An Expat's Proverbial Tell-Tale

Fright Night that was

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 05:14:00 +0000

Hiatus & Horror,

Hi Guys! Pardon AJ for the mini-hiatus. 'cant help but to work like a desert donkey these days eh. Its no-easy to become a corporate slave in sandyland when its dry, dreary and creepy. I'm freaking tired,.. torn.. tattered. 'Been wanting to unlock the golden chain long-tangled in my very neck so i could play and live freely naman my one and only life - the way i want it to be. But then again reality bites like those stubborn leeches on my foreign bed. No way for homesickness, lame excuses or sick grudges esp if bills back home are greater and eternal as ever. Now thats what I called SHOCKING !

Yep. Im behind sked again in posting something terrible for Holloween. But let me catch-up. I enjoyed spooky stuff - more than a fat kid enjoyed eating burger or ice-cream. See, my inborn thirst for webblogging and hunger for bloghopping would always find its ways to you en me.

Speaking of shocking, who says the pagan celeb' of the living-dead is not well-observed in Mid-East, huh. As per the Fright Nite Parties I poke around, I could testify how the reserved Arabs unveiled and propped themselves w/ gory costumes side by side with the more holloween-party veterans from West, Asia & Africa. They too fancy fake bloods, vampire teeth and cobwebs, and so Dracula, Matilda and Freddy Kreugers, among horrible others. They LOVE the experience of scare, of chase, [and of massacre] by of course, bladeless ax or chainsaw. I should know, I was once a Haunted House Actor here for 3 nail-biting years (oh well, ...that's another shocking story :)

. .
- this was taken @Tourist Salsa Club in Abu-Dhabi w/ some of the night's hot goblins and witches

who provided the event with some hair-raising moment and bone-chilling entertainment.

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Horror for a Cause,

Outdoor, Pinoy-heroes in town celebrate the event in a more remarkable ways upon braving the dune desert of of Hatta in Dubai for "GABI NG LAGIM" Show ff: the the perennial success of muslim-intimidating litsunan sa disyerto and acccoustic-trippings in haranahan sa disyerto of recent years. It was a cool mix of Horror, Humor & Drama sponsored by valiant men of the Filipino Off-Road Auto Club or FORAC. The proceeds of which funded the distressed OFW's - the runaways who are sheltered for months and years there in the congested (and chaotic) Philippine Embassies - as well as the Country's victims of Grim-Reapers Ondoy and Pepeng.

Fright Night @ the desert that was...

photocredits: txs Brando & nukehead.

Si pareng Erap Talaga (p-3): The Rise, Fall, Rise,... of an "Ex"

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:39:00 +0000

his magic lives...
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72 yrs old Erap hasn’t learnt his lessons “inside”, has he? Or maybe he was just ill-advised [again] by the country’s over-staying Trapo's. The aging champ of the masses became man of the hour anew after endorsing his 2nd bid to his very-much-missed Presidency come May 2010, dubbed by himself, and duly parroted by the ever protector-son Jinggoy as "the last performance of his life" – the same chiefhood his legendary Dad earned in ‘98 and lost-fast in ‘01 due to high-profile cases of loot or Plunder which he both renounces and keep mum anyway, but cause to oust and house-arrest him, however.
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the gaiety went on….
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Tondo, Manila: That vote-rich town where a number of his gangster movies were shot was a perfect place to herald his head-shaking comeback to the most polluted "jungle" in the Planet, (politics what else) as evident to gazillion of local fans and [critic says] "pay-rolled" followers from various parts of flood-inundated Metro who flocked in there to help-crutch their Idol’s re-building of “castle in the sky” for the poor and the oppressed.
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the odds continues…
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Im-no really an ANTI of super-someone responsible for my first name. The truth is, I had great popcorn time with many of his retro films in my then lazy (and carefree) afternoons. But hey, who would’nt smile now to his shameless pandering on GMA's almost bankrupt and arrogant leadership?, - and in his macho way of pontificating about dishonesty & morality while many of HIS are also being held in question?. If the aging Erap would make a younger Joseph (me) smile :), the armed-militia up there in the mountain FROWN over his public paging last week. The feared MILF regarded his re-election plan as form of threat to only revive the old animosity between them & the state in reminder of the former's combat policy in Mindanao w/c kills thousands of warring solders and displaced millions of grief-stricken tenants.
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the quest remain....

My bad for recapturing long-burried memories of our corrupt-culture days. Hence, it is the past which always stirs the present. Half of these bad memories are source of our cynicism and anger, other half of our misgivings and distrust. They could make and break us, - as a Nation and as an Individual. And so while we pride ourselves in the daily servings of political dramas and bickering by the aspirants and spectators alike, may the right wisdom and choice is what to Lord over us this time. An added slap in an already red face hurts even more, right?
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...to be continued
photocredit: Jun Aquino/Roby Villabona
Related Article: si-pareng-erap-talaga-p-2

Writing on Water

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:04:00 +0000

Under the Sea,
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While Pinoys in Luzon battle to keep their heads above the water, the noble men of Maldives have nosedived theirs in free-will last Saturday to co-sanction a pro-climate Resolution aim at saving the country in Indian Ocean and the rest of Island-country like ours from feared extinction.

The historical deep-blue sea plunging or wet meeting by 13 ruling Knights of the world's lowest-lying Archipelago was captain by the Chief-swimmer himself, President Mohamed Nasheed who says "there was a less talk but more action done" - foremost is the signing of a covenant with the U.N. (United Nation) to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions blamed for rising sea levels and spoiling the Earth's Temperature in general, thus came the boiling term Global Warming.

As we all know, this ecological issue of the Planet, if not given full attention, would sure to beckon higher tides and wider landslides in the VERY near future and swipe for good the tourist-haven Island of Maldives off the Map. Unfortunately, the closest examples to pop-up in a foreign mind these days is the current turmoil in our very own R.P. - the equally-green rich Island who turned brown by Muds of late - courtesy of endless cutting of trees and rotting of rivers by no other than its supposed considerate and responsible citizens. TSK.

The President of Maldives co-signing a "life-changing" Resolution in the

presence of Legislators, and in the preying eyes of Wild Fishes and Coral Reefs (and TV Camera).

The Wet Signing
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May this resolution in black and white down there be played-true and alive by adults of today for the sake of younger ones tomorrow (if there will ever be) so it wont just become another Law of the Land written in Water.

photocredits: google

Sick Joke in Sick Times

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:31:00 +0000

"RUN PETER, RUN!"

Nah, they are not running for relief goods, but Yeah, they are racing against time and tides.
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It seems, Paranoia and Bad Rumor are merging very well for denizens of Bgy. San Manuel in Panggasinan - the beautiful & farm-rich province in Luzon being the latest target of loot, murder & rape by this newest Grim Reaper name "Pepeng". In the latter’s onslaught, Video footages of dashing and screaming locals were recorded as part and parcel of another shocking catastrophy in the country.

We can’t blame them,

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Upon investigation, the extra-scenes of chaos in the land of salt [and now murky water] is courtesy of an unknown prankster whose deadly text message reads: "San Roque DAM is cracking and breaking". Upon the notion that a water explosion is looming, their terrified emotions were fed, their horror grew bigger and taller all the more. For some, however, tidal wave mugging won't kill them, but stampede and heart attack would.

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Why not Run with the flow?

Had the text message turned word of mouth is true, the frightening volumes of waters to be emitted by this controversial 17 years old giant Dam would sure to devour them fast, much as they witnessed how the Grim Reaper butchered their shelter and assets in the blink of an eye. Soon escaping the false advent of "Hell and High water", they found themselves a mere laughing stock in the finish line, first by the psychotic-prankster who circulated the malicious rumor, second by humor-hunger viewers who labelled their presence of terror as silly, and absence of mind as pathetic. Poor Peeps.

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And WHOse the freaking Joker?

I bet, even the smartest of psychic and brightest of crystal ball would find it impossible to pindown the culprit who may only be smiling from a distance while sipping hot coffee. And while their kind are plenty nowadays, they who gets duped are ALSO plenty nowadays. TSK.

The Bad Karma,

However, in the event of culprit's arrest, the suggested sentence for him or her is TO DIVE and SWIM San Roque's raging Dam for days - WITH NO RUBBER-BOAT, FOOD or LIFE-VEST SUPPORT. Fair? (lol!)

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I researched 3 intimidating Factors to potentially rupture a firm water reservoir :

1. a Terrorist Attack.

2. a super Tyhpoon w/ matching Earthquake or Tornado Attack.

3. Attack on the Government fund aim to safeguard the facility's wellbeing. (this is more scary!)

BE BRAVE PANGASINENSE !. We look forward to seeing you rising from your flood of testing too. (Hope my love ones esp my luv would remain safe and sane outhere, - and yours as well).

photocredit:PDI
...to be continued

An Expat’s Proverbial WALK-tale

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:09:00 +0000

"March Onward, Ye Pinoy Soldiers",

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Tomorrow, an armies of Pinoy Expatriates in UAE’s 7 Emirates will be joining forces in Dubai Safa Park to take part in the Philippines humane goal of late: crutch the crippled, clothe the stripped, and feed the typhoon's starving and deprived.

And because Friday is sleeping day here, Bagong Bayani should pledge not to stay very late in their Thursday Nite Gimmicks so to heed the alarm clock’s early screaming on Friday.

A handful of heroes are to disembark from the Capital’s mainland (Abu Dhabi) as well as from the hilly sides of Al Ain, Umm Al Quwain & Ras Al Khaimah- 4 farther Emirates from the venue, approximately 3.5 hours drive away. While the remaining 2 Cities, the laidback Ajman & Sharjah (where I live) require only an hour to go there w/c means, I gonna get more sleep. :) But to heck with the freaking sleep, gimmicks or travel time, - personal sacrifices is a MUST these days. And what Bayanihan Spirit of ours stood for if we couldn’t set aside those carnal pleasures, nor shell-out extra generosity for the ill-fated kababayan back home?. TIP: Forget not the sneaker, the shades, the water and yeah the sun-block lotion for the sunray-allergic skin. More importantly, forget not to bring our United Colors of Benetton Friends, Officemates or Flatmates. The more participants the merrier our funds, SO LET's BRING 'EM ON!.

Ugh, J.B.'s Coming??

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Meanwhile, to dispel the ugly rumours thrown against her by do or die netizens, Jacque Bermejo, the Dubai-based Pinay behind that notorious Facebook shoutout might strut the desert too [in metallic armor and helmet, I guess] so I'll have my SLR cam ready for a photo-opp with her, in case. JB's name apparently, were cleared by the Cyber-Police who oath to combat that Internet vermin (if there's any) for pesting not just JB's political family name but for triggerring Pinoy's legendary Paranoia anew.

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Event Registration Fee is Dhs. 50. Drop-off points for in-kind donations are designated in diff areas, and be airfrighted the same day, c/o of LBC Cargo. A Free Event-Tees will be given by major sponsor Giordano. To those who spearhead this Walk for A Cause Project meant to launch a thousand helpful feet, Wow. This is indeed another Expat Tale so noteworthy to Tell.

The Great Flood that was

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:44:00 +0000

And so mother nature fumes,

- and whipped her wrath in our disaster-prone Island AGAIN. Harder her lashing this time. Giving no mercy! Sparing no one! Claiming hundreds of lives and tens of thousands of homes.

The society's privileged and lowly were altogether marooned and turned captives inside their own house & rooftop for 12 hours of incessant rain causing the floodwater to rise. A picture of crying, hungry, & terrified souls were captured by the world's camera and shy previous records of Tragedy in the Philippine history. Suddenly, there were an unprecented feeling of Pain, Death & Hopelessness around the formerly blissful Capital. Till date, many are still waiting for Basic Needs or Rescue Teams to come. To those who have pledged to..and gave helped already, - YOU ARE THEIR HERO!
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"Missing" the Storm,

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In irony, whilst my heart brake for them, I sort of missed the piercing of storm, the gushing and streaming of wind and rain. My bad. But I covet its “magic”, minus the harm. Been out… away, and because wet days in the Desert is as rare as an honest politicians, and dry spell experience here matches a Holy Week Penitents’ belting of bare back under a burning soil. The sattelite images of this shocking event brought to us alive those -
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Gut wrenching scenes,

Gritty portrait of which reminds me of my raw life in my hometown Pasig and Marikina – 2 badly-hit Cities of Ondoy/Ketsana in the Metro. The worst in 4 decades, after Milenyo's equaly barbaric attack in 2000 and that of Frank in Western Visayas last year. While I also seek everyone’s continued prayer and lending hand to help end the victim's hunger, fear & torments, i am recapping my own semi-tragic tale back then - had my wet past played a good part in shaping the core of my sunny being today. I will never ever forget the day I saw the -

Diaspora of People,

It was a dark period for my family and for the entire neighborhood. Yet, in the advent of ominous clouds and raging water approaching pastly our town's high roads and ceilings, I was a carefree boy who would laugh and leap at the depthness of the abyss, explore its mystery, and delight at those wet, weird and “wonderful” moments which petrify the others from a distance. When our dry land turned into a brown sea, I enter a whole new world and I was thrilled...overwhelmed, but not with -

The Aftermath,

'it caused when all it left are stubborn muds and bleeding wound casted to my family's possessions & emotions - and scar sculpted deeply to my townsmen's memory - bearing testimony to the great deluge that was. It was another tale of desperation to which we as always rise above. The period of restoration and withering was gruelling and long, but throughout the same hard years of warfare w/ many storms & aftermaths, we have learnt to master our virtue of patience, willpower & faith to God. The same goes for the injured and -

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Survivor of this year's tragedy,
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Amidst the battery of test and tug of war between hope and despair, of life and death, I witnessed too how my fellow countrymen of yesterday and today, remain grounded in their feet, holding each other's hands and strengthen one's another's arms. they would give as much as they could. What a selfess, moving and humane sight to behold!

And from a safer ground, my young eyes feast at those act of goodness, ...and love.

Related Article: An Inretrospect
For Phil Help Hotline: click here (thanks Aethen)
For UAE: Pls email nhelmorona@yahoo.com (Migrante Dubai Chapter)

Shades of Gray 3: An Ode to a Kin

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:19:00 +0000

Pardon for the mini-hiatus and for not seeing me hopping in your portal/s lately. This blog pauses to recollect the passing of a first cousin whom I grew up with in Pasig. She’s being mourned there, wept there, and shortly, be laid to rest. How grim and morbid the world is!,. I just had a gray post about her mother (my aunt +) not long ago, to which I even asked her to read the same.

May the Eternal Grace & Peace be upon the soul of Lourdes "Undet" ,- my cousin who was once full of dreams, laughter and life in her healthy days . And to drown my ugly sorrow for not making it there, I wrote past this lameting poem in the mid of the night barely after seeing her face in my dream; in Tagalog (as she found me “alien” talking in English). Wherever she maybe, this is for her -

paglisan

Paalam na aking Pinsan,

Kababata ko't Kaibigan

Kay aga mo kaming nilisan...

luha

Luha nga nami’y baunin,

Kailanman di lilimutin
Sa puso ka nakatanim ...

ngiti

Mundo mong kaysungit
Kurot, sabunot nya’t pasakit
Bakit ngiti ganting palit?…
sigla

Bigla ko tuloy naalala,
Halakhak mong nagiisa
Dating ika’y masigla pa...
kanser

Bago katawan ay anayin
Kanser ikaw ay lamunin
Naging kalansay sa paningin…
laban

Mata ko may’ di nasilip
Paghihirap mong sinapit
Sa laban mong anong lupit…
giting

Ako nama'y pinahanga
Sa giting mo raw na pinakita
Tinukod tuhod kahit mahina …
habilin

PAUMANHIN mahal na Pinsan,
Pagbalik sa abo'y di nasilayan
Huling Habilin mo’y hahawakan.

****

I hope the Single Mom would read this from somewhere else. And may the Lord Bless the little Children she left behind. (+)

Si Pareng Erap Talaga (p-2)

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:09:00 +0000

They say Humor is a serious thing. And I so I became sucker for one. 'Guess we all need barrel of laugh these days hah. We need special character i.e., Mirriam or ERAP to give us a lift out of their amusing rhetoric for which they are [also] known.

Let me share you two of my fave' Humors I pirated from Erap's notorious Joke Book. I had goosebumps after having gone through it. Not for the very young & frail of heart, so read & smile at 'em at your own risk.
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Erap & Son
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Son: Dad, what is the difference between the words Confident and Confidential?
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Erap: Hmm, you're my son, and I am very Confident about that. Your bestfriend Buknoy, He is also my son, But that is Confidential.

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Hehe..(Thanks for the English version kuya Rudz).
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COOL? How about the next JOKE down?.....

****

Erap & The Jar

The aging Erap went to his Doctor’s Office to get a sperm count. The doctor gave him a jar and said “Take this jar home and bring me back a sample tomorrow.” The next day, Erap re-appears at the doctor’s office and gives him the jar, which is as clean and empty as on the previous day. The doctor asks what happened. The smart Erap explains..

“Well, doc, it’s like this. First I tried my right hand, but nothing. Then I tried with my left hand, but nothing. Then I called my ex-gf and tried it with her right hand but nothing. Then with her left, but nothing. She even tried with her mouth, but nothing. First with the teeth in, then with the teeth out. Ahh..still nothing!. Hell, we even call the sexy lady next door, and she tried it with both hands, and mouth too, but ugh, nothing”.

The Doctor was shocked. “You asked your NEIGHBOR”? The now frustrated Erap replied, “Yep, but no matter what we tried, WE COULDN’T GET THE DAMN JAR OPEN!”
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HA! HA!.HA! It's not what you & me think... This sick joke is misleading isnt it !?, 'Thought I'll be "GOOD" this Ramadan. Pardon me! Have a fun-filled week anyway. :D

related post:

si Pareng Erap Talaga (p-1)

what mirriam says

Si Jim, si Jeff atbp (p-2)

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 11:36:00 +0000

....the continuation

Unlike Jim, I met Jeff personally and tasted the ravage of his scams. The maverick gangster was our neighbor before he wander and plunder from one street to another. To describe him a little, - he is talk dark, slim, who would smoke like a cogon’ (grass used for thatching) causing His lips to black and so are his gums. After what he did, I avoid now those who own one. The superstition on someone having maitim na gilagid (black gums) seemed so TRUE in his case. (what you think? )

Speaking of nerve, guts and LIES. Man, this Guy has TONS of it. “I am a product of decent school (i.e., San Beda & Mapua) and of big-paying corporation” are just among his fabricated lies meant to pillar his evil motive. Truth is: he was an undergrad from a school I even never knew existed, has been jobless, visa-less and passport-less for a year or so after absconding from a travel agency who sponsored his toxic visit in the country. The Agency also stake claim to victimhood after this Guy left their business in danger, and them, in debt.

“I am smart, I wont be duped!”…

“Don't bank on your confidence” my friendly tip. You never really know when he will strike and how you’ll fall in his trap - he is damn good in the lying field. Anybody saw Channel 2's (Kalye) documentary on hypnotism?. It also ring true on his case. A good acquaintance of mine find himself withdrawing cash from his credit card upon the hypnotic’s command, while mine w/c I hardly saved for a new laptop and mobile had gone missing :(. The [supposed] bday gift for myself were replaced w/ anger and disappointment by the money-sucking crook. He betrayed my trust, battered my kindness. And I was so stupid to believe & entertain the thief, lier, and god knows what else. I was freaking mad. But once melted by his drama when he does it w/ matching tearjerk. I did gave him the chance to change. "Start a new life, I plead". After the shedding of crocodile tears, however, he went back FAST to his “job”, had better prospects, gain more earnings - and more raging enemies at that. Dang!, I can't believe he would feed his Kids in such a way.

His victims are growing…

Jeff’s looting case breed each time he would knock at someone’s door and befriend a stranger in the street. He was a salesman yesterday, a businessman today and a Kabayan-in-need tomorrow. Vanguard your emotions!, - there is he would play. Dont be fooled w/ his tactics, - he works like an Agent of a Pre-need Plan. Woe to his latest prey - an old woman who labor 14 hrs a day, 7x a week in a small chinese resto'. I was saddened to know she's never been home for many years, but more saddened to find out that this Jeff duped her too. He's been hunted as well by his housemates and landlord, after collecting the rent - and running it away. I know. I've spoken and barter bad stories to a number of them. Japok's name & photo was longtime sent to Police for blotter. But the case had since turned cold. As of this writing, He remain at large and in "business". Tsk.
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In memory of Jim, Jeff & their League, I came up with this slogan I dedicate to every Pinoy, (OFW especially)...

"Saan man tayo sa mundo

Doble-ingat sa manloloko

Ingatan ipon at pitaka nyo

Huwag basta magtiwala,

sa Kabayan man o Banyaga,

Nang sa huli di maging kawawa"

Si Jim, Si Jeff at Ibpa… (part 1)

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:06:00 +0000

Haaay... Pinoys in the Emirates are in troubled water again. And the name we've been struggling to re-build were jeopardize - besmirched, and tainted anew.
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Thus, I set aside my Ramadan reflections this month for a more grave but unholy issue - talk about JIM & JEFF - our erring Kabayans of the season. The duo's alleged [cash-related] crimes have been the cause of shaking-heads in our scandal-prone community and an added source of PAIN and yes, HATE among their robbed-prey (count yours truly).
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My blogsite's been itching to expose their plundering case. I was only reluctant due to its sensitive nature and in thought of my non-Pinoy readers. As possible, I 'd shun away from this tale of humiliation & indignity as it is tantamount to milking my own blood and vilying my own state. I am uncomfortable as much as you are. I made a pact w/ myself, however, not to ‘cry wolf’ had my facts were’nt valid and proofs arent’ strong. W/ hodge-podge of follow-up reports drawn against J & J by the Media, Internet, and the victims themselves, I know I'm not barking @ the wrong tree. And w/ the negative impact to every OFW san the moral damage this notorious Jeff has personally given me, i decide to finally break my silence and surface out of my shell - for ~~VENDETTA~~ justice, honor and public awareness' sake. I post ‘em here now without fear & prejudice. NOW or NEVER.

Kabayan, Kabayan, Bakit mo Ito Ginawa??

Si JIM
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According to his Resume', 31 yrs old Jim Abanto Miranda have been working in the Country since 2006 and later was employed as a Relations Officer for a Dubai-based financial industry. He has proven himself an absolute jerk few weeks ago after allegedly sprinting-away his loot, leaving his Pinoy Officemates in real mess and in distress. How much the rowdy cat dragged from their Company? JUST Dhs. 250 thou or a staggering 3.3 Million Pesos - serious cash more than enough to pay the investment & leisures of his dream.

A month after I had emails of his alleged looting case, his "saintly" mug shots were headlined on Balitang Middle East. I did call and speak to the raging bro of JIM's beleaguered colleague - "Solon", who is a new fellow in Town. He was asking for immediate SUPPORT in disseminating the shocking info' aim to trace the newly-millionaire's whereabouts back home.
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Had the latter's sis was the one who recommended the said culprit for the job - whose duty includes encashing checks upon his sister's endorsement. He feared now for her future as she was the one facing the very wrath of their Employer who seemed not to ever want Pinoy workers anymore. Imprisonment's looming like a dark cloud to that lady and to the rest - once Jim's looted million not returned. "Good Job", Jim. Look what you've done. Tsk.

Up Next ... SI JEFF -

A Rubbish Tale

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 02:36:00 +0000

Each living and non-living thing has a story to tell. “They” that lived with me in this decaying part of the City, certainly have one to share.

Location: Al Khan St. in Sharjah: (City of Forbidden Silver)

When my big sis' Bing chose to left me here for Canada, I was thrown into a new building to join a sharing flat. Eventually, my excitement of living-out in a new jungle (aka setting) had turned sour - when the pedestrian-friendly pavements I walk and run each Office day start showing-up its true color out of its stark and “smelly” truth - both AMUSING & IRRITATING.. I tell you.
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They are common & familiar sights, scene-stealing from dusk till dawn, and been begging my mobile to hand them a photo-shoot ...
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Like a suspected rapist in the darkened corner, they've been smiling and winking @ me the moment I rush my feet through them…

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And like a starving vagrant outhere, I am too, was smitten by her charm - and potentials...
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I can't blame him, Because if you cares to look, you’ll see their stereotype are not always an eyesore..
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but some of them could actually keep your earthly treasures...

and would help you laid your tired back after a long day...

some of it could be your health-buddy outdoor,….

or intimate partner indoor..

THEY and MORE are basking in glory there for the wandering eyes to see, and for the diligent hands to grab - all COST & TAX FREE.

BE WARNED, ... HOWEVER.

They are either second or third-hand, so might be plagued already with crawling bugs or stagnant germs. Therefore, the smart choice belongs to those who are dirham-pinching nowadays on whether or not they take them home - prior to City's "Concerned" Department advent.

Dang! 'Guess, I’m back on my crazy week. Whose freaking toilet bowl is that, by the way?

Related Article: Silver no More in Sharjah

From INDIA w/ Love (part 1): “Babies from the Roof"

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:50:00 +0000

As an antidote to a murky week that was, I'll be posting series of Odd Tales I plowed [this time] from the beautiful soil of Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai. And because I normally wallk and rub-elbows with gazillion of them in this country, It is just ethical or rather “safe”, to say No Pun intended in the issue.

The Ritual...
Baby-dangling scenes were captured anew in a remote village of Maharastra giving the global viewers a good shock of their lives. The same triggers intense media scrutiny calling the circus show, nay,.. the pagan rite to stop it's public staging immediately.
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The poor toddlers, as young as 2 years, were on the verge of loosing their tiny tonsils due to wild screaming as Ritual Masters in the shrine's rooftop dangled ‘em up in the presence of a rejoicing crowd and throw ‘em down - to a stretched canvas sheet held in pride by a cluster of faithful “catchers” waiting 50 FT. below. Their respective Moms on the other hand, also looked-up and waited for their naked little ‘angels’ or capeless super-babies to plummet fast like a shooting star. Perhaps praying to Gods that their fragile newborn would land the sheet safe, sound – AND ALIVE.

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The ancient folklore, I found out, have been a common practice in Western India by its Hindu-Muslim aborigines. In fact, a much-awaited event for 500 freaking years now - most noted in rural corners where child mortality rate counts the highest. The Fall (they say) ensures GOOD HEALTH for the Baby and PROSPERITY for the Family.
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So far, no injured little limbs, bones or torso were reported dismembered, injured or broken, and because of that, the throwing-ritual lives on ...

UNBELIEVABLE! (the no-injured babies, I mean) ...to be continued

Shades of Gray 2: That Lady in Yellow

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 08:30:00 +0000

It was 1986. Rain just fell and sky was bright. The Dictator’s despotic tenure in the Palace by the River, were numbered. I was dressing-up for my afternoon class when suddenly, commotions leaks from outside. I peeped through our windowpane and check where the torrent of squeals are hailing from. I witnessed a lion’s share of frantic feet, big and small, all casted towards the town's center street. Could it be a Fire or a Gang-war that made ‘em (my neighbors) dumped their chores and flee their homes? “The wife of Ninoy’s coming”!.. yelp an omen-believing Elder.
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CORY!, CORY!
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From a distance, I stood in dignified silence while my tribesmen are chanting a woman’s name. (My freaking folks are a picture of blood-hungry spectators cheering for clashing Gladiators in a Mortal Combat). The ear-defeaning chant of theirs get bigger and heavier as the Party’s campaign-float drew closer. Finally it passes our respective border and in the blink of an eye, conquered each and everyone. Lean and small, I was overshadowed by the tall and fat ones, so I need to crane my neck like a giraffe to grab a better glimpse of that simple-looking woman in geeky glass whose short hair’s wavy, skin's flawless tipping-off a wealthy background.

An Encounter w/ a Hero,

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To my delight, she gave a me quick nod and a sweet smile as she does generously for everyone. I sighted: her two hands are diligently making an L shape - for FIGHT or “Laban” accordingly, to which everybody (except for me, I guess) have gladly mimic on the spot. Incredible! My young mind wonders "what kind of charisma this woman possessed to freak and enchant my townsmen?".

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As for me, what star-strucked me the most is the vivid paint of the blouse she’s wearing - a beautiful YELLOW, so eye candy and magnetic - eventually became a special symbol of her extraordinary legacy in the concrete jungle that is Politics. Soon I learnt, she is the Leader in disguise who beckon thousands of feet and hands in unity and spearheaded 'em to revive freedom & democracy. The grieving mom and widow of a noble man who became the prime instrument in ousting the country's tyrannic-aging ruler and his Imeldific-shoe collector wife to leave the High Office they and their loyal cronnies had occupied & looted terribly for 20 years.

it was a defining moment. 23 years ago when I first saw her, the President. and the rest, they say is History.

Tie the yellow ribbons,

From million miles, I could only see her now in TV and in print. Lifeless and colorless this time after a month-long of battle and defeat with the Big C. She's being mourned greatly, missed sorely by millions of Local & Global Filipino as patented by showers of yellow confettis and ribbons everywhere - to both lament and honor her passing. I could also see "crocodile tears" amongst those who sobbs and siffs. Those who question her indecisive leadership in social and economic reforms. Those whose expectations she "failed" when the agrarian program fell short in ending land domination of the Elites. Those cynics and hecklers who joked and guffaws upon the rumors of her alleged "hiding" beneath the bed to shield her head of bullets in the apex of an opposing military coup', ...among others.

Against all odds and tides, that Lady in yellow remain affloat and in usual kind self - respected, beloved, remembered and shining as ever - even in her sickness and in death. The International Merits Awards she garnered during her time are nothing compared to the hearts, spirits and souls she has earned - "Us" whom she taught and inspire to believe again in the moving power of Hope, Faith and Integrity. OF FIGHTING A GOOD FIGHT TILL THE VERY END.

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I am one of those who say "Salamat po and PAALAM Tita CORY".

Silver no more in Sharjah

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:18:00 +0000

Following to arrest of Men who are sporting long hair and short pants, Dubai’s cousin Emirates and more conformist rival - SHARJAH, (the place where I presently labor & live) had spewed the other day its militia of undercover police agent aka C.I.D. (Criminal Investigation Dept) in their newest task of clamping-down and impounding silver ornaments found in the wrist, ears, lip, neck and yeah, nose of its male occupants and visitors. This after being taken & lectured "inside”. Click here for some more shocking info..
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Weird as it sounds, the news of re-enforcing the old Islamic law had given the strong gender a lump in the throat. Thus, a non-fiction script was made by me, inspired by the rant of my fellow "in the name of free but risky journalism" Blogger in this part of the land.

"Take out those Silver, man .. Its too Gay!"

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Me: sadeeq (friend), time to get rid of those metallic chain out of your neckline, otherwise the two of you will be apprehended by CID.

Khalid: No way!, My granny gave me this necklace as a gift and it mean so much to me.

Me: But authority’s science project says, silver necklaces and its kind are a gateway to homosexuality. I heared, it cost ‘em a whopping $2B/year to rehabilitate gays through education & hormonal injections.

Khalid: I am not a Gay, and I’m not a criminal! And I don’t think my granny gave this just to turn me into one.

Me: Fine. Just cloak your hippie-effects under your shirt while in Sharjah, and bring it out when you’re in Dubai or AbuDhabi.

***

"It's Haram"....who says?
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Me: So you're an Asian, ...and an “ex-con”.. are you horrified?
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James: Yeah. I was seized without knowing WHY? The law's meant for Muslim male or not, young and old.

Me: So you’re telling me you’re ignorant of this existing 8 years decency law?.
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James: Are’nt they'r blind as a bat?, Straight guys w/ heavy silver are rampant in the streets. Teen-age boys are even prancing with it. Nobody has ever told me wearing it is haram!. (bad).
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Me: So are you questioning Sharjah’ s ala-Saudi style of veiled practice?
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James: At least public awareness is a must, prior to catching.
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Me: And the point of origin must as well inform the newbies of specifics, yeah?
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James: I wondered too, why they are seemed lenient here with Queer men in kandura (long white robe) wearing eyeliner & foundation, but not with men wearing silvers. Insanity & hypocricy at it's best. I'll go for gold next time.
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****

Perhaps, this is the "Be Roman while in Rome” cliche is all about w/c I rephase to "Be Sharjaites while in Sharjah”. Now I think of living-back in the open, but more chaotic city of Dubai - or better live this baffling country for good. :D
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BUT WAIT...

Aren't the "catching-department" missed the glittering fact - that the Shiekdom's Biggest and Oldest Gold & Silver Souq (market) stood strong in Sharjah, indeed a thriving industry for decades now - and have been a famous landmark and tourist attraction in the region? Ditto, Isnt it ironic, the male species can actually buy those Silvers here, but can't wear it here?

....my big mouth's JUST ASKING.

Harry Potter and the Half-Slept Audience

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 10:08:00 +0000

J.K. Rowling, the famous Brit Novelist behind the phenomenal Harry Potter series ensnared the world once more via her top-selling 6th book turned movie "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince", stars U.K's richest teenboy Daniel RadCliffe. As projected, the latest installment akin to its predecessors, had ruled and raked money in the Box office.

But I Guess not after reading this, or after you watching it,….

Been ages since I last critic or bombard a giant film. I was kind of wheel-bound in doing so for no apparent reason. Albeit the fact I’d spent an exorbitant amount of moolah (in pesos, dollars & dirhams) - more than enough to buy hundred kilos of NFA rice for my family’s family - just to freaking amuse or to forget myself at least for a day there in the company of big screen.

But not making me or my friends sleep and snore inside,…

Much as my riveting Title for the same had spoken loudly for itself, I find it “timeworthy” to surface from my usual hibernation and reunite myself anew in doing what other fellow blogers are very good, [and like me] are very bad in doing - Movie Review. Heck, I need to eschew now from throwing too many flowery words to heighten the movie’s creepy beckon on one’s dying wallet. So for those of you who’d ear-on its by-mouth review, you know what I mean. While for those of you who had seen it on the silver screen, you knew you’d just, - ugh, drained-down your hard-earned bucks in w/c you better save during this cost-cutting times.

But Harry and the Half-Blood Prince not all dark, bad and bland,….

I am armoring myself now from the ire of Harry’s legion of delirious Fans who would die for his and his cohort’s broomsticks and magical wands. The movie, san the countless snore-inducing epilogue, could however fill your eyes in those stunning special effects, such as the 'Death Eaters' pocking the gray skies. I cant help but marvell as well the breathtaking medieval-theme settings and props. Saved likewise by the veteran artist of yesteryears, led by the wizzard boy's Nemesis No. 1, the EvilLord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) who became more notorious in his signature wig hair (rebonded i suppose) and the granny stage actor who just came out of the closet, the great Prof Albus Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) who was massacred by the former with the helping hand of skeletal Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) - Harry's Nemesis No. 2. The other bunch of young English Actors also did their role well as Teenagers possessed with magic, potion, and raging hormones. Evidently, the teenage sorcerers grew up very fast - smarter, riper, stronger, but not the same CUTE kiddoe's anymore.

But then again,

Seeing Harry and Hermione’s (Emma Watson) BestFriend RON (Rupert Grint) “unfriendly” countenance on-screen triggers the audience to nap all the more as if they are inside their own house. Ron's "under-the-dosage" facial expressions is infecting, or to rephrase: annoying. Like a sleepy spell so hard to resist. Dang!, those snores and bended heads around me are pretty distracting. I should stay in the cinema's front seat next time. :D

Rating: 5 Stars for Kids. 10 zzzsnoring starlets for adults.

"Nawawala" si Inshira

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:36:00 +0000

Today, I received a FWDD Email Re: Tulong at Inpormasyon kung nasaan si Inshira. E-Mail's rundown, as follow..

“Tumawag po ang mga magulang ni Inshira Calauto sa SOS.org at Tulong Bayan para humingi ng Tulong. Ang kanila pong anak ay nawawala mula pa noong July 17. Ang dalagita ay estudyante ng IPSR. Kung natatandaan natin si Inshira ang nanalong Ms. OFW noong July 10.

Huli sya nakontak nung hatinggabi ng Byernes sa bandang Mursalat. Pagakatapos nun, wala nang balita sa kanya. Kung sino po ang may alam, narinig, pagdududa kung nasaan si Inshira, pakibigay lamang po ang inpormasyon kay Jay Evora. – 050749-8743 o Peping Calauto – 0501652276 (magulang) . Kung maari lamang po, ipakalat ang panawagan na ito sa mga kapwa Pilipino. Ipagdasal natin sya na malayo sa kapahamakan. Ps: Tagalog ang ginamit na salita sa sulat na ito dahil sa sensitibong dahilan".

Critical and poignant as it sounds, the mail’s now jumping from one’s inbox to another. Knowing Pinoy's Bayanihan spirit in nature. Yet peering through its content, I spotted several loopholes. The fact it was tightly edited and cleverly worked-out, I smell something fishy. Is this another case of money sucking hoax on Internet?. (JUST ASKING). The highlighted ones are what seeped-into my nerves. Check it out before the mastermind of this suspected online crime would clone you in the image of the boy who cried wolf, or fleece you of something in the future.

Loopholes, Loopholes:

SOS.org or outcience of Spirituality: the only source who got link . This SOS reminded me of Tom Cruise’ Scientology Cult of sort. Im not sure if the site’s merely promoting itself. Im sure, however, its irrelevant here.

Tulong Bayan: never heard of the group’s backround or activities. No credible link even.

IPSR School: never heard it likewise. Is it here in the UAE? I could count the number of Pinoy School here by my ten fingers. Why the heck it has no phone or website to coordinate w/?

Mursalat: I wonder badly too if this area or street ever existed in the face of Seven Emirates, or is it in the Emirates?.

Jay Evora & Peping Calauto's mobile: I've been frantically dialling their local numbers for 3 hours now. But they and their ghostly cellphone are dead as a nail. They must be on-guard 24/7, yeah?. Damn! No e-mail add. No fax no. Nothing to PM them in case the girl's sighted.

At least the e-hoax, err..the e-mail’s intent for Pinoy readers Only. Good enough to shield our already tattered reputation abroad. But TO PRAY for something I doubted if true is insane. Im not exactly immune to the call and bargaining of pishing Scam. But for people like me who’d been duped once, or rather twice, it pay to become suspicious next time? What about blogging for these virtual Syndicates and Sharks? Really, they are overflowing on my list. "Parang bigas na umaapaw sa lalagyan, kailangang kalusin na". And nothing will gladden my heavy heart but to expose their ugly presence and modus to the world. This hooligans will see.

Lest "

Ps: I cant google search her name and the beauty-contest she'd won - It's freaking blocked.

Before anonymous peeps would counter me back, THIS JUST AN OBSERVATION from someone's so pissed in E-Hoax. Im not saying this is one. FEEL FREE TO GIVE LIGHT.

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Speaking of missing, you maybe wondering where was my cute old template c/o Twinkle. After a year or so of exposing my ehem, cute photo in there, I decided to put it to rest,... for "a change". Thanks again to my friend's unique graphic talent and kindness, Naku di nya ko gagawan ulit, hehe!.. A new AJ banner from you would be most welcome then.

Inshara's" missing-case is genuine, lets all hope the beautiful girl is safe and sound. Lions and vultures are rampant everywhere and in best form to devour her. Sayang naman siya.

Ours too, will come to pass…

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:18:00 +0000

So a celebrity’s sudden or “unexpected” death breeds lot of buzz, huh’. WHY NOT?. In as much as the world’s semi-friendly media and its army of well-geared paparazzi feed us with tons of freaking updates and eyeball-grabbing images daily, their saga will last to reign amongst us, and to borrow a quote from a mentor-co blogger - "like a fine wine which gets better as time passes".
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True enough. A major chunk of our time have been splurged in tailing the star’s footprints of successes and scandals. We were there in the course of their life and death, or rather in their life after death. Their metaphors are frozen alive in our memories. Enchanting and Immortal as ever. Their magic could moved us by a long shot, struck our chords in the drop of hat – and w/ no effort, snatch the little, but so precious time out of our hands. Ironically, they're not even aware we exist.

Hey, Not Just the Stars,

So WHO and WHAT else devour our time, talents and energy.? What liabilities accounts our best assets? … Name it, - Work, Worries?, TVs, DVD’s? Gossips, Gimmicks? Rumors, Humors? Check-out what’s eating you. Hence, If you’re hooked to at least one of ‘em, then I assume, your resources are misused; robbing yourself of personal gain, and placing behind your family’s moral welfare. Count-in the social circles - or what this irritating Pirate-themed Facebook says “MATEYS” you rub elbows with. Arrr!! How’s ye’ shipmates doin’!?...How’s their loot, I mean LIFE lately?!
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Guess, you mirror AJ @ Nite-time,…
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Upon hitting my pillow, a still-small voice would confront me with this guilt-triggering question: “How did I spent my day? How was your parents? sibs? better-half? foes? When was the last time you say Hi to an old friends, or Hello to an aging, dying relatives? Gossip your stories or pray a good prayer for them. Am I serving my life’s “sentence” or purpose well in this Planet?. Then another voice would reply, "Damn it AJ, you’re not!, much as you suspect they had snubbed and took you for granted!

Guess, those voices are my twin-conscience who sees me nowadays as a remote-controlled android, commanded and enslaved by life’s temporal pleasures and earthly concerns – i.e., this ancient curse called JOB, self-seeking illusions I mistaken for vision, the nonsense chattings (OK trippings and flirtings) with Martians or "walang magawa sa buhay na mga Tambays" of virtual space (you’re not the one Im referring to, don’t worry :D) among others.
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We maybe near, yet so far...

And if we are literally far, i suggest better be near while WE or THEY are still around. Life's fleeting. Everybodys’ changing. Time’s running. We knew it. So isnt it cool to Mellow, if not to dump for good those unhealthy craps and gray-hair giving vices and busyness?, and heart instead what matters most. Believe me you'll be especially remembered and followed like the stars.

Dang! its past 3 in the morning, Time out for this endtime preaching. Had a long day, ...a meaningful one though.

How’s yours?

Ma'as-salam Max

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:41:00 +0000

While the world said its tearful GOODBYE to the King of Pop, I said mine in Arabic to an Indian dude. (He too like MJ, will be sorely missed. But our parting time isn't tearful though, oh yeah, bec my bud's still alive and kicking! :D)

So after seasons of battling homesickness doldrum, he had, w/ mixed emotions, packed his stuffs and stepped-out of the Arab ground. I gamble he went for the rightful pick– Family. Possibly at this moment, they are busily unwinding together in restoring what was mislaid. Could be a casual dinner perhaps, a leisure stroll, or series of bedtime stories w/ kid’does. Whatsoever, all I could picture are eclectic grins on their faces whilst sipping the glory of divine times together. His attendance in the environs of his once deserted home, I claim, would fortify the body and spirit of the guy’s ailing Mom. Sure well, because Maximo’s presence on someone’s side is a source of blessing. Fond of making people special, his approach is as cool as cucumber and amity’s as good as gold because it knew no border.

My profound gratitude to you for having been my no. 1 fan-reader of my every WeBlogs when I started it on Friendster 3 yrs ago. Your then prejudiced remarks had stirred my sanity to post much as I could come hell or high water so as to earn you ear-clapping comments.:D Pronto, your extra wish is my command! – and man, here you are, modeling into my writing canvas; and though, I’ve been siesta-deprived, I remain energized while painting your “left-overs” with cool colors.

Kudos for the unwavering compassion in you w/c accessed the depressed, my run-away-Kabayans-in-need, in particular. Ghee, I’l be missing your charity as well (lolz!). But hey, how could you be so bold & intrepid in disclosing your plot of mimicking my journalism style, ha?? You are unrivaled in your own remember so confession does belong to me, - I, point in fact, aspire to grab a slice of your unassuming nature that's far-more attention-grabbing.

(me, tita rox, daughter ai, couples nancy, rmel, bing & mel, max & jojo)

(top photo: Max w/ my 1 yr old niece Jen, 3 yrs old nephew Yom)

BTW, T.Y. for the Giordano Tees in this NY’s eve photo; And will I put behind your valor in tossing-down some pretty servings of Tequila w/o qualms?. You genuinely aim to celebrate the Red-Day with us. So from me and my then Pinoy housemates here in the Emirates, we say CHEERS to you & God Speed :)!

Photo-shooting “Freedom”

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:24:00 +0000

Barely a week after our very own "Independence Day" were, for 111th time, commemorated, my blogging head remain wordless, brain’s empty as my eyes ogle slothfully before my virus-plagued PC. I ponder what to write in honor of the occassion - and of my History Professor who once taught our snoring class to never disregard the red day of liberation in the Calendar, even we, then the nation's hope and future aged or desert the Philippines for good.

Because myself is yet to be liberated from the yoke of my own "slavery" in its many forms and types, I resolved to post some of my 2008 vacation snapshots, which i find relevant for my kinda' late topic. The same I fortunately swim through the pool of my digi-photos which are all screaming to be published.

AJ the paparazzi,

Kindly note, the stolen shots I got here were taken in JUST ONE DAY from a tourist bus I rode in one of my “I badly need to enjoy” trip back home, there in Manila’s thickly-populated suburb. Luckily, my "hidey-hole" is well-elevated and well-tinted, perfect for my snooping task and great for concealing my prowling eyes from the latent wrath [and ugh, stone!] of my both blundering and innocent targets.

The virtual evidence I squirrel away, albeit are common "attraction" in the Island questions the faith & loyalty of even the most patriotic Pinoy alive as the pix attest the sad truth that ours, the so-called land of happy and free we're still the same chaotic state centuries ago - in dire need of cultural transformation - and the same kind of people, - in dire need of character renewal.

It is no secret, we're not yet FREE from -

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- lowly neighbors who embody the country's deep and abiding poverty...
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of ordinary citizen who've been fed up and worn-out in outliving each day ...
. of men and women who defy the road's peace and order rules ...
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of assylum seekers promdi' smitten by the capital's charm but ended-up the city's eyesore ...
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of society's bandits and thugs who are good at making headlines by their own criminal darkside..

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of troubled young people who trail the outlawed path and emulate the self-governing stance of their seniors....

Care for Change, anyone?

Pardon my pessimistic thoughts. And for sounding like Im vilifying my own "ningas-kugon" race and conflict-prone community. But hey, im just practicing transparency and FREEDOM of expression here. Inshalla' (God's will) when I return home and take street photos next time, I'll be seeing Freedom or Independence na in a positive angle and in better light.

I'll let you know. T.G.I.F.

An InRetrospect

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 19:59:00 +0000

To rest my freaking senses (and yours as well), I am giving you something light and cute for the weekend - My very own scandal.. este, my story as a young boy many moons ago :)

So If Superman can spin-back the Earth for real, I would ask him to stop it during my naïve days. Back to the time where my world is small yet filled with genuine smile, animation and fondness; Where fun and adventure rule over petty grudges and worries; and when the heart is full of marvel to experience the unknown. Above all, when the future is emancipated from life’s grim uncertainties.

“The Missing Pandesal”

How can I overlook nanay’s morning embrace when I was 5? Her tap in my back and sweet caress is like the warmth of a rising sun grooming me for the joy of a new day, and of my regular breakfast - plain rice swamped with sweetened coffee, altered with freshly-baked pandesal (bread) in melting butter. The latter she would asked me to enjoy with little (and to speculate, breakfast-deprived) peers outdoor. I comprehend thru her the essence of SHARING & GIVING – even at sometimes, or at most times, nothing left to my tiny hand at all - like what happened to my pandesal that morning. I remember coming back to her and said: "Mother, Mother, I learned as well the value of grip and vigilance". :D.

“AJ’s Pet"
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The untimely murder of my First pet is one of my eardrum-braking scream recorded when I was 7. Mine is not the usual one - A chicken mistakenly known as crow for his deep black feather and long beak causing my superstition-loving neighbors to name him Uwak (Tagalog for crow). My peculiar bird, to my great horror and dismay was gunshot by a cold-blooded assassin which I failed to probe and murder-back (kidding). Dinner time. I remain in grief-mode and in tears. Not only for my chiken’s sudden exit, but incensed by the fact that an uncle double-murdered, cooked and served his chopped limbs to my very front. Did AJ consumed it? Not certain. But what I'm sure about is I LOVE TINOLANG MANOK (and my pet, -my poor turned delicious pet - was prepared to me in such a way). :(

“My Big Day”

I muse over the day when my doting Tatay would asked me to choose between goin’ for a local Karate film with P20 in the pocket (something P200 now) or a food treat at home for my special day. Clever me at 8, I opted for cash & film - knowing my fave’ auntie (+) who has a heart of gold would still make for me her sticky rice (biko) and chinese noodle specialty (pansit) – “for long-life” she whispered, her generous way of covering the normal absence of cake, ice-cream and balloons in my bdays (which father, i understand can't afford back then). It was a Cool bid. One of the bestest treat or trick present I had. Hapi pouch + Hapi belly = HAPI-BDAY to me! To my late Aunt Remy, if she read mine thoughts from a distance, Txs for making my many bdays complete, and noteworthy :)

“Monster Wheel”

Home-town Feast. Lots of games, funny shows and rides. I’ve been an avid patron of the event that I would hunger myself at school just to save moolah and pay for the fiesta' carnival gimmicks. But there is this one attraction-ride I learnt to curse after giving me an indescribable tremors at 9. The illustrious Ferriswheel of George Ferris. I dare thought suing the Genius behind, and make his creepy invention be held liable for my acrophobia. Last Dubai Eid Festival, I did attempt facing my fear of open height with another round of FW ride. Alas, the emotional pay-off I had 20 years ago, just went exactly the same. Heck the irony, I’ve been 100,000 ft. above the ground by airplane several times (more than my age actually) and im feeling cloud nine (but this ..@!# mechanism!). As an adult at least, I no longer sh*t my pant!.:D
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"Rainy Day Connection"

“Rain, rain go-away, come again another day!” My young fellow’s ritual song as they care to play in dry soil. But not my rhyme when I was 10 and below. I fancy on heavy rain w/c cascade similar to a waterfall flowing fastly over my head. Dang! I badly miss those wet days of merriment and careless abandon when the nature touches closely my skull, skin and carefree spirit - and when I madly spool my naked body (picture here a dog freed by the master) in thick beds of grass, of fading brown mud, and tough wind. My parents, ah they could outshine the rage of thunder and lightning as they lo and behold their precious son (me), in they think disgusting, for me is divine state.

I freaked-out to the fullest when our town's rice-field metamorphosed into an exciting swimming ground for there is where I can dip my legs and bathe liberally all the way, - oblivious whether I swim-deep with "non-humans" and gulp the “mineral” from the natural water.

***

Just Another Woman in Shame

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Tue, 26 May 2009 14:51:00 +0000

Sex, Lies & Videotapes of Pinay Celebrity continues. Spicier this time. Water Pls!
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Give way to the Queen,

I remember, Sunshine Cruz’ lip-smacking short film set an action-star hubby in wrath; Criselda Volks’ "i pay you by myself" casino scandal is addicting as well as tearjerking; Ethel Booba’s flaunting of her glory in the presence of a Giant BF (and they say, mongoloid) is comic and dumb. My favorite Angel Locsin and Jennilyn Mercado's xxx at least was a hoax.

To oust and shy ‘em all, we all heard this Katrina Halili’s burlesk video courtesy of Vicky belo’s flirting boyfriend - the famous Dr. Hayden Kho who confessed he did it so with careful and malicious intent. But wait, what’s this Dr. Belo’s own rumored videotape with her psychotic ex-bf aiming even to dethrone that of Katrina and the rest? Ugh. I could imagine her rival’s wide grin then. :D
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Feast thine eyes!

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Thereafter we’ll proceed grilling the remaining and much-awaited 36 or 38? “hayden” collection of blue videotapes that are yet to be released for our viewing pleasure & amusement. I wondered who the lucky girls are. For all I know, beautiful and sexy babes is Doc Hayden’s type. But I don’t know if Pokwang or Bb Gandanghari made it on the list (corny joke). But one second, arent the two beauties just went under the knife too?
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Oooops don’t mistaken me for being showbiz & scandal junkie ha. I plead guilty though. I once jumped the freaking bandwagon of uzis and peeping toms who salivate to see this notorious KH & HK you-tube scandal. Pirated CDs of which, I heard sells like a hotcake and caught the Pinoy Expat community abroad like an Australlian wildfire. Sikat rin dito yan sa Emirates!. Saved by U.A.E’S internet-law on blocking forbidden sites, and saved as well by a porn collector Kabayan who had taught me the art of unblocking those. Ang Pinoy pa, pagdating sa diskarte ...

No to “Hayden”?
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But I guess my pair of virgin eye’s contented with all those pesky news- which is tantamount to saying - I dont need extra carnal knowledge on how [the now] repentant skin Doctor hoodwinked his circle of girlfriends he one-nite-stand with the Careless Whisper background, - and duped with his notorious “hayden” camera.
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Holier than thou critics on the other hand, reviled the act and branded the doctor's preys as sluts, “makati pa sa higad” and bitches. Tsk. Tsk. Kawawa naman sila, Their greatest humiliation is only someone else’ entertainment lang. I believe it would take a decade to undo the moral damages the spicy video had caused them (and their family) even they shed tears, cried foul and lip the immortal word ...“I AM A VICTIM”.
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To the rescue, Senator Bong, in frown eyebrow, had spoken and proved that chivalry isn’t dead yet in the Philippines. He vilified the doctor-architect of the crime being “the highest kind of pervert whose good in making pig out of the women”. But some doubts if he really inspire the future perverts, errr… the younger generation with his heroic bravado and stellar examples - barely after his alleged own scandal leaks in the banketa of Divisoria and Quiapo – a day after his manly anger were unleashed - denying him of some "pogi points" from potential voters.
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But knowing majority of pinoys who always been a sucker for gossip and scandal...
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The Numbers Are Growing,

I was whiling my time away In Ajman BayWalk when I met this Guy with a braided-long hair who sings and play drums for a dubai-based band. (Our english-translated chit-chat, below)

Guy: Kabayan, You’ve seen Katrina-Haydens video?

Me: NO, not yet, why?

Guy: You know what? I have mine too in my mobile.

Me: Oh really!?, that must be HOT!, …may I see? (hehe)

Guy: Sure. Here. But Its only images...

Me: Whew! 'cant imagine your GF’s would pose for you like they are Playboy cover girl ha. You are naughty dude. But how about the video?

Guy: My drunk buddy who took the film kept it. I am yet to grab a copy.

Me: Whatt? aren’t u worried he'd one day gossip it to others or upload that (images) and those (film) in the internet?

Guy: I'm not, and I don’t care. Im not much exposed in there, anyway.

Me: Cool, … it’s your partner, yeah?.

- end of story -

He left me flabbergasted as to WHY there are are guys like him who regal other people (stranger in particular) with their sexcapades - and WHY the hell there are some ladies who consent them. Scandal like this, oh, - good source of Man's Fame,..and Woman's Shame.

Dang! I guess we'll be hearing more Hayden and Katrina in the future...

***

ps: As you may notice, my blogposts new updates aren't working in your sidebar, can someone coach me on how to make the feed work. 'Cant recall what I did in my settings 2 years ago. helpppp!!

MONSTER MOMS: A post-Mother’s Day Special '09

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Sun, 17 May 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Shucks, this is late. Let me catch up with a shocking one then, hehe :D

Lots of goods have been written about MOMS. She who would love & care unconditionally, They who would live & die for offspring. There’s no one else like mums really - They are beyond description. But not all mom's the same. Some got a BIG heart, Some are heartless, ruthless too.

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Freaked, Wicked…and Morbid -
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Last year, I blogged on 3 Extra-ordinary Moms who had given birth in 3 mind-boggling ways. This year something morbid, or rather, morbid mothers had piqued my interest. Their psychotic stories are both gripping and intriguing. Check whose on my list - and see for yourself how "unmotherly" they once were..
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The Baking Moms,
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In Ohio, China Arnold was arrested in 2008 for “toasting” her infant (+) inside the microwave oven after a drinking spree. She denied the charges even a post-mortem test of her baby's crisped torso confirmed - it was all courtesy of a heating device. Her Attorney must won the case otherwise she might be asked to choose between getting fried or roasted by Ohio county’s electric chair. But China's insane case is not unique,

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In Virginia, Elizabeth Otte also languid in jail in 2000 for committing the same baby microwaving crime. Her defense: "I had seizure attack and mistaken my newborn (+) for milk that needed warming". Her accuser: “a person under seizure would find it impossible to wrap a small baby like a shanghai roll, put him in the oven and operate its control”. My Verdict: She's lying!. Pls. Microwave her along with Mommy China.
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The bathing Mom,
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In Houston, before things eventually turned sour, Andrea Yates was a promising young woman. She graduated with highest honor, earned a nursing license and married an engineer from NASA. She seemed to have everything. Until depression whisper to her ears like a demon, "drown 'em to death" - which she perfectly did in one dipping. Questions swirl in the minds of many: is it because she can’t undo no more the pain of momhood or she just missed her Swimming Captain days? My verdict: Whatever bugged her, she did a GORY crime. Drown her too.!
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The Running Mom,

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In NewYork, Marybeth Tinning was a familiar sight in Trauma Centers. She would be seen running hysterical in emergency rooms with one of her sick or dead babies cradled in the arms. While Medical staff despises her, others felt pity. Who wouldnt? Think of her 13 years (1972-85) habitual conception and then rush those toddlers to hospital breathless suddenly - with no valid reasons. My Verdict:A life imprisonment is too lenient for the waisted young life of 9 (+). Unless this panic-stricken mother has a cat life, I'll b delighted to make her breathless - 9x.

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Care for some more erring Moms?...

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K, Meet The Dancing Mom,

In New Jersey, after delivering/dumping her "toy" in the toilet, Melissa Drexler ate salad and returned to the dancing floor as if nothing happened. Horrified schoolmates say's she was just "her usual self" - jolly. Everybody (including her BF) thought she was just fat. Why the hell no one's aware the 130 lbs, 18 yr old girl was preggy and on-her-way?. The notorious prom mom was detained after a school janitor discovered a freshly-dead infant tangled with his untrim navel inside a thrash bin. Right after baby-slaughtering, the partying mom even requested "The Unforgiven" song of Mettalica to be played. My Verdict: Could someone snatch her out of the jail then flush her to her school C.R. .!
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The Shooting Moms,

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In Oregon, Diane Downs put her three children aged 3, 8, & 7 in the car, shot and kill one of them. To save herself from sure incarceration, she invented a story by fingerpointing the fatal shooting to highway robbers or Carjakers. One of surviving child, albeit weak and dying with injuries had spoken in tears - "it was mom!". To which Dianne confess: "I became infatuated with a married man - and he didn't want my kids with us". My Verdict: (Calling carjackers, kidnap this lady and gun her down - with her man, of course!)

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DANG! why is it Kid-does-Killing for these moms are just akin to re-touching their make-up and changing bra, ha?. We heared it. THIS EVIL IS HAPPENING - around us or beside us - in our community maybe, next to our door, perhaps. We dont know. But we knew we could save a precious life from their lunatic tormentor who happen to be a parent. a guardian, - a mom.

CHILD ABUSE HERE, THERE, EVERYWHERE

Ever heared the tale of a young girl locked by mom alone for seven years in a remote farmhouse in Germany?. Tsk. Tsk. She was extremely disturbed and pale as a vinegar when found. Selfish mum denied her sunshine rays and of chance to see the world outside her braced-window - accordingly for being illegitimate. Silly, isnt it? My Verdict: The mother who had borne her out of wedlock has to be locked in that same dark cellar for 7 years also. With sunshine privilege yes, but WITH NO food or water.

Not only in America and Europe we could read about monster moms. 3rd world, or what PGMA called 2nd world country such as ours are more regular in the news - normally for throwing fetuses wherever the "I'm not yet ready" mother wishes. Late last year, there was this Pinay who feed her kids with poison because she got no rice or bread to serve 'em. Some at least did kept their children alive - and make them helpful to the family by selling their young body to perverts or to begging syndicate; and if they're very young for the "businesd" who cares?, let them roam the street freely like a vagrant psychotic till a speeding vehicle mashed the poor kids' wholeness over. Ouch!.

OH, Speaking of fetuses, nothing could beat India's grim record. Heard of Babies' bodies found in abandoned well, apparently aborted because they were, ugh FEMALE. An alarming Half million of these unborn were aborted each year in the thickly-populated India over the past 2 decades, revealed my source . CREEPY!? ...NO, - WICKED!..

***

You light up the life,

In as much as I have gazillion of related crime to report, l'll pause for now. I'm turning monster na rin e. Hope NO mum here would run after their freaking footsteps. And who am I to judge? I dunno' exactly what caused these woman to harm & murder their own flesh and blood - the gift of life they once nurtured and endured "inside".

I can't help but feel thankful for having been blessed with mother who had given me an unwavering T-L-C (san the occasional pinching, and yelling), - where it remain constant through the test of times and of my changing character .:D To all the moms out here, hey, Txs for giving your sons and daughters the same. By your safe pair of hands they too, will continue to see the light of the day. And by keeping your gentle fire burning, they would always be enlightened, warmed, in the darkest and coldest of night .

PhotoCredit : Google/Wikipedia

Related Article:

PACMAN: the SuperMan (p-1)

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Tue, 05 May 2009 09:45:00 +0000

Our Pinoy SuperHero’s back!. Even faster. Even stronger. And yes, even RICHER!.

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KUDOS to his super Kamao, to the might and power of of his in-born speed and steel-like abs honed & perfected by his then hardships, training & discipline. Don Manny Pacquiao, the emerging and the yet to beat pound by pound Superstar of the ring had once again invaded the headlines.

And as he re-market the boxing talent of Filipino People abroad & catapulted anew the Philippine's tainted name to fame - barely after “slaughting” the British Hitman (whose now hit for retirement) in two-brief but incredible rounds, his new winning gave another glory for the country, and no doubt feed the cultural soul of every Pinoy. He continue to champion the heart of masses & elites, and earn applauds by pro's & anti's. And despite the ridicule & mocking thrown at him by critics caused by his carabao english, intimidating looks & flawed decisions in the past, he remain an icon, a noble figure - idolized by young & old, dear by men & women, by gays & lesbians alike, admired [and envy] by pinoys and non. ALL, it seems including the disgruntled ones who have given up completely the Philippines.
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I too, love the adrenalin of Boxing. But just a semi-fan. I dislike seeing 2 brawling gladiators in swelling blackeyes, bloated lips, deformed nose while spitting bloods in the very presence of rabid crowd who yell & cheer in pride as the duo exchange fatal blows and knocked-out one to the ground . Neither I'm a 100% fan of Manny. Yeah, because I cant’ plane myself to Pacquiao Family’s Gen-San Mansion to queue with those army of poverty-stricken fans and home-based supporters for his equally-famous “balato”, (charity) hehe

So after all the rah-rah, the nitty-gritty!...

One Crimeless & Sinless Day

If the on-screen Superman could wind back the Earth, our beloved Pacman's much-paid & much-watched fight this time had reportedly clear roads and empty streets in each corner of the regions as all feets & eyes were led to pay-per view T.V. For the first time in history, the Philippine Archipelago have become a crime-free zone (at last!). Las Vegas’ Sin City, the venue, on the other hand said NO to sinning during the contest proper. What’s up with England? (oh, never heard). The evening of May 2, or rather the daytime of May 3, indeed was reverred. If proven true: isn’t the world wonderful?, and the Heaven could smile at least for a day? (That is if Heaven is a boxing or Manny's fan).:D

- to be continued..

The Paranoid NoyPi

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 05:00:00 +0000

Gee, I was freaking busy out of town here in the Capital (AbuDhabi) that I need to give you a repost entry for the weekend (1st published Nov 07). Catch u later...

***

If there’s one concern I can severely recollect amongst Pres. Gloria’s SONA (State of the Nation Address) - It's her goose-bump giving homily on PARANOIA. The belaguered, but happy President of ours quoted the same as a timely Paradigm in the course of the dreaded S.A.R.S’ unprecedented outbreak in the whole of Asia, particularly in the Philippine's mainland.

The Greek word Paranoia was first introduced to me by an Ingliserong colleague in Call-Center way-back in Ortigas, Manila. I could evoke how my agent-colleague went berserk while calling us “Paranoid” everytime our pasaway na gang rampaged around her booth. To comprehend what she, our freaking prey alleged, I consulted the Wikipedia and found out: this psychotic P is a term used to describe a delusional state. Had since our neutral actions were misread as hostile, - our poor fellow herself is Paranoid. The same goes with my buddy Mike. In 2004, we inadvertently boarded a small ferry to Palawan and there where his Paranoia was revealed to me. He’d rather be sleepless and thirsty and would remain solid in saying no to food or water offered-in kind by strangers during our 15 hours of marine voyage. He suspected we’re sailing with tribal “Pirates” that would go for our belongings as well as our internal body organs while we are sleeping, thus we must be on guard 24/7 or else will be thrown breathless in a shark-pested sea - after those nerds partake their shares of the loot. (what a repulsive thought of my friend!).
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Moreso, if you resemble our suspicious, irritable, introverted, depressed, jealous, selfish and bitter assembly; Welcome to the Club then - because not doubt, PARANOIA dwells in you. The notorious personality disorder unknowingly nurtured by every John DeLaCruz, ok to be fair, by every one anywhere in world. A type of disease more horrific & deadly than the virus SARS. A widespread problem since time immemorial, in which the victim of such find it difficult to distinguish what’s real and what's not. Oddly enough, it is present in a doom and gloom mentality - in the absence of mirth and of joy. Hope it won’t took ages before men of today unearthed the cure. Further, check out sample of these recurring instances of Paranoia in our typical, daily lives:
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· An acquaintance popped-up. (its for favor)
· Unresponded emails & texts. (we’re not cared for)
· A spouse went home late. (he/she’s “playing fire”)
· A politician just won an electoral seat. (corruptions will rule after)
· Our workmates on their Tribal lingo’s. (they’re talking silly against us)
· A Balikbayan neighbor/relative came back (we deserved a pasalubong)
· We’re sitting-down next to a goon-looking guy. (he’s a holdaper/a serial killer)

THESE and MORE!...

.Flags, Tires, Effigies were set ablazed (and creepy enough, even human in flesh) by the hands of those whose self/cultural egos were “impaired”. Paranoia had reached its toll by claiming peoples lives and ruining relationships. Bitter experiences and personal past history have had played major role on this grave behavioral-issue. Hence, no matter how serious and unmanageable it sounds, HOPE may rule still, - only if one commit to renew a distraught mind.

Let's all trim-down our vines of pessimism. Let good thoughts control us.

TGIF!

Author Marcus says “The greatest discovery of my generation is that man can alter his life simply by altering his attitude of mind."

When Award Rain, It Pours…

josh_dubai@hotmail.com (AJ) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:02:00 +0000

For the last quarter, not only I've been SPAMMED left & right. I was TAGGED, & AWARDED too.

The Thrill of First Time
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I remember my neophyte days in blogging when my "Empire" starts in scratch, I could still feel the joy of being recognized the first time, the fun of earning one and the thrill of giving what I received. I used to flaunt ‘em, thought even of framing a bigger print-out of the same. That’s how I was proud & engaged then. Till one day, soon my Page Rank reaches 4 & my traffic count thousands after a year or so (brags), the screaming Tag awards of mine were silenced out of the blue and broomed-out of my chocked sidebar for good. Well, saved by two (2) loyal emblems I won from joining a bloody Poll & one (1) c/o of my template designer Twinks.

Ever wonder where the heck are my supposed replies?, and where my freaking prized collection was? - ah, eh.. they were kept inside my heart :D.
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Hitherto, I was armalite again with newer bunch of friendship chain recently permeating the webblogging air. Why is it the new badges from you can't be found or wasnt mentioned here?, or why I seemed not doing my part of passing 'em to deserving fellow right away?. Do I became a snob? Nope. A sloth? Yes. Did I just erased them?. Not yet. (lol!) at least when I do, it must come with a good mix of emotions, comic and drama, ask my beautiful Chair Awardees :D

I blog these days according to my mood. In fact, I recycle-bin a number of pay-per-post offer and widgets from penny-pinching Advertisers - so to shun myself of deadlines when I rather bloghop than posting my own. But Hey, im not shutting my door on those cute tokens of yours in the future - AJ will always welcome them. So keep on giving & I’ll keep on receiving, (just... receiving) hehe....

Awards! Awards! Who hath given you? -

This came by my be-dimpled young sis Stacey whose pretty looks when maddened could turn hooligans into ashes. Read her pink warning sign to find out. (May you not turn me into one sis, haha). Txs for the medal.

The illustrious Neno Award was delivered to me before & after Lenten by 3 promising young gents who also happened to be newfound dudes namely:

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1.dencio - who shocked, I mean astonished, the conservative member of blogging community upon publishing his bare story on U.P. Oblation Run as part en ritual of their Frat. Check his and his brave comrades uncommon valor here (was of course censored by himself) :D

2. jay, - Engineer Jay, unlike myself is a Math Wizz. But like me is an advocate of human interest, culture & photography and that of David's - left America and Blog the Philippine as told in the Phil-Am boy's Coconuter.

3. ruph, a fellow bean-counter in the Emirates whose honest-to-goodness article on OFW in Dubai was featured & commended in GMA 7's kuwentong kapuso segment. We're goin' to Eyeball sooner & eat beef shawarma @ the Burj. Had since his paycheck is heftier than mine - His treat!, right ruph? :D

S' NJ (Nereus Jethro), the brilliant man behind the legendary Desert Aquaforce, gave me this months back. At the rear of his nugget of wisdom & professional achievements by the Red Sea is a humble, adorable & simple man. Such a thoughtful guy too, - he Tag me once a month :(

Hours after posting this entry,

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Bb. Edsie buzzed & informed me I got an extra one to hide, err.. to flaunt. This transparent statue, so prim & proper . Txs a lot sexy! Oh, I wish its real. :D.

Thank you's, Sorry's - & my Vendetta

With held thoughts, I apologize to many others whose kindness I seemed to ignored, whose forwards I unconciously remissed. It may took me ages but rest assured, they'll be given justice one by one. As the Bible says "good efforts are not in vain". As per my subject today, I know, I know, I had broken some rules - but to echo what I just said they will be justified too in due time - my freaking way, my style :D.

OK. Let me roll my sleeve and jump to work for the three-pages ala-Term Paper Tag and pass it to those who have brutally Tagged me and those who are about to Tag me in days ahead. A personalized Award, once the 3 pages Tag is done awaits. Think Im sick in the head & playing with you?? Oh Well, let's see... :D.. Had you failed to do so, BAD!... YOUR NAME WILL BE PURGED IMMEDIATELY.

Biro lang po. :D ...

A million THANKS for your unwavering support & leniency. T.G.I.F!