OPINYON ni PALAKA

Do we know what they need?

2012-07-09T14:29:00.001+08:00

LED TVs, IPAD, PC Tablets, Netbooks, Car, a CONDO unit.... do you want all of these?

We all want at least one from the above mentioned. Some of us maybe are working hard and others are asking for it in a petition prayer. Others has listed specifications, criteria and even takes time to read and ask for reviews. We felt like we aren't cool without even at least a high-tech android phone where we could surf the net whenever there is an available wifi connection. we strive just to have one. we survive in the valley of material world upon the acquisition of at least one.

Do we consider prayer as a source of survival? Do we consider the simple things that little people are asking for? Do we have time offering a simple prayer to all who were suffering to death? these are few questions that could touch your heart and soul.

The streetkids? they only need food, yet they also need a family.
The old people neglected by their family? they need shelter, medicine, yet they also need CARE.
The mentally incapable citizens? they only need medicines but they also need attention.
The Cancer patients? they need a session of chemotherapy because they need their lives to extend..

Sa Aking Paglisan

2012-06-14T11:39:00.000+08:00

Sa araw na akoy lumisan, nais ko sanang hindi na patagalin pa ang aking mga huling araw sa mundong ibabaw na isang malamig na nilalang lamang. Nais ko ring ang aking mga mahal sa buhay' hindi na masaktan pa sa mga iilang oras na ako'y masilayan na wala nang ngiting bumabahid sa aking mga labi at mga matang pumupungay sa kanilang kiliti.

Alam kong tayo ay hahanggan rin doon ang ating paroroonan, walang kawala, walang masisisi at walang may walang hangganan. Iba iba man ang pamamaraan nang ating paglisan, wala man ding kasiguruhan at walang may nakakakaalam kung ano ang sa ati'y may maghihintay.

Nariyan ang tayo'y totoong may maiiwanan, may taong masasaktan, may taong sa huling araw nati'y saka pa lamang mamamalayan na tayo ay kanilang dapat nabigyan ng halaga.

May mga panahong ako'y hindi napapansin, wari ko'y minsan isa lamang akong anino na dinadaan daanan nang ninuman; o dili kaya'y wala lang talaga. Nariyan ang kahit na ika'y pagod at sadyang bagsak na ang iyong katawan wala man lang nakakaalalang magbigay sayo nang kahit kakarampot na kaligayahan, yun bang simpleng mapaghandaan ka sana, simpleng sorpresa, yun bang sandaling ika'y parang lulutang sa kaligayahan na wari mo'y wala kang mapagsisisihan sa huli.

Nakakapagod na rin ang manilbihan sa taong wala rin namang pakialam sa'yo, yun bang, para kang lapis na buong buhay' mo'y ginamit, tinasa, ginamit, tinasa.. at nang maubos na'y itatapon kana lamang.

Mahirap yung ikaw lang ang gagawa nang paraan para sila'y lumigaya, dahil nga sa susunod inaakala mong sila'y sasaglit na maghahatid sa'yo nang kaligayahan, kahit sandali lang. Pero ako'y wala namang pinagsisisihan na sa kaligayahang aking hatid, matatamis na ngiting sa kanila'y bumabahid. Yung nga lang hindi ako aasaha na minsan ako'y mapapangiti nang walang dahilan.

Darating na ang oras ko, at ako'y lilisan na.. at sa aking paglisan isang gabi lang na ako'y mapagsilbihan. Aba.. alam kong darating ang aking mga kakilala't mga hindi masyadong kaibigan, ngunit hindi ko hahayaang ako'y kanilang masilayan.. Masiyahin ako sa kanilang harapan, ayaw kong ako'y walang buhay na kanilang masilayan, ayoko nun. Tanging ang malapit kong kamag-anak hanggang sa kapatid at magulang lamang, ang sa ki'y nais kong makakita, bilang paggalang sa aking mga kamag anak na buong buhay ko'ng inspirasyon, ang huling araw ko'y sa kanila'y hindi ko ipagkakait.

Sa aking mga kaibigan, pagpasensyahan nyo ang aking kahilingan, bilang isang masiyahing kaibigan ako'y nahihiyang humarap na walang buhay, dahil ako sa inyo'y masiyahin, galak at maligalig.. hindi tahimik, malamig at malungkot.. Ngunit upang sa huli nating pagsasama sama, maging ako ma'y maging isang tahimik at malungkot na katawan lamang, kung tunay ngang sa aking paglisa'y kaluluwa ko ay nariyan lamang.. sasamahan ko man din kayo, huwag lang may malulungkot.. nais ko'y nigti pa rin ang babahid sa inyong mga labi.. kaya't nais ko ring ang ang paligid'y habang akoy tahimik na natutulog sa iisang kartong sarado't mahimaly sa gabing iyo'y mga larawan kong puno nang buhay at kasiyahan ang sa inyo'y magpapangiti.

Salamat sa mga sandaling tayo'y nagsama't naging maliligaya. Pagpasensyahan nyo na't ako'y lilisan na...

WAYA

2012-04-25T17:07:00.000+08:00

"Dili man ko taga diri waya, taga Cebu man ko, gibilin ra ko nako uncle diri.."

Yes, i had a conversation with this kid before, he's nice and still could talk properly. he couldn't answer me when i asked him since when his Uncle left him here. It was 2010 when i had my first encounter with this kid at Mcdo Tacloban, begging for food.. while waiting for my friends, this kid approached me and what caught my attention was when he's talking not in the place's dialect. I am bisaya and Bisayans are close to my heart.. he told me that it was night time when he and his uncle left Cebu and he doesn't even know where they are going, and reenacts his situation while they were on a boat. He even told me that he's been dizzy during the whole travel and says "NALIPONG MAN KO, guru sa biyahe, ay dili, siguro sa gutom.. [laughs]" (he's been dizzy while traveling and doesn't even know if it is because of the whole travel or because he was hungry the whole time).. When they arrived here, his uncle left him on a bench a promised to come back after buying food to eat... "wala naman ko niya balika, gibilin naman guru ko.. [sighs]" (he didn't went back and i think he already left me).. i asked him if he tried to search for his uncle, and didn't answered me anymore.. he begged for food... i have a burger in my bag and gave it to him.. he ran and went to a another corner and ate... my friends arrived and we left..

After 2 years, i saw him again, he still could not provide his name. he just laughs, shout, and begs.. he's with a group, streetkids too.. we gave him PISO, he's just asking for piso.. the following day he went back and we gave him bread, he gladly received it and smiles, "WAYA, Pagkaon lang be.. " .. he's always says "SALAMAT" after.. But i was alarmed when on the third day he was with a friend, we gave him PISO and he said "WAYA, ako sangkay gai pud" (kuya, give him too) so we did.

One night while walking around downtown, i saw this kid sitting alone, his face covered with his shirt's neckline and when he reached his face on me, he was sniffing rugby and as if nobody was in front of him.. he stood up and walked.. sat with 2 other boys and when a headlight struck them from a vehicle, i saw them three enjoying the solvent's evil cure for their problems.

67: I HAVE RETURNED

2011-10-20T15:38:00.010+08:00

He did returned and fulfilled a promise!

Gen. Douglas MacArthur, our adopted HERO proved us that he has his words during their back off in 1941 as he went to Australia to regain forces. although enormous days had passed, critical plans and ideas were formed in them as he with his troops were able to enter Philippines with President Osmeña on October 20, 1944.

Today, the people of Eastern Visayas were celebrating the 67th Leyte Gulf Landings and were honoring the Veterans as the main event of the celebration who were able to help the American troops in paving their way to enter the country despite the grandeur and strong forces of the Japanese soldiers.

Annually, an event is set to reminisce the days during World War II and it's a must that the President of the Republic is needed to a attend the ceremony, giving speech, cheering a clap, giving honors to the veterans, thanking the organizers, giving off idealisms and opinions too..

Do we really have to hail Doug with his being with us in times we were attacked by the Japanese? Or Pres. Serge as he defended the state against the INVADING TROOPS? of Mr. Romulo as he escorted the two?

HERO.. MacArthur could have been a Hero for us, as he fulfilled a promise of returning back to our Land and help us with the Liberation. The Leyte Landing is the mere proof of his HEROISM, the HOPE that the Waray waray people were able to inject in their hearts and the possibility to dream for tomorrow. But he ain't only the person who provided joy to the craving-for-freedom citizens but the whole troops he brought.. naming LEYTE'S GULF as the BIGGEST NAVAL BATTLE in the WHOLE WORLD during WORLD WAR II [literally Doug isn't the only armed forces who holds a gun, a mortar or a bomb maybe =) ].

The 67 years of MacArthur and his team's bravery isn't supposed to be neglected. The SHRINE in Red Beach, Palo, Leyte is not a ONCE-A-YEAR Park or a TEMPORARY statue.. The shrine has never improved and when evening comes in regular days, it seems not a historical place; dim, sad, neglected and recyclable stage. A place noted with several crimes is not the picture of a place that once PROVIDED us with HOPE and LIBERATION.

Take a look on the picture's inverted-water reflected capture, the mossy reflection provided a sad effect, dramatic in nature and a FORGOTTEN event. an event that less than the whole WARAY WARAY population knows all about, an event that others may say.. "yes it is a famous landmark... uhmm uhmm.." and could not say anything anymore. Sadly, those who really witnessed the event were even not on the one eight of the total waray waray who may have witnessed the 67th or the 68th and so on celebration of it.. What if TIME will took all those who knew everything about the LEYTE LANDINGS? and TIME also will bury the significance of it.. will TIME also come to us and tell us, "Remove all those standing brass soldiers! whoever they are!"

The significance of Leyte Landings aren't seen in the photos taken with the most advance lenses or filming such, or even a ONCE-A-YEAR speech done by the head of the state... It is indeed a mirror of a 67-year BRAVERY and FULFILLMENT. a place where when you see it, as if you went back of time and seeing MacArthur landed on our Soil... A place rich with memories of the past, our LOLOS and LOLAS who once waved to the American troops.. A Place where we will always say, WE SHALL RETURN.

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acknowledgement:

photo:

BORIS

VISIT TACLOBAN: LEYTE PROVINCIAL CAPITOL

2010-05-19T12:49:00.008+08:00

the LEYTE PROVINCIAL CAPITOL BUILDING, Magsaysay Boulevard, Tacloban City. before the City was proclaimed as HUC, this is where the Governor of Leyte is being sheltered. all the transactions of the Province were done here.

Historically, this is also where the Commonwealth came to reality when during 1917, the President of the Republic Sergio Osmeña led the construction of the building and was done on 1924 under the terms of Gov. Salvador Demetrio and Gov. Honorio Lopez.

October 23, 1944, a simple ceremony headed by Gen. Douglas MacArthur was done on the very stairs of the Building with Pres. Osmeña and boasted the newly established government, and awarded several soldiers with 5th calvary honors while a DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS honor was awarded to Col. Ruperto Kangleon, who later on became the Governor of Leyte.

The original design of the Capitol is simple and has a sense of bravery using strong and sturdy looking pillars. the greek design made the whole facade of the building look more powerful and strong.

40 years after when the structure was improved and placed with historical carved details which was witnessed by the building. as project of Governor Norberto B. Romualdez Jr., the whole building was set into a more attractive and a must see place in the CITY.

on both sides installed were the carvings of the Leyte Landing with Gen MacArthur and Pres. Diosadao Macapagal and the rest of his colleagues on October 20, 1964, while on the other side was the first mass held in Tacloban headed by Ambassador Fernando Lobao de Carvalbo of Portugal and Marquis de Aumon, representative from the Spanish Government. while enormous flagpoles were installed, statues of the soldiers awarded with honors, lions; an icon of power and governance, and mock canyons.

the whole place is a picture perfect scene and the green surroundings made the whole cool and comfortable. at night, spot lights were installed to enhance the beauty of the structure at night.

when you'll step on it's case, you'll feel the what the building had experienced during its childhood years, the war it witnessed, the bombs and the guns that deafen him and the smell of bloods that were brought in front for medication after being hit from the war.

the last Governor who homed the famous LEYTE PROVINCIAL CAPITOL was Gov. Jericho Petilla, son of once Leyte's Governor, Hon. Remedios Petilla.

so, a glimpse from the past could be experienced in TACLOBAN.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

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WWW.BACKPACKINGPHILIPPINES.COM

WWW.TOURISMINTHEPHILIPPINES.COM

VISIT TACLOBAN: STO NINO CHURCH

2010-05-18T14:29:00.004+08:00

the tall tan-colored SANTO NIÑO CHURCH will take your eyes from the busy street of REAL near the MAGSAYSAY-JUSTICE junction.

the CHURCH shelters the CITY's PATRON SAINT the Child Jesus or popularly known as SENIOR SANTO NIÑO. the honoring of the Saint is held on the 30th of June, with the so-called BALYUAN rites at the BALYUAN PARK, now known as the TACLOBAN AMPHITHEATER.

The tall tanned belfry shows the religious dominance of CATHOLICS in the city. the whole church can accommodate thousands of CATHOLICS. the new facade of the structure could be seen with modern designs and creative carvings. inside is a marble flooring and chairs made of wood. the altar stage has podiums and mass tables which has fine touch of gold shades. the main altar where the hundred old child Jesus made of ivory is placed in the most center part of a tall pure gold plated altar, and on the sides are the paintings of Angels with realistic colors and hues.

on the ceilings are old chandeliers which where i could still remember those were still the same chandeliers 20 years ago when we used to attend a mass in STO. NIÑO CHURCH.

here's a brief history of TACLOBAN's strength. The SANTO NIÑO CHURCH.

Tacloban which came under the patronage of Dulce Nombre de Jesus was founded as a visita by the Jesuits under the jurisdiction of Palo in 1596. Sometime later, Tacloban was entrusted to the parish of Basey in Samar. It cannot yet be ascertained when Tacloban finally became a parish. Certainly, when Tacloban was made as the capital of the province of Leyte in 1768, it could have been a parish for quite a time already. That year Tacloban was turned over by the Jesuits to the Agustinians. In 1804 the secular clergy took over the parish which was later on handed to the Franciscans in 1843. Finally in 1990, the parish was given to the care of the secular clergy.

Early Church structure was made up of Nipa and light materials. It was only in 1860 that a new Church in a Romanesque style was constructed. It had a massive appearance with round-headed arches on small windows. The walls were thick supported by buttresses. It had two belfries and with a top having a four-cornered roof with turrets. This was destroyed by a strong typhoon few years after. When the Church was rebulit, they decided to have only one belfry. A big earthquake during the Japanese time destroyed a large part of the Church. When it was reconstructed in the late 1940's a bigger church was made to accomodate the burgeoning population.

The present structure of the main body of the Church goes back to this time. In 1983, the Church flooring was mounted with marble, a retablo wade of synthetic mirror-like panels was placed on the main altar to enshrine the image of the Sto. Nino, and wooden retablos were placed on the side altars. The belfry had undergone several structural changes until it obtained its present form in 1986. The side-wings expansion in 1988 was a project of Bp. Filomeno bactol.

In 1994, during the time of Msgr. Estanislao Abarca stained glass panels representing the mysteries of the Holy Rosary were put up. Under the care of Msgr. Cesar Petilla, the construction of a new gold-leafed retablo on the main altar and the gold leafing of the side altars were undertaken. This was inaugurated during the Jubilee year on April 15, 2000.

until now, the church, continuously serves it's beloved TACLOBANONs and serves as an inspiration on how God loves his people.

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VISIT TACLOBAN: MADONNA OF JAPAN

2010-05-04T16:17:00.007+08:00

when you pass along Magsaysay Boulevard, a lady erected in the middle of Kanhuraw will take your eyes, the MADONNA OF JAPAN or MADONNA MARIA KANNON (its official name) is a monument in the heart of the city. it is located at the KANHURAW HILL, near Tacloban City Hall, facing Kankabato Bay.

the monument stood up as a symbol of friendship between the JAPANESE and the FILIPINOS. the fact that it is built in Tacloban City is that because the city was able to play a big role in World War 2. from the arrival of the US Troops to the defeat of the JAPANESE.

here's a brief history:

During the Second World War, the place became a campground both for the American and Japanese soldiers. Many of the folks here gave their lives at stake just to help in liberating the subjugated Philippine islands. Young men were forced to become soldiers in favor of the Americans. Women were also enjoined to look after and take care of the young men in the battlefield. Those years indeed brought dreadful experiences to the people of Leyte.

During those years, the Japanese soldiers were considered enemies. They were the subject of revulsion among Filipino people. Anybody who sees Japanese would yell out in disdain. However, as years pass by, the Japanese government and its people tried to establish comradeship with the Filipinos. Thus, Japan and the Philippines became friends and started to support each other for progress.

As a symbol of peace between the Filipino and Japanese people thirty three (33) years after the Second World War, this stone monument of the Madonna Maria Kannon (populary know as Madonna of Japan) is erected in memory of the brave soldiers who fought and died in the battlefield.

VISIT TACLOBAN: CALVARY HILL

2010-04-29T11:04:00.010+08:00

The 14-station way of the CROSS located at Siren District is another proof of TACLOBANON'S faith to God. every lenten season, this place is crowded with thousands of CATHOLICS who celebrates the passion of CHRIST through the 14 station of the CROSS.

it's cemented stairs eases the pilgrims on going up to the last station where you could see the tall RESURRECTED CHRIST statue.

the complete 14 life-sized stations were made of pure cement and painted white and of some primary colors.

every year, our family went to here on the morning of GOOD FRIDAY, and we could see pilgrims walking in their bare foot in the streets heading to the CALVARY HILL. the whole place is feasted with vendors who sells foods and some religious stuffs. the little boys sells candles and flowers. young and old pilgrims, sung the passion of the Christ.

the topmost statue of the RESURRECTED CHRIST faces the whole city, his arms held high which seems to bless TACLOBAN. some throw money on the statue which has a screen fence and asks for wishes and petitions. also on top you will see the whole city and the SAN JUANICO STRAIT and it's BRIDGE. you may enjoy the beauty and its other side (the squatters who settled near the calvary hill)

you will see some biblical characters who were involved in the passion of the Christ. the whole diorama is life-sized so you could feel it more than it's cement-made faces.

the fresh breeze of the San Juanico Strait will ease the heat that the candles emits and the heat of the sun.

by night, you will see the great candles lighted in the whole area when you are attending the procession of the dead Christ in from Romualdez Street-Rizal Avenue-Avenida Veteranos.

this place is not exclusive for lenten season only, you could go there anytime you want and have a solemn time on remembering Christ's sufferings.

images.travelpod.com

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pictures courtesy of Rhossill Comia

VISIT TACLOBAN: ZAIBATSU BAR

2010-04-27T09:45:00.012+08:00

roam around the new TACLOBAN CITY, new establishments sprouted everywhere.

while driving along J. ROMUALDEZ streets, and made a left turn at SEN. ENAGE STREETS, you will be attracted by the facetious look of small bar nearing the corner of LOPEZ JAENA.

"this is definitely the new favorite neighborhood restaurant, a best kept secret to the discriminating people of Tacloban that we think should be public. Stop in for a fabulous meal, light fare, or drink and dessert, and I'm telling you: no disappointments!" from a food review article

ZAIBATSU Bar, with its reddish eye relaxing tone theme and sophisticated, luxurious and definitely a WOW ambiance has become a secret venue of the town. you wont even imagine that a place like this could actually exist in the heart of the city.

try to search the meaning of the bar in the net, and you will definitely see what it has to offer. this place is good for people who has a need of searching REAL FOOD and eating it in a REAL PLACE, the reality it takes is the WEALTH which connotes abundance of delightful and enticing menus it has to offer to its every customers, it's place offers a healthy and a fit place for CLIQUES who wants to have a small gathering, and a sip with the drinks that ZAIBATSU offers.

it serves an array of mouth-watering foods, from pastas, seafoods, salads, sandwiches and a lot more. with throat-refreshing smoothies and more! different foods for different people who thirsts for different drinks.

i could still remember my friend who attended a CHRISTENING catered by the bar, he even had an outstanding review about the place. "once you entered there, all you could say is WHOAH! amazing", well certainly because TACLOBANONs could seldom go to a place like this.

the service is even more attached to customers, where you could feel the phrase "BEING-SERVED". plus the additonal WIFI service will make you more feel free to stay longer, have a free internet connection and an endless craving for the enticing foods they serve while continuously sipping their iced choco coffee.

Ms. CRISTINA MAGALLON, entrepreneur, made this a reality in almost a year, and continuously develop the whole place that could cater a CLASS yet affordable party place.

another thing that amazed me with MS. TINA, is her strategy in promoting her place. FACEBOOK is her window of inviting people to come over to ZAIBATSU and chooses those who accepts the services and the nature of her bar. a little PSYCHOLOGICAL method/approach was done by her which is best suit to her CLASSY RESTAURANT. her friendly and approachable personality made me at ease on featuring her place, and this is the BEST QUALITY that this entrepreneur possesses. so for MS. TINA! cheers for you!

please visit their FAN PAGE at FACEBOOK. CLICK HERE

the CLASSY place, the oozing foods, the enticing drinks and the cozy ambiance... all in one place. ZAIBATSU BAR..

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photos courtesy of Ms. Cristina Magallon (thanks to you)

call them through 053-523-9488 for more inquiries. and for those who will be in TACLOBAN. visit ZAIBATSU.. it's a must! =)

VISIT TACLOBAN: TACLOBAN ASTRODOME

2010-04-24T13:11:00.005+08:00

TCCC or the Tacloban City Convention Center which can accommodate upto 5000 individuals is located at REAL STREET, KANKABATO bay. this is made for cultural events, conventions, local affairs, concerts and basketball tournaments.

the dome is the biggest indoor venue in the region. part of the city government's project which is to be proud of by all taclobanons. the whole area is being fenced.

every morning at around 4:30 am to 8:00pm are free fresh place for morning exercises. free TAEBO for all health-conscious TACLOBANONS. and you could jog around the dome and it's little baywalk which has length of an approximately 100meters. there is also a gym in one of the stalls of TCCC second floor.

at night, are free open house movie where you could watch while sitting on you car or on the benches built in the whole area.

outside astrodome are bars and restaurant. when the sun sets in, the whole area is lighted with inviting colors and sounds. office workers, students are all welcome to join the party. different kind of party-gig-services are being offered, from a coffee-shop to a disco bar while taking in the fresh breeze from KANKABATO bay. no worries on troubles because police forces are in the whole area.

but the most exciting dates to be watched for are within may-july. the wide vacant space is for rent by the city government set for barbecue kiosks and beer stands with tables facing a fancy stage where local bands play.

on it's left side is the SAGKAHAN BAY WALK facing the DZR airport. there you could enjoy walking or jogging with someone or have a nice view of the dome. the benches also invites you to sit and fell the cold breeze of the bay. at night, you could stay there and enjoy star gazing, or meet the sun rise. there you could also have picnic with your family.

another must see place at night. TACLOBAN is best visited FRIDAY or SATURDAY and wear that funky disco clothes. enjoy the music, the lights and the drinks.

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VISIT TACLOBAN: PEOPLE'S CENTER LIBRARY

2010-04-23T16:09:00.007+08:00

PEOPLE CENTER TACLOBAN. located at REAL STREET besides the famous STO. NINO SHRINE MUSEUM. this a 2-floor huge building which has enormous collections of dioramas of local cultural minorities, document and articrafts. and even a copy of the original NOLI ME TANGERE could be found there.

the facade of the building has a strong representation through it's bulky greek inspired posts, a drive thru could also made you realize that even before, the MARCOSES gathers with their colleagues who has the most trendy cars during their times.

when you entered the hall, you will notice the wide area where you could imagine cocktail parties, cotillions, big gatherings, and political meetings. the floor is made of the finest wood tiles on the center and bricks plain concrete floor on the sides while the stage is designed with a huge curtain and on it's back is the map of the region and the couple's (IMELDA and FERDINAND) faces painted on it. this painting is seldom seen on the public.

when you look up, you will be amazed of the inner terrace where the readers above could definitely see whose performing the function hall.

it's second floor is the library, upon entering are the dioramas and the carved staircase. the quiet place will make you feel that it is a real learning place. you will see statues and old typewriters in it, and even the old grandfather's clock.

the library is arranged same as the ordinary library where you could locate your needed books per subject or per topic, but the difference? they aren't arranged in THE ORDINARY LIBRARY which has huge shelves, instead they used enormous rooms and the SUBJECT tags per placed on the doors.

they also use the old library card system.

in the lobby are round shaped tables made of wood. there you could find also antique machines used for mimeographing.

i could still remember when we had a project in our LITERATURE class and we were assigned to look for original WARAY WARAY stories. we have searched the internet and our school's library but we found not even a single article. but luckily we were able to visit PEOPLE'S CENTER LIBRARY and found what we were looking for.

this hall also serves until now for graduation rites, concerts, beauty pageants, political rallies and even rented by bazaar organizers. the bazaars occupies the place from may-july (during the city fiesta) and october-january (for the christmas season)

find your way to have a little tour in the hall after visiting the SANTO NINO SHRINE museum.

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VISIT TACLOBAN: STO NINO SHRINE MUSEUM

2010-04-23T13:38:00.012+08:00

who says you could only find castles and dream rooms in EUROPE?

The Santo Niño Shrine, one of the 29 presidential rest houses that the late Pres. Ferdinand Marcos had built. There is an Olympic sized swimming pool behind the building.

The entrance to the Santo Niño Shrine. The Santo Niño is at the far end of the entrance. On both sides are a number of guest rooms with various themes.

Santo Niño, a representation of the infant Jesus Christ, is the patron saint of Leyte.

It is located in Real Street, Tacloban City. Paintings of the 14 stations of the Cross done by Filipino artists, wooden bas-relief of the legend of the First Filipino man-woman (Si Malakas at si Maganda); tastefully decorated guestrooms of varied Filipino motifs; image of the Holy Child; a collection of original paintings by Fernando Amorsolo; spacious ballroom; priceless. collector's.

some of the must see things inside are the antiques which was brought from different places. the mirrors, the statues, the furnitures, chandeliers, and the paintings.

13-room first floor has different unique themes that is on both sides and on the center is the magnificent SHRINE, which has religious statues on it. another painting that will attract you most is the family tree of the Romualdezes.

the daughters' room

IMELDA's room

FERDINAND'S room

at the back is the OLYMPIC size swimming pool and a gazebo. and on it's right is a huge LIBRARY and a function area, not just a simple function are, but a HUGE. now known as THE PEOPLE'S CENTER LIBRARY , it could accommodate large concerts and gatherings, and even GRADUATIONS and bazaars. between the two big buildings is an empty grass covered area where you will see the statue of a woman and a man (well, some folks told me it was the malakas at maganda, whose faces were copied from the couple IMELDA and FERNDINAND)

Tacloban City, is the province where the acclaimed MOST BEAUTIFUL FIRST LADY in the Republic of The Phillipines was born and raised. she became an instant celebrity during her husband's tenure in the Philippine Government serving in almost 20 years of Presidency. She lived in the most luxurious quality of living that almost all Filipina envies and was even tagged as a QUEEN.

no wonder that the whole STO NINO SHRINE, it's authenticity and beauty was taken from the owner herself, MADAM IMELDA.

now, it is owned by the city government and serves a simple history. everyone is welcome to visit the shrine and entrance fee is being collected for the EXTRAORDINARY maintenance of an EXTRA BEAUTIFULLY mansion of the MARCOSES.

visit TACLOBAN and enter the mansion of FERDINAND MARCOS.

____________________

WWW.TOURISMINTHEPHILIPPINES.COM

WWW.TRIPADVISOR.COM

WWW.DISCOVER-TACLOBAN.COM

VISIT TACLOBAN: SAN JUANICO BRIDGE

2010-04-22T15:56:00.009+08:00

SAN JUANICO BRIDGE, a 2.16 kilometer bridge connects SAMAR and LEYTE stretching above the SAN JUANICO STRAIT was the most promising structure in the PHILIPPINES and was known as the country's longest connecting bridge.

designed by Juanito Isko Balunbalunan, the 21.9 million dollar bridge was opened to the public in 1973 which began on 1969.

if you are going to travel from MANILA to TACLOBAN via bus, you will be traversing the bridge before entering the city. from STA RITA, SAMAR, upon reaching the bridge, a "WELCOME TO LEYTE" banner will definitely make you feel you are already in LEYTE, plus not to mention 'when you're already on the bridge'.

on the other hand, if you have arrived in TACLOBAN via air, you could still visit the bridge through public vehicles which takes 10 - 15 mins from the city proper, and upon reaching the bridge, you could have a nice 2-kilometer walk if you want and feel the cold breeze of the SAN JUANICO STRAIT. enjoy the thousand whirpools and islets of the strait. and from there you could see the VIEW of TACLOBAN CITY.

this bridge was not only designed to entertain visitors and tourists but it's main purpose was the access between two giant islands. TACLOBAN CITY, as the region's capital invites all the marketers from nearby towns and do the trading in it. the people from SAMAR sells their native products and delicacies in TACLOBAN, while the transportation from SAMAR was made accessible by the bridge too.

instead of using BANGKA or boats, they could travel using heavy equipped vehicles without worries of overloading on the waters because it could be brought safe from the place of origin to it's destination without hassles on transferring of goods.

by night, the SAN JUANICO BRIDGE is very elegant with it's lights that could made you think of a FLOATING DRAGON over the seas from afar.

a proud pinoy structure, a proud TACLOBANON bridge.

____________________

WIKIPEDIA

FLICKR.COM

VISIT TACLOBAN: LEYTE LANDING

2010-04-22T14:17:00.006+08:00

RED BEACH, PALO, LEYTE. a 15-minute ride from TACLOBAN CITY through TACLOBAN-BARAS jeepneys will lead you to the one of the PHILIPPINES most HISTORICAL Place that all Leyteños are proud of. THE LEYTE LANDING MEMORIAL PARK.

During the height of the Japanese attack in the Philippines, Gen. MacArthur had to leave the country. Gen. MacArthur vowed, upon reaching Australia, “I shall return“. Contrary to some misconceptions, these famous lines were uttered not when Gen. MacArthur left the Philippines, from his headquarters in Corregidor.

The Leyte Landing Memorial commemorates the historic return of the flamboyant general, together with hundreds of thousands of men and hundreds of ships, on October 20, 1944. It was the start of the end of Japanese occupation in the Philippines. October 20 is celebrated every year, as the anniversary date of the Leyte Landing.

the whole place is crowded with Filipinos and Americans during the celebration and it's festive aura is added with concerts and party that will really invite you to visit the whole event.

on the 20th, the President really had it as a must to visit the event and honor the WAR VETERANS who with the famous MacArthur fought against the JAPANESE.

during ordinary days, the place is calm and silent. there are families who do picnics here and enjoys capturing the momentous stone figure of the GENERAL. you could go near and had a handshake on the 12-foot tall golden statue of GEN. MacArthur and had a picture with him and the rest of his giant gang.

the wide and long area of the park entertains those health conscious individuals which invites them to do the jogging, stretching or morning and after dawn exercise. or simply had a walk with the bay with your love one and enjoy the fresh, calm and away from the city noise ambiance of the park.

once you visit LEYTE? MacArthur's park is a must visit place. and take it from the GENERAL.. once you see LEYTE. "YOU SHALL RETURN"

___________________________

VISITPINAS.COM

WIKIPEDIA.COM

VISIT TACLOBAN: AMPHITHEATER

2010-04-22T09:47:00.007+08:00

BALYUAN TOWER, along magsaysay boulevard has evolved and is now known as TACLOBAN AMPHITHEATER.

the tall tower along KANKABATO BAY in Tacloban was my favorite place during my elementary days (it's just meters away from RIZAL CENTRAL SCHOOL). i and my classmates used to go there and went up to the topmost tower and enjoys the views of the whole kankabato bay. i could still remember i used to point out our place which is visible from the top.

that time, the tower is kissed with the sea air which made the whole tower get rusty and loose it's strength.

Historically, the whole area was built due to religious belief of the TACLOBANON's and it's name BALYUAN was derived from the BALYUAN (exchange) rites of the SANTO NINO de TACLOBAN and SANTO NINO de BASEY. the annual celebration is done on the 30th of JUNE

due to extreme change of the CITY, the local government decided to renovate the whole place and turned it into an AMPHITHEATER. during the campaign of the TACLOBAN HUC (highly urbanized city) this is being boasted by the city government as another achievement.

the whole place has evolved from a simple tower to a beautifully done covered amphitheater. the outlook of the amphitheater is copied from the looks of the city's local scallop (punaw) and it's white colored covering material did an additional attraction at night especially when the lights are switched on and will simply amaze you of another work of art.

the nearby area was developed into a baywalk and by night, barbecue stalls will satiate you with delicious local barbecues. this is also where some concerts were done. and perfect place for lovers to spend a night while sitting sitting at the theatrically arranged chairs.

couples, bachelors, families also enjoys the whole area for morning exercise while waiting to witness the sunrise.

activities in the amphitheater is always announced in the whole place.

______________________________

TACLOBAN DAILY PHOTO

GERRY RUIZ.WORDPRESS.COM

VISIT TACLOBAN: OCHO GRILL

2010-04-21T15:08:00.007+08:00

ONE of the modern seafood fine dining restaurant in the city, OCHO GRILL catches the attention of almost all TACLOBANONS. it is located in the heart of the City.

from the province's native scallops and variety of fish. the place is so elegant with the combination of western and asian ambiance but in a pure and native cuisine, served with attentive waiters and waitresses.

you will also enjoy the ergonomic furnitures which despite of the small area, it can accommodate a lot.

the place is crowded with the towns elitistas who hungers for native fine dining. this is also where some of the couples opts to have a romantic dinner. and even family event for those who have tight budget fits the place.

while the cold weather at night in the city of tacloban fills the air, you could sip steaminglu hot TINOLA from the fish of your choice, or simply strive in peeling off shrimps from it's sweet and spicy sauce. they also serve all-time filipino dishes like liempo and others. and the fish skin chicharon as one of it's original menu.

they also serve liquors for their customers who wants to relax and drink a bit.

outdoor tables were installed for those who wants to smoke and feel the cool winds that embraces the area.

once you visit TACLOBAN, put in to your schedule a dinner at OCHO GRILL.

no need to familiarize the location, all TACLOBANON's know where it is.

thanks to www.warayclub.com for the pictures

(located at Sen. Enage street, Tacloban City)

VISIT TACLOBAN: KYLES BAR

2010-04-20T14:27:00.007+08:00

it's new location is at NINOY AQUINO AVENUE, Tacloban City. near Leyte Normal University and Leyte National High School.

if you are going to travel through the REAL STREET, you can drop at THE STO. NIÑO SHRINE which was the house turned museum of the late President MARCOS and walk through between the house and the LIBRARY BUILDING (People's Center).

the whole place was designed with authentic and unique materials with antiques and shell-tiles. the gazebos and comfortable and in it's wide new location, you can choose whether where you want to stay and enjoy the drink and the music.

the centermost part of the place was an olympic size stagnant swimming pool of the MARCOSES, (this is where IMELDA MARCOS swims every night every time they have their vacation in TACLOBAN) the whole place was beautifully landscaped, fresh and very relaxing.

3 functional big areas and enormous gazebos are there. THE KARAOKE BAR, where there is VIDEOKE and the guests could perform 3 songs per table. best place for those groups who enjoys karaoke and giggling chats. another is THE ACOUSTIC AREA, where there are acoustic performers and the guests could sing too. very suitable to lovers and the candle lights that makes the ambiance more romantic. and THE FUNCTIONAL AREA, where big celebrations could be held, like birthday parties and wedding receptions.

the foods are good too. and the prices are very reasonable. they have variety of foods to serve and all are served well although with minimal serving presentations.

the place is simple. no entrance fee and no minimum charge (no to mention the service charge) same as other bars, they apply corkage fee on foods brought by the guests.

we (i and my barkada) used to go there every week, we enjoys singing and dancing a bit on it. saturdays has the most guests, sometimes we chose to go there on sundays so we could own the whole place for a while and sing till we drop! LOL

so when you visit TACLOBAN, try to experience a night at KYLES.

GOODBYE FRIENDSTER

2010-04-19T17:24:00.004+08:00

JANUARY 2004, when i started to sign up at friendster.com. my first account, if i'll see it now will be the most stupid page ever seen. i used to log in with a different name because i remembered TARA FAYE saying. "be careful on putting your real profile on it, it's dangerous"

i was 16 then when i became addict with the site. that was just new then. my friend TARA and ARICS were the first to become my friends in that account. and so it grew.

MARCH 2004, i got tired of using the internet, and so my FRIENDSTER account got stagnant and very inactive, i could still remember, i had 50 friends there all from my MiRC chatmates. LOL

AUGUST 2004, i forgot my passwords on both my YAHOOMAIL and FRIENDSTER accounts, and that time, i don't know how to retrieve an account. so i decided to make another yahoo and a new friendster account. i was a freshman then.

and that second account was the most memorable account that i ever had. there i met my new cool friends, and was able to traced my elementary classmates just by searching their names. i got so addict with the pictures too which my total uploaded photos reached to almost thousand.

another feature that entertains me with friendster is the LAYOUT, where you could apply templates and music and even applications on it. (this came after a year)

my friends and i even had a competition of who has the most numbers of TESTIMONIALS, i received almost 300 plus and deleted most of it.

i also enjoyed the "WHO's VIEWED ME" application. i always reach a hundred every month. and the PROFILE PIC, i always change it everyday.

news went in and im proud that i have a friendster account. meaning you're IN... its the trend that time. if you have no account, you're out of style.

i gained different friends from different places and until now, i still have them as my contacts (even though we haven't met)

but i came up to a 15 day of deleting my FRIENDSTER ACCOUNT. sometimes it's hard to think that this is where i mastered the NETWORKING sites. it's as if a major FUNDAMENTAL subject in college. i used to have 800 friends and it's now trimmed down to 450(something).

what made me decide to delete this account?

it's not working anymore. i don't it to stay stagnant and rather opted to delete it. i know it made me smile before, frown, cry, hurt and laugh and even build new friendship. but i want to be free with it anymore.

within that 15 days, i post a SHOUT on how will they be able to communicate with me after 15 days and asked them to send me a message so i could let them know.

this maybe is the reality, that even on all aspects, applications and sites could be applied, nothing is permanent in this world. sometimes we need to move on and feel the pain for us to learn from our down falls and start a new beginning.

there's nothing against the site from me, but i don't want at least an account to stay useless and that others may think im doomed.

GOODBYE FRIENDSTER. you have been a great FRIEND for me. it's me your friend

SIGNING OFF

8 DATE MISTAKES - WOMEN

2010-04-19T10:33:00.002+08:00

FROM

8 Dating Mistakes Even Smart Women Make

by: Brenda Della Casa (this is a link)

1. BEING TOO AVAILABLE

We’re not suggesting you play games, but we are telling you to indulge your passions and resist the urge to abandon your social circle every time your new man sends an invitation. The more you engage in and enjoy your life, the more he’ll work to be a part of it.

2. TRYING TO REHABILITATE A BAD BOY

Ending a relationship is rarely easy, and though flying solo might not be your long-term goal, being on your own is better than feeling alone in a relationship with someone who treats you poorly. Even when it might be tempting to give a toxic romance one more try, knowing when to cut your losses and move on leaves you available and baggage-free when the right guy comes along.

3. LOOKING FOR PERFECTION

Encouraging you to settle isn’t our style, but separating your desires from your deal-breakers can give your love life a major upgrade.

4. FEELING SORRY FOR YOURSELF

Resist the urge to bemoan your single status (which will only make him wonder why you find yourself such terrible company) and use this time to date yourself.

5. KNOWING HIS THREAD-COUNT BEFORE YOU KNOW HIS PHONE NUMBER

Getting it on with a sexy stranger is your natural-born right, but according to many guys, it can be the wrong move if you’re looking for long-term love.

6. BEING TOO SELFISH IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP

One of the downsides of being independent is that it can lead to some self-absorbed tendencies—a huge turnoff for men looking for a serious relationship, says Ming Gregory, a professional matchmaker at Color Blind International Dating Service. So make sure you’re giving as much as you’re receiving in your next relationship. “A partnership involves two people who share mutual interests and mutually benefit one another,” she says. “It’s not just about what being with him can provide you; it’s about how you can come together to complement each other.”

7. BELIEVING IN THE ONE

Instead of convincing yourself the ex you dumped was your soul mate or that perfect-but-married co-worker was your one that got away, take a cue from our male counterparts and approach the dating scene with the idea that there are plenty of men who are capable of making you laugh, sharing your values and melting your heart, and you’re going to have fun with several of them until you find one worthy of your commitment.

8. FORGETTING YOUR MANNERS

We can’t imagine this is something you’d ever do, but a little reminder never hurts: Say thank you.

FROGGY'S INSIGHT:

some of the texts from the original article were omitted so please click on the link given above.

sometimes we need not to force ourselves to look for the right person for us. even us guys could take these as a lesson in looking for our Ms. Perfect. we need not to make any desperate acts just to suffice ourselves in useless dreams and stupid things like we know who is the right person or our so-called soul mate, or trying to find a new love from a previous end up. sometimes it even leads us to forget who we are and gives minimal importance to ourselves.

but most of all, feel the real love to the right person in the right time. no need to hurry all we have to do is wait but don't stay lazy and wait for a cupid to shot you an arrow, somehow do some move, and who knows, this person is just around the corner.

HOPELESS NOEL

2010-04-17T13:35:00.004+08:00

kuya NOEL, 35 years old, FRESH GRADUATE of a 2-year assistance in computer programming course in a scratch university here in Tacloban.

while heading home, KUYA NOEL, my father's friend, called me and asked to drink for a glass of beer with 4 colleagues. with all my respect, i granted his offer. he announced to us that he had his diploma from a 2-year course last April 9, and this is supposed to be a post celebration.

he is almost living alone and his family in Batangas has a more depressing situation. he graduated high school and went to school no more because of financial instability. their parents opted to pursue his elder sisters college degree and him later on but unfortunately his sister went on to settling down, got married and never returned school again.

his parents were doomed from different borrowings and loans for his sisters studies which went to marrying and raising her own family.

Kuya NOEL, decided to go to MANILA and different places just for survival and sends financial assistance for his parents. after 12 years, he went in to Tacloban and met our family.

my MAMANG's brother JOSE, a pure BATANGUENO helped Kuya NOEL and accepted him in their house. he served there as a housekeeper from the 8-room boarding house. and we gained trust in him.

KUYA NOEL even served the PARISH in different ways that he could.

BLESSINGS went in, when the parish priest gave him a good news that someone granted him a scholarship at Juan Enano-Manuel Computer College (not the exact name of the school), the allowance, the uniform and even the books.

when he offered me TOSS and CHEERS on the beer the he served, he told me, i am HAPPY yet HOPELESS!! i don't know what's next.. im old, and not that competent.

i remained silent, after that drink, i greeted him and went home.

FROGGY'S INSIGHT:

did KUYA NOEL had a worthless education? are all his studies ready to be dumped with the trash and remain a housekeeper forever?

if i am to rewind what happened, i will not go home silent, but rather encourage him to find a job. i must've told him:

in real world: it's the PERSONALITY that counts, not good grades, not younger age. if i am an employer and seeks for a good employee, i will base it on the personality, the way he talks, the way he acts, and all the humbleness and good deeds he could show me upon our first conversation.

he could insist that he could do what the younger people could do and willing to accept different kind of jobs; i should have told him also to embrace his PERSONALITY with 101% of confidence; trust, loyalty and fear.

anyway, i could still share it to him anytime we'll meet again.

GET OVER

2010-04-16T17:01:00.003+08:00

enumerations regarding affection, love and matters of the like were very rampant. various authors were so competent in providing psychological informations about how it is to be done and how to get over of it.

a topic that made me stuck on such site was purely about GETTING OVER THE PAST and FIND LOVE AGAIN, by

BOUNCEBACK STAFF. (this is a link)

HERE are some TIPS on how to properly handle the next love affair that you will encounter after an end with another.

Don't compare future relationships to past loves: avoid setting and holding expectations for one person based on what you remember about another.

Try not to spend all your time and effort attempting to replicate exactly what you had before. Everything and everyone is different - no two relationships will be the same.

Remember the past for what it was - separate the thrill of love from what actually happened that caused the relationship to end.

Don't be afraid that you'll never love again - which can be a self-fulfilling prophecy. You must be willing to let love in again and not shy away from it out of fear.

Don't wallow in self-pity. It's simply not attractive to the world, and you never know when your next love may be watching.

Take notice of patterns: qualities about yourself, your past partners, and the dynamics of your relationships so that you can prevent repeat mistakes in the choices you make.

FROGGY'S INSIGHT

for me, i should not take for granted what i had with the past. it somehow guides us from where we and our ex ended but as stated on no.1 comparison is a no no! in the first few days of break up, its hard to recover and you'll be locked up in total sadness, but at least somehow find a way to have time for yourself. talking with a friend will do and spend more time with your family. you'll somehow get over with it.

upon break up. don't be in a hurry on dating, enjoy the time being SINGLE AGAIN. find first the reasons on how you ended up and try to set qualities on who to love next.. that is being practical, nobody wants to cry every after break-ups. LOL

ending up or breaking up is not a FAILURE (that's what i learned from the author) rather it is another stage of growing up. learning who to love in the right place in the right time.

being in a relationship is not like just playing a FACEBOOK application, you'll get tired soon and new applications arrives, it needs to be anticipated as lifetime agreement.

BREAK-UP OPTIONS

2010-04-15T18:39:00.005+08:00

The 10 Worst Ways to Break Up With Someone

10. ON VACATION:

Who would you most likely want to be stuck on a deserted island with? Not someone who's just told you "it's not working out," we're quite sure. Not only have you now wasted your time and money, but you can’t leave the situation easily without added plane fares and stress. If this happens to you, break away and turn your trip into a rejuvenating self-improvement retreat... you'll need it.

9. IN A TEXT MESSAGE:

Ah, the text. The modern-day version of the Post-It. Too wussy to do it in person? Text away, wuss.

8. ON FACEBOOK:

Nothing like logging on to find your loved one tagged in a compromising photo with a complete stranger...to you, at least. Why this is called the "World Wide Web" and some people can't figure out how they got busted is beyond us. Besides, it's way too trendy these days - be original, people!

7. AROUND THE FAMILY:

Don't make it a family affair - you'll seriously regret it. Whether at a sibling’s wedding (see #6), a family vacation (see #10), or meeting the family for the first time (really!?), this one is clearly ridden with minefields that will lead to nothing but trouble. If this happens to you, at least you've got your "people" nearby to protect you, support you, and promptly kick your brand-new-ex to the curb.

6. AT A WEDDING:

The wedding. The defining moment for any couple. The pinnacle of celebrating relationships and love. The day they'll remember as the best day of their lives. Forever. Guess the pressure got to you, huh?

5. AT YOUR "SPECIAL PLACE":

That restaurant where we had our first date...the bar where you told me you loved me...the bench in the park where we'd sit every Sunday... Why on earth would anyone think this is a good idea? Let the special place stay special. Just like there are other fish in the sea, there are other places in the whole world. If they can't find another place, you should definitely find another fish.

4. IN BED:

Come again? Talk about ruining the mood. At least wait until you're clothed. This one is so embarrassing that we're having visions of the recurring dream where you're on stage in front of everyone you know in nothing but your underwear. Except you're not even wearing underwear.

3. ON VALENTINE'S DAY:

There are 365 days in the year, and ONE dedicated to celebrating love. It's not like you can't claim you didn't "know" it was Valentine's Day - the stores, the ads, the cards have been in your face for weeks. Pick another day. It's that simple. Don't ruin this day forever for someone, unless you're really in need of some bad karma. (New Year's Eve and Birthdays received honorable mentions.)

2. BY DOING NOTHING:

It was tough not giving this the Number 1 honor, and we're still not sure. Being forced to figure something out by yourself is sometimes the hardest and most humiliating thing of all. Coming home to find your love gone, with no note, no calls, no anything may just be the worst way to handle a breakup. It is definitely the WIMPIEST. Just remember that. You do this, you are weak.

1. BY CHEATING:

Sadly, this is the most common response we received - and the stories ran the gamut,from the one-night-stand, to the ongoing affair, to the ongoing affair that you only found out about via "the new person," to the unspeakable announcement that your boyfriend or girlfriend is engaged to someone else (WHAT?!?). To these we simply say, come ON. Just break it off before you cheat. You won't hurt our feelings, we promise.

The bottom line to all of this? If this happened to you, we can 100% guarantee that you are better off without this person in your life. If THIS is the way they think is appropriate to end a relationship, imagine how they would handle life's other challenges. Not well, we're guessing. Time for you to bounce back and move forwardto someone who deserves you and your love.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT CLICK HERE

FORGIVENESS

2010-04-14T13:17:00.003+08:00

to FORGIVE is to set a PRISONER free and discover that the PRISONER was you

~LEWIS B. SMEDES~

FROGGY'S INSIGHT

full acceptance of ourselves is by simply to forgive. sometimes this is one of the hardest decision that we could not easily give to those who offended us how much they asked for it from us.

i admit, even i could not easily forgive.

a phrase from a prayer says

"forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sinned against us"

i sometimes utter I AM NOT GOD, that's why i could not easily forgive, and later on realized that it was a disobedience on him.

why could we not easily set ourselves free?

carrying the burdens of PRIDE and SELFISHNESS prolongs our agony of EMPTINESS.

are we capable of celebrating EMPTINESS with us?

FACEBOOK MISTAKES

2010-04-12T13:01:00.014+08:00

READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!

WARNING: FACEBOOK COULD HARM YOU!

While googling the internet i while ago, i got interested with the issue involving FACEBOOK and how it could help or ruin us.

With more than 400 million active visitors, Facebook is arguably the most popular social networking site out there. And while the site is known for the casual social aspect, many users also use it as a professional networking tool. With that kind of reach, Facebook can be a valuable tool for connecting to former and current colleagues, clients and potential employers. In fact, surveys suggest that approximately 30% of employers are using Facebook to screen potential employees — even more than those who check LinkedIn, a strictly professional social networking site. Don't make these Facebook faux-pas — they might cost you a great opportunity.

1. Inappropriate Pictures

It may go without saying, but prospective employers or clients don't want to see pictures of you chugging a bottle of wine or dressed up for a night at the bar. Beyond the pictures you wouldn't want your grandparents to see, seemingly innocent pictures of your personal life will likely not help to support the persona you want to present in your professional life.

2. Complaining About Your Current Job

You've no doubt done this at least once. It could be a full note about how much you hate your office, or how incompetent your boss is, or it could be as innocent as a status update about how your coworker always shows up late. While everyone complains about work sometimes, doing so in a public forum where it can be found by others is not the best career move. Though it may seem innocent, it's not the kind of impression that sits well with a potential boss.

3. Posting Conflicting Information to Your Resume

If you say on your resume that your degree is from Harvard, but your Facebook profile says you went to UCLA, you're likely to be immediately cut from the interview list. Even if the conflict doesn't leave you looking better on your resume, disparities will make you look at worst like a liar, and at best careless.

4. Statuses You Wouldn't Want Your Boss to See

Everyone should know to avoid statuses like "Tom plans to call in sick tomorrow so he can get drunk on a Wednesday. Who cares that my big work project isn't done?" But you should also be aware of less flamboyant statuses like "Sarah is watching the gold medal hockey game online at her desk". Statuses that imply you are unreliable, deceitful, and basically anything that doesn't make you look as professional as you'd like, can seriously undermine your chances at landing that new job.

5. Not Understanding Your Security Settings

The security settings on Facebook have come a long way since the site started. It is now possible to customize lists of friends and decide what each list can and cannot see. However, many people do not fully understand these settings, or don't bother to check who has access to what. If you are going to use Facebook professionally, and even if you aren't, make sure you take the time to go through your privacy options. At the very least, your profile should be set so that people who are not your friend cannot see any of your pictures or information.

6. Losing by Association

You can't control what your friends post to your profile (although you can remove it once you see it), nor what they post to their own profiles or to those of mutual friends. If a potential client or employer sees those Friday night pictures your friend has tagged you in where he is falling down drunk, it reflects poorly on you, even if the picture of you is completely innocent. It's unfortunate, but we do judge others by the company they keep, at least to some extent. Take a look at everything connected to your profile, and keep an eye out for anything you wouldn't want to show your mother.

Facebook Can Help You Get Hired … or Fired

The best advice is to lock down your personal profile so that only friends you approve can see anything on that profile. Then, create a second, public profile on Facebook purely for professional use. This profile functions like an online resume, and should only contain information you'd be comfortable telling your potential employer face to face. Having a social networking profile is a good thing — it presents you as technologically and professionally savvy. Just make sure your profile is helping to present your best side — not the side that got drunk at your buddy's New Year's party.

courtesy of: Erin Joyce of

FROGGY'S OPINION:

actually there's no harm with this site, what the author was trying to express is to put ourselves into limitations on being a PROFESSIONAL and a PERSONAL being. i have two facebook accounts, a public and a private profile. the public profile includes the people who knows me personally and the public one is for everyone.

i even had my pictures locked PRIVATE and shares only not to all of my friends. and exert too much care on publishing thoughts and opinions which could ruin me in the nearest time.

enjoy using FACEBOOK.

TURTLE

2010-04-06T15:46:00.012+08:00

i could still remember those days when i was just an elementary pupil.

first class after lunch was ENGLISH. it was GRADE 4 and our professor was my sister's bestfriend's aunt. she was nice, kind and a good teacher they say, but i did not learned a lot, or should i say i did not learned any. why? because i used to cut class during her period. i go with my other classmates and spend the rest of the time playing card games and football.

during examinations and quizzes, i used to bully my seat mate to let me take a look at her paper just a little bit, and wallah! i could easily get not the perfect score but one of the top 5.

before the final examinations, we usually have a UNIT TEST and it's composed of 2 sets, 50-50. objective and essay. i couldn't still forgot how i was able to answer my teacher's silly question.

if you will become an animal, what do you wan to be? and why?

because i was so eager to finish the test, that time i chose LION,

"i want to become a lion because the lion is the king of the jungle, all of the animals respects him and bows on him. Lions are born brave and capable of surviving through their own. they fear nothing..."

that was some of my reasonings during those time. and here's some of it

"..because i love lions, i even want to have it in our house, but they are scary. my ate (sister) always told that LIONS are bad and scary."

and i could still really remember my inspiration why i chose LION

"..and because i love the movie LION KING. my mama brought me a big SIMBA puzzle from davao and a big poster and toys too."

funny me. the whole article was a mess and didn't even had a direct thought from the question, but what do you expect? LOL

after that, i hastily went outside and played with my cousins who patiently waited for me.

NOW, if i'll be asked with the same question, my answer would've been

a TURTLE. why? (nothing against my favorite animal FROGGY)

turtles are versatile, because they are amphibians. they could survive in wet and in dry places. they could exist in a very long span and they carry their house.

turtles could also be a nice pet, yet they move slow, they could still go to their destination.

what we could see in them are:

they could enjoy FREEDOM, because they could their house wherever and whenever they want. swim into the deepest part of the sea, move into the driest part of the land. when they WALK, they take very little steps slowly and makes sure it is the right way. they could witness a longer experience through living in a longer span. they need not to be feared by some animals and need not to scare others.

turtles are also said to be determined and not lazy, despite of their slow motion, they could still survive and continues to exist. they are not the ideal MAN's bestfriend but they could teach us a lot.

they could not provide us milk nor the normal meat we could eat, but the learnings we could earn from them will satiate our brain. i could still remember how this little animal was used is the story of the HARE and the TURTLE, and also THE MONKEY AND THE TURTLE (Ang Pagong at ang MATSING), i hope you know how the turtle is being set as an example as one of the HUMBLEST animal on earth that's why if i'll chose of becoming an animal, a turtle will fit for me.

how about you?