manikmakina

Ward Dialogues: OFW FTW

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 13:07:01 PDT

I've been working as a staff nurse on the same ward for almost 3 years now. I've encountered X number of people, and heard X number of stories. But these kind of stories will always hit me right on the soft mushy part of my chest and send me a bit of shiver down my spine.
In a good healthy way, of course.

Today, I've heard stories about Pinoys from two different people on the same shift. It's fantastic to hear different perspectives of Pinoys from different people of another country or nationality. It can serve as a reflection and sometimes an unwanted recognition and challenge.

Mary Lou and the Village people.

The first one is from a 'posh' elderly English lady, on her 80's. Lady F was lovely, always putting her make up on every morning after her wash. Making sure she's seen by the doctors and the nursing staff all prepped up and perky with her lipstick on her smile. She told me about her travels and people she met and couldn't forget. The lady next to her asked me where I came from. Philippines, I answered. Lady H mentioned to me her Filipina friend named 'Mary Lou' whom was very lovely and always happy. Mary Lou apparently met an American guy, and later on married and had a wonderful family when they moved to America. I told her I was happy for her to have a Filipina friend.
Lady H was happy for Mary Lou that she met a very rich husband!

Lady F overheard us and mentioned to me one of her travels on a cruise ship. She marveled at the Filipinos working there on the cruise ship. 'Lots of Filipinos there! Every staff member I think were Filipinos.' she said. Lady F was delighted to meet some of them, and how courteous they were to everybody. I've shared the time I visited my sister who works as a nurse on a cruise ship. I was indeed surprised to see loads of Pinoys, 'they can have their own village inside the ship!'

---

Gym Rat and the Smiling Pinoys.

Then I met the bodybuilder. He was well on his 50's, 60's and employed as a gym instructor. Later on the conversation, he asked me where I was from, and I answered : 'Mabuhay Philippines!!!' (No, without the wave and the long gown.)

'Oh, another Filipino!' he was smiling and sounded really pleased. He mentioned to me an unforgettable cruise ship travel he had with his wife about almost 10 years ago. Mr. Gym was amazed by the Filipinos working on the ship. 'Hardworking guys!' He talked to them and was feeling the hardship the OFW's were having. Miles away from home and they had to wait for almost a year to see their family again. 'And they're still smiling?!' Mr. Gym must've thought of us OFW's to be nuts. (Maybe.) But no, he found the smiles genuine and the work ethic remarkable.

'On a performance night on the ship, there was like a cabaret show by the Filipino performers. It was so good, all of us, the audience were on a standing ovation and the cheers and the clapping were non-stop. Amazing talent!'

And then one time he went to the ship's gym at 6 AM. He was with a lone Filipino guy cleaning the area, and was smiling. He asked 'It's 6AM and you're still smiling?!'
The Filipino guy answered: 'There's no reason not to smile!'

I ended the conversation with 'Well now I hope I don't disappoint and try to smile despite the work!' He laughed and said 'No pressure mate.'

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ManikVid: Bricks & Police

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:05:52 PDT

Bricks & Police from reigun decena on Vimeo.

This is how we encounter the English police every now and then.

Have you ever watched the film Project X? No?

Basically it's a teen film wherein they threw a house party, people came in and they got wasted and everything went bonkers. In the middle of the film, the neighbours complained, called the cops and had the cops come to the party house.

Except for the total mayhem and destruction on that film, I think we've got everything covered on this vid. I have no idea I was still recording by the time the cops arrived. Either we were all too drunk or probably thought we were going to jail for too much partying.

BLOGTERVIEW: The Art of Paulo Correa

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:20:50 PST

Art. It has intrigued me ever since I learned to use my senses to say the least. I have no formal lessons on the subject, but I do appreciate when I see one. Don't ask me to define which is art and which one isn't. I could namedrop Picasso, da Vinci, or the Spolarium and still won't have enough grasp on them.

Whenever I see a creative work of an individual that catches my attention and perhaps imagination, my brain would process words such as : genius, brilliant, and wtf. And one artist I would namedrop now is known as Mr. Paulo Correa. 'Who?' you might ask. He's been featured as an upcoming illustrator and artist on the industry, named as one of the Top 10 Illustrators to follow for the week. Let me show one of his many works that started my man-crush on him. Wherein I just said 'WTF.'

'MANILA' by Paulo Correa

He's one of those 'Damn-I-wish-I-could-do-what-he-does-but-I-just-can-not' people. Yet you could sit down with this husband*slash*father and tell stories over some light beer and other 'bro' stuffs. Choosing him as my first guest on the Blogterview Project series isn't a hard one. Picking on his innovative mind is, but I tried to catch up minus the booze. (Despite being tons of timezones apart from each other, we thank Mr. Zuckerberg for this thing called Facesomething to make this happen.)

-----------------------

THE BLOGTERVIEW: manikreigun meets paulo ex machina

Reigun:

So, you're an Advertising Art Director. I've seen your works of art, and it is jaw-droppingly good. Can we call you an 'artist'?

Paulo:

Basically I'm in an industry where almost everyone disgusts. Advertising. Even we as creatives, sometimes question why we are in this industry. But the thing that drive us is that we aim to create/change something that can bring inspiration to people. And if that's the definition of being an artist, yes I am an artist. Everyone is born to be one.

Each one of us aim to create something.

(Hahaha ang deep shit ng opening answer.)

Reigun:

(teka hirap sundan nun, lalim ng tone lol)

Good thing you mentioned that. It seems 'mainstream advertising' can be synonymous to being a 'sell-out' artist. I know loads of 'creative' minds who refuse to pursue their career with arts, then become 'frustrated artist' eventually. Any thoughts on that?

Paulo:

Yes I agree dami nang gaming artist. Actually, I'm one of those. My first job is with a small ad agency, then napagod ako. Sabi ko ayoko na sa ahensya, hindi mo magawa kung ano yung gusto mo.

Then I switched to a corporate setting, hardcore men that was one of my darkest days. Yung tipong Dina-drag mo yung sarili mo to work. Politics. Deceit. Assholes. Almost 3 years yun, then finally sabi ko ayoko na kasi parang self destruction yun.

So bumalik ako ng ahensya, kahit pagod mas maliit ang sweldo pero masaya. Siguro kailangan lang talaga na as an artist alamin mo kung ano yung gusto mo. Mahirap bumalik kasi para akong back to zero, pero basta mahal mo ginagawa mo wag susuko. Lahat tayo siguro kailangan lang ng outlet sa pagiging 'artist' natin.

Reigun:

I think na-differentiate mo in a nutshell yung words na: Job, Work, Occupation, and Profession somewhere within your last statement.

You've been asked of this countless times, pero how did this creativity started?

Paulo:

Hmmm pano nga ba... Basta may sayad lang yata ako eh. Haha. Pero nung bata ako mahilig na talaga ako magdrawing. Pero habang tumatanda na ko skeptic kasi ako so dun na nabubuo yung concepts sa utak ko.

Reigun:

For a newbie art-lover, or a future artist with an untapped potential, any recommendations to draw influence from?

Paulo:

Ah sa lahat ng bagay. Sa kalsada, sa mga pighati, sa maingay na kapit bahay. Or sa mga taong nakakausap mo. Mahalaga na marami dapat silang tanong. Wag silang matakot sabihan na weirdo ng ibang tao, ibig sabihin nun radikal sila magisip.

Title: MAKE PEACE/GO F*CK YOURSELF.

by Paulo Correa

An entry to Creative Allies' contest political angst poster design.

Reigun:

Ilan sa mga nakikita ko sa mga museum ay ilang mga naka-display na parang 'doodle' ng isang 3 year old. Isa naman ay parang isang tumpok ng bricks. Marahil sadyang kulang lang talaga alam ko sa art, pero eto rin karamihan ang tingin ng iba. Sadyang ang artwork ba ay hindi para sa lahat na pili lang ang audience, dahil pawang mga 'mayayaman' ang kadalasang 'art afficionados', mga may 'napag-aralan'?

Paulo:

Feeling ko kasi ang art may leveling. I agree na minsan mapapakamot ka ng ulo dahil hindi ko rin minsan ma-get yung ibang art pieces sa museums.

Leveling in a sense na, si Picasso bago siya sumikat bilang cubism artist, sobrang magaling siya sa proportion and anatomy ng tao. Ibig sabihin may naabot sa siya na malupit kaya inaaccept na ng ibang tao yung pasimuno niya.

Opinion ko lang, depende pa rin sa tumitingin ang art. Walang karapatan ang ibang tao na husgahan ang manunuod kung hindi nila nageget yung art ng iba. Para sa lahat ang 'art' pero hindi lahat ng uri ng art.

(Haha may sense ba yung sinabi ko?)

Reigun:

Medyo napakamot rin ako ng ulo dun, pero nakuha ko ang punto kahit papano. Parang the message is relative to the recipient and receiver whichever is the desired medium.

Paulo:

(Tumpak! Apir! Sana may beer tayo. Haha)

Reigun:

(virtual beer muna tayo pansamantala, at virtual sisig. apir!)

Ano ang masasabi mong 'pinnacle' or climax ng iyong napiling career, tipong masasabi mo na 'I effin made it'?

Paulo:

Feeling ko wala pa. Kasi I'm still pushing my way para makilala sa art scene. Mahirap men, sooobrang hirap makapenetrate lalo na kung wala ka pang sariling style

Reigun:

Etong tanong na to, isa sa mga cliche na badtrip sagutin, pero para sa iyong propesyon, hindi ko pa masyado narinig: Anong masasabi mong contribution ng art sa present society? O kung medyo gagawin nating 'kanto style' eh, 'ang art, makakain ko ba yan?'

Paulo:

Sa advertising, we inspire people on how they will think or feel. In short, manipulation. Sa art scene, as long as masaya ako sa dinrowing ko or ginawa ko am good. Kahit isa lang ang magsabi na 'Uy angas ng ginawa mo ah' sapat na para sa akin yun. (Yan ang semi-totoong sagot ko) Pero in reality, as long as people will pay for my art, Oks din yun. Haha

Reigun:

With that, I would like to say maraming salamat sa iyong oras at sa mga sagot. Kulang man ng beer, pero solb pa rin. Ipagpatuloy mo ang iyong maangas na mga likha. Apir.

-fin-

To view more of Paulo's works, you can check his portfolio on behance.net/pauloexmachina or facebook.com/pauloexmachina. He would appreciate a tweet or two on @pauloexmachina.

Basketball Heroes & Ice-tubigs

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 15:14:26 PST

Why do I love the game of basketball?

It's not really impossible to happen since I'm a male Filipino growing up in a family with basketball-crazed brothers, father, uncles, neighbours and friends. It's hard to deny that Philippines IS still a basketball nation. (Maybe boxing is a close second, Pacquiao knows.)

But, how my passion for the game really started is beyond me. As the youngest of the siblings, being born in the mid 80's, simply means my older brothers were already in their teens during the 90's. Whatever tv show they have on, then that means that's my programme for the day. They won't listen if I wanted to watch Power Rangers, or Teenage Ninja Turtles, or maybe re-runs of animes of Voltes V and Daimos. No. Whether it's the PBA, NBA, UAAP, or even the now defunct MBA and PBL, basketball is on.

They would tag me along to watch a live Ginebra game, be it on Araneta Coliseum, or on Cuneta Astrodome. I would find them watching NBA/PBA games recorded on betamax/vhs tapes. It was absurd. It was addicting. I got hooked.

Here's my attempt at SkyWalking.

Zero casualties reported.

1990's BALLGAMES AND THE FLYING A

During the 90's, it was easy to watch the NBA. Because all you see is the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan. Winning 6 rings on that decade isn't an easy task. He's a popular dude. Plus he starred with Bugs Bunny on Space Jam. It's hard to root against him. Watching their championship games on tv with my brothers almost became a habit. Another Jordan shot. Another Jordan dunk. Another Jordan fadeaway. Another Rodman technical.

Jordan is equals to winning. Favorite. He makes it so easy.

Plus add the fact that 2 of my older brothers were studying at UST at that time, wherein the UST Tigers won their grandslam. They won from 1993 to 1996.

I could still recall my brothers screaming as if they won the national lottery. They were jumping up and down and I could see Coach Aric being carried by the players, Dennis Espino, Bal David and the other players were screaming on top of their lungs. I was thrilled and was excited, as if I was studying at their school at that time.

**In which I eventually did from 1998-2006, with ZERO Men's Basketball Championships. They won their next ring after I graduated. Ouch.**

But I really fell in love with the art of the game when I was watching intently for the first time: a championship game between Sunkist and Alaska. It was the 1995 Governor's Cup. I asked my brother Jason : 'Bakit sya lagi kumukuha at nagdidribol ng bola?' as I observed this early on the game. The player I was pointing to was named Johnny Abarrientos. He explained to me that he needs to because he is a 'Point guard'. I didn't get it. So? He further explained the responsibilities of a point guard. Plus the rest of the 4 positions on the floor. I was schooled that day. I loved the ball lessons. I adored the Flying A.

Unlik Jordan, Flying A is so 'Pinoy'. Standing at 5'8, he looks like any other regular guy out there. But I loved his style of play. Fast, quick, and quiet. He is your anti-superstar. Think of a Tim Duncan-esque player. Not too much of a swagger, yet effective and a winner.

Despite Johnny's team being not always the fan favorite, and going against crowd darlings such as Ginebra, San Miguel Beermen, Purefoods TJ Hotdogs, I've rooted for him ever since. I loved the underdog tag on him. He is arguably the best point guard ever in the PBA, and still he would deny it.

I can vividly recall one interview on him on what is his reaction on his monicker the "Flying A", and he replied, not to the exact letter, but something like 'Di ko nga rin alam, di naman ako lumilipad eh'.

CHILDHOOD HOOPS AND THE STINKERS

I would try to copy their moves on the court. On the game, with my friends. As a skinny grade-schooler, we could only dream and pretend like it's the game 7 of the finals. Personally, I am not the athletic type, I am not gifted with skills. Heck I could even shoot an occasional airball. (Which I easily adapted until adulthood.)

But I still play, all day, all after-school time, and maybe until all night. I come home sweaty, greasy, and yes, all mucky and dirty. Sometimes I would come home bloodied, with skin tears, with 'corbos', with knee abrasions, and body aches and all. You will still find me play more after a drink of 'ice tubig'. We would play for a a bet, sometimes for 'ice-tubigs', for a litre of Coke, which eventually evolved to a case of ice-cold beers. Hell, we could've played for just the air and kill each other to win. And have fun.

I remember one time, as a Grade 4 or Grade 5 kid, me and my 3 other friends, were challenged by the 'squatter kids'. They look mean and tough, but were all smiles with the playful challenge. We betted on nothing. It was a makeshift ring on a wooden post, on a side street rarely passed by vehicles. It was around 1 in the afternoon, with the sun way up north of the sky.

And we played like it was Jordan's final shot. It was a tight see-saw battle. Basket after basket. No I don't want to shoot an airball this time, or the word will spread out and might reach out to my school crush. I made a couple of baskets too. It was a hard game. Referees would be shocked to see how hard we fouled and played. No calls, no free throws. just play on. But here's the catch: our opponents stunk. I mean, they played good. But they LITERALLY stunk. And we had to play man-to-man defense. Body to body. Our faces against theirs. I tried not to breathe. It was simply that bad. After two games, we were tied with 1 game a piece. We called it off and it was game over. We drank countless of ice-tubigs that day. It was priceless. Our nasal passages rejoiced.

FOR THE LOVE

So to answer the question, why do I love playing basketball? There are tons of reasons and factors. One, I could play it almost anywhere, everywhere. On the street, on the court, on the playstation. (There's no way I could've played golf on the concrete street.) Two, it is a team game. Yes, you could hoop by yourself, but it's always better to play with and against someone. Competition level varies on the quality of ice-tubigs. Three, you can enjoy watching it as a fan, or part of the audience. You can either cheer or jeer with tons of fun and excitement. Endless debates on who is the G.O.A.T. On the best Jordan shoe. The best game watched. On the best player on the 2k roster. On the best collegiate player. NCAA vs UAAP.

It's really difficult to explain a fan's passion for the game. I guess I love the art and philosophy and the attitude of the game.
Making an 'attempt' to make a 'goal'.
'Bouncing back after a 'loss'.'
'Teamplay'.
'Never say die'.

One thing I'm sure of, I would play for the prize of an 'ice-tubig' with my mates, and family anytime. Whether they 'stink' or not.

Good News: Mayans reveal 2013 schedule

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 06:21:32 PST

Time: 1:50 PM London/ 9:50 PM Manila
31st December 2012, Monday.
10 degrees Celsius na malamig, maulap, makulimlim at mahangin na hapon.

Wala naman halos makakabasa neto dahil busy ang halos lahat ng friends ko at walang internet ang nanay ko.

Pero dito, chill lang ang mga tao. Literally at figuratively. Sa nakaraang lagpas 2 taon ko dito sa Essex, Inglatera, ganito lagi. Nagsasaya rin ang mga tao dito. Pero parang baliw ang buong Pilipinas pag kinumpara ang pagsasaya sa atin.

Walang bwisit na mga nagpapaputok sa pagputok pa lang ng umaga para manggising. Walang nagvivideoke ng tanghaling tapat. Walang nagpapausok ng malinamnam na barbeque at iba pang inihaw. Walang badtrip na signal ng cellphone na kung saan di ka makatawag o makasend ng pabati mo sa pamilya, tropa o sa 'baby' mo. Walang balita sa tv kung ilan na ang naputukan, naospital, at saan ang countdown party ng mga kapuso o kapamilya.

Mahirap ipaliwanag ang hirap ng isang buhay OFW. Overseas Filipino Worker. Malayo ang lahat. At ang mga kasama mo ay ang mga kapwa OFW mo rin na may samu't saring kwento at emo moments rin.

Pero mas mahirap kung ikaw ay isang OFW nars. Ang buhay nars, simpleng kinalimutan ang ibig sabihin ng "TGIF", 'weekend', 'holiday' atbp. Normal na araw. Normal na pasok. Magsimula man ng alas 7 ng umaga, matapos man ng 9 ng gabi ng walang kinakain, dere-deretcho man ng 3am maski hihikab-hikab na.

Daig pa ang motolite. Walang sinabi ang energizer bunny. Biased na kung biased. Oo marami dyan ang mas mahirap o mas toxic na trabaho. (Oo naging call center agent rin ako). Cheesy na pakinggan, pero buhay ng tao ang trabaho namin. Di biro yun. At bawal ka pang sumimangot.

Parang mamaya, tatapusin ko ang 2012, at sisimulan ko ang 2013 sa trabaho. Mga 3 beses na to nangyari sa akin. Isang beses noong bagito ako sa call center. Isang beses noong simula ng 2009 sa ospital sa pinas. At mamaya pagputok ng 2013.

Bakit parang nagrereklamo ako kamo? Oo pinili ko maging nars, isang ofw. Pero kung makakapili pa rin naman ako ng araw ng trabaho, gusto ko rin naman ang may oras para magsaya at magpasalamat kasama ang mga pamilya at tropa. Pero eto ako, ~~basang-basa sa ulan~~ lumalaban sa hirap, at lalong tumitibay, patungo sa tagumpay. (Intro Alcoholic commercial).

Masarap isipin ang bawat pagtalon ko nung bata ako tuwing pagpatak ng 12:00 sa orasan para tumangkad. Ang pagsindi namin ng mga fountain at mga paputok, habang advanced pala relo namin ng 10 minutes, so wrong timing kami. Ang paglilinis ko ng ilong ko sa dumi at maitim na usok kinaumagahan. Ang pagkain ng masarap na handa na recycled minsan galing pasko. Ang maubos-ubos na hangin ko kakatorotot. Ang panonood sa langit ng mga fireworks na nagpapaliwanag sa gabing masaya.

Isa na namang araw, isa na namang gabi, isa na namang pasok sa trabaho. Mamaya, January 1, 2013 na. Bagong kalendaryo. Bagong simula.

Masarap magsimula bitbit ang bawat alaala sa byahe na kung saan papunta ay di ko pa alam.

Kung noong simula ng 2011 ang motto ko ay :
'Continue not making resolutions, life is short so just freakin' do it.'

Ang motto ko ngayong 2013 ay:
~~Delikado magpaputok sa loob.~~

'We survived 'the end of the world', there's no reason be not happy at all.'

Kaya eto na, 'mayans reveal 2013 schedule'. Magpa-book na. I-sked na yan. Pano kung nadelay pala sa 2013 ang 'end of the world?' Sayang naman kung puro 'sana' at 'sayang' ang sasabihin mo sa 'end of the year' chuchu mo di'ba? Make it count, make it happen.

Happy na, new year pa. Cheers to 2012, cheers to 2013!

ManikVid: Amster Damn

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 01:36:38 PST

One night, 4 men were talking about going to Amsterdam over bottles of beer and wine.

And then, they went. The rest, as they say, is history.

But for these 4 young, macho, handsome, generous, family-oriented guys, this is just the beginning.

Amster Damn from reigun decena on Vimeo.

Save the Date: Lei+Abe

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:04:43 PST

There will come a time where almost everyone you know are becoming parents (whether expected or not!), or are about to tie the knot (voluntarily or not). And of course I will always be in denial in thinking that I just graduated from college. Aside from taxes, these events remind me of my age really.

I've met and known Leila and Abe thru a college friend, Vhel. I've learned that Leila really loves to laugh. And Abe has held a gun and was really good in target shooting. I'm not really sure if that is the perfect recipe for a couple, but whatever works, they seem to have made it happen.

And one cold/freezy/windy typical London day, together with their friends (aka Production Team), we went to the parks and shot some photos for their engagement session with lively colours all around the park. They were all game and ready for the challenge I asked of them. And yes, I had to climb up a tree for some of the shots, but was totally worth it. Because I wasn't injured.

It was pure joy and fun-filled day. I really enjoyed shooting them, and glad they loved it too. Here's some of what we came up with. Cheers to them this coming 8th of January 2013. Best wishes!

Lei+Abe from reigun decena on Vimeo.

Movember: I'm going for the 'Undercover Brother'

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 06:51:14 PST

November has started. I haven't been to any halloween parties since I was on shift. (Didn't need to wear a mask to scare off people anyways when I'm half-asleep.) I've been ill for a few days, and the biting winter cold weather are just enough reasons for me to laze around and not to move much. Though, I can be like that for the rest of 365 days of the year.

And by the time I checked the mirror, the horror cannot be unseen. There's a wiggly bunch of hair above my upper lip. I haven't grown mine fully, I haven't got the balls at all (no pun intended sort of). And I realised, it's about damn time to do something different and significant for once in my life.
Movember comes to mind. The same question you have right now came to my mind 'What is Movember?!' Let me help you.

Movember says: 'During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces in the UK and around the world. The aim of which is to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and testicular cancer.'

And here are the simple rules:

And ladies, could come and join in the fun too! Well, you don't really have to grow a mo. But, whatever suits your fancy perhaps? But according to the mo bros: 'A Mo Sista is essentially a woman who loves a Mo. An individual that is dedicated to supporting the Mo Bros in her life through their moustache growing journey; whether it be a friend, colleague, family member or partner. These inspirational women are committed to raising awareness of men's health issues and much needed funds for men's health along the way.'

'Mo Bros effectively become walking, talking billboards for the 30 days of November and through their actions and words raise awareness by prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men’s health.'

'At the end of the month, Mo Bros and Mo Sistas celebrate their Movember journey throwing their own Movember parties or attending one of the Gala Partés held around the world to stand tall and celebrate the moustache.'

So, here's my mo space: http://mobro.co/reagandecena. Now, I have legit reasons to help, to raise awareness, hopefully gain some help and funds for the fight against the C, spread the word, and grow a manly handsome mo once in a year.

Sounds good? Nah. It is a-MO-zing! seewhatididthere

Please visit http://mobro.co/reagandecena to learn mo about moi MO-tivation.

thoughtpic: When on a holiday, follow ze rulez.

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:09:20 PDT

Best wifi ever.
Best surfing ever.
Best...wait...umm...yeah.

London: Bipolar

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:48:30 PDT

London prenup shoot done and wrapped up. Fun day meeting new friends and capturing some of their awesome moments together before they tie the knot on January 2013.

It was a typical London weather: windy/cloudy/gloomy/rainy/cold/with sprinkles of sunshine in between.

It somehow fit our plan to capture the various seasons London has to offer. We got lucky we were spared from hail.

Hopefully will be able to put out some nice shots. This hobby of mine, I don't mind putting work into, and I won't stop learning each time. Even the nasty bipolar weather of London won't stop me.

(Or, let me think about that last line of thought again.)

Reigun signing out.

'So this is how fishes see us?'

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 10:44:06 PDT

Looking through my newly delivered FishEye lens for my Canon 550D, using ze iPhone4. I love how cool it works and how cheap I got it from Amazon.co.uk. Plus how fast they delivered it in less than 24hours of purchase. Getting ready and prepped for my 3rd pre-nup shoot somewhere in London.

Sorry if you're looking at our organised chaotic kitchen of our flat, my fault. Will do the dishes. Zzz

ManikVid: Paralympics 2012

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 19:33:01 PDT

This is my vlog in conjunction with the previous post about the Superhuman Show aka the Paralympics.

The Superhuman Show: Paralympics 2012 Photo Diary

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 09:44:32 PDT

No words to describe how great these paralympians really are. My friend Patrick and I witnessed some of the best athletics performances during that day, in fact a number of paralympian records were broken and made. It was our first time inside the Olympic Stadium, and to share that experience with 80,000 people in attendance is amazing.

Team GB supporters proudly show their colours.

The main event of the morning was the men's long jump final, all of whom are blind. In between were various events of shot-put, discus throw, 100-400 m run heats, wheel-chaired heats, etc. I think I might have seen one of the best live events in my life. No, there was no Oscar Pistorius, Johnny Peacock, or Pinoy champions that day.

But calling them superhumans really fits the billing.

The Olympic Stadium can have 80,000+ people all at the same time.

It was a sunny Thursday, and people of all ages came to watch the games.

Philippines represented by the flag, among other participating nations.

The view from our seats.

By 11 am, the stadium was filled up.

An American Paralympian, competing for the men's long-jump final. The stadium should be very silent for they will rely on their coaches' voice and clapping on when and where to jump.

One of the women's heats.

Nothing would stop these strong superhumans.

Mistakes are really hard to avoid with vision impairment, but the audience applaud each and every effort by the athletes.

The Spanish paralympian and his coach guiding him where the lines are.

Sometimes it takes a team for an individual paralympian. But this Russian athlete would eventually be the Gold medal winner on the long-jump.

One of the most exciting events in the Paralympics is the wheel-chair races.

One of the tight races on men's 100m run heat.

Big ups for the crowd showing great cooperation for the athletes for their concentration before each long-jump attempt.

Medal awarding ceremonies would be presented in between jumps. That day, Team South Africa including THE Oscar Pistorius was given their hardwares for their 4x100m relay win.

This lovely couple enjoy the games with the rest of the 80,000 people.

'TEAM GB!'

It was sunny, but it got cold still! Typical British summer though.

Thumbs up for the event.

Patrick stalking some structures.

That's a wrap!

----------------------

Dear superhumans,

You changed the world's point of view

on humans that are extraordinary.

You showed us what it means to be like you, and

gave us a mirror for ourselves to see.

You pushed harder and broke barriers.

You are redefining what it means to be

'normal' and what it means to be

a 'winner'.

You defined heart, courage, and strength.

For the inspiration, superhumans I salute you all!

Publish your own book (or two) in a quickie

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 10:37:11 PDT

Hello legions of fans! (That would be you mom and cousins and random ex-schoolmate!)

I've been off from blogging (again) but for this month I'll try to come up with something new at LEAST once in a while. For various reasons, but mainly I'm just trying to create some more space for our dear mother internet. You can thank me later.

Anyway skyway, I want to share this bit of discovery I've made. And I will spill the news: I am now a book author! Or is it accurate if I say I'm a book slash ebook author?

Don't raise that eyebrow yet. It's not the new 50 shades book. It won't be a bestseller story. It is but a photobook.

I've found out about this from an Instagram user, wherein he was ecstatic to have received his photobook be made online. He praises the quality of the print and the book binding. He used blurb.com, and it was easy to use.

So another photo printing service, what's new?

Well, this one will let you create an eBook copy, if you want to have it on an iPad, iPhone, PC or whatever gadget that lets you read one!

You can import photos from Facebook, instagram, flickr, Picasa etc. The pricing of the books depends on the quality and size of the book. There are some pretty good guides on the site. If you also wish to earn some profit from it, go ahead.

I tried it, in a few minutes, and I have my first photo book! I have yet to recieve my book copy, but the eBook version alone is awesome. Then I made another for the pre-nuptial shoot I did for my friends, and they liked it. (THEYSHOULD!lol)

So, give it a try. Or you could check out mine and see for yourself. Yes, my eBooks are free for your consumption or whatever.

My personal photobook is "My Shuttered Life: An adventure of the phonephotographer"

my shuttered life. by reagan decena | Make Your Own Book

The other one is "Hennessy+Sara: The pre-nuptial shoot."

Hennessy + Sara by Reagan Decena | Make Your Own Book

Enjoy legions of fans (thanks mom!)

ManikVid: Paris 2k12

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:09:38 PDT

PARIS from reigun decena on Vimeo.

A 'sneak peek' of our tour & stay in PARIS, FRANCE.

The Brit guy that loved jeepneys, cheap beers and wowowee (Part 1)

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 04:04:29 PDT

"It was the best sunset I have ever seen" then and he showed me the photo from his mobile phone.

To be honest, yes it was really nice. He's not a great photographer, so the photo would be plain.
But it was good, though clearly it doesn't give justice to what he have seen. It does not
equate to his ecxitement and the "wow!" factor that he just told me.

The photo was of course recognizable. It was quite familiar. It just looked regular to me.

This British guy really loves Philippines.

"Whenever someone would ask me where to go for a vacation that's really good, I would just simply say: BOHOL. It is far and takes you countless hours of plane ride, but it's worth it."

I would just call this guy we met in a party, Bob. He is married to a Filipina for almost 20 years. He met her in London. He's about 50-60 years old, with hippie-like chin-length gray hair. But he's very lively and definitely loves to travel.

He recalls he came to his wife's hometown early 1990's, somewhere in Leyte. He failed to state the town name, but mentioned it was about 3 hours from Tacloban airport. He briefly dscribed it.

"When I first came there, and when I visited about a couple of years ago, there was not much of a change. Except for the paved roads, it still is the same."

That's the first insight of a foreign friend. That may speak of our government's efficiency, poverty, or lack of focus outide of Metro Manila development. But his tone and look of it was more of a positive. He loved it. He hates the hustle and bustle of the city. He likes the quietness and the simplicity in the area.

"My wife's home there is a hundred yards away from the beach." His British accent matched with his giddyness, is really amusing.

"Imagine, it is one of the best beaches I have ever been. Not much people, then you can stay there all day with no fees, and the beer is cheap! Simply amazing."

Yes, this guy really loves the beach, the sun, typical vacation. Who doesn't?

"I've been around to Zambales, Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Pampanga. It was really nice. Very warm."

Then he talked about the transportation.

"My wife's home is not that close to malls or shops. But it's not a problem. I would just stand there outside, and tricycles would be passing back and forth asking me if I need a ride. You don't need to say anything!"

Filipinos could be sometimes biased in favor of foreign visitors, we are that hospitable. And that is not always a bad thing at all.

"I really like riding the JEEP! It's like an adventure always. I can't imagine how they would fit in very narrow spaces, and the way they swerve in the middle of the road. It's just hilarious!"

And he reminded me some of the things that we tend to forget.

"Whenever we travel around, I rarely sleep around. I mean, you came to a place far away from home, and you need to travel and see lots of places and see lots of people. You need to enjoy and have fun."

I am quite envious he's been around the Philippines more than most of us Pinoys.

"Oh, and I remembered meeting this actor and he helped us to watch Wowowee there. You know Tirso Cruz III?"

--to be continued--

Umaarawumuulantekamalamigpala

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sat, 12 May 2012 04:08:12 PDT

Ang british weather.

Kasing gulo ng pubes ng katabi mo sa jeep. Kasing labo ng lasing na kausap. Kasing undecided ng mga judges sa korte. Kasing sakit sa ulo ng suntukan nila Raymart at Tulfo. Kasing kainis ng drama ni Claudine. Kasing tigas ng T3 tulfo brothers.

Tirik man ang araw, pag humangin naman eh parang malalaglag ang panga mo sa ngatal. Pag mainit, uulan. Dito, natutunan ko na dapat seasonal ang damit mo. Magmumukha kang timang pa lumabas kang nakashades ng umaga dahil maaraw, dahil after ilang minuto, eh sakop na ng ulap pati kaluluwa mo.

Dapat rin ang suot mong jacket eh parang si Vilma Santos na pang for all seasons. Dapat pati pagulan ng apoy e kayanin.

Pero ang mga pinanganak na dito, kesehodang naka shortshorta habang kaming mga Pinoy e nagyeyelo na. Pati si "Junior" eh mapuputol na parang popsicle. Walang exagg. Wala munan pic nun.

Kaya netong isang araw papasok sa trabaho, maaraw nga pero daig pa lamig n baguio at tagaytay, at umulan pa ng maaga. Kaya suot ko an peborit jacket ko na pang winter, na maski umulan e tuyo pati underwear ko.

Sabi ni doc pagkakita sakin:"Isn't too hot for that jacket?"

Sabi ko sa utak ko: E kitamong lamig na lamig na kami sa Baguio at buong taon e nilalagnat kami sa init, masama bang lamigin?!

Pero sinabi ko na lang "yeah, thought it was gonna rain."

(eh bakit di ako nagbitbit ng payong?!)

Ayan tuloy dagdag promdi points ako. Oo sinisisi ko ang british weather.

Thoughtpic: "Connecting..."

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Wed, 09 May 2012 09:17:21 PDT

"Connecting..." , a photo by manikreigun on Flickr.

I love people-watching. I even ogle at non-relevant non-living things when I walk down the street. (I could either be observant, or it's just my attention-span is very short.) And this bit is one of my favourite stolen-shots.

In a famous coffee shop in Barcelona, Spain, I've looked at this couple from time to time for a good few minutes. And the scene never changed. The lady staring into space, or into her guy companion, with bagged goods on her feet. Across the table, the guy is happily distracted with his gadget, grinning as if he was truly entertained and lost in reality.

The funny thing is, I could see myself in either of their shoes sometimes. Something so common that unknowingly, we disconnect ourselves from people around us. I am guilty as everybody is.

Technology may make the world smaller, but not necessarily bring people closer.

(Especially if there's free Wi-Fi!)

ManikVid: Best Wishes!

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sat, 05 May 2012 11:21:01 PDT

You know you're getting old if you're friends can be classified as MILFs or Sugar daddys or D.O.M.s.

But before that, it's great to hear and be a part of a dear friend's wedding. Unfortunately, we can't personally attend the wedding of now Mr. and Mrs. Hintay held in Manila, Philippines. So the Essex gang decided to make a special vidmessage to remind them how lucky of them to have friends like us. Err, I mean to remind them how lucky of them to have each other. Ha!

Woot!

What if the NBA assembles an Avengers team?

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Thu, 03 May 2012 20:57:14 PDT

**Semi Spolier alert!**

I am one of the millions of fans who've seen the movie Avengers Assemble recently. To say the least, it was "smashing" box office records, and was just like an awegasmic wet-dream for every fanboy out there. Okay purist Marvel fans, you need to chill this one out. Who would've thought of making this film into a reality, (or more of into 3D?!) and actually coming out with a good job? We've had the appetizers from Marvel, dating back to 2 Iron Man films, 2 Hulk films, 1 from Thor then finally a Captain America flick. And now this whopper.

Yes, the plot maybe simple, not Oscar buzz worthy, and could be thought of by any young comic book fan: Loki, Thor's half-brother, seeks to obtain this powerful cube called the "Tesseract" from Earth, which is in possession of Nick Fury's team (S.H.I.E.L.D.), and he was successful. As Loki is planning to send his alien army to destroy and rule the planet, Nick Fury is desperate to form the most unlikely team of superheroes. "Like a time-bomb", as Bruce Banner/The Hulk has stated, this team is just as dysfunctional as any TV sitcom family could be. Until they find their differences "ironed" out (pun intended), then they will only find the way to win this gargantuan war.

The film managed to mesh in the characters slowly into the story, filled in with trademark Marvel-humour punchlines, and a whole lot of smashing and crashing. This film never failed to entertain.

***

Now, before I spoil any further, I just thought of the question "What if the NBA assemble an Avengers team?"

Let's see the possible candidates for the team, fulfilling the roles of the superheroes.

Iron Man: Lebron James

Rich. Cocky. Loves attention. Not-your-average-teammate team player. Loves to do things on his own. May not be as funny as Tony Stark, but he's that character you might have a love/hate relationship with. His Jarvis could be Chris Bosh for all we know.

Thor: Kevin Durant

God of Thunder? Duh, de facto. He has a long wingspan, that could make-up for his cape. He's not burly as the son of Odin, but when the booms and bangs are needed, he comes just right in time. What about his half-brother Loki? You think Russell Westbrook's plays and seemingly jealous ways won't fit that?

Captain America: Tim Duncan

Hey, a man out of time? I present you a 90's Duncan in 2012. Or could also fill in an 80's dude. Old school smarts, non-flashy plays... Wow, almost yawned there. But if you want effective leadership, call Timmy's number. He can be as cool as ice, but that man is almost immortal.

The Hulk: Amar'e Stoudemire

I'm not really sure if New York Knicks have a long queue for their anger management courses at the moment, but this dude really needs it. Down 0-2 versus the Heat, he apparently punched the Fire Extinguisher. Yes, even the fire extinguisher thought it was dumb. Amar'e, like the Hulk, could become a leader anytime, with this ability and strength but was reduced to a bit player. If Amar'e has a film like the Hulk now, it could be the one starred by Eric Bana.

Hawkeye: Dirk Nowitzki

Sharpshooter, check. Cold-blooded assassin, check. Under mind-control? Check. Dirk is showing un-Dirkly this playoffs. It might be his teammates, but the Mavs are just awful in whole. Just like the Hawkeye, you could just go on to the next round without his shots.

Nick Fury: Kobe Bryant

Shooting while injured is Kobe's daily routine. Break his arm, his leg, poke his eye, kick his balls, he doesn't give a damn and he will shoot the lights out. Smash mouth like a true leader, he doesn't even care if he's being coached by Michael Jordan. No, Black Mamba is not equals to Black Widow.

Agent Coulson: Derrick Rose

Nope, he doesn't have superpowers. (I'm referring to Agent Phil here, I know D-Rose have his own.) But he appeared in every movie, recruiting everyone, like the unsung MVP. Just like in the film, the MVP vanished out of the scenes after that nasty injury by D-Rose. Awful scene. Just not right.

Future villains: See Kevin Garnett, Kendrick Perkins, Ronny Turiaf, etc.

Any suggestions or reactions? So who are we voting for a Black Widow?

Ulan, Time-Travel at si Bakal Boy.

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 06:08:33 PDT

Umiiyak ang langit halos buong araw. Naks, dramatic ba ang opening line? Oo miss ko na ang masinagan ng araw. At ang mangitim. At ang pagpawisan. Hinde, ayokong mag-gym.

Day-off ko ngayon pero ang sarap-sarap humilata sa sofa at gumawa lang ng wala habang nalilibang sa internet. Nakakatamad namang lumabas dahil ~~nagtitipid~~ napakalakas nga ng ulan, makulit ka ba?

Di naman ako makanood ng Avengers. Hindi dahil outdoors ang sinehan dito, pero kasi wala akong kadeyt! Kaya heto na lang muna ang pinapanood ko paulit-ulit. Ang sarap maging Iron Man!

Anyway segway, dahil diyan, nag-senti Sunday mode ako. Dahil parang isang mahiwagang time-space-warp machine ang ulan, dahil ilang larawan ang nagdaraan sa aking paningin.(That's Rivermaya reference for ya.)

Nag-isip ako: Ano ang maipapayo ko sa sarili ko kung nag-time-travel ako ten years back to meet my 13 year old...este 17 year old self?

Shit. Ang hirap nun. Syempre matapos ang gulat, sigaw, takot at habulang malupit kung saan haharangin ko ang totoy kong sarili sa isang sulok at tatakpan ang bibig para hindi sumigaw at magfreakout, eh siguro iinom muna kami ng malamig na sopdrinks. Sabay tanong ko sa kanya: "Me barya ka ba dyan?"

***

Pero dahil limited lang ang time, eto siguro mga maipapayo ko sa totoy self ko.

1. Mag-enjoy ka sa school. Dahil pag nagsimula ka nang magtrabaho at magbayad ng buwis, iisipin mong di pala ganun kahirap intindihin ang mga subject na di mo naman magagamit lahat pagtanda mo.

2. Humanap ka ng mga tamang tropa at kasama. Hindi ibig sabihin lahat ng kasama mo ngayon eh kasama mo pa rin 10 years from now. Hindi rin ibig sabihin na malalapitan mo sila lahat agad-agad. Yung ibang pa-cool, eh hanggang pa-cool lang. Kaya wag kang salbahe at suwail.

3. Maging pasaway ka rin kahit papano. Basta nasa tama lang ha! Dahil marami ang namamatay sa salitang REGRET. (syempre di literal)

4. Mag-byahe at mag-travel ka lang. Oo, wala ka pang sweldo at pera ngayong nasa school ka pa. Sige, mahirap magpaalam sa mga magulang atbp arte. Pero kaya namang makaipon kahit konti, kahit matagal. Maraming experience points ang mage-gain mo sa mga trip na ito.

5. Bawas-bawasan mo ang pagkokompyuter. Langya, wala kang mapapala diyan. Well, oo enjoy talaga eh. DOTA > everything. Pero, bawasan mo na lang maski 30minutes lang.

6. Wag tipirin ang sarili sa pagkain. Dahil pagtanda mo, kahit anong gawin mo, eh lalaki pa rin ang tiyan mo.

7. Huwag ka matakot sa rejection. Huwag ka matakot magkamali. (oo na cliche much!) Pero ibig kong sabihin, subukan mo lang. Sayang rin yang mga ganyan. Dagdag maturity points yan. Kesa namang tumanda kang utak hayksul na napaka-sensitive at walang katibay-tibay sa mga hirap.

~~8. Sasabihin ko sayo ang mga winning numbers ng lotto, teka.~~

9. Gumawa ka ng website na kung saan maraming tao ang mababaliw. Yayaman ka rito. Tawagin mong Facebook.

10. Tama lang na wag kang bumili ng selpon. Kasi mahoholdap ka ng maraming beses. Pag hinoldap ka, ibigay mo lang, wag nang makulet.

11. Pre, mahirap ang nursing. Bakit yan ang kinuha mo?!?! Tingin mo yayaman ka? Umm...Ok, tingin mo na lang ba eh sasaya ka rito? Think about it hard bro! THINK HARD!!!

12. Mag-pa facial ka. Maski once a year, ok?

***

Bale yun lang muna siguro maiisip kong sabihin sa sarili ko. Masyadong marami. Baka himatayin na yung teenager self ko sa mga sinabi ko.

Siguro idagdag ko na rin na sabihin ko sa kanya na pagtanda mo, magsumikap kang maging si Bakal Boy na si Tony Stark, mayaman at pogi.

Tignan mo ngayon, konting ipon na lang, tsek na lahat.

Ansabeh!

Sinong 'di mababaliw sa ulan?

-"Ulan" by rivermaya

KarateChop

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:12:43 PDT

Bwisit na Temple Run to oh. Lagi na lang ako nadededs amp.

Holdap to!

Gago pala tong si manong eh. Kung makatutok ng patalim sa kolehiyala eh talagang papatay
para sa selpon. Parang sinapian ng MALIGNO. Punyeta, ilang linggo pa lang ang selpon ko. Kung bakit
pa kasi ako nagpabili nung bertdey ko.

Naalala ko bigla si Kris. Katabi ko siya noon sa SILID-AKLATAN. Sabi ko kung pwede kaming lumabas.
At nung kukunin ko ang selpon number niya, napangiti siya sa telepono ko. Nokia. Walangya natawa siya.

Ngayon, nakikita ko siya sa may palengke malapit sa kanila, nagbebenta ng gulay at GALUNGGONG. Eh ako? Naka-iPhone na ako! HA! Buti nga sayong babae ka, kung mambasted ka kala mo kasing-lupit mo si Anne Curtis oy!

T*ngina, nakatingin na sa kin yung malignong holdaper.

Walang magawa si manong drayber, masyadong madilim ang kanto at di kita kaming mga pasahero sa jeep ngayong dis-oras ng gabi.

Nakita niya akong nakangiti sa kawalan. At ang kawalan eh sa mismong mukha niya. Kala niya ata eh tinatawanan ko lang siya. Naibigay na pala ng kolehiyala ang bag niya.

Nakatutok na pala yung balisong sakin. Nakikita kong nakasigaw siya sa akin.

"AKINASELPONMO!SASAKSAKINKITA!"

Nawala na ang ngiti ko. Magpapaka-BAYANI ba ako ngayon at gagamitan ko ba siya ng kakaunting karate lesson na natutunan ko nung 8 years old ako nung sa MILO Best? O baka matulad ako sa isang KULISAP na napisa at naglabasan ang mga kalamnan. Pero HINUHA ko lang yun. Pwede rin namang hindi, kasi medyo napuri ako nung teacher sa karate chop ko. Baka matsamba.
Kung bakit ba naman kasi di ko natapos ang summer class ko noon.

Ayos. Eto ang PANITIKAN ng araw ko ngayon: "Holdaper, na-karate chop, dedo." O kaya e
"Call center agent, nangarate, nagripuhan ng holdaper."
Sagwa. Tabloid headline na nga lang, di pa sensational.

Tipong pambalot lang ng Galunggong!

Bahala na ang mga taga-KAGAWARAN ng tabloid dun. Wala na akong magagawa.

Ibibigay ko ba ang selpon ko sa malignong to, o susubukan ko muna siyang tirahin?
Nauubos na ang oras ko. Nauubos na ang mga pagpipilian ko. Teka, paano nga ba mangarate-chop? Shet!

Natutulala na naman ako sa kanya.

"Selpon!"

iPhone.

Si Kris.

Ugh.

Paborito ko naman ang galunggong. Kasama ng kamatis. At itlog na maalat. Masarap.

...

Habang nakaLARAWAN ang isang SARANGGOLAng nagjajaywalking sa langit..

Nakahiga ako..sa..

Bakit ako nasa DAMUHAN...

alangya..

...

=============

Panggulo para sa "Bagsik ng Panitik" contest ng Damuhan.

What do you like in rainy days?

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 04:40:34 PDT

Salamat sa tanong ichirokun

"What do you like in rainy days?"
Ano nga ba ang gusto ko tuwing tag-ulan?

Paggising sa umaga, bago pumasok sa eskwela, inaabangan ko na ang mga announcement sa radyo at sa tv.

"WALANG PASOK NGAYON SA LAHAT NG ANTAS NG PAARALAN SA KAMAYNILAAN.."

Isang malakas at tahimik na "YES!!!!" sa loob-loob ko nun. Kakain ng almusal, at matutulog ulit, mamaluktot sa kama habang nakakumot. Ang saya!

Naranasan ko ring maenjoy ang makansela ang klase habang nasa paaralan na.

"CLASSES IS SUSPENDED!" bago mo pa marinig tong announcement na to, mas mauuna mong marinig ang palakpakan ng mga katabing klasrum at mga nasa ibang floor.

Hanggang umabot na sa inyo ang balita at nakakabinging "YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!"

At dahil sa USTe ako nag-aral, e alam na kapag umulan ng malakas ng 3 oras na walang hinto.

Isama mo na ang paglusong sa baha. Oo kadiri at maaaring ikamatay yun, pero enjoy yun nung di pa uso ang arte sa katawan ng mga estudyante.

Pero nung na-Ondoy kami, eh di na ka-like-like yun.

p.s.
paki-english na lang pala to, english nga pala tanong mo. hihi

Ask me anything at your own risk. pramis.

Sabik na Pagbabalik: Unang lapag

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 03:10:13 PDT

Tulog at pagod sa byahe, ilang timezones ang nilaktawan, ilang pag-iinat at pamamaluktot sa masikip na upuan sa eroplano, walang laman ang utak ko kundi ang paglapag ng eroplano. At ang paghiga sa kama. Halos 20 oras na tinahak mula London, hanggang Abu Dhabi, at palapit na ng Manila, wala akong ibang inaasam kundi ang makatulog sa kama. Siguro pangalawa yung makapag CR ng maayos. Sumunod na run ang makita ang pamilya at mga kaibigan.

*PLAKPLAKKLAPKLAPPLAKYEHEYYAHOOPLAKPLAKPLAK!*

Ayan na, nagising na ako. Palakpakan na ang mga Pinoy sa eroplano. Lagpas-kalahati siguro ng 200+ pasahero e palakpakan, kasi maglalanding na sa NAIA. Natatawa ako na natutuwa na nalulungkot na nagugutom. Ako, halos 2 taon pa lang sa abroad, pero sila? 3? 5? 10 taong di nayayakap ang pamilya? Iilan kayang mga Pinoy ang may kakilalang OFW? Napatingin na lang ako sa seksi kong katabi, at napangiti na lang kami, muntik na akong pumalakpak, naalala ko gerlpren ko nga pala yun. Tumigil ako sa pakyut kong ngiti. Basta ako, bigla kong naisip ang Chickenjoy ng Jollibee.

"Bakit ang hirap kumuha ng taxi dito?"

Ang saraaaaaap ng unang uwi. Pramis, walang halong showbis. Pero una kong naramdam at nasabi pagtapak sa lagusan ng eroplano: ANG INEEEEEEEEEET! Nasa Pinas na nga ako, yehey. Gusto ko na ring idagdag sa listahan ng gagawin ko ang maligo pala.

Dun na kami naghiwalay sa airport ni gerlpren at dahil susunduin kami ng kanya-kanyang pamilya.

Pagkakita ko sa kotse ni bayaw, angkas si ate, 2 kong pamangkin at si mami, eh ayos na. Parang walang nangyari at parang di ako umalis. Ang sarap, ang init sa pakiramdam na babalik ka at uuwi ka ulit sa bahay mo tulad ng dati.

Tulad ng dati.

Pagpihit ng kotse sa may Roxas Boulevard sa may Baclaran, alam na. Trapik. Sa totoo lang trapik, tatak Pinoy ka, pero di kita namiss. Polusyon, kasama ka na dun. Ganung-ganun pa rin ang Pinas. Tulad ng dati, walang pinagbago. Umaasa pa rin ako, pero hindi rin naglaho ang nasa isip ko na, walang magbabago, mahirap ang asenso. Sino ba ang may kasalanan, sino ang dapat sisihin. Sa totoo lang, parang kaibigan mo ang Pilipinas na nagupload ng photo sa Facebook. May mga shots na ok yung anggulo, may mga shots na alanganin, na parang minsan ang daming tagyawat. Meron namang album na puro parang naphotoshop na ang title ng album eh "itsmorefuninthephilippines" na talagang wala kang maipipintas. Pero pag nagstatus na eh, hala sablay at alanganin. Tipong sarap inunfriend ni Pinas sa Facebook, pero di mo mapipigilan na mapa-like ka rin.

At ang takbo ng utak ko at tanong sa lahat sa kotse eh: Saan ba tayo kakain?

Eto na, ang pambansang libangan ng mga Pinoy. Nope, hindi teks. Hindi rin seks! Ang mall. SM for short. Kung mayroon tayong ipagmamalaking mga Pinoy, ibubungad natin siguro ang mga mall natin. Walang binatbat ang mga ibang bansa pagdating sa mga mall natin. Mas sosyal, mas malaki, mas maraming namimili, bakit kaya ganun? Mapera nga ba ang mga Pinoy, o super galing mag budget? O sadyang mahilig lang lumabas-labas talaga? Basta ako, namaster ko ang Window Shopping.

Umikot muna sandali sa SM North Edsa, at naghanap na kami ng upuan sa Max's. (Kasi may promo ang group package, ohyeas!) Walang katumbas ang Pinoy food. Kare-kare, Pork sisig, Fried Chicken, Sinigang na baboy. Oo tumutulo laway ko habang iniiisip kong hinihigop ko ang mainit na sabaw. Oohlala.

Pagdating ng bahay, ang sarap. Walang pinagbago, tulad ng dati. Masaya akong kasama at makita ang lahat. Sulit ang pagod at hirap. Oo na senti at cheesy na. Pramis di ako naluha, medyo lang. Pero walang katumbas ang unang lapag.

Daig pa ang pananabik ko sa masarap na Chickenjoy.

ManikVid: Sizzling Sisid: Coron

noreply@blogger.com (reigun decena) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:26:15 PDT

Hi. I don't know how to swim, but I took the courage to agree to do scuba diving while in Coron, Palawan, Philippines. Me and ze ladyboss took some 15 minute lessons from dive guru Mr. Marlon of Majika Resort.

Then off to shore we went, and did about 15-20 minutes of demo and practice with the gear, and off we went!

We dove about 100 metres off the shore, then about almost the same depth before we reached a Word War 2 Japanese shipwreck. It was an out-of-this-world experience, no wonder people get hooked into diving! (Pun intended).