comparably lower cost. And all utilities are placed underground for efficiency and an unobstructed view.

Pueblo Verde also has its own parking area for safety and convenience of its clientele. There is 24-hour security and clean, well-lit pedestrian pathways for easy navigation.

Daily Rant #1: Not enough time..seriously

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 04:10:00 +0000

I should be having my peaceful weekend right now but instead, things are getting a little bit annoying, weird, out of control and simply frustrating. Here is a list of what's going on in my life right now:

1. Internet Connection – I go crazy when my internet connection is busy, can’t blame ISP sine many people are getting there service! RAWR

2. Adjustment Period - I am now a professional but I am still not that focused on it yet, I even have a back log in making my own system to adjust with my job of being a technical support engineer and the work schedule I have somewhat adjusted but not totally, it could be never.

3. Nothing to Blog - It's pretty obvious that I don't have any topic today to post. Writing these down helps me ease the boredom, frustration and the disappointment I feel. Technically I have a lot to blog about, it’s just I have niches now and I do keep a schedule/quota per week to blog per niche its just that I’m still adjusting? I dunno..

4. Slow implementation of plans – I have so much going on that I get frustrated if a planned endeavor is not yet implemented, I only have to blame myself for this but I could blame other factors on some endeavors, such as: getting a government issued ID (passport, nbi clearance-after 48 yeas jud!), Bank account creation (don’t have requirements yet and I need 4 bank accounts from 4 different banks!), YMA project (Stalled, literally), commitments (to CIT-CES..it’s getting there..I hope and for some reason i became an organizer for ALEx's activities), business proposals (uhm..everything is on draft..at least but still not good enough)

5. Waiting for Windows 7 to arrive – damnit where are you!??? I want my windows 7 and netbook now!!!!

6. Brown Outs – I’ve read the news that there will be rotated brown outs since the VERCO people are fixing something/maintenance.. DAmint DOE please make some wind turbine power plants or solar power plants or any alternative power here in cebu!!! It’s sustainable and friendly to the environment, can’t you understand that?

7. Sidelines – maintaining them is hard enough, I need to try harder dammit!!

8. My crazy Brain/MIND – my brain is throwing out lots of ideas lately, although they are good, it’s frustrating when you can’t implement them.

9. The Holidays are coming – Christmas is stressful why? I’m on a tight budget, lots of parties to attend and gifts to give (please for a change ako napoy mu receive pwede?)

10. Blogging world – The demands of this world are ever increasing, the need to explore and act upon Online endeavors is stressful and frustrating (Income generating ventures, freelance, niche, and the like..)

So many things to do..so little time…rawr!!!

RFID Kunohai – Aligutgut sa usa ka graduado nga Tiknoy

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 05:01:00 +0000

RFID ang akong i-istorya karon ug kini ang usa sa mga aligutgut nako sa akong eskwelahan sauna. Ang ubang eskwelahan sa ciudad sa sugbu nag RFID pero dili palang tanan. Ang RFID para sa mga Tiknoy kay nindot unta ni kay daghan kaayo ma streamline or mapanindot na systema sa eskwelahan sugud sa accounting, alumni, security, departmental records hangtud sa unsa panang mga transaction nga nag kinahanglan ug data or information use/interface.

Ug matinood ni nga systema ug tinarong nga pag dala, manindot gyud maayo ang kinabuhi sa estudyante ug makatigum pa ang administrasyun kay di na sila mag gamit ug daghang papel ug makatabang pagyud sa atong kalikopan nga mga kahoi nato. Mas mugaan ang trabaho sa mga taga accounting, registrar ug sa alumni ug sa mga lain-laing departamento kay paspas ug nindot ang systema tungod naka database na kaysa mag Library ug mga doumento.

About RFID:

RFID is short for radio frequency identification, a technology similar in theory to bar code identification. With RFID, the electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the RF portion of the electromagnetic spectrum is used to transmit signals. An RFID system consists of an antenna and a transceiver, which read the radio frequency and transfer the information to a processing device, and a transponder, or tag, which is an integrated circuit containing the RF circuitry and information to be transmitted.

RFID systems can be used just about anywhere, from clothing tags to missiles to pet tags to food -- anywhere that a unique identification system is needed. The tag can carry information as simple as a pet owners name and address or the cleaning instruction on a sweater to as complex as instructions on how to assemble a car. Some auto manufacturers use RFID systems to move cars through an assembly line. At each successive stage of production, the RFID tag tells the computers what the next step of automated assembly is.

One of the key differences between RFID and bar code technology is RFID eliminates the need for line-of-sight reading that bar coding depends on. Basically, it is a much efficient tool for security and identification for schools. The possibility for this technology’s use is endless depending on the implementer’s creativity and imagination.

Karon balik tas aligutgut…nganu mani nahimo nig aligutgut? Ako bisan ni graduate nko maluoi lang jud ta sa mga estudyante na nag bayad ug wala nakakuha ug saktong serbisyu (There money’s worth). Nganu man? Ang mga bata nag bayad ug usa ka RFID nga walay receiver…? So unsa namay gamit aning mga RFID? Nahug nga Normal ID nalang ug nag bayad cla ug mas mahal kaysa normal nga ID..kapaet aning kalakiha oi! PAGKA!

Note: This post is not to diminish the credibility of the school but rather to provide an opportunity for improvement for the betterment of the existing students but also for future students.

Awesome, Uber, FUN at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +0000

I had an Awesome, Uber, FUN at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort through their Sunday By-the-beach program for bloggers last sunday! Unlike the fellow bloggers that went with to Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, this was still my first time in even stepping foot at the resort. This is truly one of my best experiences in relaxing at a resort, only at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort.

It happened to be my 2nd rest day from work and I woke up exactly 5 in the morning. I couldn't get proper sleep since I was really excited to go there. I was literally the first to arrive on the meeting place and I ended up eating in Jollibee for Breakfast. After my fellow bloggers arrived, namely: Bryan Karl Yuson, Mikyu Maglasang, Karen Veloso, Ethelbert B. Ouano, Mark Monta, Vernon Go (meeee), Blair Arciete, Zyra Arciete, Mark Alessandrew Abitona, and Agnes Jimenez.

We arrive at the place around 10am and we immediately attacked the Garden Wing pool. After the Dip we attacked the open buffet in which I had no idea what food i was chowing down, I didn't care as long as it was edible and tasted good! Later in the afternoon we met noelle and her "ahem?" doing something (HAHAHA) and we simply bothered them and did what cebu bloggers do best camwhori..Photo-Opportunities. After the food gorging and touring I just opted to chill and let the breeze comfort me until it was time to go home.

Hospitality, great amenities and smiling staff and crew are one of the best assets of the resort aside from the beautiful views/scenery and of course the FOOD (Only at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort)!

Thanks Sir Ruben of Pinoy World for the invite and also to the staff of Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort!

Photo Credit: Noelle

my little ipod shuffle

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:21:00 +0000

I bought myself an apple ipod shuffle for my birthday and I simply love it! iPod shuffle is designed not only to talk, but to say the right things. Apple redesigned their Apple ipod Shuffle which happens to sport a sleeker design and several colors. As the world’s smallest music player, the controls are moved from iPod shuffle body to the earphone cord.

First, iTunes reads your song information, then uses the VoiceOver Kit to generate the announcements for the songs, artists, and playlists. Just sync your iPod shuffle with your computer and it really speaks to you.

After you sync your iPod shuffle, the voice you hear depends on which computer system you use. If you sync your iPod shuffle with a PC or with a Mac running Mac OS X Tiger, you’ll hear the English voice included in the VoiceOver Kit. And since Mac OS X Leopard and Snow Leopard have an amazing English voice built in, that’s the voice you’ll hear when you sync your iPod shuffle with a Mac running one of those operating systems.

The VoiceOver feature tells you the names of your playlists, so you can easily switch between them to find the right mix for your mood. Without having to take your eyes off your run, your ride, or whatever you’re doing. This is waht I love about my itsy bitsy tiny winnie shuffle, it really tells you literally what your listening to.

The Apple Shuffle will cost P 3,290 for the 2GB version while P 4,390 for the 4GB version.

Aboitiz Sports Field – Aboitizland, Made for Life Tour

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 03:36:00 +0000

The Aboitiz Sports Field in Subangdaku, Mandaue City is the first of its kind in Cebu. It provides a healthier alternative to weekend visits to the malls for families and friends to bond through sports. The Aboitiz Sports “multi-purpose” field has a Fifa-standard field measuring 120-meter by 90m. The Aboitiz Field also houses two kiddies’ fields that are 60m by 40m. These sports fields are designed for the 12-Under division and lower age divisions.

The professional field and two kiddie fields are also excellent venues for corporate events. The Aboitiz Sports field is also open for use for field sports such as rugby, flag football, baseball, softball, volleyball and also Frisbee. The Facilities are as follows: Lighted fields (main and kid fields), Batting cages, Lockers and shower rooms, Covered/movable bleachers (250 pax), Administration office, Wide parking space, Gated perimeter fence, 24/7 security, Telephone.

The rates for the Aboitiz Sports Field are Php550.00/hr/field from 6am to 6pm for day use and Php2,200.00/hr/field from 6pm to 11pm for night use, Php10.00/person for whole day; Php30.00/vehicle for the whole day. The Aboitiz Sports Field is opened to the public from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. To get to the Aboitiz Sports Field, drive to the North Reclamation going to Makro Cebu. Turn right into M. Logarta St. (Aboitiz Sports Field is adjacent to Makro and across Cebu North Bus Terminal).

For reservations and inquiries about the Aboitiz Sports Field use, you may call Aboitizland Sattelite Office at 032-411-1647 or visit Aboitizland Satellite Office at the 3rd floor of the RCBC building in front of the flyover in Banilad, Cebu City.

Special thanks to Aboitizland for inviting me and CBS for their Communities Tour!
Photo Credit: Aboitizland

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort Trial

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 02:12:00 +0000

I have read more than a couple of times from PinoyWorld that they have been inviting bloggers to tour there beach, and island resorts. I had missed all previous invites from Summer Blowout to the Bluewater Gallery due to my complicated schedule. This time, once again they are inviting bloggers from all over the Philippines to enjoy white sand beach! This would be my first entry and hopefully I will be given a chance to finally visit and enjoy the place in which I have hear so many good things..from there relaxing rooms …to the savoring the luscious foods they have in their dining (all I saw was the tasty pictures taken by my blogger friends) and finally services such as swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling at their pools and at their blue water beach.

This invite is only limited to 5 blogger’s per Sunday shall be given a chance to enjoy “Sunday by the beach” from October 25, 2009 to November 20, 2009. Hopefully, on October 25th I will be given a chance to try out and see for myself the beauty of the resort with my own eyes.

For more info about Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, you may visit the Maribago Bluewater blog and even watch the Maribago Bluewater video! I’m sure you’ll be amazed on what you see.

Are you a blogger who wishes to stay and relax at a white sand beach resort in Cebu for a Sunday? Visit PinoyWorld and read the post entitled Maribago Bluewater, their video or their blog and read the invites to a Sunday by the beach. Simply follow the instructions provided and your good to go. What are you waiting for? Post your entry now and have your own Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort Trial!

Photo Credit: Pinoy World (Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort)

How I spent my birthdaysss

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:30:00 +0000

It was also International Coastal Clean-up day during my birthday. My birthday as every year passes is like the "BER" month phenomenon. The BER month is the beginning of the long celebration of the Philippines' holiday/Christmas celebration and just like the ber months I am expecting an extend birthdaysss. Why? well here comes the November Holidays which would most likely have a small reunion with extended family members that would greet and hopefully GIVE something. Then there's the Holidays then New year then February events. Hahah based from past experience someone I know who were unable to greet on the day would remember and greet me even though its super late (from septemnber to february)! But I do appreciate it, THANKS!

Greeting Methods:
Plurk, Facebook, Friendster, Yahoo Messenger, Face-to-face, Blog Visitation/Comments, Landline, SMS, Twitter

Special Thanks to the people who greeted me (Advanced, on the Day and belated):

SHS-J Peeps:
Peter Delantar, Paolo Gandionco, Leiv Erickson Chen, Neil Jason Casas,

Young Minds Academy peeps:
Arthur Mamitag, Ivy Rafols, Fratri Edson Silva, Lordie Grace Garcia, Frances Cuyos, Abigail Joy Cesa, Marisse Paraoan, Alexa Cecilia Aguipo, Rhyle Clifford Sayat, Janemarie Semblante, Vernie Naraja, April Rose Gavaran, Tiny,

Cebu Bloggers’ Society:
Aika, Beejing, Rasbin, Kevin Ray Chua, Agnes, Ate Pibsz, Mikyuwk, Aimee, Clado, Guada, X, Bryan Karl, Doyskie, Orville, Zyza, Zyra, Kai, Bert Padilla, Jorich McCoolot, Mark Tanom, Atty. Ethelbert, Sinjin, Kristiannexx, Aldwin,

IE peeps:
Dinah Nigparanon, Rhea Gahob, Leslie Joie Babatuan, Emer Jean, Christine Jean Paez, Lea Amacanin, Nhize Aguitong, Jingle Pejana, Elvira Inso, Jenelyn Erediano, Aniceto Daugdaug, Jessa Gadiano, Grace Limpo, Manuel Brusas, Nendell Hanz Corbeta, Carlito Impas, Mely Masanda, Kerby Macedonn Gutierez, Margiel Santillan, Summer Dy, Maria Resma

Co-workers:
Johanna, Fatsy, Christine, Osy, Sheris, Ethel Jo, Maxie, Chilaah, Diome

Others:
Janette Toral, Jomer Gregorio, Mariel Amodia

Familia:
Mom, Dad, Sis, Donalyn, Cuzins, Aunts, Uncles…hahaha daghan au sila?

See Birthday Traditions Post Here

Although it wasnt the PERFECT BIRTHDAY, there is always next year and the year after that! Ug Dagahang Salamat sa pag hinumdum sakong adlaw....bisan late nani na blog post :D

Efren Peñaflorida for CNN Hero of the year 2009

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 03:30:00 +0000

Efren Peñaflorida is a finalist for CNN's Hero of the year 2009, he first came to my attention when his works was featured in CNN and in local media for his social work efforts and of his "Kariton Project" Concept.

Efren Penaflorida first came to the public's eye when his group, the Dynamic Teen Company won the Bayaning Pilipino award for their heroic work in helping kids keep off the streets through education (Kariton Mobile Classrooms) in Cavite. Since 1997, more than 10,000 volunteers have helped educate more than 1,500 kids in depressed areas of Cavite. It was the work of the young helping the young, the poor helping the poor.

The group uniquely uses their main tool: A pushcart classroom or “Kariton Klassroom,” which is a mobile classroom that brings around all their teaching materials to the different areas they service. Stocked with books, pens, tables and chairs, his Dynamic Teen Company recreates a school setting in unconventional locations such as the cemetery and municipal trash dump with a team of teen volunteers who teaches basic reading and writing to children living on the area and of the streets. The group also runs a hygiene clinic, where children can get a bath and learn how to brush their teeth. The organization supports its efforts by making and selling crafts and collecting items to recycle.

This year, Penaflorida was recognized as a CNN hero. It was announced that out of 9,000 nominations, and 28 heroes, Penaflorida made it to the elite list of 10 finalists for CNN's hero of the year. All the 10 finalists now will receive US$25,000 or about P1.2 million, and they will be flown to Los Angeles on November for the final All-Star Tribute night. The ultimate hero will be announced and will receive an additional US$100,000. The online voting has now begun on the CNN Heroes website.

Through dynamic teen company-group, Peñaflorida has successfully mentored former gang members, addicts and dropouts, seeing potential where others see problems. His group has already awards they had achieved, in recognition to their efforts, such as:

Bayaning Samahang Pilipino
ABS-CBN Gawad Geny Lopez Jr. – 2007
14th Congress Republic of the Philippines – 2007

Outstanding Volunteer Award
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and United Nations Volunteer Program (UNVP) – 2008

Ten Accomplished Youth Organization (TAYO)
National Youth Commission of the Philippines – 2008
TAYO Awards Foundation – 2008
Coca-cola Foundation, Philippines – 2008

Peñaflorida knows firsthand the adversity faced by these children. Born into a poor family, he lived in a shanty near the city dump site. But he says he refused to allow his circumstances to define his future. Read more about Efren.

"They need education to be successful in life. It's just giving them what others gave to me."

"Our volunteers serve as an inspiration to other children, I always tell my volunteers that you are the change that you dream and I am the change that I dream. And collectively we are the change that this world needs to be," he says.

From the 10 finalists, the public will decide via the internet votes who will become the ultimate CNN hero of 2009. So please help our fellow Filipino to win such a prestigious award and get funding to continue his noble work! Vote Efren Peñaflorinda for CNN's Hero of the year 2009!

CAST YOUR VOTE HERE!

Tsinelas Association, Inc. - Their Books

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 07:31:00 +0000

Tsinelas Association Inc. held their annual “Their Books” fair at the Ayala Center Cebu last Sept. 24 to 27 during the Cebu Press Freedom Week. “Their Books” is a charity book fair that encourages ordinary people and Cebu personalities from the music industry, arts, media and the like interested individuals/groups to donate old and unused books.

Donated books were sold at a price of P20 to P150 each. The remaining five percent of book donations will be carried over to next year's fair. Donated children’s books were turned over to the different public elementary schools. The Proceeds of the event will go to the beneficiaries of the Tsinelas Association, and this shall also serve as their entry for the TAYO awards! (Good Luck!).

About TSINELAS ASSOCIATION INC.

It is a non-government, non-stock, non-profit organization that gives educational assistance to poor students in mountain barangays and depressed areas in Cebu.

VISION
TSINELAS envisions a just and humane society where the basic right to education is upheld and where poverty is not a hindrance to learning. It is a society where those who have more in life help those who have less, and where everyone works for the common good.

MISSION
TSINELAS commits to help in the educational formation of poor students, in the ongoing formation of those responsible for their education, and in ensuring an environment that is conducive to learning.

THE OBJECTIVES
1. To spend for the students’ basic school needs, like tuition, school fees, uniforms and school supplies.
2. To help provide students with holistic formation through values formation and personality development seminars.
3. To help teachers, parents and other members of the community in their task of providing quality education to students
4. To help improve school facilities.

THE MEMBERS
TSINELAS is composed of students, teachers, social workers and professionals sharing a passion to be of service to others.

SEC REGISTRATION
TSINELAS was formed in October 2003 and was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in February 2004 under Registration No. CN200425206. It is also registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue. It links with other groups that are into similar advocacy and operates alongside local government units and the Department of Education.

WHY “TSINELAS”?
A pair of slippers is a fitting symbol of what the organization aims to do: to provide comfort to children in need and ensure that their right to education is respected.

Tsinelas promotes every child’s right to get sufficient education without using poverty as the main reason why he or she could not achieve his or her goals in life. Through the organization, a lot of students would be able to meet their basic educational needs such as tuition fees and school supplies.
They can also mold themselves into becoming better and more productive individuals for themselves, their families, and their country through values formation. The organization, moreover, offers support to the entire community, parents and teachers included, in providing adequate assistance and care to these children.

Note: Ok, mybad…this is a super delayed post..just found my list of to blog posts and just found this…(@_@)

Dolores Aboitiz Children's Fund, Children's Festival 09'

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 11:52:00 +0000

This year, the Children’s Festival organized by the Dolores S. Aboitiz Children's Fund will be held on October 17-18 at the Don Bosco Technology Center. The festival is organized by the Dolores S. Aboitiz Children's Fund, a grant-giving program of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., as a highlight of the Children's Month celebration.

Through various fun activities, the Children’s Festival aims to widen the experience of children about life and to instill in them hope for the future.

Participating Institutions this year are the Zapatera SpEd Center, Options Inc., The Lord Who Cares Foundation, Forge Inc., Tejero Elementary School, Don Bosco Technology Center, Nano Nagle Child Care and Learning Center, SOS Children’s Village, Community Scouts Guidance and Rehab Center, Community Christian Fellowship, Share a Child Movement Inc., Missionaries of the Poor, TSF Children’s Center, Operation Mobilization, Christ for Asia Association Inc., World Vision, Visayan Forum, Stop Abuse of Minors Association, Inc.. RAFI Participating barangays: Tejero, T. Padilla, Tinago, Sto. Niño, & San Roque.

Working Committee Volunteer Organizations (to name a few): Tsinelas Association, Inc., Cebu Normal University – LS, Rotary Club of Metro Mandaue, Aboitiz Leaders of Excellence (ALEx), Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., Young Minds Academy Alumni.

Companies who are sponsors of the Children’s Festival event will also distribute their own brand products to the children. To name a few which includes Jollibee, Globe, Zesto, Julies bakeshop, Waffle Time, Julies Bakeshop, Kaffe Alde, Dunkin Donuts, Nature’s Spring Waters, SM City Cebu.

There are various learning stations that are stationed all over and around the DBTC which offer fun-filled activities for the children, such as a station that focuses on citizenship and leadership, a station highlighting basic environmental concerns and its implication to health and the station that features Pinoy games emphasizing on teamwork and culture.

About DACF:

Dolores S. Aboitiz Children’s Fund (DACF), is a funding program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. that focuses on children’s welfare and development. The Dolores S. Aboitiz Children’s Fund (DACF) is a program that focuses on children’s needs and concerns. By making grants available to children-oriented programs, it aims to contribute to the protection and interventions that build children’s wisdom and resiliency.

DACF works with other stakeholders in creating child nurturing communities and families. It also strives to provide better opportunities for children to achieve optimum development of their potentials. As a program of RAFI, it adheres to the policies and thrusts of the Foundation and it complements RAFI’s development programs by specifically addressing children’s concerns.

Cebu City’s Disaster Preparedness

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 03:15:00 +0000

I can still recall bagyo ruping when I was little wherein trees were being uprooted and flying left and right…and now this disaster of bagyo ondoy in manila and the follow up of pepeng and another forecasted storm will be coming. Although there is an outpouring of International and local aid, desperation still exists in the area for more storms will definitely come. Nature does not care whether you’re rich or poor, moonlight shines on the guilty and the innocent alike. Now the question lingering in my mind is…will cebu suffer the same fate or worse? Are we cebuanos prepared for such things?

One might argue that cebu is no manila, true, but what about the garbage that each person generates? Do we put effort to segregate it before giving it to garbage collectors? Bare in mind that cebu too is a treeless city. It wouldn’t take a genius to figure out that our rivers are also covered in plastic and waste with primitive sanitation system. An hour of straight downpour in the city would send Colon and towards the south, basak under flood or underwater.

Unlike organic wastes that degrade in due time, non-biodegradable waste don’t decay. Rushing water carry them to drainage pipes and clog them. And there they will stay forever unless declogged or into the streets and homes, carrying with it mud, pieces of trash, and disease which in turn would cost more (One doesn’t have to be a math or accounting major to figure the cost of that out).

Affected heads of LGUs all agreed that when the squatters return to their homes beside the waterways, the whole rigmarole will start all over again. They agreed that local governments should relocate the squatters, but that’s easier said than done. Relocate them where? A place far from their means of livelihood so that the squatters will, in time, sell their homes to speculators and go back to squatting? In spite of billions of pesos spent and large areas of land allotted for relocation of squatters, these informal settlers increase instead of decrease. And what about this so called payment of squatters to leave the place by our very own government? Is this a long term solution? It’s like paying someone to squat to another area, not here!

And developments in cebu so far has been the setting aside of P10 million from the calamity fund for disaster preparedness, not only for Typhoon Pepeng but for any other weather disturbances this year by the Cebu City Council.

We too must do our part in preparation. The people as citizens must insist that reform must be done, that there must be a demand for innovation and that other pending projects be undertaken. They may add more budget, create more laws, but these things will be useless if the money is not spent properly and if a law is not implemented and upheld then it is just a piece of paper. And ultimately if the very citizens who inhabit the place are engulfed by laziness and apathy themselves, what you do now might be slow but collectively we can move this country forward!

Global warming or not, things happen because of cause and effect. Garbage on the streets = clogged drainage, clogged drainage = flood, flood = disease, disease = suffering, suffering = recovery, recovery = cost of time and money…why not use that thing called “BRAIN” and use the magic that is called DISCIPLINE which practically costs you nothing! thinking about that was not so hard now was it?

It is a pathetic situation and excuse wherein people die simply because of the lack of preparation and of slack public servants. It is high time that we stop saying..basta gobyerno tapulan, hinay serbisyu and so forth. We too should demand to our elected officials and also do our parts and our best for a better community, country and world. Unless we have informed societies, politicians will get away with gestures. Look good but does no good.

So, what do you think of Cebu City’s Disaster Preparedness?

Young Minds Academy season 4 launched

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 01:48:00 +0000

YMA is a youth leadership and citizenship development program of RAFI, through the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, aimed at developing young emerging leaders aged 12-30 years old. Young Minds Academy is a scholarship provided by RAFI using experiential education and problem-based learning approaches.

The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. once again officially launched the 4th season of the Young Minds Academy last September 28, 2009 at the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center. This season’s theme is in line with the upcoming 2010 national elections. YMA will be looking at issues and concerns related to governance.

Young Minds Academy is just one of the many inter-related initiatives, activities and efforts of the foundation. Scholars will be exposed to real issues and concerns of our society anchored on the theme for the year. This will enable them to formulate possible solutions through a project proposal and scholars will also undergo a series of competence and character development training.

YMA also desires the participant to become a responsible and pro-active citizen and accountable leader, to become part of a generation of successors ready to serve the public and its interests, and to become world citizens promoting the virtues of peace, pluralism, respect and multi-cultural understanding. Each year, the academy anchors its program and modules to a specific theme that serves as the foundation for the annual objectives, criteria and guidelines, module and program design and strategies. The program is open for application to all qualified young people ages 12-30 who are interested and committed to be equipped and to serve the community in the areas of social development.

The scholarships will be granted on a team basis per category and interested candidates will undergo the process of application and screening before they will be admitted to the Academy and awarded with the scholarship. A covenant will be signed between and among RAFI-YMA, the program sponsors, the scholars composing the qualified team and the team accountability partner. The Academy then admits the qualified scholars/team to the program.

Scholars are categorized based on the following: Generation 3: 12-16 years old, Generation 2: 17-20 years old, and Generation 1: 21-30 years old.

YMA is designed to enhance young people’s awareness of the dynamics and challenges facing our community. Started in October of 2006 and now in its fourth season, YMA has continued its work of developing young emerging leaders to become responsible and accountable leaders and proactive citizens ready to serve the public and its interests. This is done through awareness raising, experiential education, immersion and open discourse.

Is YMA a school?

YMA is NOT really an academic institution. It is a TRAINING PROGRAM where
young people are "taught lessons” about leadership and citizenship. More
of like an "extra-curricular" activity that will enhance your competence,
strengthen your character and afford you the opportunity to serve -
learnings that you may not readily get from your regular school.

What are the activities/ trainings that YMA gives to its scholars?

The activities involve (i) research, understanding, and critical analysis
of societal issues and concerns; (ii) exposure to different situations and
exchange of experiences among participating youth; (iii) project
concept/proposal development (in the form of recommendations on programs,
projects, and policies directed towards civil society, private sector, and
government); (iv) presentation, advocacy, and engaging elected and
appointed government, civil society, and private sector leaders to take
action on their respective concept/ proposals in a Young Minds Conference
and; (v) project awards competition where the chosen concept/ proposal may
be considered for funding for pilot implementation.

Each season, YMA anchors its program on a theme based on the United Nations
Millennium Development Goals. For YMA Season 4, the theme will be on Good
Governance, in line with the upcoming 2010 elections. YMA scholars will be
exposed to situations, issues and concerns related to public governance in
the Philippines, with particular focus on local governance.

How long will the program last?

The screening process will start this year, after the deadline for
applications. The fourth batch of YMA scholars will be declared by
December 2009. Formal training starts in January 2010 until July or August
2010.

I am currently working/ studying. Can I still join YMA?

Definitely! Activities are done during weekends and holidays (though NOT
all weekends and holidays of the program period specified) so as not
interfere much with regular school/ work schedules. We will also be giving
the scholars an indicative calendar of the different YMA learning sessions
by December so they can plan and set their schedules ahead. In fact, most
of our previous scholars were either working or studying.

Is the program for free?

There is a minimal counterpart of Php 500 paid in an installment basis
(Php300 during the qualifying exam and Php200 during covenant signing upon
admission to the academy). There is no payment to be given yet upon
initial application and submission of documentary requirements. However, it
would be good to know that the actual program cost is Php 30,000 PER
scholar. The amount covers training and administration cost (resource
speakers, materials, venue, etc), food, transportation and accommodation of
scholars and staff during learning visits and immersions and collaterals
(YMA shirt, cap, bag, jacket, pin). Come to think of it, scholars are
actually asked to pay less than 2% of the program cost.

Participants of YMA are called scholars. Does this mean that YMA will fund
for my high school/ college/ graduate schooling?

NO. YMA participants are called "scholars" because the program is given to
a very select group of young people. This means that applicants will go
through and has to pass a screening process before finally getting in the
Academy. YMA is also given to scholars at a very minimal cost - almost for
free.

What do our alumni have to say?

SEE MY TESTIMONIAL HERE...

"Before I joined YMA, I thought it would just be any other organization
that would let you grow and know more about yourself. True, but it gave
a lot more than just that. It hasn't only developed my mind but
definitely, my heart and soul. That …there is more to life than just
building a career. There is a whole world out there for us to take into
consideration, one of those are the lives of others, the situation of our
government, of our country, what we've been doing to our environment, to
our world. Thing is, it made me realize the worth of making even the
slightest possible positive change. It provided me the exposure, that in
turn, gave me the experience that resulted to realizations which broadened
my perspective about the concern that each one of us should give and take
action to benefit the world and the people living in it. It fast tracked
the maturity and the flow of my mind as it established among us foresight
that made us turn and look at a bright future; establishing that future in
our minds -- making it more easy to reach and that later would gradually be
concretized and met for the benefit of a country and a world reborn.".
- Rannee M. Ylaya, 16

“We know that we can’t just thank YMA enough for all the applicable
insights it has imparted and for all the good things it has done. Yet, we
would like to leave a promise that life after YMA will surely be different…
we will forever live our lives in the lights of respect, responsibility,
active citizenship, humility, God-centeredness, trustworthiness, caring
leadership, fairness, and integrity. Guided by these nine pillars, we swear
to do things not only for ourselves but for the community in particular and
for the country in general. We thank you YMA. You are indeed the right
place for the youth.” - Louie Monteroso, 26

“Because of YMA, my views have changed. Before, I joined school-related and
extra-curricular activities because they were required, were needed for
grades, or were chances to get yet another certificate of participation.
But I have realized that grades and certificates do not really matter as
much as I presumed they did. What really matters is how one changes for the
better and what one relishes and experiences learning. On top of all these
things, I appreciated the beauty of our country more, and I can now assert
that every Filipino is worth living for.” - Russell Fernandez, 19

How can I join?

A. Form a team of five (5) members under one of the following categories:

• Generation 3 : 12-16 years old
• Generation 2 : 17-20 years old
• Generation 1 : 21-30 years old

B. Accomplish the following:
Team requirements
1. Completed team application form (YMA Application Form 01)
2. Letter of recommendation and support from any of the following: school,
barangay, office/organization, church, or whatever group the team is
representing indicating their willingness and commitment to monitor the
team and ensure that they abide by the rules and comply with the
requirements of YMA.
3. A Team Accountability Partner who shall serve as a team partner,
ensuring and monitoring the team’s compliance of YMA requirements.

Individual Requirements
1. Completed individual application form (YMA Application Form 02)
2. Completed medical review and release of liability form (YMA Application
Form 03)
3. Certified true copy of birth certificate
4. An essay on “What citizenship means to me” in no more than 300 words
(Arial, 11, double spaced, short bond paper)
5. A fee of Php 500* to be paid on the following installments:
• Php 300 upon taking the qualifying exams (first screening)
• Php 200 upon covenant signing (final admission to the Academy)
(*Actual cost of the program is around Php30,000 per scholar. RAFI will
shoulder Php25,000 while City Savings Bank and UnionBank will shoulder
Php4,500 per scholar).

C. Submit completed application forms and requirements to RAFI for short
listing and screening. You may mail or submit in person at the following
address:

The Executive Director
Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center
Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.
35 Lopez Jaena St. Cebu City 6000

Interested applicants may visit the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center or checkout www.rafi.or.ph/youngmindsacademy to know the requirement and get/ download the application forms. Deadline of submission will be on October 26, 2009.

For queries, please call Mel Yan at 418-7234 loc 110 or email mel.yan@rafi.org.ph

What are you waiting for? Apply and join the life changing Young Minds Academy Season 4!!

Young Minds Academy Testimonial

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:42:00 +0000

The Miracles of the 9 Pillars and the journey of a lifetime
YMA – 3 (Young Minds Academy Season 3)
Somewhere, Cebu City
(Supposedly) Saturday, September 26, 2009
By: VERNON JOSEPH M. GO

We were asked to make a YMA testimonial from our class adviser, HOW YMA CHANGED YOUR LIFE. A testimonial of the experiences and how have I been applying those learnings and the 9 Pillars with a message of thanks.

Now… where to start?

It all started in October of 2008, with me browsing around the internet and for some reason stumbled on this Young Minds Academy thing. I cannot remember from where I found the link or what, but it was for sure it was from a social networking site. After reading through it I was skeptical if I will be able to pass this for I have submitted to the “Aboitiz Future Business Leaders’ Summit” once before but was not accepted. So I closed the window for I was overcome with doubt. For some reason I stumbled upon the site again and read it again and I then read that it was a group application in which I tried to find people who were interested as well.

After about almost a month or so, our team was formed and the funny thing was we submitted the application on the last day and RAFI was about to close at that time. We decided that we have nothing to lose if we don’t get accepted anyway. We got a call, and went through the tedious tests and interviews in which we were both scared and excited. By December we got a message that we were accepted, it was both a mixture of feelings both of fear and excitement.

Some of us even doubted the whole situation for we did not expect to pass and now we had to face multiple challenges: we were graduating students; some of us had 1 or 2 thesis projects and an On-the-job training to attend to; some had exams to worry about and all sorts of extra-curricular activities to commit to. In a way it was a roller coaster ride.

S-Leadership training was the 1st session we attended and we were all excited before during and after. But as I recall it, I was not quite as excited. Looking back, I realized how pathetically arrogant and selfish I was. Truth be told, I was skeptical as hell with Selene Yu’s life examples of a miracle. At that time, all that was in my mind was that I’ll get through this in order to broaden my knowledge and put this training in my resume. To be honest, I was greedy not in terms of money but that of opportunity and knowledge. In a way I was taking advantage of my team mates and abusing myself unconsciously. I selfishly played with them as if they were pawns in a chess game, planning, scheming like a war monger. I surrounded myself with the best possible people I could find: A cumlaude, an outstanding IE, a DOST scholar, and a PESFA scholar. As I look back, I can truly say I do not deserve what I have now and I don’t deserve their friendship and respect being the average person that I was.

The 2nd step was the KAC (Kool Adventure Camp) – A three day, two night immersion, team-building training of sorts. Here I learned how to play to win, the challenge by choice, commitment through the chicken and pig, trust and having spotters, teamwork and learning about my team mates, of myself and my fellow scholars. But it is through this event that I probably started to change little by little. Remembering those days made me laugh for I was able to experience tremendous amount of new stuff and also makes me teary-eyed for I was given as I would like to view it “A harsh treatment tough-love from God.” It was the 1st time I got hospitalized (Except when I was born and got injured it the head), it was mixture of good and bad. Good for it made me stronger and the person that I am today and bad for as if it was purposely done in order for me not to finish the KAC for I was stuck at the hospital. It was truly scary, I was sickly since I was little and I always try my best to take care of my body. For the first time I felt very vulnerable, because all my life people expect much of me for some reason. Even in helping people I tend to be selfish, most of the time I am the super hero, superman..the one who saves but never the one being saved.

This time I was human, I got hit with a kryptonite. As I was being carried in the bus by Super Quad-Core and delivered to the restroom under the care of Super Stargazer, I sat down slowly recovering. After the dizziness disappeared reality sinked in, I was recalling the situation before I was half conscious and almost collapsed. After a while I was thinking and thinking despite the feeling of fatigue, one by one my co-scholars called to me once a while to check whether I am doing fine and as I was being attended with her super care, then I was given a Gatorade. After taking one sip, my hand trembled and I broke down in tears. I was crying for about 3 minutes or so, despite the situation I was still able to muster enough strength to hide my voice but not enough to hold back the tears. After that, I was rushed in the ER for about 7 hours before I was advised to stay-in. There I got visited by all the KAC Facilitators trying to cheer me up and give me strength, in my mind I said “Don’t you dare cry like a baby!” Fortunately I didn’t but when I arrived in my room, I slept with a smile as what my cousin (who was watching me for the night) said. I never got to properly thank them and I just hope they get to read this someday.

The following sessions were met with unexplainable enthusiasm and interest from me: such as, the social development, quarterly exams, and the basic research and data analysis training. The research & data analysis training was surprisingly a fun one, I got to like walk and interview people living in depressed areas (not that it was fun but it was a good experience). We also got to learn a lot of new stuff from the participatory project development module and creative thinking even though we had to leave because it was our graduation ceremony.

A tipping point for my paradigm shift was the Education Forum. I really learned a lot from our speakers and the 2nd nosebleed session. If Dr. Labe had a shotgun, I would have died then and there, all her points on the lay-man’s perception of education and of teachers was my perception too. I have learned to appreciate education and teachers more after that. Teachers affect eternity; they affect eternity because to teach is to touch lives forever. William Arthur Ward said… “The Mediocre teacher tells; The good teacher explains; the superior teacher demonstrates; And the great teacher Inspires” … They give their time, which is in a way giving away a portion of one’s life that can never be given back. Your time is your life. That is why the greatest gift you can give someone is your time. Relationships take time & effort, and the best way to spell love is T-I-M-E, because the essence of love is not what we think or do or provide for others, but how much we give of ourselves.” (Taken from Rick Warren, Author of the book: A purpose driven life)

Who are these teachers then? There were Professional Teachers who were also yma-3 scholars and teachers-to-be students. But it is not only them, but also our class adviser, headmaster, speakers, mentors, facilitators, volunteers from previous yma, RAFI staff and most of all from my fellow scholars. This journey was not just about learning from the speakers but learning about bonds, our own experiences and of others. A simple chat from a fellow scholar can build a bond and create an intellectual and emotional exchange with the sharing of ideas and experiences. And I am proud and Joyful to have spent what may seem to be little time with them, but such time is locked, frozen & forged into memory for as long as I live. They have touched my life and in their own way became a teacher to me one way or another.

Then it was time for the learning visits, it was another opportunity to learn, bond and have fun at the same time. I was only able to join 1 out of 2 since I had to make a difficult family decision for my father was going back abroad to work on the day of the 2nd learning visit. Anyways I learned a lot from that trip, it made me even think that: “What if our schools had these sorts of learning strategy?” That’s just me daydreaming, but I was surprised to learn so much in two days without getting information overload. I draw strength from that experience, most especially the Inayawan Visit. There were children there too, they were excited and was full of energy. I guess it’s a rare sight for them to get visited. So if you think your life is miserable, or your job sucks, then simply think and put yourself in these people’s shoes. It really made me reflect and think on how blessed I am and how my daily problems were diminutive compared to theirs, if these people could smile, why can’t we?

In our immersion in Alaska mambaling was the best of times, and it was the worst of times…the place had just recently been ravaged with fire and people were still rebuilding their “rip-rap” shelters and the like activities. Amidst the difficulties they face, life goes on. I draw from this experience a lot to get me through a down day, it gives me strength and the courage to step forward.

In the basic communication and presentation training, we met Caroline Ballesteros-Go. I learned a lot and listened closely to her since I have always continued to improve my public speaking skills. But I got more than I bargained from that session. She asked for our emails so that we can communicate with her and for her to be able to share her bible reflections. At first, I didn’t really mind the daily word emails we got from her; but as I started reading it slowly, more and more, I came to appreciate her reflections and now for the first time in my life started to open and read the bible for myself. The challenge for me now is to continue and maintaining this as a habit and for that I am most thankful to her.

The mentoring and mock presentation tested our character, patience and commitment to the highest level. At times criticisms bring us down and make us doubt taking on this journey, but now I understand why we need to fall. We need to fall in order to learn how to pick our selves up.

Then the YMA Graduation came, we presented our proposal and was deemed unworthy; after which we were given a talk by the aboitiz brothers. We learned about Ramon Aboitiz’s principles and the “Bugsay principle.” I was so inspired that It took me a week to recover from the multiple emotions and the confusion due to over inspiration (If there is such a thing). How we live our every day life shows a lot of our true character. For most of us, daily life is not exciting, just some routine things and some free time to do some extra fun stuff that we like. However, this is where the true battle is. That graduation ceremony just summed up my current state, I WAS AFRAID. Afraid of the ending of the program, afraid of the REAL WORLD wherein business is cut throat and mistakes aren’t tolerated and afraid of going out of my comfort zone, in this game, battle and war called life.

Thinking that it was over, we were invited again to RAFI for an evaluation and closing ceremony of sorts. Those who wanted to read and share there testimonials on how YMA changed their lives. I didn’t volunteer. I wanted to hear others testimonial and learn and be inspired by their story. There may be a time when our courage may fail, and we forsake our friends and break all bonds of fellowship. But it is not this day. It would take an hour of tears and battered spirits when our day may come crashing down; but it is not this day, this day…We FIGHT…that is all we must do, keep moving forward, live you life and have no regrets!

At first you may shun the concept of a Miracle, I most certainly did when it was brought out during the S-Leadership and in the Kool Adventure Camp. But for each Pillar in YMA’s Character and Leadership, may lay a certain little miracle for you…

RESPECT
Be true to yourself and to others…there is no point in wearing a mask…the world may be a harsh place to live in but it is also beautiful; it may be full of contradictions but it is that which makes life worth living…you must respect yourself before you can respect others for you need that in order to live in this simple yet complicated game called life

RESPONSIBILITY
Most of us are in denial because most of us cebuanos know of these information/problems but we simply let it get in one ear and exits in the next ear, as if it does not concern us. Everybody has problems and bad times, but we must not sacrifice the good times for those bad times. In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is something and at the same time, the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing.

CITIZENSHIP
Never have I been more Filipino than my time in YMA, there is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength. Will we continue to allow the reality of our culture crisis? “Poor Filipinos want to be American, Rich Filipinos want to be spaniard, no Filipino wants to be Simply FILIPINO.” – Barth Suresky (An American who lived and died in the Philippines)

CARING LEADERSHIP
I discover that every person is worthy to be loved. Trust in love, because it makes changes possible. Love changes you and me. It changes people, contexts and relationships. It changes the world. Please love your neighborhood and country.

GOD-CENTEREDNESS
Faith should come with action. People may be unkind, just be kind. They may cheat on you, just be honest. They may forget your good deeds, just continue doing good. In the end, its between you and God. Not you and them. Let go and Let God.

TRUSTWORTHINESS
If you can't aim or the top alone, then find someone to go with you and when you find a path to the top. "Is it too abrupt?"..."Can you do it?" ... "Is that possible?"...none of that matters! You just have to "climb!"... If you're lacking in talent, then ask for the help of others without shame, bow your head and swallow your pride, Dirty your own hands, even if you have to bear the contempt of the ones you love, all this in order to achieve your hopes and dreams..and become more than what you are…trust in yourself, trust in others and trust in the lord.

HUMILITY
BUGSAY PHILOSOPHY: Destination, Round up, Effort and Attitude; One must not only have the desire to be a person of character, the will to continuously improve but also the courage to put it into action and continue doing it despite the challenges and problems along the way towards one’s goal or destination..

FAIRNESS
Love the people who treat you right.. Pray for the ones who don't. Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it.

INTEGRITY
Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you; they're supposed to help you discover who you are. I am only human, I have no money, no following, nothing special to offer to my country and world. But all I have, all that we have and all that we share is our Indomitable Spirit!

If you have a child, teach them how to love the Philippines. Teach them why they have to love their neighborhood and country. That's all, nothing more nothing less for in love, the rest will follow.

We may not get what we want, but surely we will get what we deserve. This is not something to convince others to join the program but rather just a simple story to share to anyone. It is simply your decisions not your conditions that will determine your future and ultimately one’s destiny!

Sometimes you won’t know that you have been blessed with a lot of miracles until you reflect on it yourself. You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, god, whatever.

This is not the end, but rather a beginning of a new chapter, a new fight; this is not goodbye, but a see you around! We may not see each other but the bonds we share through YMA will stay and although we are all apart, my thoughts and heart are always with you!

I am delighted and honored to be a part of this program, and especially pleased to have the opportunity to share some of my thoughts and observations about this programs results and miracles. Hopefully the next batch of scholars may also learn as much if not more than I do. God bless ug Daghang Salamat!

YMA for the 3rd season has ended.
No more activity reports to make.
No more delicious foods.
No more Saturday sessions to attend to.
No more learning visits, tours and immersions.
No more updates from Sir Mel.
No more YMA attendance sheets.
No more picturex2.
No more childish moments.
No more free aircon an chillx2 on the plenary hall and EADSC.
No more activities to look forward to.
No more Project proposal.
No more nosebleed from mentors.
No more chitchat w/ co-yma scholars.

It's Sad but we have to move..on...I have made a lot of mistakes, regrets, what-ifs and some apologies to make..but I've learn a lot, and I shall become more than what I was before and now...I will strive to improve on myself, help more people, live life, have fun and love..

Now our next journey begins...HELLO ALEx (Aboitiz Leaders of Excellence)!!!

Teacher's Day in the Philippines (Araw ng mga Guro - Adlaw sa mga magtutudlo)

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:42:00 +0000

Teacher's Day in the Philippines (Tagalog:Araw ng mga Guro – Adlaw sa mga magtutudlo) is actually celebrated in schools between the months of September and October (mainly elementary and secondary levels). Teachers are presented with orchid corsages by students. Groups of students representing various grade levels perform short skits or song and dance numbers, or read poetry for their teachers in front of fellow schoolmates in school-wide activities. These activities are planned by senior students in the Student Council who coordinate the activities well in advance. For Filipino-Chinese schools, a program is usually organized by students for teachers on September 27, while September 28, considered as the actual Teacher's Day, is a school holiday where both teachers and students are allowed to rest. September 28 was chosen because it is known as the birthday of famous Chinese philosopher Confucius.

By Presidential Proclamation No. 479 DECLARING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2003, AS "NATIONAL TEACHERS’ DAY." For some universities in the Metro Manila area, Catholic Teachers' Day is celebrated on the second week of February.

I remember my highschool days whenever teacher’s day comes around. Yes, my school then was SHS-J (Sacred Heart School – Jesuits) did a long ceremony in the morning. The normal prayer, National anthem and panatang maka bayan was done w/ some exemptions, no teacher was around. Technically, Teachers Day in my Alma matter at the time begins usually a month before for the Student Council and about 1-2 weeks for senior students. The student council usually prepares and coordinates the whole senior students for the one day celebration and the Admin usually prepares their own activities such as a holding of mass before the actual teacher’s day celebration.

The seniors do not have classes on that day and all the teachers too, but the rest of the student body has. Seniors are to-be student-teacher for a day and are supposedly assigned to a Teacher to coordinate with and ask what they are to discuss on the day of the celebration. They do this for about 1-2 weeks or so preparation while taking normal classes. This is unique celebration wherein seniors who are graduating pay there tribute to teachers for their hard work and dedication. Well hat’s easier said than done, I’d say.

As far as I remember this has one o the best practices and/or traditions I have known of. I don’t know whether my Alma matter still does this but it proves to be a good experience for senior students. It gave me a glimpse on what insane preparation a teacher does before going to class, and to add to that speaking in front of students (Which I really sucked at the time). One whole day of crazy, fun and awesome experience taught me a lot and made me appreciate our teachers even more.

Fast forward to college, I delivered a speech of thanks to our college teachers in our ringhop ceremony in which I shall share an excerpt:

In order to succeed, we must first believe we can; but how can we believe in ourselves when no one believes in us first? Ladies and Gentlemen, fellow students, dear parents, that is the role of our beloved teachers. It is to believe and help us become more than what we are and also to be able to develop our potential….

Teachers affect eternity; they affect eternity because to teach is to touch lives forever…..William Arthur Ward said… “The Mediocre teacher tells; The good teacher explains; the superior teacher demonstrates; And the great teacher Inspires” …

And then, messages of thanks…

See complete speech HERE.

And for some reason, when graduating through college, I join Young Minds Academy Season 3 in which there theme at the time was Education. With the experience I gained through Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. Program, I learned a lot about education and of its current challenges that are unique o the Philippines. I usually reflect and think that these are signs to a calling, a calling to the education sector, perhaps one day I too would become a teacher?

To all teachers, Happy Teacher’s Day and I salute your efforts in molding the minds of our country’s future!

REALITY gave me a slap on the face – part 4

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 02:15:00 +0000

“Not all battles are designed for you.. so know what you're getting yourself into.. or you'll end up defenseless in a battle that was never really meant to be yours from the very beginning..”

Believing that I was very prepared going into this program was a well crafted illusion created by my mind. This slap pretty much was the BIG REALITY CHECK that I needed. I was practically lost, no longer driven to lead, excel and serve. But from that one day, the slap practically woke me up. I am pathetic, reserved and playing too safe; thinking that life is good and beautiful (nothing wrong with that but I was just too satisfied for my own good).

My blog posts no longer had “Meat” in it, my work performance is sickening compared to what I was capable of doing, and not knowing how dull I was. From those 2 speeches that was given my the president and VP of RAFI, it would seem the lord almighty planned it. I also saw a lot of signs before hand (due to my carefree state I guess) like stuff happening around me for some reason came “FIT” perfectly as though there was a hand directing them but I just ignored it despite me seeing it over and over.

This sign I would like to call “BIBLE x2.” Well there was a week wherein everything I read, heard and seen had reference to the Holy bible. That means that whenever I see, hear, read and did something, the word BIBLE popped up in my head. I am currently reading an old self help book which uses lots of references from the bible. When I go into the internet world, I am greeted by a “Word of the Day” email from Mrs. Carol Go-Ballesteros from the Abotiz Group. When commuting in the jeepney, sometimes when people talk about something, for some reason they suddenly move to something religious then Bible pops in the head again and lastly at work where people talk about infidelity, there problems, relationships and the like my brain automatically recalls the Bible, its as if someway somehow I must read the bible. And indeed I have started to, but the challenge now lies in maintaining it.

No matter how much you plan for your life, something unexpected happens. If you think you’re prepared to go to battle, think again. The only way for one to be secure is to Let go and Let god. Believe in your abilities and leave the rest to god. It is he who can make the impossible, possible; if you don’t get what you want, he will give you something better or a better plan in store for one’s future.

It was the Best of times, It was the worst of times - I CANNOT GUARANTEE VICTORY, BUT WE SHALL MEET IN BATTLE NONETHELESS..

How we live our every day life shows a lot of our true character. For most of us, daily life is not exciting, just some routine things and some free time to do some extra fun stuff that we like. However, this is where the true battle is. That graduation ceremony just summed up my current state, I WAS AFRAID. Afraid of the ending of the program, afraid of the REAL WORLD wherein business is cut throat and mistakes aren’t tolerated and afraid of going out of my comfort zone, in this game, battle and war called life.

Everything has it’s time and place, so don’t worry if you don’t get what you want right now. And it is quite true indeed. Now, I got a sign from above that he is watching over me and my family. All that is required of me is to continue moving forward.

Now…the fight continues…

See Reality Slaps Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 Click.Click.Click

See YMA Thank You/Testimonial here

Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:57:00 +0000

Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer is organized by the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC), a program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc, will be holding the 6th Moonwalk this Oct. 3 at 5:30 p.m.. Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer is called as such for it is to be done towards the night time, hence the "moon" concept.

Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer began in 2003, the walk aims to make Cebuanos be aware of the leading cancer afflicting most of the women in Cebu today—breast cancer, and hopes to bring every Cebuana into the fight against this disease via early detection.

According to the 1998-2002 Metro Cebu Population-based Cancer Registry, one of RAFI-EJACC’s major project in its research component, breast cancer is the cancer found to affect most Cebuanas as well as the cancer with highest mortality rate.

One thousand participants—cancer support groups, public and private organizations, medical students, and women community members—have pledged to join the Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer, which is from the Cebu Business Park grounds to Cebu IT Park.

Assembly will be at the Cebu Business Park near the Pag-ibig Tower at 4:30-5:30 p.m. A short program will follow at the end of the walk at the Asiatown IT Park open ground in front of The Walk.

The Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer event is organized in October as the month is also known as Pink October or Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Also, the date falls during the full moon of the month, a beautiful sight to behold along with women in pink bravely marching against a dreaded disease.

The event (Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer) aims to promote awareness of breast cancer, the leading cancer afflicting Cebuanas, and spread the message of prevention through early detection via screenings as the best way to fight the disease.

The trend also shows that it remains to be the number one in cancer incidence and mortality among the women in Cebu today. The cancer registry is the third internationally-accredited population-based registry in the Philippines and the only one in the Visayas, and connected with the International Agency for Research and Center (IARC).

EJACC also will also give free breast screenings and pap smears to different barangays in Cebu City, in collaboration with Destiny Medical Fund and I Can Serve Foundation in all Saturdays of October. For inquiries you may contact Gina Mariquit at (032) 254-6351 or (032) 256-3287.

The best way to stop this alarming break in breast cancer is through prevention. Awareness of this cancer at its early stage has been found to have led to survival, if not cure. Early detection is done via a monthly breast exam and regular mammogram.

Let us all join the Moonwalk: A walk against breast cancer and show our support against breast cancer!

Cebu Donation Drop-off Points for Ondoy Victims

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 05:20:00 +0000

Let’s extend our help to those victims of this natural phenomena, “Bagyong Ondoy”. Let’s together show our love to our fellow-countrymen.

Donation Drop Offs:

1. Cebu musicians & Outpost Restobar will help Ondoy victims! We’ll need you to bring your goods, clothing food etc. Joseph Castillo, hubby of musician Lia Luisa A. Castillo will send a 20ft Container to MLA 4 esp Cainta & Marikina. Details to follow. Drop in some love while you listen to some music. Get in touch with him through 09082368999 or 09322117111.

(Ondoy-Live-Aid at the Outpost, 7pm on Wednesday September 30. Bring your donations. Let’s fill up Joseph Castillo’s container!)

2. Donations drop off at Banilad Church of Christ (bldg in front of Bright Academy near Sto. Nino Village), Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

3. SUNBURST FRIED CHICKEN-TABUNOK BRANCH accepting donations from 10am to 9:30pm. Tabang Para sa mga Biktima ni Ondoy…Istorya.net asks you to donate to the victims of Storm Ondoy. Our brothers and sisters in Luzon need our help.

4. Aunt Genie’s Breadhouse: 1279 Talamban, Cebu City (In front of the Talamban Sports Complex). call at 416-0495 if you need directions to the drop-off area. (Accepting: Canned Goods, Old Clothes, Blankets, Diapers for babies, Noodles, Rice, Medicine, Soap, Toothpaste, Water Container, Iodized Salt)

5. Bizroute Solutions (Mon – Sat 11PM to 4PM) Unit 302 Keppel Bldg. Ayala. call at 416-0495 if you need directions to the drop-off area. (Accepting: Canned Goods, Old Clothes, Blankets, Diapers for babies, Noodles, Rice, Medicine, Soap, Toothpaste, Water Container, Iodized Salt)

6. Bizroute Solutions Lahug Office (Mon – Sat 11PM to 2PM) Unit 201 MIT Bldg. Gorordo Ave., Lahug (near JY Square). call at 416-0495 if you need directions to the drop-off area. (Accepting: Canned Goods, Old Clothes, Blankets, Diapers for babies, Noodles, Rice, Medicine, Soap, Toothpaste, Water Container, Iodized Salt)

7. Cue Cafe Crossroads accepting donations in cash or kind as part of JCI Zugbuana relief ops. Accepting clothes,blankets,towels,underwear,footwear,food and water for our suffering brothers and sisters in manila.

8. Citigym accepting donations in cash or kind as part of JCI Zugbuana relief ops. Accepting clothes,blankets,towels,underwear,footwear,food and water for our suffering brothers and sisters in manila.

9. Y101 station accepting donations in cash or kind as part of JCI Zugbuana relief ops. Accepting clothes,blankets,towels,underwear,footwear,food and water for our suffering brothers and sisters in manila.

10. CEBU WORLD VISION SPONSORS and VOLUNTEERS can help. Cash donations to BPI: 4251-0024-15 or BDO: 2700-4341-1

11. Holiday Gym & Spa Banilad Cebu set up a relief operations Drop-Off center beginning today 1:00 PM, Sunday, September 27. Please bring blankets, clothes and canned goods to the front desk/ reception area.

12. ABS-CBN CEBU is now accepting relief goods… adto lang mo sa ABS mga cebuanos…

13. Victory Cebu is a part of the Typhoon Ondoy Relief Operations, send your donations of goods to Victory Cebu center and they will consolidate sending of it to Metro Manila. They’re located at 3/F Dacay Building, 72 Escario St., Cebu City.

14. Very Mary (shop of designer Mary Melody Ty) is accepting goods. 2nd Floor, Myra’s Pensoionne, Escario Street. Beside Golden Peak Hotel.

15. Julie’s Bakeshops used as drop-off centers for PLAN ONDOY, mobilized by Rotary Clubs in Cebu. (For further verification. If you have more information on this, pls message me or leave a comment.)

16. Andorra Tiles Office used as drop-off centers for PLAN ONDOY, mobilized by Rotary Clubs in Cebu. (For further verification. If you have more information on this, pls message me or leave a comment.)

17. WADE SM located at the 2nd floor of the Northwing will serve as a drop off point until Wednesday 5pm. Goods will be forwarded to Outpost afterwards.

18. Orange Brutus P. Del (across USC Main) will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

19. Orange Brutus – Cebu Doctor’s Hospital will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

20. Orange Brutus – Centro Mandaue (near Mandaue City Hall) will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

21. Orange Brutus – Maguikay Mandaue (near Mandaue Flyover) will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

22. Orange Brutus Mactan (Marina Mall Mepz1) will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

23. Orange Brutus Southagte Plaza Mepz 2 will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

24. Orange Brutus Ayala will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

25. Orange Brutus SM will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

26. Orange Brutus Colon (near University of Visayas) will accept donations starting Monday from 2pm-8pm. Tuesday to Thursday 10am-8pm.

27. Orange Brutus Fuente branch will be accepting donations 24 hours from Monday to Thursday.

28. All Sun Star branches now accepting donations (cash or in kind). Pls call 2546100 local 201 and look for Jed or Sheena for more info.

29. UP Cebu is accepting donations. Head to the Malacañang tambayan, beside the guard house. It’s a small campus, it’s not hard to find. (Can someone from UP pls confirm exact drop off point? Thank you!)

30. Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry is encouraging its member companies to donate! Donations in cash or in kind are accepted in the CCCI Center in North Reclamation Area. Yeah, it’s far, but it’s for a cause, right?

31. Aboitiz 2GO Cebu main office and branches accepting donations as well – heard on the radio this morning, announced by Aboitiz representatives.

32. Mooon Cafe Guadalupe is now accepting donations as part of Ondoy Live Aid. Look for TJ.

33. Green Booth @ BTC is now accepting donations a for relief donations for Joseph Castillo Container Van

34. Kaona grill at A.S. Fortuna is now accepting donations as part of Ondoy Live Aid. Look for Ryan.

35. Kumon Center and RCTV at Ginza Compound is now accepting donations as part of Ondoy Live Aid. Look for Gerry.

Other ways you can help:

1.ABS-CBN through Banco de Oro account number 56300-20111 account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Incorporation

2. Red Cross Load Donations: Right now the easiest way to make donations from the seat of your chair is via mobile phone load. The Red Cross Rescue and Relief Operations. Text: REDAMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)

3. TXTPower now accepts donations via SmartMoney 5577514418667103, GCash 09179751092 and Paypal http://is.gd/3GvuN

4. Worldvision Foundation is also accepting donations/volunteers to pack relief goods in QC. For $-donations, BPI:USDacct #4254-0050-08

For those of you in Cebu who have loved ones in Manila, try the people tracker:

People Tracker (using your phones, get your friends and family to turn on their finderservice for you)

* FINDERSERVICE. For Smart, text “wis ” to 386.
* FINDERSERVICE. For Globe, text “find to 7000.

Please donate anything you can. Donations can come in the following form or the like:

* Canned Goods
* Old Clothes
* Blankets
* Diapers for babies
* Noodles
* Rice
* Medicine
* Soap
* Toothpaste
* Water Container
* Iodized Salt
* Monggo Beans

Cash donations of any amount will also be accepted.

Philippine Blog Awards 2009 in Cebu

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 13:41:00 +0000

To all Visayas Based Bloggers, the Philippine Blog Awards 2009 Visayas: "One Blogging Nation" Event will be held here in Cebu City, Cebu this October 18, 7 PM at the Ayala City Sports.

This Event will be a first in the Visayas Region. The Philippine Blog Awards 2009 which will be held this coming October 18, 2009 at the Ayala City Sports, Cebu Business Park (fronting Marriott Hotel) at exactly 7PM. There are 4 categories in the upcoming Philippine Blog Awards 2009 for the Visayas Region:

Best Visayan Blog: This award goes to the blogger whose blog showcases his talent in blogging in any of the Visayan Languages.

Visayas Bloggers Choice: The Visayas now has a growing community of Bloggers from Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo and more. There are a good number of impressive blogs but some stands out above the others. This awards goes to the blogger whose blog is the talk of the town, influential blog, & inspirational blog. This award will recognize the blogger who is well respected in the Blogging communities in Visayas.

Best Visayas Locale Blog: We have different travel blogs showcasing the different beautiful places a travel blogger goes to, this next award focuses on a Visayan blog which will promote one’s hometown or city here in Visayas. This award goes to the best blog which talks about a certain blogger’s hometown or city.

Best Visayas Nature Blogger: When one coming to the Visayas region, he/she may have the different choices of experiencing the Life of nature. There are the white sand beaches, rare virgin forests filled with exotic wild life and the beautiful waterfalls that are located in this region. We recognize the blogger who best presents these best things in life found in Nature.

Interested Visayas based bloggers may fill-out the Pre-Registration Form and reserve for a seat. For more information and details or this event, please visit the official website of the Philippine Blog Awards.

Nomination Deadline is on the 28th of August, Friday. Nominate your favorite blogs now before it’s too late. So, see you at the Philippine Blog Awards 2009 in Cebu!

A 9th ray to the sun in the Philippine Flag?

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:31:00 +0000

The Senate and the House of Representatives early this week approved the addition of a ninth ray to the sun in the Philippine Flag to acknowledge the courage, bravery, and integrity of Muslim Filipinos who fought for our nation's independence.

While I commend the heroism of the Muslim people, adding a ninth ray to the sun in the Philippine flag in their honor would serve as way for the other groups, like the Visayans, or other groups to argue for a ray of their own.

This is a grave disrespect to our heritage, a mockery! It's as if it is a lame-a** correction to our flag which represents a part of our history. United States of America changed it's flag four times (If I'm not mistaken) as new state/s were added. The United Kingdom also added new features in it's flag as the new kingdom (Great Britain) was united. But there is a big historical significance to it. We can't deny that the Muslim Filipinos played a major part in defending our homeland against Spain. But adding rays to the sun of our flag just for the sake of the so called unity is not enough.

Why not adding more pages of Muslim heroism, culture and history to our so-called history books. Or even include local heroes to be taught on different provinces. Through the enhancement of our educational system Muslim children will be able to see and feel the real meaning of Filipino nationalism, equality and unity. And What about the efficiency of simple quality services (Education, Health care, jobs & like) to reach our brothers and sisters down south?

I am no expert on this matter, But I am a Filipino and I have a right to my opinion on this one. 1st, what's the use of NHI if they will not listen and consider their position; 2nd, did they consider the general people's opinion? if so, where's the survey?; 3rd, can the government afford to buy new flags for government buildings and offices including public schools and the like places?; 4th, what about the Muslim community? what if they don't like a ray?; They they consider the cost of re-training or information drive to teachers and another alteration of history books just to explain this so called change/modification of our flag?; You could have used your time and money for other important matters.

The congressmen should have thought of adding the sun ray before 2009 because the possible passing of the bill's proximity to the 2010 elections betrays their intentions. Now it seems it is just a very obvious display of political gimmickry. Also, can't they focus on more urgent matters? Like, education, health care, poverty, law implementation creating special laws against abuse of minors in cybersex, climate change or a law that helps mindanao as a whole or something?

They should use their pork barrel to contribute to the Filipinos Urgent needs. The adding of the ray is just like creating another beautiful law which is not properly implemented; if they want unity don't just create a lame symbol, ACT UPON IT for that speaks louder than words or symbols!

In short, VERY UNNECESSARY!!!

Many are expressing mixed reactions to this move, some see it as unnecessary and expensive while others see its importance in fostering national unity. What do you think?

See the reference News Article HERE

Philippines 2010 Presidential Election Results

noreply@blogger.com (iggy) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 07:13:00 +0000

Presidential aspirants for Philippine 2010 Presidential Election are starting to bombard the Filipino people with campaign ads on tv, print, radio and internet! Who do you think among the current so called Philippines presidentiables will win this prestigious position to lead our country?

I’m calling upon all Filipino citizens who are of legal age to be registered and cast their votes wisely to choose the next president of the Republic of the Philippines this coming Presidential Election in 2010.

The upcoming 2010 Presidential Election may be one that would make or break the Philippines and would be forever remembered in our History.

Let’s pray that the next Presidential Election this 2010 may result in an organized and peaceful execution of the electoral process in the Philippines. May the COMELEC be much prepared as well as those young volunteers to be heroes on this time! And hopefully for the 1st time, it will be automated! Lastly, may we filipinos choose a rightful candidate without making compromises..we need to move forward and be once again be the Tiger of Asia if not BETTER!

Stay tuned for the 2010 Presidential Election Results here (to be updated).