The Legendary Blog of Alfore

Thought Catalog: A Year After the Magnitude 6.9 Bogo Earthquake

2026-09-29T18:23:21.035+08:00

The Bogo earthquake on September 30, 2025, reminded us not only of the immense power of Mother Nature, but also of the true spirit of Cebuano resilience and unity.

It was a day that many of us will never forget.

For some, it was the terrifying sound of walls cracking, things falling, and the ground moving beneath our feet. For others, it was the frantic search for loved ones, the sleepless nights that followed, and the uncertainty of what the next day would bring.

The magnitude 6.9 earthquake claimed lives, damaged homes and infrastructure, disrupted livelihoods, and caused billions of pesos worth of economic losses. And even a year later, the memory of that day remains fresh. The Bogo Fault and its surrounding areas continue to remind us that the ground beneath us is never completely still, with occasional tremors serving as a reminder of what happened that September afternoon. And just today, another one though barely felt struck.

But a year later, perhaps what deserves to be remembered just as much as the earthquake itself is what happened after it.

Because disasters have a way of revealing something about us.

They show us how fragile the things we take for granted really are. A house that took years to build can be damaged in seconds. Roads can become impassable. Businesses can suddenly close. A normal afternoon can turn into a night of fear and uncertainty.

But disasters also reveal the other side of humanity.

They show us the people who run toward those who need help.

They show us neighbors checking on neighbors. Strangers sharing food and water. Volunteers traveling long distances just to bring supplies. People opening their homes to those who had nowhere else to go. Drivers, rescuers, medical workers, government employees, private organizations, churches, community groups, and ordinary citizens all finding ways to contribute.

This is something I have always admired about Cebu.

We may have our differences. We may argue about politics, complain about traffic, joke about each other, and sometimes have that very Cebuano way of saying, “bahalag magka bilat bilat” as if we can handle everything ourselves.

But when a real crisis comes, we know how to come together.

We help.

We give what we can.

Sometimes it is money. Sometimes it is food. Sometimes it is transportation. Sometimes it is simply showing up.

And sometimes, the most important thing we can give is our time.

A year later, rebuilding is not simply about reconstructing buildings.

It is about rebuilding lives.

It is about the families who had to start over. The business owners who had to recover their livelihood. The children who had their sense of security shaken. The communities that continue to live with the memory of that day.

And perhaps this is where resilience should be understood differently.

Resilience does not mean that we were never afraid.

It does not mean that we simply forget what happened and move on.

Resilience means that despite the fear, we continue.

We rebuild.

We learn.

We prepare.

And we help each other stand again.

The earthquake also reminded us of something that we often forget when life becomes comfortable: preparedness is not paranoia.

Knowing what to do during an earthquake, having an emergency kit, knowing where the exits are, keeping important documents secure, having a family communication plan, and learning basic first aid may seem unnecessary when everything is normal.

Until the ground moves.

Then suddenly, those little things matter.

One year later, the scars may no longer be as visible as they were during those first few weeks. Some buildings have been repaired. Roads have been restored. Businesses have reopened. Families have slowly returned to their routines.

But we should never allow recovery to become forgetfulness.

Let this anniversary be more than a remembrance of the destruction.

Let it also be a reminder to prepare.

A reminder to check on our families.

A reminder to look after our communities.

A reminder that help does not always have to come from someone else.

And most importantly, a reminder that when disaster strikes, we are not alone.

The earth may shake beneath our feet, but there is something equally powerful that rises afterward: people helping people.

One year after the Bogo earthquake, we remember those we lost, those who were affected, those who responded, and those who continue to rebuild.

We remember the fear.

But we also remember the courage.

We remember the destruction.

But we also remember the generosity.

And we remember that when Cebu was shaken, Cebuanos stood together.

A year later, we are still here.

Still rebuilding.

Still moving forward.

Still Cebuano.

Though Catalog: Another Gun Violence

2026-08-18T18:24:47.188+08:00

In a world where ideological ideas, whether good or bad, are increasingly accessible, we must, as adults, step in and teach the younger generation to be more discerning. Gun violence among young people is becoming an increasingly alarming reality across Southeast Asia. We have witnessed how awful, traumatic, and egregious these incidents can be.

We have to admit it and face the reality: gun violence is here. School shootings are here.

Our focus should not be on pointing fingers or finding someone to blame. Now, more than ever, our focus should be on rebuilding the foundation of values and discipline that defines the very fabric of our society, because what we are witnessing now is the rot that has slowly crept into our world.

This is not just about kids being easily influenced. This is not just about bullying. This is not just about online games. This is the unbecoming of a society. And if all of us continue pointing fingers at one another, we'll just run out of time before everything falls into chaos.

Let us call on our policymakers to do their work and make sensible, practical, and responsive laws. Let us call on our communities to restore the values that once defined us. And let us begin in our own homes, teaching our young people that violence is never the answer, that we are here to listen, and that one mistake can never justify another.

Because if we are to fight injustice, we must be careful not to become the very injustice we oppose.

Sadly, in a society marred by generations of abuse, inequality, and social division, the hope of finding balance and harmony can sometimes feel as dim as the fading light of a distant nebula.

But perhaps that is precisely why we cannot give up.

Because when the world becomes darker, our responsibility is not to add to the darkness. It is to become the light that keeps the next generation from losing its way.

xxx

Please talk to the young people around you. Check on them. Ask them how they are doing, and more importantly, listen.

And if you ever find yourself in need of a listening ear, know that I am always willing to be that ear.

Thought Catalog: Upat ka Kilo nga Bugas

2026-08-13T10:56:53.707+08:00

I don’t really hire guides when hiking because I always plot my routes before venturing onto the trail, and I feel nga mas immersive ang akong hike if I am doing it without one. Labaw pa nga di ko ganahan ug “guides” who are minors nga puwede pa nimo mahimo nga kargo if naay mahitabo sa trail. Pero this time, something in me whispered, “sige, pa-guide nila.”

As we traversed the trail and talked about their lives diri sa bukid, I realized nga somehow, we were sent there at the right time and at the right moment, perhaps by divine intervention. So here is the story...

Imagine spending an entire school day on an empty stomach, only to walk roughly 5 kilometers from school back home. This was their reality when we met them along the river trail. As we continued our traverse, they shared snippets of their lives and how they have been exposed to the harsh realities of poverty.

They come from a family of mangulingay, and if you know how little these people earn, you would feel sorry for them. I will not share everything that we talked about, but suffice it to say nga makaingon ko unfair ang kinabuhi ngadto kanila. And I hope and pray that they will succeed in life.

Nahuman ang trail. The Himbabawod Falls was majestic. The traverse towards Mananga’s headwater was never short of adventure and challenges. It was a fantastic trail nga murag gi layat-layat ra nila ang mga boulders while wearing flipflops nya kami tawn kupot diri, kupot didto. Feel nako kay na deplete gyud akong reserves sa ligtas points. Thankfully, the hike ended with all of us safe and sound.

Giubanan mi nila sa sakayanan ug motor since I decided to cut the hike at 21 km kay late na. I invited them to have some refreshments, which they gladly accepted. Makaingon ko nga gutom gyud kaayo to sila. I handed them the compensation we had agreed upon, and on top of that, gitagaan nako sila ug upat ka kilo nga bugas.

And then the most genuine thing happened.

Mas nagpasalamat sila, dili sa kwarta, dili sa snacks, kundi sa bugas.

At that moment, I saw beyond the young boys they were. I saw responsible individuals with young but remarkably mature minds. In their eyes, those four kilos of rice were not simply food. They were meals for their family. They were something tangible they could bring home. Something that mattered.

Sometimes, we go into the mountains looking for waterfalls, breathtaking views, and unforgettable adventures. But every once in a while, the mountain gives us something far more valuable: a reminder of how fortunate we are, and a chance to make someone else’s burden a little lighter.

That day, I thought I was simply giving them four kilos of rice.

But perhaps, in a way, they gave me something worth far more.

They reminded me that kindness does not have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes, it is just four kilos of rice, given at the right place, at the right time, to the right people.

And maybe that was the real reason we met on that trail.

Bisayang Latagaw Travel Log: Conquering The MacLehose Trail

2025-11-28T03:06:00.037+08:00

Spanning 100 km across Hong Kong’s New Territories, the MacLehose Trail runs from Pak Tam Chung in Sai Kung to Tuen Mun, winding through mountains, beaches, and reservoirs. Here’s a recap of how I took on this unforgiving trail.

I had long planned to do a birthday trail this year, but the missing piece was choosing which one. Then I thought, why not try the longest trail in Hong Kong? And so it happened. With the desire to try something new, I packed my bag and went on a weeklong trip.

My MacLehose journey began with Sections 9 and 10, which stretch from Route Twisk to Tuen Mun.

After that, I did Sections 7 and 8 in reverse, starting from the endpoint of Section 8 at Route Twisk and heading toward the trailhead of Section 7. Interesting points on this hike include Needle Hill and Lead Mine Pass, where you can appreciate some wonderful rock formations.

On my third day of hiking, I picked up where I left off, walked to the exit point of Section 6, and continued toward its trailhead. I wanted to call it a day, but my legs seemed to want more, so I went on to Section 5 and exited off-trail at a practical point. Somewhere along the way, I also encountered a red-necked keelback, a venomous and poisonous snake. Lucky or unlucky, that’s part of the story now. Additionally, the Lion's Rock viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Hong Kong.

The fourth hike took me through the treacherous Section 4, which is considered the hardest part of the trail. To make it more challenging, I did it solo and as a night hike. I didn’t meet a single soul the entire time. It was just me and nature. By the time I finished this section, my legs were already feeling the effects of the consecutive hikes. When I reached my hotel, I slumped into bed and slept like a log. Fun fact: Section 4 is the steepest and most punishing part of the entire trail, with endless stone steps that locals jokingly call "the leg breaker".

After regaining some strength and determined to finally seal things off, I completed the last three sections of the trail, which cut through the Sai Kung Country Parks including the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.

What started as a random plan ended up becoming a wonderful feat for the not-so-active me. I never thought I could hike on consecutive days, much less cover a hundred kilometers. I pushed my limits this time, and it was all worth it.

And now, off to the next trail... 👌

Bisayang Latagaw Travel Log: When You Start Forgetting Your Backpacking Roots

2025-09-04T13:43:00.007+08:00

I started backpacking in 2016 with pretty simple goals: to go places for the experience, for the culture, for the fun of getting lost in the moment. To keep it as authentic as possible, I’d look for hostels where a dozen strangers could be crammed into a 12 sqm room with 8 bunk beds. I’d eat in warungs, hawkers, quáns, carinderias—whatever the locals called it. I’d take public transport despite the language barrier. And of course, there was the endless haggling for better rates.

But with my recent trips, something has changed. I’m becoming less of a backpacker and more of a tourist. And truth be told, I don’t like it. I’ve been trading raw experiences for comfort, and that was never the point. On a recent hike, when I took a few detours, I realized the real fun is still in doing what others avoid—the things seen as risky, inconvenient, or unnecessary. Because in this world of ease, luxury, and comfort, it’s those very inconveniences that remind us what it means to truly live.

I want to go back to my roots. To be more spontaneous. To embrace discomfort. To strip things down to less, because less is more. And that doesn’t need any further explanation.

Adios!

Thought Catalog: Know your numbers

2025-02-21T10:42:00.002+08:00

One of the key disciplines many Filipinos struggle with is managing their finances. Admittedly, I’ve been guilty of this since I was younger—and to some extent, I still am. I sometimes overspend on unnecessary things. I help without hesitation, even when it becomes an inconvenience for me.

In a collective culture like ours, it’s not uncommon for us to shoulder the burdens of others. Unlike in Western cultures, where the "I" often takes precedence over the "WE," Filipinos are known for prioritizing family, friends, and even strangers over personal gratification. After all, we’re sometimes dubbed the friendliest people in the world.

However, as I grew older, I became more aware of the consequences of this mindset. I realized it doesn’t always have to be that way. There are times when we must protect our own well-being so we can be better influences on those around us. This realization deepened through my frequent travels over the past few years. Meeting people from all walks of life and different cultures exposed me to diverse perspectives. Their views, opinions, and experiences made me understand that in a societal world, individualism is your shield against exploitation.

With these newfound values, I became more responsible in securing my finances. While helping others is noble, setting boundaries is crucial. One of the most effective ways to practice this is by knowing your numbers. No matter how much you earn, your pocket is not a bottomless abyss. And when tragedy strikes, your best safety net is yourself.

One secret to why I can travel multiple times a year is budgeting. I use planners and meticulously track my expenses. Over the past three or four years, this habit has helped me navigate an adventure-driven life. Moving forward, my focus is on securing my future. And once again, I see that by knowing my numbers, I can build a stable future without becoming a burden to anyone.

Hinumdumi nga ang kwarta naay tawo, mao nga angayan pud nga ang tawo naay kwarta. Kay ang kamatuoran, kung wa tay kwarta, ang tan-aw sa lain nato kay dili tawo.

Mao ra to, skl.

p.s. dili pa ko tawo karon kay wa pa koy kwarta. 😂😂

Bisayang Latagaw Travel Log: The lost wanderer

2024-09-24T14:25:00.002+08:00

The true magic of my travels often lies in getting lost—venturing into places where tourists rarely tread. It’s in these hidden corners that I find the soul of a destination, far removed from the crowds and chaos. I always start with a simple question to the locals, asking for their favorite spots. More often than not, it’s in these quiet, secluded places that I find the essence of where I am. As much as I love exploring, I tend to be more of a silent wanderer. I prefer to roam solo, soaking up my surroundings, though I’ll strike up a conversation when it truly matters.

On one of these adventures, I found myself facing a 30-foot, 75-degree cliff with nothing but a weathered rope as my guide. I convinced two fellow travelers from my accommodation to join me—one, a German who’s been living the nomadic life for nearly a decade, and the other, a Middle Eastern medical student on a sabbatical. Despite their initial bravado, they hesitated. So, I went down first, proving it was doable.

Once we all made it, we were rewarded with a paradise that felt like it was plucked from another realm—completely untouched and surreal. What we thought would be a quick two-hour visit turned into an entire day of awe and wonder.

By the time we made our way back, darkness had set in. The med student, in a moment of panic, grabbed onto a patch of shrubs instead of the rope and slipped. Luckily, he managed to latch back onto the rope, escaping with only a few scratches. For him, it was a 'never again' experience. But as for me? I'd take that descent a thousand times over.

What about you? What's your most unforgettable travel adventure?

#bisayanglatagaw #trabilat

Thought Catalog: Your reaction is valid but is it correct?

2024-07-16T15:09:00.006+08:00

In my last drinking session with friends, we tackled how one should react to insults and bad situations. A lot of course of actions were opined and I just said to them that they are valid responses, but they need to consider if what they will be doing is correct.

In philosophy, particularly in ethics and moral reasoning, a reaction to a bad situation can be considered valid but not correct if it is understandable or justifiable based on human emotions or reasoning, yet it does not align with ethical principles or the most appropriate course of action. This distinction is important to consider because it highlights the difference between what feels right in the moment and what is ethically right in the broader context of moral principles and long-term consequences.

A reaction might be valid if it is a natural human response. For example, feeling anger or sadness in response to a betrayal is valid because it aligns with typical emotional reactions. These emotions are part of the human experience and are often immediate and instinctive. Similarly, a reaction may be valid if it can be justified by the context or circumstances. For instance, reacting defensively in a threatening situation is valid because self-preservation is a natural instinct. Such reactions are grounded in the basic human need for safety and survival.

However, a reaction is not necessarily correct if it violates ethical principles such as justice, fairness, or compassion. Responding to hurt with revenge might be emotionally valid but is not ethically correct. Ethical correctness requires a higher level of reflection and consideration of moral principles that guide us toward more just and compassionate responses. Additionally, a reaction might not be correct if it leads to negative long-term consequences for oneself or others. Making a rash decision out of anger might be valid in the moment but harmful in the long run, as it can cause further harm and perpetuate a cycle of negative reactions.

Ultimately, the difference between a valid and correct reaction lies in the alignment with ethical standards and rational analysis. While a reaction that feels right emotionally might be valid, it may not hold up under thoughtful consideration of all factors and potential outcomes. Ethical decision-making involves looking beyond immediate feelings and reactions to consider the broader impact of our actions, striving for responses that uphold principles of justice, fairness, and compassion. In this way, we can ensure that our reactions, while valid, also align with what is ethically correct.

Thought Catalog: A Year After Typhoon Odette

2022-12-21T06:00:00.000+08:00

When Typhoon Odette was about to hit Cebu, most Cebuanos already knew that it will be a strong one, but no one anticipated the extent of havoc that it will bring. For most parts of the island, electricity was out for a month and even longer. The scarcity of potable water, food, and other essentials brought something that the Cebuanos have only seen during wartime. To an island as vibrant and as festive as Cebu, Odette was a test of the Cebuano spirit and how we are able to triumph even in the worst of our days.

In my family’s case, we actually came prepared. I have stocked water, food, and other essentials that I know would bare for at least a month. But still, the storm did so much in the surrounding area of our home, and we even almost got hit by a water tank that was flown from one of the buildings near our house. Thankfully, the tank went in the other direction and our house was spared.

In the afternoon of December 16, 2021, Odette was already ravaging hard. A few moments later, the electricity is out and all we could hear is this roaring sound from the strong winds brought by the storm and the symphony of the debris hitting each other. This continued up until late evening and it was becoming evident that Odette would be leaving our vibrant island a scar like no other.

I am not sure if I was able to really sleep that night. The next day, when light broke the blanket of darkness brought by the lack of electricity, I and my cousins decided to survey the surrounding area and what we saw was heart-quenching – it was a scene like no other. We heard a lot of stories of people being trapped in their homes during the onslaught of the typhoon. There was this ever-rising casualty count. There was this news of a small island community off the coast of Mactan being wiped out completely – thankfully, a preemptive evacuation was made so casualties had been minimized.

We thought that that was the end of Odette's wrath, but we were wrong. With the extent of the damage she brought, Odette took away the festive spirit of our holiday season and made the first quarter of 2022 a struggle for most Cebuanos. The price of gasoline doubled and even tripled in some areas. A 5-gallon distilled water container which originally cost between 15 to 25 pesos is now being sold for 100 to 200 pesos. Food and other commodities prices have significantly increased as well. Most banks and ATMs are not operational, so a lot of individuals were out of cash. To a still pandemic-stricken island, it was like adding insult to injury.

But Odette did not just bring bad things, it also brought out the best in Cebuanos. We witnessed the spirit of Bayanihan - restaurants offering free hot meals to locals, kind-spirited people bringing water supply from the north to the metro, and companies opening their doors for people to charge their devices. And while not as festive as it was before, we celebrated the holiday season still with smiles on our faces.

It has been a year since Odette, and still, some of us are healing from the wounds left by her wrath. As I look at the days that came by, I can say that it was not an easy year.

Consequently, Odette was just another reminder about the feebleness of our lives. It was a clear message from Mother Nature that when she takes vengeance, it’s gonna be hard for man to handle.

Ang namulat ay hindi na muling pipikit

2022-05-12T00:21:00.004+08:00

Ang namulat ay hindi na muling pipikit

Pilipinas, oh inang bayan
Patawad at kami ay nabigo.
Gayun pa man, kami ay hindi susuko.
Magmamasid at patuloy na makikialam.
Patuloy na lalaban para sa kinabukasan.

Susuporta sa tamang adhikain

Tutuligsa sa maling gawain.

Magmamasid at makikialam!

Sambayanan ang nagdikta sa iyong kinabukasan.

Mali man o tama, dapat na ito ay igalang.

Hayaang kasaysayan ang magbigay kapaliwanagan,

At naway pinili nitong lipi ang tamang daan.

Gayun pa man, kami’y di titigil,

Magmamasid! Makikialam!

Pagkat walang katapusan itong laban

Para sa bukas na ikaw ay puno ng kaluwalhatian,

Sa bukas na hindi lulong sa pangakong napapako,

Kundi sa pagbabagong umaagos saan mang dako.

Laging kami magmamasid, makikialam!

Sana nga’y ang namulat ay hindi na muling pipikit.

Na ang alab sa puso’y patuloy na sisidhi

At ang diwa ng yaring isip ay patuloy na gigising,

Hindi maiidlip, di matutulog, di mahihimbing.

How to reactivate Smart/TNT/Sun mobile internet service

2022-02-04T19:07:00.007+08:00

The Smart Terms and Conditions has a "Fair-use Policy" provision that when violated (whether intentional or unintentional) will cause your account's internet service to be deactivated. While most are aware of this, quite a few know what to do when this occurs. Lucky for you, this post is here to guide you on what steps you can take to reenable the mobile internet service of your Smart/TNT/Sun sim.

Step 1: Make a handwritten request addressed to SmartFM requesting for the reinstatement of your mobile internet service. A sample format is shown below.

DATE

Hi SmartFM,
Greetings!
I, YOUR NAME, a Smart/TNT/Sun subscriber with mobile number 09XXXXXXXXX, would like to request the reactivation of my mobile internet service. I am unaware of the exact reason for the deactivation of my internet service but I hope and pray that through this request, you will be able to reactivate my account.
Rest assured that I will be more prudent in using my mobile internet service in the future and will always subscribe to your Terms and Conditions and to the Fair-use Policy.
Thank you!

Respectfully yours,

SIGNATURE ABOVE PRINTED NAME

Step 2: Take a photo or scan your request letter and a valid ID. Send an email to smartfm@smart.com.ph with the following content:

Subject line: Request for Reactivation of Mobile Internet for 09XXXXXXX.

Message:

Hi SmartFM,
I am requesting for the reactivation of my mobile internet. Please see the attached request and a copy of my valid ID.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
YOUR NAME

Make sure to attach your handwritten letter request as well as a copy of your valid ID.

Step 3: Wait for their response. Usually, it takes no more than 24 hours for them to respond but in any case, you can always send a follow-up email. Here is a sample response from SmartFM

While not necessary, before doing any of the steps above, you may also try to call Customer Support (Dial *888 on your handset) and confirm with the support agent if your device has been blocked from accessing internet service. If you are indeed blocked, you can proceed with the above steps. Otherwise, most likely you just have bad APN settings or your device is faulty or you are on a dead spot or the network is down.

Hopefully, this was able to help you!

Narsisismo at ang mundo ng social media

2021-10-19T22:37:00.008+08:00

Nakababahalang isipin na sa panahon ngayon higit sa pagiging isang kasangkapan sa pakikipag kapwa-tao ay para bagang nagiging daan ang social media sa pagpapakita ng narsisismo. Wala namang masama na ipagdiwang ang iyong kaginhawaan, gawing bukas na aklat ang buhay, o kaya’y ipaalam sa mundo ang iyong mga galaw. Subalit ang nakababahala ay para bang nagiging peke o minsan naman ay sobra na ang iilan sa pagpapakilala sa kanilang pagkatao at pagpapahayag sa kanilang sarili.

Ayon sa isang kilalang medical website, ang narsisismo ay ang lubhang pagkalulong sa sarili ng isang tao kung saan ay kanya ng isinasawalang bahala ang mga nasa paligid. Dagdag pa nila, bagamat lahat tayo ay may okasyonal na pagpapakita ng mga katangian narsistik, ang mga taong lulong sa narsisismo ay tuluyang kinakaligtaan ang kapakanan ng iba at tanging kanilang pansariling interes na lamang ang binibigyang importansya.

Sa pag usbong ng social media, naging mas laganap ang pagkakagiliw ng tao sa pagbenbenta sa sarili. Sabi ko nga sa isa pang likha ay hindi ito yung literal na pagbenenta ng katawan kahit na mayroon din namang ganyang galawan sa online world ngayon. Ang pinupunto nito ay ang pagbebenta sa sarili para pag-usapan, maging viral, o di-kayay para maipakita na masaya ka o nagiging matagumpay ka sa buhay.

Bago ko ituloy ang diskusyon ay nais ko ng pangunahan kayo na karapatan ng bawat isa sa atin na ipagdiwang ang ating mga kasiyahan at kaluwalhaitan sa buhay gaano man kaliit o kalaki ito sa paningin ng iba at higit na walang masama kung atin itong isambulat sa mundo. Ang masama ay kapag sumobra na. Ika ngay, lahat ng bagay ay nagiging masama kapag sumusobra.

Ngunit kaylan ngaba masasabing tayo ay sumusobra na at tayo ay nagiging narsistik na? Ayon sa isang health journal, ang mga taong may Narcistic Personality Disorder o NPD ay masasabing nabubulag sa pansariling kahalagahan. Kadalasan silay ay nagiging mapagmataas at grandioso. Nagkakaroon rin sila ng pantasya ng pagiging makapangyarihan, ng kagandahan, ng pagiging matagumpay, at ng katalinuhan. Marami sa mga taong may NPD ay pinapalobo at ipinagyayabang ang kanilang mga tagumpay at abilidad.

Kadalasan ay nanghihingi ng atensyon at paghanga mula sa ibang tao ang mga taong narsistik. At sa panaho ngayon, nagiging behikulo para sa kanila ang social media upang makamit ang mithiing ito. Marami sa kanila ay nagiging mapagmataas lalo na sa mga taong kanilang tinuturing na masa mababa ang antas sa lipunan. Mayroon rin silang pinalobong sense of entitlement at lubhang kinahuhumalingan nila ang kanilang estado sa buhay na para sa kanila ay kinaiingtan ng iba. Ang mga narsistik na tao ay uhaw sa papuri at atensyon kaya namay angkop para sa kanila ang kasalukuyan disenyo ng social media kung saan ang mga tao ay maaaring magbigay ng mga papuri at reaksyon.

Isang mahalagang aspeto na masasabing mong ang isang tao ay nagiging narsistik ay kapag hindi nya tinatanggap ang kritisismo. Sa mundo ng social media ngayon ay kadalasang kinukutya o kaya ay ginagamitan ng ad hominem ang mga kritisismo kaysa sa sagutin ng maayos. Ganito rin ang asta nga mga taong narsistik, kapag may pinuna ka sa kanila ay tiyak na aatakihin nila ang iyong pagkatao at hahanapan ka ng butas imbes na sagutin o kaya ay akuin ang kanilang pagkakamali.

Ang mga taong narsistik ay kadalasang hindi nakikinig sa iba sapagkat tingin nila’y sila lang ang tama. Kadalasang nanggagamit sila ng tao para sa pansarili nilang interes. Higit pa, sila ay kulang sa kakayahang umintindi at makiramdam. At ngayon sa mundo ng social media, mas napapalubha pa ang mga dikanais-nais na katangiang ito. Ang mga narsistik sa mundo ng social media ay kadalsang hindi kayang makipagtalo gamit ang katotohan at datos sapagkat mas pinipili nilang maging self-absorbed – na keyso opinion nila yun at dapat respetuhin, na keyso alam nila sa sarili nila na sila ang tama.

Isa pang nakababahala sa paglaganap ng mga taong narsistik sa virtual world ay ang pagkahilig nila na kontrolin ang lahat ng mga nasa kanilang paligid at kapag hindi nasunod ang kanilang gusto, sila ay nagagalit o kaya ay pinuputol nila ang kanila ugnayan sa taong hindi sumunod sa kanila. Ika ngay, mas gusto ng mga taong narsistik ang mga taong uto-uto at sunod-sunoran lamang. Pero kahit na ang mga taong narsistik ay pinapakita na sila ay nakahihigit, sila ay may nakakubling kawalan ng kapanatagan at tiwala sa sariling kakayahan. Kaya nga mas pinipili nilang ipagyabang ang mga bintahe nila sa ibang tao.

Sa mundo naman ng social media, kapag may pinuna ka tiyak na tatanungin ka nila ano ba ang naitulong mo? Sino ka ba? Ano ba ang naabot mo? Para bang wala kanang karapatan na magbigay ng opinion at kuro-kuro kapag wala kang napatunayan sa buhay. Para bang sila lamang ang may monopolyo sa kung ano ang tama. Wag naman sanang ganon, mas maigi ang diskusyon na nakabase sa facts at sa datos at hindi sa mga walang basehang tiktok video o sa mga pekeng artikulo ng mga troll page.

Ganun paman ay dapat na mahalin at intindihin parin natin sila. Ika nga ni Mother Theresa, “People are unrealistic, illogical, and self-centered. Love them anyway.” Gaano man ka self-absorbed ang mga tao sa social world, tandaan natin na higit sa ano paman, pag-intindi at pagmamahal ang dapat nating igawad sa kanila.

Thought Catalog: On Political Polarization

2021-10-10T06:32:00.004+08:00

If only people could stop electing politicians based on their family names, celebrity status, fame, and false promises; if only people learned to distinguish between public servants and politicians; if only people elected based on competence rather than political leanings, then we could have a better Philippines. But the sad truth is that most of us tend to polarize the elections.

We stick to one color despite knowing that you can’t build a rainbow with just one shade – that you can’t achieve balance by letting all the stones sit on one side. That you can’t talk of unity when you shun your opponents instead of listening to them.

The truth is that none of us can have the monopoly on what is right for our country. We need to collectively work, we need to debate, to argue, to reason why we pick one over another. Because at the end of the day, we rise as a nation of one collective view and not as individuals with different opinions.

We have to talk, and we have to listen. Most importantly, we need to work with one another instead of being polar opposites. At the end of the day, the essence of our dominance as a species is our ability to unite and stand as one against every adversity that comes our way.

Thought Catalog: On Freedom

2021-07-20T14:59:00.002+08:00

Of all the virtues of this world, one that has always been curtailed is freedom. In fact, freedom is almost impossible to achieve simply because we live in a world where order is needed – where we are bound by rules and laws. It is unarguably correct to assert that there is no order if by all means every individual is given the absolute free will – the luxury of doing whatever he wishes to do. And so we are posed with the questions: How can we value freedom if we are unable to experience it in its purest sense? Why do we continue to aspire for freedom yet take compromises to ensure societal order? What does it really mean to have freedom in this modern world?

This exposition on freedom is anchored on extrapolating the value of freedom and the reality that there is no absolute freedom, that in fact we are bound not only by our free will but by the rules of nature and of our society.

Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty

Perhaps one of the strongest philosophical maxims about freedom is the quote “Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty.” The proverbial implications of this statement make you wonder if it is possible to achieve absolute freedom. One can say that in order to achieve absolute freedom, you must have total control of what belongs to you. You need to carefully and religiously guard your properties, your personal space, the things that you considered part of your identity. If any of these gets violated or taken away from you, then your freedom had been curtailed.

Nevertheless, this curtailment of personal freedom is actually essential to ensure the coequal existence of the freedom of other people. So in a sense, your freedom curtails the freedom of other people whereas other people’s freedom can curtail yours. This duality is a little problematic when we want to establish absolute freedom, and so we are left with the notion that we must be in constant guard of our freedom lest we want the freedom of others to prevail over our own freedom.

There is no absolute freedom

The philosophical debate on freedom is exemplified in what we call as absolute freedom. The quintessential question commonly posed in these discussions is to what extent can the freedom of a person be - and if it is limitless and boundless what stops us from achieving such absolute freedom. Sadly, despite any effort, all these would still end up with an impasse for there is no such thing as absolute freedom. Nonetheless, it is absolute freedom that we must seek. It is just quite confusing because why seek something that is nonexistent? For me, the reason why we have to seek absolute freedom is simple. That is that as humans we must satiate our eternal desire to be at the apex of our existence. And this never-ending desire while wicked is essential to our very existence.

At the end of the day, it is obvious that freedom is something that can only be achieved to a certain point but not in its purest form. That is to say that freedom is not absolute but it is resolute and it should and must always be resolute. It should always be a goal that all of us must seek. It should always remain a core value of our society and our existence.

Thought Catalog: On the WPS issue

2021-05-15T19:17:00.000+08:00

In The Art of War, Sun Tzu wrote:

…the art of using troops is this: When ten to the enemy's one, surround him; When five times his strength, attack him; If double his strength, divide him…

A strategy imbued in the political system of Communist China is what we commonly call "divide and conquer." If it is not still clear to you, the Chinese government has employed numerous strategic and political maneuvers to divide our nation when it comes to the WPS issue. Sadly, with all the blame game and animosity among Filipinos, it appears that their strategy is winning. And if this continues, we will be left with nothing but a lost cause.

We should remind ourselves that the real enemy here is not Duterte or his minions nor is it Carpio or Del Rosario or Trillanes. The real enemy is the Chinese Government who is trying to exploit what is rightfully ours - of course, there are a lot of technicalities about our claim. However, it saddens me when a lot of Filipinos are finding and highlighting faults in our claim instead of finding better justification, instead of earning international support. This is unbecoming of a Filipino. If we truly love our country, we must at all cost protect its sovereign rights, protect its territorial claims including the EEZ.

The president's actions and words are truly sad. He, as the father of our nation, should not shut down even the smallest glimmer of hope that we have when it comes to these territorial claims. Our victory may be a piece of paper but surely it's better than nothing. Of course, other strategies may work but it's just so wrong that he gives vindication and affirmation to China's claim. If there is an amicable way to settle it, we should be the one giving China leeway and not the other way around.

I hope that we Filipinos change the perspective that we must either be an anti or a pro nor should we be neutral. We need to be critical when it comes to bad policies and we must support the good ones. For this fight, I personally believe that raising the white flag is one of the bad moves this current admin has taken.

Why I backpacked alone and why you should

2021-02-27T22:09:00.005+08:00

On this day two years ago, I decided to step out of my comfort zone. I did my very first international backpacking alone. It took me to my mid-twenties to do so due to a number of reasons but mainly because I was hesitant and fearful that it could turn awry for me. But there I was, forging memories in a foreign land.

As humans, we are designed to be social beings. We generally appreciate the joy of company and are always looking for the safe and secure feeling of being with the people we trust. The truth is that when you go on unchartered territories and in this case to a new country, you'd certainly want to spend it with people who matter to you not just because you want to share the moment with them but more importantly because you find it comfortable.

But as they always say, what makes you comfortable does not let you grow. Well, this is very debatable and certainly a cliché. But in this case, I can personally attest that it holds a lot of merits. Traveling alone can really open you to new frontiers. It will let you discover other sides of yourself that you have not taken notice of. You will embark on new experiences that you would have never done had you been with people who know you.

While I do not discount the fact that it is still a hit or miss adventure and is certainly not everyone’s cup of tea, going solo in another country is something worth exploring and I do recommend that you try it even just once.

So I’m telling you right now, give yourself a chance to explore things you have never done before. Travel and try to travel alone. There is so much to discover in the world beyond those boarding gates and there is way more to know within thyself especially when you take a path that you've never been before.

Laag na!

Tips:

👌 Plan and travel within your budget (Ayaw pangutang para ilaag)

👌 Go light and seek for authentic experience (I prefer less touristy places and mga open access.)

👌 Meet people. (I have had many chance encounters with a lot of great people during these travels.)

👌 Enjoy every moment. You are given 86,400 seconds each day. Don't let a second spoil the remaining 86,399.

Communication and the Three Sieves of Socrates

2020-08-03T17:51:00.003+08:00

Communication is an important facet of our nature as humans and as a society. Our ability to communicate and share information has propelled our species to be at the apex of the hierarchy of life on this planet. The truth is in the absence of communication, this society that we live in today will fall into chaos. As such and by all means, we must strive to develop effective communication skills and exercise our privilege of free speech with caution and propriety.

The emergence of new technologies has enabled us to have more communication channels. Right now, we can communicate on a global scale through social media platforms and other technology-based communication media. What was before a nuclear skill has now become engrossed in a complex web of balancing between technology, censorship, free speech, cultural and racial appropriation, and a long list of important aspects that has now complicated the communication landscape.

With the complexity of the communication paradigms today, it has become a necessity for us to develop further our communication skills. We must understand that our statements can now be easily subjected to public scrutiny. We must understand that now more than ever we must have sensitivity in delivering our message. There is a need for us to evaluate first what we are about to speak, and we must do this all the time. We must not let our emotions dictate what comes out of our mouth rather we must let logic, reasoning, and moral standards govern our statements.

How do we effectively do this? I believe the answer could be found in the story of Socrates and the three sieves.

One day, a man approached Socrates and was about to tell something about an acquaintance of the philosopher. But before the man could utter any words, Socrates asked him if he did let whatever he is about to speak pass the three sieves test. The man, not knowing what the three sieves are, asked Socrates to tell him about the three sieves test. Socrates answered and subjected what the man was about to say to the test.

The Sieve of the Truth

“Is what you are going to say the truth?”

Oftentimes, we forgot the basic principle that whatever we talk about, we should learn to fact-check and evaluate if it is the truth. We should not allow hearsays to be the basis of our statements. Moreover, there is no value in telling lies. The truth, regardless of how much you hide it, will always stand the test of time. As an old adage says, the truth shall prevail!

The Sieve of Goodness

“Is what you are going to say good?”

Speaking badly about someone will never do you good. We must always remember that we must exercise caution when we talk about other people and their affairs. We have no right to judge them and no right to assume that what they are doing is bad without understanding the circumstances that came before them. The sieve of goodness does not necessarily tell you to only talk of the good things but instead, it encourages you to talk good. And by that, I mean that we must always put the good of others and the common good first when we speak of something.

The Sieve of Necessity

“Is what you are going to say useful?”

If something that you will say will not be of use to the one you are directing the message to, then you are wasting both of your precious time. It is imperative that we consider the utility of our statements. In a fast-changing world, there is no place for those who are talking nonsense. Remember to talk less and do more.

Now that you have learned of the Three Sieves of Socrates, ask yourself. Have you been practicing restraint in your statements? Have you been responsible for what you speak? Have you thought of the repercussions of the words that have come out of your mouth? Always remember, you are responsible for those words. Be mindful and always subject your thoughts to the Three Sieves of Socrates before you voice them out.

As an ending thought, let me reiterate that there is nothing wrong with exercising our freedom of expression, but we must remember that along with this freedom is our responsibility to be accountable for whatever we say. Until next time, adios amigos!

It's not fake, but biased

2020-07-30T21:41:00.005+08:00

The term “FAKE NEWS” has become ubiquitous in the virtual and real world that we thrive today. Because of how much we have bastardized the use of this term, it has somehow lost its essential meaning.

The not-so-trustworthy Wikipedia.org has the following definition:

“Fake news, also known as junk news, pseudo-news, alternative facts or hoax news, is a form of news consisting of deliberate disinformation or hoaxes spread via traditional news media or online social media...”

But far from this, we see people branding news critical to a political faction or to an ideology they align with as fake news. This is obviously skewed from the above definition. News doesn't need to agree or disagree with your opinion. Moreover, news needs not to align itself with any political faction or ideology. Its mere purpose is presenting facts – nothing more, nothing less.

But a problem arises from this way of confining what news should be as all media and everyone around you are biased. This may sound like a bold claim, but I see it this way. No matter how a supposedly neutral media entity tries and focuses on presenting facts, the people behind it and the media organization itself have biases. The truth is they protect certain interests. And mind you, this biased nature extends not just with traditional media, even social media and common people like you and me have our own biases. As much as we try to stay, act, and believe that we are neutral, we all are biased.

Now, this creates a dilemma. If the news in its purest form presents facts and facts alone, then a biased entity can't create news. This is the truth and its bad for all of us. However, there is nothing we can do about it. As such, I believe we must redefine how we see the news. News, for me, is an objective view of narrating facts based on the information one has gathered. Consequently, since our objective view is limited to whatever information we have gathered and one can't gather every information may it be subtly or largely influential to a news piece, we will be creating and consuming biased news.

And it is with this dogma that I find it imperative that we do not stop evaluating our facts and do not confine ourselves to the narrative that we believe in. We must open our minds to every side especially when we are presented with new “facts.” And when we do this, we need not showcase hostility. There is nothing wrong with having arguments. An argument only becomes obnoxious when people twist facts and resort to logical fallacies to support them.

Lastly, in line with the allusion that news is always biased, we must understand that when a piece of news lacks or has more information than another one, it is not necessarily fake news but merely a biased account of appreciating the facts. Again, It's not fake, but biased.

And along with this line of thought rises new points of inquiry – What separates news from fake news? Is there a gray area in between the two? How do we spot fake news? I’ll try to answer these questions and more on future posts. Till then, adios amigos!

Wait... Here's an irrelevant quote. "The truth behind the lie is far more dangerous than the lie itself."

Waterworld Cebu: Central Visayas' largest waterpark

2019-12-20T16:17:00.000+08:00

A new park has started splashing in Cebu last December 14, 2019. WaterWorld Cebu, which claims to be the largest waterpark in Central Visayas, is located on the foot of the Marcelo Fernan Bridge in Mandaue City. The park is home to 10 extreme slides, a wave pool, a spacious water playground with 11 child-friendly slides, and three function rooms which can accommodate up to 220 people. It is surely a place for everybody from kids to kids at heart.

Here is our guide to WaterWorld Cebu.

Location/Getting There

WaterWorld Cebu is located on the foot of the Marcelo Fernan Bridge at the UN Avenue, Opao, Mandaue City.

Vehicles from Northern Cebu may take Cebu North Road then turn left at the Butuanon Bridge junction to UN Avenue and head straight to Marcelo Fernan Bridge. At the foot of the Bridge, go to the access road to reach WaterWorld Cebu.

Vehicles from Southern Cebu may take Cebu South Road heading to the Central Nautical Highway through Natalio Bacalso Ave, Imus Ave, Lopez Jaena Street, and MC Briones Street. Then, turn right at the Butuanon Bridge junction towards UN Avenue and head straight to Marcelo Fernan Bridge. At the foot of the Bridge, go to the access road to reach Waterworld Cebu.

Vehicles coming from Mactan island including those from the Mactan Cebu International Airport may take M.L. Quezon National Highway and head towards Marcelo Fernan Bridge to UN Avenue. At UN Avenue, make a u-turn and head back to Marcelo Fernan Bridge. At the foot of the Bridge, go to the access road to reach Waterworld Cebu.

For those commuting from Cebu City, you can take a PUJ with 01K route and hop off at the Cebu North Bus Terminal. There, you can take any of the buses that head north and disembark at the foot Marcelo Fernan Bridge right in front of the Waterworld Cebu. Alternatively, you can take 01K and hope off at the PUJ terminal in Parkmall then ride a PUJ with MI-02B route which plies the Mandaue-Maribago route or 23 which plies the Mandaue-Punta Engaño route. Inform the PUJ driver that you will hop off near the foot of the bridge (in the Mandaue side).

Those commuting from Northern Cebu may ride on buses or jeepneys heading to Mandaue and hop off at Pacific Mall Mandaue and then head to their PUJ terminal and ride any of the jeepneys that go to Mactan island (Lapu-lapu).

Commuting from Waterworld Cebu back to your place is a little bit of a hassle as most public transports are already in full capacity once it reaches the foot of the bridge. For those going north, you can ride the bus (usually standing as seats are already filled). For those going back to Southern Cebu or to Mactan island, your best bet is also to ride the bus and then hope off across Pacific Mall Mandaue. At Pacific Mall Mandaue, you should be able to find public transport heading to Cebu City or to Mactan island.

For those who prefer ride-hailing apps, going to your place from Waterworld Cebu is difficult to book as UN Avenue is a traffic chokepoint. You may wish to leave earlier than the 5pm closing time to avoid traffic congestion and be able to book a ride.

Park Schedule

As of the writing of this post, the following park schedule applies:

Ticket selling starts at 9:00 AM
Gate opens at 9:00 AM
Waterpark closes at 5:00 PM
Food World and Tiki Island Bar opens at 9:00 AM
Barbecue Bay opens at 9:00 AM
Snack Shack opens at 10:00 AM

Entrance Fee

WaterWorld Cebu is currently offering a promotional rate which is half of their regular rate. There is no exact date as to when the promotional rate will lapse so I encourage you to visit WaterWorld while it lasts. The place is surely a great treat for the kids and kids at heart. The rate covers all-day unlimited use of all slides and attractions.

Promo Rate (Rates apply until further notice)

Local Weekday Rate: Php 400.00 (for local Philippine residents)
Local Weekend/Holiday Rate: Php 500.00 (for local Philippine residents)
Non-Local Weekday/Weekend/Holiday Rate: Php 1,000.00

Note:

Kids 3 feet and below are FREE.
The rate also applies to those who will not swim but wish to enter the waterpark.
Local Philippine residents - all individuals (including foreigners) RESIDING in the Philippines. Proof of residency must be presented upon ticket purchase.

Rentals

Lockers – Php 100 for the whole day

Safeguard your valuables with WaterWorld Cebu’s automated lockers equipped with RFID technology. The lockers are not that big but should fit your electronic devices and other valuables.
Tables – Php 400

You can rent a table if you come as a group for a comfortable stay. The table can accommodate 8-10 people comfortably and are located at the Upper and Lower Deck facing the slides and near the food outlets. Table reservation can be made by contacting their sales office at 09177907911 or by messaging them on Facebook
Aqua Suites – Php 2,500 for day use only (good for 10 pax)

WaterWorld Cebu also has Aqua Suites to give your visit that extra special getaway vibe. The Aqua Suites are fully air-conditioned with a TV, sofa and a private comfort room. Booking may be done by contacting their Sales Office.

Cashless Waterpark

WaterWorld has employed cashless transactions inside the waterpark. You will have to get a reloadable Wristband Wallet for a minimal deposit of Php 100 pesos. All remaining wristband balances including the deposit can be refunded before the closing of the waterpark at any of the loading stations located at the WaterWorld Cebu Entrance Area, Splash Shop, Food World, and Tiki Island Bar.

Schedule of Operations, Slide Rules, and Regulations

As per our experience, not all slides/rides operate at the same time. Lifeguards and staff are approachable, and you can always ask them for the schedule. It would be nice if WaterWorld Cebu can place a monitor which provides which slides are open and which are close in realtime at the Tiki Lounge where the tables are located. I hope that they also make the most of their PA system to announce the schedule every now and then.

Swimming Attire

Wearing proper swimwear is strictly imposed when engaging in all water slides and pool activities.

ALLOWED

Board Shorts
Swimsuits
Bikinis
Rashguards
Full body Swimsuits
Swimming Diapers
Goggles

NOT ALLOWED

Regular Diapers
Undergarments
Jeans
Jackets
Halter Dress
Denim Shorts and Boxer Shorts
Long Skirts
Garments with Sequins and Beads
Knitted, Lace and Cotton Fabrics
Jewelry

Food and Drinks

There are 4 food outlets inside the waterpark which offer a variety of food choices. The menu they offer is leaning towards fast food so don’t expect much. For us, we did have Boodle Fight Set which is good for 10 from Barbecue Bay. Unfortunately, some of the barbecues came in raw. Also, the Linagpang soup tastes mediocre.

The four food outlets are the following:

Food World - offers different cuisines such as Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and American
Barbecue Bay - serves grilled pork, chicken and many more
Tiki Island Bar - has a variety of drinks such as fresh juices and fruit shakes as well as delectable desserts including cakes, halo-halo, etc.
Snack Shack - burgers, fries, chips, and the likes

Prices for their meals are in the range 100 to 300++ excluding drinks. Please note that outside food and drinks are STRICTLY PROHIBITED inside the waterpark. They would, however, allow you to bring Celebratory Cakes. Lechons are also allowed with a corkage fee of Php1,000.00. There are no alcoholic beverages in the waterpark.

Slides/Rides/Activities

Extreme Slides

Dare Drop Speed Shooter
Mat Racer
Tornado Twister
Space Hole
The Loop
Family Roller Coaster

Dare Drop and the Speed Shooter, which are the tallest slides at 15 meters high, offers adrenaline junkies the best experience. I personally recommend that you take these two first. After this, every other slide is easy-peasy.

Wave Pool

The wave pool can create waves as high as 1.5 meters. The wave pool can accommodate more than 1000 people.

River Rapids

A lazy river with a total length of 400 meters. This is a good activity for you to chill and enjoy.

Water Playground

This is the place for the small ones. The water playground comes with 11 child-friendly slides.

Summary and Comments

WaterWorld Cebu is a new destination to be in Cebu. As a waterpark, it is indeed the best in Central Visayas. There are rooms for improvement but then, in general, it did meet our expectations. The food quality could be improved. It would be nice if announcements on which slides are open is done consistently using the PA system. Also, the stair steps on the Dare Drop and Speed Shooter tower are not rough enough which may become slippery. Kudos to the p

I hope this guide helps you enjoy most of WaterWorld Cebu! Adios amigos!

28 years of life and still...

2019-11-24T09:33:00.004+08:00

The 4 Non Blondes’ song What’s Up is a perfect lyrical metaphor of the story of each of our lives. We are always trying to figure out a destination. Whether it is the search for a concrete career path, a life-long partner, a sense of purpose, each one of us is in a continuing battle of figuring out what comes next in our lives. Some of us have definite plans while others tend to be very lax in putting weight on what comes after today. The truth is neither of these two is better than the other.

Those who live for today and those who try to give up today for a better tomorrow are on equal footing as neither one is superior to the other. You may disagree with me on this, but let us just agree to disagree. I am in no position to lecture you on what is right and what is wrong because the truth is that there is no definite right and no definite wrong. Right and wrong are social constructs that we have imposed as a species to be able to uphold the very fabric that keeps our society. We have a catch-all term for this, morality. The truth is that morality was, is, and will never be absolute and resolute. There will come a time when what is right today will become unacceptable. That is how things have been and that will be how things shall continue to be.

Climbing the great big hill…

Where do you stand on the hill that you call ambition? Have you reached the apex? Or, are you still figuring out how to get there? Chill… You will have your equal share of doubts – of questions as to whether you are doing the right things. Again, do whatever you want to do. Because at the end of the day, it’s your life and no matter how much others will fiddle and get involved in it, you are the final arbiter and the final say will come from you. Just do what your heart tells you to do. Do not be afraid of judgment but don’t be cynical about other people’s opinions. These are born for reasons that are equally acceptable as the essentiality of your own belief. Just don’t let them dictate the story of your life.

The world is made up of brotherhood…

I always have this question in mind – would I be able to live without connecting to people? I tried. This year, I went to five countries alone with as little connection as possible. It was the best thing that I ever did, but it gave me this harsh truth that no matter how much you want to be alone, you will and will need people. The truth is that we only see connections that are essential to our lives without thinking that we are connected to a lot of people. The pilot that brought you from your point of origin to your destination was there not just for the job but also for the fact that there are people who rely on him including you. The small food stall owner who cooked that delicious laksa that you love was not just there for profit but also because she knows that people will need to eat good food. You see, this world is made up of brotherhoods of different sizes. You can never be alone and you will never be. As much as you hate people, you cannot stand on your own without the toil of others.

I cry sometimes just to get it all out…

Like a glass filled to the brim, you will soon start spilling over. Our emotions can sometimes outsmart us. When these times happen, remember that it is perfectly normal. Get angry; shout the most demeaning expletives you can think of; say as many “fuck you” as you want, just let it all out. The more you hide your emotions, the more dangerous they become. Just spill it over. Be as mean as you can go as that is the best way to outgrow such emotions – for you to become better at handling them. Again, let it all out.

I’m feeling a little peculiar…

Be unique! And by that, I mean that you must be true to yourself. Don’t cripple your wings because society dictates that you have to be this way. Remember that the best reflection of yourself is observed by no other person but you. Remember that you don’t have to fit in some other person’s shoes. Remember that whatever you want to become, you are capable of doing so. The only limit that you have is the one that you set on yourself. Go further than what you ever want. Be your own motivation.

I wake in the morning and I step outside…

Consider each day as a gift. The more you put a value on what is happening today, the more you become focused on achieving something that will not just influence you right now but will also shape your future. Don’t be afraid to go beyond your norms. Keep that fire of desire burning within you. There is no such thing as a dead-end failure. Only that some people give up after a few tries. Never give up. If something becomes comfortable, then it means that you are no longer growing. Get going, no matter what.

I take a deep breath and get real high…

This may sound cliché but it is the truth – for most people, this world is too much to handle. The complexity of our existence makes us wonder if all these are worth the fight. But I tell you, when you come to a point of uncertainty, just shrug it off. Take a deep breath and remember one thing, you are here to please no other person but yourself. Whatever things you enjoy, immerse yourself in it. Get real high and be as happy as you can be.

So what’s going on?

Keep your own pace. The destination that you want might be miles away or just around the alley, but it doesn’t matter as long as you continue moving. Remember to ask yourself, what’s going on? Re-evaluate your goals. Be more proactive in doing things. Influence others to become better people. But don’t force your spoon into their mouths. Like you, they know what’s best for them. Keep a close connection with people but never intrude in their personal space.

Pray for a revolution…

At the end of the day, pray for a revolution - a revolution of ideas, beliefs, and aspirations. Continue to seek change. And be an instrument of change. This world is in chaos, so keep reminding yourself that “All is well”!

So, here I am. 28 years of life and still...

Adios amigos.

The best thing that I can do

2019-10-21T23:57:00.000+08:00

I start my daily routine at 5:00 AM when most of the people are still sound asleep. I would walk around five and a half kilometers to reach Umapad Dumpsite. Not even a typhoon could stop me from doing this daily regimen. After all, I have seven young mouths to feed. I'd rather get wet than hear the hungry sounding stomachs of my three girls and four boys.

All of my children are schooling. I feel that education is the only escape I can provide them against this hell that we are right now. When I was their age, I did not mind my studies. I saw no sense in scrambling numbers trying to figure out products and quotients when at the end of the day I and my brothers would still go the plantation to harvest pineapples.

I was born in Mindanao, specifically in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. As glamorous as it sounds, the place is actually of no single glitter. Most people live on a one-day-one-eat scheme. Kids spent their days not in school but in large pineapple and banana plantations doing hard labor to earn a few centavos. We do not have a functioning hospital in our community. It was like, when you suffer an illness, the best that you can have is to implore the heaven that you get healed.

I lived in Manolo Fortich, the entirety of my teenage life. I think I have harvested more than a hundred thousand pieces of pineapples that now I can't even think of smelling one. Maybe it's true that when you have too much of something, you will start to dislike it.

When I turned 23, I decided to seek better opportunities in Cebu. I packed up my stuff, which translates to two shirts, one puldoroy, and a dog tag that my grandfather gave me. He said that it was a gift from an American friend during the second world war. It was a treasure that he wanted me to keep and give to the next generation of our kin. It's the only treasure I have with me up to now. Well, at least, I am not that poor enough not to own even a single treasure.

The first time I arrived in Cebu, I marveled at its modern look. It was so chic to a probinsyano like me. I've never seen such a vast crowd gathered in one place. It was all good until the harsh reality of life slapped me. I tried looking for work, but everywhere I go, they'd ask me for a high school diploma. I don't have one. The truth is when I was in Mindanao, I never cared for my education. After all, why would you need to know how to divide large numbers when you are only earning a few centavos for a hard day in the plantation?

I started sipping my coffee and ate two pieces of pandesal. The shanty which the eight of us lived was still shrouded in darkness. We do not have electricity. We couldn't afford such a luxury. My children are fast asleep except for Lando, who must go to school early as he is a working student.

After I was done eating, I rolled two empty sacks, got my kalakay, and started heading to the dumpsite. You would barely recognize me in my scavenger costume. My entire body is generously clothed. I walked unceremoniously but filled with hope that I might hit a pot of gold in the dumpsite. I mean it. I am tired of this life. I don't care about myself anymore; I can't bear it looking at the suffering faces of my children.

Two trucks arrived, and the witch hunt for plastic and tin cans started. There were 8 of us who would typically come early in the dumpsite. When we are not scavenging, we are the best of friends. But when we start collecting sellable trash, it's a different story.

The minutes of sorting trash became an hour, and the hours became a day. Filled with exhaustion, I walked towards the junk shop where I would sell my sacks of plastic and metal scraps. That day, I did not hit the pot of gold I was expecting, but I was fortunate enough to have 49 pesos in my pocket. Half a kilo of rice would be 23 pesos, two packs of noodles at 16 pesos. I still have 10 pesos that I saved to give as baon of my kids for the next day.

Just a few blocks to the slum area where I lived, I've seen many people gathering. The smoke is still rising mightily to the sky. There was a fire, and it was a humungous and devastating one. I ran as fast as I could.

"My kids! Help me! I need to find my kids." I shouted in despair as I struggle to navigate through the crowd that has gathered.

There was nothing left. It was like a vast football field, but only that everywhere you look was filled with ashes and debris. I started crying. I was baffled, but then a familiar voice came to my ears.

"Pa, naa sila tanan sa Gym. Tana adto ta." It was my son Lando who, after hearing the news from his friends, rushed to aid his younger brothers and sisters.

It was the best feeling that I have had in my life. Knowing that my kids are safe filled my heart with joy. Maybe, I did not hit the pot of gold in the dumpsite, but still, I was blessed for my family is safe. It was at that moment that I realized that it is not money that can bring us genuine happiness. It is seeing the people we love safe and sound. Material things may provide us comfort, but you can never put a price tag on true happiness.

I am Ondo, a scavenger, a fire victim, a widower. I don't know what's left of the thinning pages of my life, but as long as I live, I will forget all these to focus on the one best thing that I could do… being a father.

Amid the chaos: a weeklong trip in Hong Kong

2019-10-09T17:42:00.000+08:00

The past few months have been very crucial to the people and the government of Hong Kong. What started to be a movement against a perceived undemocratic and authoritative extradition bill has turned into a full political extravaganza. Hongkongers have been very vocal in their displeasure with how the government is handling the current situation.

My trip to Hong Kong has long been planned months before the current political circus has unfolded. Days before my flight, there was this little reluctance on my end to pursue it because, as per the way it was shown in international media, chaos brews in all four corners. From mobs defacing and damaging MTR stations to rioters throwing Molotov cocktails on police vehicles, it was evident that there is too much anarchy in the country.

Nonetheless, I saw this as an excellent opportunity for cultural immersion. My curiosity as to how things are happening in Hong Kong and my never-ending wanderlust brought me to pack up my luggage and head out to Mactan Cebu International Airport. Everything has been set and planned, and I was hoping that nothing dangerous would erupt in Hong Kong while I was there.

I arrived around 10 pm in Macau International Airport, and I headed straight to the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal. From Macau, I rode a ferry to reach Hong Kong. And around 12 am, I have set foot in what is said to be a land in chaos, Hong Kong. I was in a rush since the last MTR trip towards the nearest station to the hotel where I am staying will arrive in a few minutes and chances are I would miss it. I've exited Hong Kong Ferry Terminal and went straight to the Sheung Wan Station. I was literally running from the station entry barrier to the platform. Luck was with me as I was able to reach the train before the doors closed.

For my first day, I went to explore the neighboring areas surrounding my accommodation. I went to a public market and went to a spice market to get a taste of the way of life of Hongkongers. In the afternoon, I went to a local shop which sells snake soup, which I must say is something worthy of the exorbitant price that comes with it. I also tried their different modes of transportations, including the colonial era Tram, which is one of the remnants of the British occupation in the country. In the evening, I went to Fa Yuen Street Market, which is one of the best street food locations in Hong Kong. I ended up going back to my hotel late at around 11 pm, and my legs are already feeling the effects of the walkathon that I did for the entire day.

The second day was allocated for a nature adventure. I have always been a trail lover and what would be the best thing to do in Hong Kong than trek Dragon's Back Trail. Dubbed as one of Asia's most scenic trails, the Dragon's Back is in the eastern seaboard of the Hong Kong island away from the skyscrapers and bustling metropolis. The 8-km trail will showcase to you a scenic view of the Big Wave Bay, the Tai Tam Bay, and the Beaufort Island. The first two kilometers of the trail is the most challenging part with areas of steep ascents and sun-exposed paths. After this, most of the trail is covered with lush vegetation, which protects you from the blazing sun. Some interesting points on this trail include the Shek O Peak with an elevation of around 931 ft, the Dragon Back's viewing deck which gives you a panoramic view of the surrounding bays and islands, and the Big Wave Bay Beach which is where you will end up after completing the trail.

I arrived in the Big Wave Bay Beach around noontime, so I decided to find a local eatery and grab some meals. In all fairness, food is delicious when you are tired and wasted. I then spent some time on the beach with two bottles of beer and a recently bought book. For me, nothing beats the combination of a book, beer, and beach. Indeed, these Bs made this part of my journey the most memorable out of my entire Hong Kong trip.

I went back to my hotel to get some rest before I continue with the day's itinerary, but unfortunately, what was supposed to be a short nap ended as 6 hours of sleep, and I was awake around 11 pm. I had to reschedule my plan to go to Victoria's Peak as it is too late. I was still exhausted, and my legs are aching. For the next two days, I do need to report to work. Thus, I will have limited time for adventures.

On the third day, I had to check out of Grand City Hotel and transfer to Mojo Nomad Aberdeen, which is on the southern part of Hong Kong island. It was indeed the right choice as it helped me avoid the mayhem that occurred during the weekend that followed in the Causeway Bay area and in the Mongkok area, where most of the accommodations are. For the third day, I went to Victoria's Peak and did some pasalubong shopping in the Temple Nigh Market.

For the fourth day, I did go to work from 6 am to 3 pm. The coworking space in Mojo Nomad Aberdeen is one of the best that I have been too. It was an excellent choice since there are not that many people in the hotel and that is something which I prefer. While I like to be in crowds, I would always opt to work in areas where there are fewer people. I commend Mojo Nomad Aberdeen for their communal facilities are some of the best that I have seen in the number of backpackers' accommodations that I have been too.

The first encounter I did with protesters occurred on my fourth day in Hong Kong. I went to Admiralty to exchange my peso for some Hong Kong dollars and boom there was this barrage of people who are on the streets. It was not chaotic. They were singing, and some were shouting what seems to be slogans. I saw the police force directing people and traffic away from the protesters. My heart skipped a beat when I was inside the MTR station and was about to board the train. Police were running towards a group of men, and media were following them. I hurriedly stepped inside the wagon as I thought it might escalate to a full ruckus. I went back to the hotel and decided to call it a day. I've read the news, and it appears that had I stayed longer; I may have been caught up in the commotion that transpired in Admiralty.

I have filed a leave so that I can enjoy my fifth and sixth day in Hong Kong. On the fifth day, I wanted to go to Disneyland, but train service has been canceled due to some protesters vandalizing Sunny Bay Station, which is where you should alight to get to the Disneyland MTR line. I decided to change course and proceeded to the Hong Kong Space Museum and explored the Avenue of Stars, which is just nearby. Hong Kong has several Museums, but being a science geek, I decided that the best one to go to is the Space Museum. I was amazed when the ticketing officer told me that the entrance fee is just $10. It is quite cheap than I have anticipated.

In the evening, I did watch the symphony of lights, and it was a mesmerizing view. I just felt terrible that if things would not deescalate, the beautiful infrastructures, the diverse culture, and the colorful history of Hong Kong will be put to waste.

On the sixth day, I woke up early as I was planning to try to go to Disneyland one more time. Unfortunately, there was an urgent work-related request that I must facilitate. I ended up being in front of my computer until noon. I decided to forgo Disneyland as it would not be economical for me, and I would be rushing to get the most out of the pricey admission fee. I decided to go to the Big Buddha instead.

When I arrived at the Tung Chung station, I saw the damage that was caused by the riot that transpired the other day. MTR ticketing machines have been wrecked, walls and floors have been vandalized, and posters cover the walls of the nearby bus station.

Heading straight to the Ngong Ping 360, I was lucky because the demonstration that occurred the other day has reduced the number of tourists. There was no line, but I still opted to avail the Klook offering, which is way cheaper than buying the ticket from the ticketing booth. I did ride the Ngong Ping crystal cabin, which was another unique experience since you'd feel as if you are floating in the air with its glass bottom and 360-degree view. The cable ride took around 20 to 30 minutes per way.

When you arrive at the Ngong Ping Village, you will still need to walk a few meters to reach the foot of the staircase that leads to the Big Buddha. The stair comes with 268 steps, so reaching the top is indeed a feat to make, especially for those who are not used to walking or trekking. In my case, I simply breezed through the stairs. On top, I took some up-close shots of the statue, went inside the museum on the building where the Buddha sits, took some shots of the surrounding view, and I then went down.

Next to the Buddha is the Po Lin Monastery. This 123-year-old monastery is a gem of its own. Some points of interest are the three huge statues representing the past, present, and future of Buddha, the Main Shrine Hall of Buddha and the Bodhisattva Skanda Hall. The eatery inside the monastery serves Vegetarian food. I ate my late lunch in the monastery and headed back to the gondola ride.

I arrived around 4:00 pm back at Sheung Wan Station. I took my baggage form the TurboJet Service Center, where I left it earlier. I then went to buy my ticket and waited for my ferry ride. By 5:30 pm, I was already in Macau, so I decided to do a quick tour as my flight would still be past midnight. There is not that much to do in Macau unless you like gambling. I went to Senado square, visited the Ruins of St. Paul, and did some casino hopping. Free Shuttles ply the streets of Macau, which will save you a lot in transportation costs.

My trip to Hong Kong was a spectacular experience. It showed me different faces of this little democratic region on the outskirt of a communist giant. I was surprised to find out that street dwellers and beggars are living in Hong Kong's elevated walkways. While Causeway Bay, Mongkok, and Tsim Sha Tsui area are filled with modern skyscrapers, the Shek O village is a great contrast. I can say that the influences of its past being a British colony are hardly seen these days. The locals I met there revealed to me that the current political ruckus is the result of an overcomplicated mesh of issues, grievances, and discontent. Nevertheless, it is something that only Hong Kong and its people will be able to solve. I just hope that it will never be too late before they arrive with a solution.

At the end of the day, I feel fulfilled because I survived a week in a land said to be marred with chaos, but then I guess this chaos is universal and is happening around the world. This chaos is not just about riots or demonstrations. This chaos is manifested in different ways – from the food security issues in African nations to the military conflicts in the middle east to the political and sociopolitical wars between the first world countries and to the never-ending problem of poverty that is happening in all four corners of our planet. But then without chaos, the universe would have never been created. It was chaos that brought the birth of the world and consequently the life on our planet. It may as well be that another form of chaos shall end it all.

See you on my next adventure!

Ginlubngan: an island paradise

2019-05-04T18:30:00.003+08:00

Situated in the archipelago of the Province of Masbate is the little island of Ginlubngan. The name literally translates to “burial site” which is actually true about the island. This little paradise is part of the series of islands which covered somewhat a story: Ginlabanan – a place of battle, Nabuktot – experiencing injury, Namatyan – a place of death and “Ginlubngan” which is the burial site.

Getting there

You can actually go to Ginlubgan from any of the ports and fishing villages of the island of Masbate. The most ideal one is the Cawayan port as Ginlubngan is right across this sleepy town. From Masbate City, you can ride a van (Php 120) and travel around 2 hours to reach barangay Divisoria. From barangay Divisoria, you hire a habal2x (Php 30) or hop-in to one of the tricycles (Php 20) which frequently travel to the Cawayan port. At the Cawayan Port, look for the motorized banca which travels to the fishing village of Naro. From Naro island, you can ask one of the friendly fisher folks in the area to bring you to Ginlubngan.

While there are regular trips to Naro Island, you might have run out of luck and will find yourself stranded in the port of Cawayan, thus, it is recommended that you instead hire a private banca to take you from Cawayan port to Ginlubngan island. Back and forth rate for the Banca is around 1500 to 2000 pesos and most bancas can accommodate as many as 10 people. If you need a larger boat, you will have to shell out more, but technically the more people, the lesser the cost per person will be. Please haggle responsibly and do not overdo it. These banca operators are fishermen missing a day’s catch to bring you to this paradise.

Alternatively, you may travel from Cebu by riding a couch bounded to northern Cebu from the North Bus terminal. Ferries to Cawayan is available in Polambato port traveling daily at 11 PM and in Hagnaya port traveling daily at 6 AM (Php 200~300). From Cawayan port, you take the same route mentioned earlier.

The island of Ginlubngan

Having an area of approximately 2 hectares, the island has two distinct features: a somewhat circular main island where no other vegetation grows but coconuts. On the southern bound of the island, you will find a lengthy sandbar. The sand in the area is powdery white and is comparable to that of Boracay. Locals even claim that some resorts in Boracay have illegally exhumed sand on the island and brought it to their facilities.

The island has no inhabitants so you can aptly say that it is naked. The surrounding sea has little inclination but is very ideal for snorkeling. As the island is relatively untouched, you will find rich biodiversity. The corals blanket the seafloor that you might accidentally step on one so please be careful when swimming. For those who love swimming, the eastern side has better inclination so you would not need to travel that far to find a better depth.

Entrance Fee and Accommodation

The entrance fee is very affordable at 50 pesos per head and already includes access to the open cottages which is available on a first come, first served basis. Overnight stay is possible and you can pitch your own tent for free.

The island also has strong mobile signals for Globe and TM subscribers so you wouldn’t miss your daily dose of social media while staying on Ginlubngan albeit we recommend that you shy away from it and enjoy the rawness of this paradise.

What else should I know?

The island does not have electricity, so make sure that you have your devices fully charged and bring power banks. There is no water source on the island and no store, so bring everything that you need.

Final Note

As always, let us apply the golden rule of traveling.

Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.

Please help make it possible for future generations to enjoy the greatness of Ginlubngan. Be a responsible laagan.

#teamLaagan

The three wise monkeys

2018-09-14T13:06:00.000+08:00

(A persuasive speech)

Good morning everyone!

The proverbial principle of “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” is wonderfully expressed in the image of the three wise monkeys which is a very profound pictorial maxim. I’m here today to talk about it and how right now, most of us are becoming the irony of the three wise monkeys.

Mizaru – the monkey who covers his eyes and sees no evil.

Today, we are at a very crucial period in the history of our country. We are in an oblivion marred by the lack of peace, the lack of rule of law, and utter disrespect to our constitution. Yes, most of us have just turned blind against the injustices that pervade our society today.

To see no evil is good but to act blind and ignore what is happening in our country right now is an utter disregard for the moral and ethical standards that our nation was built upon. What is happening right now is unbecoming of a society. We are in a state of regress instead of progress.

But why are we acting blindly as if everything is okay? Why are we being quiet? Are we really being responsible citizens when we do not support dissent? When we ignore the obvious disregard for the rule of law? When we think that killing is a justified means of eliminating the menace of our society?

Most of us have become ironically like the wise monkey who sees no evil. We see no evil because we are acting blind. We have embraced the idea that these crooked ways are fine because they are what we need to instill order in our society.

Niccolo Machiavelli in his book The Prince said that the end justifies the means. But is it really okay to stick with these unscrupulous methods in order to achieve a safer and sounder society? Is it fine that we are living a Machiavellian society?

The answer is no! Let us stop this foolishness and act. We need to open our eyes and recognize that these things are wrong. Again, we need to act.

At this point, allow me to move on to the second monkey.

Kikazaru - The monkey who covers his ears and hears no evil.

Today, I wouldn’t be surprised if some of you will turn out to be monkeys - monkeys who hear no evil. We have come to a point where most of us have become deaf of the truth. We are not just acting blind but we have also turned deaf about the reality - about the truth.

We are at a point that fake news is more appealing to most than the real news that is based on facts. Let us not become the monkey who hears no evil. Let us be open to the truth even if it is something bad. Let us try to listen to the credible source of facts instead of basing our truth on posts on social media.

Let us not be afraid to hear something evil especially if it is the truth. For it is in knowing the real state of things that we are able to better our actions and do what is right.

The last monkey among the three wise monkeys is Iwazaru. The monkey who covers his mouth and speaks no evil.

Today, the moment you voice your opinion on something that is against the current administration or about a pressing issue, you are oftentimes placed in hot waters. People would label you as someone who is anti-government as if what you are saying is pure evil.

But remember that the most dangerous threat to a democracy, to the truth, is when dissent is being labeled as evil. When public opinion is propelled by propaganda, by strategies to sow confusion and disparity, a democracy is on the brink of extinction.

I tell you. Let us not stop speaking of the evil. Let us continue to be vigilant, to speak the truth regardless if it is bad. Let us remember that dissent is an essential ingredient in a democracy. When nobody questions a decision, when nobody is there to say that something is wrong, even the evilest lie can become the most pious truth of all.

Today, I ask all of you. Let us not become the three wise monkeys. Instead, let us be wiser than them. As the youth of today, we play a pivotal role in nation-building. We are more than capable to make a change. We need to stop these absurdities that we are seeing and hearing and we need to have a voice. Remember that even small ripples, when collectively acting, could become the wave that can topple even the strongest wall.

As an ending thought, I would like to leave you this. The worst enemy of the truth is when everyone embraces a lie and accepts it. I pray that there will be no more monkeys among us. No more wise monkeys. Instead, let us be wiser. It’s high time that we make loud of our voice and fight for the truth.

Thank you.

Why I choose to be happy and why you should

2018-05-22T19:13:00.000+08:00

There are times that I feel half-empty deep inside. There are times when I’d ask myself, what am I doing with my life. I think it is a universal thing for us to question our existence, to have doubts about ourselves, and to be filled with whys and why not.

You don’t have to be succumbed by failures to break down and say I can’t do it any longer. Even when you are at the top, you sometimes wonder if it was worth all the struggles and how are you supposed to continue. The truth is that we are born to doubt because that is the very reason why we have evolved as a species. To question our very existence is enough to tell us that we exist. And perhaps the most profound struggle of our existence is the search for happiness.

Happiness is one of the very things that all of us crave for. Sane or not, we all have the desire to feel satisfaction, to feel contentment, to be filled with joy and happiness. We all want to be happy or to think that we are happy. So why is it that some people are all but hatred, anger, and sadness? Why is it that somehow it is difficult for others to smile? Will the world become a better place if there is no suffering and it’s all just merrymaking and fun?

I’m sorry to say but I’m not here to answer those questions. The reasons I have crafted this short snippet of thoughts is because I want to tell you why I choose to be happy and why you should. Let me start with my story.

I grew in an impoverished family (And today, I’m still poor). My parents work hard just to meet the daily ends of life. We’ve been to times where we ate only once in a day. We’ve been to times where there was nothing but water to quench our thirst and relieve our hunger. We’ve been to times where we’d place buckets to catch the dripping rainwater coming from the holes in the dilapidated nipa roof of our small house. I could go all day to tell you about our poverty-stricken life but then that is again not the purpose of this piece.

It is with this impoverished background that I started to develop my old view on happiness. I’ve started to compare my life with others. I’ve set benchmarks to my happiness. I thought that in order for me to be happy I must have the luxuries of life. I thought I must be successful to be happy. I thought that I should be like this and like that to be happy. My definition of happiness has been attached to things to material stuff.

Ten years forward, I now think that for me to see happiness that way is one of the greatest blunders of my life. I realized that it was a mistake for me to equate happiness to being successful sans failures. That happiness is all about being rich with material things. That it is about merrymaking and fun.
I realized that happiness is about contentment. More importantly, it ain’t about having benchmarks but not having one. You don’t need to have a scale to be happy. What you need is the ability to appreciate what you have – to see the greatness in the things around you.

Whether we like or not, there is always someone who is in a better position than us. We could be at the apex of our career at some point but in a snap, it can go downward spiral. Uncertainty is the only thing certain in life. So to say that you can only be happy because of this or that is totally absurd. You can be happy if you choose to. You can be happy if you feel contentment. You can be happy if you remove resentment in your heart.

Don’t compare, don’t put benchmarks. Instead, learn to put value in the things around you. And more importantly, treasure the relationships you have. People may come and go in your life but the thought of having someone journeyed with you is worth a thousand smiles. And remember that the only thing stopping you from being happy is yourself.

Two things that truly define happiness: contentment and appreciation. If you learn to appreciate and if you settle the scores within yourself and stop comparing or putting benchmarks to your life, I see no reason for you not to be happy.

So here are the three reasons why I choose to be happy. (1) I choose to be happy because I can. (2) I choose to be happy because I have to. (3) I choose to be happy because if I’m not the world won’t stop and wait for me to draw a smile.

So why should you choose to be happy? Here are three reasons. (1) You should choose to be happy because you can. (2) You should choose to be happy because you have to. (3) You should choose to be happy because if you don’t the world won’t stop and wait for you to draw a smile.

Let us all fill our souls with contentment and appreciation and surely we will be happy. And again remember that happiness is not about having benchmarks but not having one.