Pinoy with Mustard Sauce

I guess it's a start

2011-08-28T04:14:00.001+08:00

So, my question for you is... What do you want to be when you grow up?

i remember back in grade school, i just want to quit studying and play video games for the rest of my life.i didn't
want to do anything that would stress my brain.i just want to enjoy and enjoy and enjoy; til my last breath, playing video games. period. it was my life i couldn't live without it.

i never had a really clear direction in my head. i envied my classmates for having the ability to answer "what-do-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up question." i couldn't answer it. i'd come up with a ~~very clever~~ response though.

grade school teacher: Roland, what do you want to be when you grow up?

me: (looks at my classmate who just answer the question) well, just like him.

and then after saying that, i'd come up with an on-the-spot explanation as to why i wanted it. i was a quick thinker, snappy in coming up with brilliant explanations to justify my answer (though, most of them were lies, of course). it was probably why i was extemporaneous speech champion in my school for two years and why i won as best dabater (without ever preparing any of my answers beforehand.)

i can boast about those achievements all night long but in reality, i actually hated it, because of the ability to come up answers (or lies) granted me the option to never have to answer "what-do-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up question." ever again. if anyone would dare ask me to answer that question,i'd just tap it into my brain and come up with a stupid lie to answer it.

what can i answer anyway? i had no talent whatsoever, i wasn't smart, and i never cared about world peace, ~~and the only thing i'm good at is playing stupid children games~~. so for the longest time in my life, i had no idea who i was or where i was headed. no idea at all.

then i met Jesus. now you would think that it would solve everything-but no. it did give me however, an assurance of salvation and that i actually had a purpose. i just had to know what it was, but for some reason i couldn't find it. i still didn't know where i was headed, but now i know that Someone's got my back, and it made me feel better. oh and uh... it made me reconsider world peace.

it was in high school where things were to take an interesting twist. one day, a classmate of mine brought a guitar to the classroom. ~~i thought, "what a strange looking instrument~~..." he told me to give it a try, and i did. I SUCKED. i gave up the instant i felt my fingers hurting. but for some reason, i thought it was interesting. not because i sucked, but the fact that i might have found something that can keep me occupied during break times from class hours.

i noticed i was learning to play really fast. i couldn't believe it. a computer nerd/geeky looking guy like me, may actually have some sort of talent after all. heck, maybe i could form a band someday, write my own songs, ~~and become President of the Philippines.~~

another classmate of mine eventually brought a cd of Switchfoot and i instantly got hooked. the guitar riffs were amazing and the song writing was absolutely brilliant. Jonathan Foreman. that's the name of the frontman of the band. i'll never forget that name. the message in his songs even helped strengthen my faith. i looked up to him as a role model. it's amazing, how he inspires the younger generation with his music.

then it hit me.i think that's what i want to be. i now had a better answer to the "what-do-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up question.". i want to inspire the younger generation through music. "not a bad answer" i thought. i guess it's a start.

Reflection 101

2010-01-22T14:39:00.000+08:00

It takes no faith to trust God when He is obviously moving. Real faith is holding on & believing when God SEEMS absent.

? Registered

2009-10-29T12:38:00.000+08:00

Checklist.... have u done EVERYTHING already? you still have til Nov1 for the last box....

That's My King!

2009-10-21T13:17:00.006+08:00

I'm lovin' it.

2009-10-21T13:15:00.001+08:00

The book I started reading today is Joel Osteen's Your Best Life Begins Each Morning

Hug of Grace

2009-10-20T13:41:00.001+08:00

    The worst feeling in the world is knowing that you've let someone down. There is a certain agony in the waiting - standing by, powerless, as a person decides whether or not he will forgive you. The feeling multiplies because you know you don't deserve forgiveness.

    I betrayed a close friend of mine not long ago. I didn't tell him, but instead waited, hoping he would never find out. I sort of knew that he eventually would. He did discover my dishonesty shortly thereafter, and he confronted me. All the excuses I had stored up were suddenly useless. There were no words that could remedy the damage I had done to our friendship and to his trust.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

   One day that friend came to me and gave me a hug. He told me that he had decided to forgive me. He said he cared about me too much to let me go because of one mistake. His forgiveness felt great, but it also made me feel guilty. It seemed too easy, too quick and definitely undeserved.

    What I experienced is called grace, and it's God's gift to us. God loves us dearly; we are his most prized possessions. We take his love for granted daily and betray him with a constant stream of sin and deceit. The best part is, He still loves us. We certainly don't deserve it, but he gives us forgiveness anyway. He not only moves on, but he forgets our sins just as soon as he forgives them.

    Grace is a hard thing to grasp, but just think of it as God's make-up hug.

A Glee Sneak Peak

2009-10-06T05:28:00.000+08:00

Last week episode was amazing. And after watching this video, I'm pretty sure this week episode will rock your world. The fellas singin Bon Jovi's It's my life and Confession by Usher.

How soon is NOW

2009-10-02T02:34:00.004+08:00

"Don't expect gratitude and you won't be disappointed. Do things because it is the right thing to do and in doing so you feel your heart swell up with love for your fellow man." - Chris Morgan

It's really heartbreaking to see the victims of Ondoy (Ketsana) especially the children and the old ones. You can help them by donating in kind or cash. God loves the cheerful giver. :)

for those in SINGAPORE:

- dropoff for relief goods is @ airfreight lucky plaza #03-09. can call 62351011, they are open up to 7pm.

- pinoys are mobilizing and gathering donations, visit this forum for more details.

for those in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA:

- you can deliver relief goods to 303/5 Stromboli Strait, Homebush Bay 2127. you can also contact through twitter at @allorange if you want to arrange for a pick up in the city

for those in CANADA:

- TORONTO - pinoys are spearheading efforts to help, visit this website for details.

- WINNIPEG - the Philippine Community Centre of Manitoba here in Winnipeg Canada started to raise money for the victims today

for those based in BELGIUM:

- from @SayChiz, they can contact Shiera Catalan at +32485328811 if they want to donate goods for typhoon relief

for anyone in the UNITED STATES:

- you can call the ABS-CBN US Helpline at 1-800-5272820 to know how you can help

- also, you can donate through the kapuso foundation site.

- with your credit card, donate via the the abs-cbn foundation.

- for those in california, Island Pacific Supermarket is gathering donations to be shipped to the Philippines

- SAN FRANCISCO - 5750 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94112 For details call 510-750-3036, 209-3499576, 415-239-9576

- LOS ANGELES - Manila Forwarder Headquarters 4249 Eagle Rock Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90065 1.800.210.1019323. 478.1599

- NEW YORK - NYC Disaster Relief drop off center @ Pandayan Center 406 W40th St. Between 9th and 10th Aves. NY, NY 10018 or 212.564.6057.

- NEW JERSEY - NJ drop off Sinugba Cafe or Casa Victoria or (201)621-3156 -Yves Nibungco

for those in the UK:

- you can donate through OXFAM on their official website.

for anyone else ABROAD who wants to help:

- you can donate through the paypal account link on this site.

- the official website of the PHILIPPINE RED CROSS has a complete listing of how you can donate to them.

- the ayala foundation is also accepting your donations through their website.

- you can donate through the kapuso foundation site.

- you can use your credit card to donate via the the abs-cbn foundation.

- donate rice through the UN's World Food Programme through their official website.

Credits:
Anthony Dulce (Photos)

Bianca Gonzales

Confessions of A Sunday Morning Christian

2009-09-30T13:14:00.001+08:00

Strobe lights illuminated the room while the DJ played yet another great jam. It was a typical Saturday night. Stumbling teenagers gyrated against one another, beers in hand. I overheard some kid across the room say to his friend, " Doesn't that guy over there have church tomorrow? He's such a hypocrite, just as all Christians are."

Living Two Lives

      There are obstacles in each of our lives that we are forced to face every day. How we deal with those obstacles strongly affects others around us in ways we cannot always see.

      "The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians, who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, then walk out the door and deny Him by their lifestyles. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable." That powerful statement by Brennan Manning should be a challenge to all of us believers.

      When I was in high school, I considered myself a Christian, but I was not really following God- I did what I wanted, when I wanted. I went to church every Sunday with my family, but that was the extent of my relationship with God.

      Though my friends knew I considered myself a Christian, they could not see any difference between themselves and me. I was what some people call a Sunday morning Christian. I would party and drink with my friends on the weekends and then go to church Sunday mornings. I never imagined the extent to which this type of behavior would hinder me in the future.

Ruined Reputation

      During my senior year of high school, I rededicated my life to Christ. I finally realized how wrong I had been before, and I wanted to live in a way that was pleasing to God. I stopped drinking, got involved in youth groups and Bible studies and tried my best to set a good example for others.

      But my witness was ruined before it even started. When I shared with my friends the reasons I stopped drinking, they thought I was trying to act like I was better than they were. They would just respond, "You have no right to tell us that drinking is wrong when you used to drink with us." They thought I was judging them when really I was just trying to love them.

      I never imagined that because of my former behavior, my credibility would be destroyed. It really hurt me, but I had no other choice than to accept it and try to keep living as an example.

      As sad that was for me, it taught me a lot. I am now much more conscious of my actions. I know I have to live consistently with what I claim to believe.

Second Chance

      Because I have stayed strong in following God over the past few years, people have begun to notice. My friends are now starting to see that my relationship with God is real. Some of them have asked to talk to me about my faith. One friend even gave her life to Christ as a result of our discussions. I never would have thought that I could have a part in something like that.

      It is amazing the ways God works in our lives. He wants us to be examples of him. We can affect so many people's lives just by living out what we believe.

      Always be aware of your actions. Do not be the reason that someone else does not know Jesus. But remember that even if you do mess up, God will forgive you if you ask. He can still use you in unimaginable ways to further his kingdom.

Actions and Consequences

2009-09-29T22:41:00.009+08:00

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that naturewill reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Galatians 6 : 7-8

Life is a basic responsibility structure. We sometimes ascribe a basic irrationality to life by thinking that what we do does not have consequences. We do one thing and sonehow and hope that something else will result. It is like planting a coconut and hoping for mangoes.

Interestingly, we tend not to have these expectations when we are doing good deeds. From good deeds we expect good results. It is when we do wrong that we hope things will not turn out too badly. And it is in this that we demonstrate our irrationality, for the law of life is none other than this: Whatever we sow,we shall reap. If we sow discord, then discord will be the result. It will hurt others and ourselves.

We need to assume responsibility for our thoughts and actions. Only then can we receive God's forgiveness and the forgiveness of those we have wronged. God can and does redeem our situations but what we cannot do is to excuse our wrongdoing.

Our hope is that somehow things will turn out for the better is unrealistics. They will not. Negative and harmful things we have done will not just go away.They remain working as leaven in our lives and those we influence. We need to face up to what we've done. We also need to evaluate our actions and motives. Above all, wee need to be big enough to acknowledge our faults and failures.

Living responsibly is the affirmative side of the law of sowing and reaping. We can purposefully plan to do that which is right and good.In planting good seed, we affect positively the person we are becoming. We can in faith expect a good harvest.

Credits: Charles Ringma

Typhoon Ondoy Emergency Hotlines and Relief Operations

2009-09-29T13:35:00.004+08:00

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

Rescue Operations

National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) (+632-9125668, +632-9111406, +632-9115061, +632-9122665) Help hotlines: (+65 734-2118, 734-2120) ndcchelpdesk@gmail.com
Philippine Coast Guard (+632-5276136)
Air Force (+63908-1126976, +632-8535023)
Metro Manila Development Authority (136)
Marikina City Rescue (+632-6462436, +632-6462423, +632920-9072902)
Pasig Rescue Emergency Number (+632-6310099)
Quezon City Rescue (161)
San Juan City Hall Command Post (+632-4681697)
Bureau of Fire Protection Region III (Central Luzon) Hotline: (+63245-9634376)
Senator Dick Gordon (+639178997898, +63938-444BOYS, +632-9342118, +632-4338528)
Senator Manny Villar (+639174226800. +639172414864, +639276751981)
Cainta Mayor Ramon Ilagan (+632927-2204744/ +632-6650846)
Marikina Mayor Maridel and Mr. Ramon Santiago: (+632917-3221951/ +632920-9389914)

Civil Society/ Media

Philippine National Red Cross (143, +632-5270000)
Philippine National Red Cross Rizal Chapter operations center hotline: (+632-6350922, +632-6347824)
Go to GMA Facebook page & post complete addresses and names of people in need of immediate help.
ABS-CBN Typhoon Ondoy Hotline: (+632-4163641)
Jam 88.3: (+632- 6318803) or SMS at JAM (space) 883 (space) your message to 2968
GMA Kapuso Helpline: (+632-9811950-59)

_______________________________________________________________________________

All calls for help, please help us by filling out information here at the Rescue InfoHub Center.
Sahana Disaster Management System needs IT volunteers. http://sahana.kahelos.org. Email sahana@kahelos.org.
________________________________________________________________________________

Rubber Boat, 4×4 Trucks, Chopper Requests

NCRPO (+632-8383203, +632-8383354)
Private citizens who would like to lend their motor boats for rescue please call emergency nos: +632-9125668, +632-9111406, +632-9122665, +632-9115061)
You can also text (+632917-4226800 or +632927-6751981) for rescue dump trucks.
For those who are able to lend 4×4 trucks for rescue: Please send truck to Greenhills Shoppng Center Unimart Grocery to await deployment, Tel No. (+632920-9072902).
Petron & San Miguel Corporation are lending choppers for rescue operations, call/text: (+632917-8140655) ask for Lydia Ragasa

Power Supply

Meralco (+63917-5592824, 16211, +63920-9292824) If you want service cut off to your area to prevent fires and electrocution.

Relief Aid and Donations

URGENT: _____________________________________________________________________

Donations of heavy duty flashlights needed for rescue operations in Cainta area. Contact Cielo at (+632918-8824356)
______________________________________________________________________________

Businesses/ Commercial Establishments

7-11 stores
Alabang Town Center drop off goods at the concierge. For inquiries, please call (+632-8422782 or +632-7721860).
Aranaz Stores in Rockwell & Greenbelt is accepting donations of any kind for Payatas communities affected by Ondoy
Binalot at Greenbelt 1, call Tetchie Bundalian at (+632922-8573277)
Brainbeam Events, Inc. 2/F MB Aguirre Cornerhs Bldg,15 Pres Ave cor Elizalde Sts, BF Homes Paranaque across the old Caltex in BF. Will accept relief goods.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf will be accepting canned goods, water, clothes, blankets, towels, medicine, and emergency supplies (no cash) in all our branches on behalf of the victims of Typhoon Ondoy starting today until Friday. Your generosity wi…ll be much appreciated during this difficult time for our brothersand sisters in need.
Fantastik Manila – send donations to 5729 Calasanz St. Barangay Olympia Makati City Telephone Numbers +632-7290530 or +632-5017405
Jollibee branches in Metro Manila – drop off point
Luca stores (Rockwell, Shang-rila, Eastwood, or GA towers): Send your old clothes & donations (no cash pls).
Manor Superclub, Eastwood City will accept goods and other emergency items starting Sunday at 10 am.
Ministop IBARRA (Espana cor. Blumentritt, Sampaloc Manila) is also accepting relief goods, Food (non-perishable goods only) Clothing, Medicines, Beds, Pillows, Blankets, Emergency Supplies to help Typhoon Ondoy victims.
Moonshine boutique in Rockwell also accepting relief good to help Ondoy victims in Marikina and Cainta.
Myron’s Greenbelt will accept relief goods
Papemelroti stores in 91 Roces Ave. / Ali Mall Cubao / SM City North EDSA / SM Fairview / SM Megamall / Glorietta 3 in Makati / SM Centerpoint / SM Southmall are accepting relief goods (canned goods / milk / bottled water / clothes – NO CASH pls.)
Philippine Daily Inquirer – 1098 Chino Roces Ave. corner Mascardo and Yague Streets, Makati City and to any of its classified ads branches, and to any McDonald’s branch within Metro Manila. Donations in kind, such as instant noodles, canned goods, formula milk, blankets and clothes, are urgently needed. Call (+632-8978808 loc. 260) and look for Megi Garcia
PowerPlant Mall accepting donations for ABS-CBN foundation. Dropoff at admin office, P1 level.
Red Kimono restaurants – has branches in Pasig, Pampanga, Quezon City and Taguig City. Will accept canned goods, bottled water, clothing for all ages, basic household items.
R.O.X. – Recreational Outdoor eXchange is accepting donation for relief good for Typhoon Ondoy victims. You can bring it in the store located in B1 building Bonifacio High St., Tel. No. (+632-8564638/39)
Shell gas stations – drop off point
Smart Wireless Centers – SM Fairview, SM North EDSA, Gateway Mall Cubao, AliMall Cubao, SM Megamall, SM Muntinlupa, SM Bicutan, SM Sucat, Festival Mall Alabang, Alabang Town Center and SM Southmall. Will accept cash or goods.
Team Manila stores in Trinoma, Mall of Asia, Jupiter Bel-Air and Rockwell shall be accepting relief goods (Canned Goods, Ready-to-drink Milk,Bottled Water and Clothes) for distribution by Veritas.
Total gas stations- drop off point
Unimart will receive all cash and in-kind donations to be transferred to LSGH Gate 2.
Vivere Suites 5102 Ridgeway Avenue, Fil-Invest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Contact (+632-7717777) for inquiries or drop off at concierge area. Will accept relief goods.
Whitespace 2314 Chino Roces Ave Ext as a Makati drop-off for relief goods.

Government/ Civil Society/ Movements

Victory Fort is opening its doors to those affected by the typhoon. Call 813-FORT.
ABS-CBN through Banco de Oro account number 56300-20111 account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Incorporation
Akbayan’s taking donations, call 433-69-33/433-68-31 to donate or volunteer.
Brgy. San Antonio Bgy Hall near Paranaque City Hall (Sta. Lucia St. corner San Pablo St., San Antonio Valley 1, Paranaque. Drop off point.
Citizens Disaster Response Center (CDRC): Relief goods for typhoon victims being accepted at 72-A Times St., West Triangle, QC. Tel (+632-9299820/22)
Department of Social Welfare and Development donation drop off points: National Resource Operations Center, Chapel Road, Pasay City (Contact: Mrs. Francon Favian) / Quezon City Area Disaster Resource Operations Monitoring and Info Center (DROMIC). Contact Rey Martija or Imee Rose Castillo, Tel Nos. (+632-9517119, +632-9512435) or Assistant Secretary Vilma Cabrera Tel No. (+632918-9345625) / San Rafael corner Legarda Streets, Quiapo, Manila (Contact: Dir. Thelsa P. Biolna, Dir. Delia Bauan Tel Nos. (+632-7348622, +632-7348642)
Kabataan Partylist Drop off donations or volunteer at 118-B Sct. Rallos QC. (+632926-6677163) or kabataanpartylist@gmail.com
Sen. Kiko Pangilinan is accepting donations @ AGS Bldg Annex, 446 EDSA Guadalupe Viejo. Contact Vina Vargas at (+632917-8081247)
Luzon Relief: Donations can be brought to RENAISSANCE FITNESS CENTER, 2nd Floor, Bramante Building, Renaissance Towers Ortigas, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City starting MONDAY (Sept.28) / 9am – 7pm Contact Person: Warren Habaluyas (+632929-8713488) or email at luzonrelief@gmail.com
Marika Bouncers Coop – 95 Malaya St., Malanday, Marikina : will accept donations starting Sept. 28 at 10 AM
Miriam Quiambao drop off point: One Orchard Road Building in Eastwood, or message http://www.twitter.com/miriamq for more details.
Move for Chiz is asking for volunteers and donations at Bay Park Tent, along Roxas Blvd., beside Max Restaurant and Diamond Hotel in Manila, or at Gilas Minipark at Unang Hakbang St., Gilas Q.C.
NoyMar relief Operations: Clare Amador (+639285205508) or Jana Vicente at +639285205499). Drop off for relief donations is at Balay Expo Center across Farmers Market Cubao.
Operation Rainbow (Zac Faelnar Camara) at Ayala Alabang Village needs Canned Goods, Ready-To-Eat Food, Bottled Water, Ready-To-Drink Milk/ Juice, Clothing, Blankets, contact (+632-4687991)
Philippine Army Gym inside Fort Bonifacio or GHQ Gym in Camp Aguinaldo are now distributing donations for Ondoy Victims.
Philippine National Red Cross‘ different ways to Donate.
Red Cross Load Donations: Right now the easiest way to make donations from the seat of your chair is via mobile phone load. The Red Cross Rescue and Relief Operations. Text: REDAMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)
Relief Efforts for Pasig at Valle Verde 1 Village Park, contact (+632916-4945000, +632917-5273616)
Relief Operations Center at AGS Annex, #446 EDSA Guadalupe Viejo after PET Tower contact Ares at (+632917-8554935) or Rachel at (+632918-9241636)
Sagip Kapamilya hotlines (+632-4132667, +632-4160387) #13 Examiner St. West Triangle, QC. and Scout Mayoran, cor. Morato, near Alex III.
Tulong Bayan hotlines for donations and volunteers are (+632908-6579998) Marilyn, (+632939-3633436) Jenn (+632-9137122, +632-9136254 & +632-9133306).
TXTPower now accepts donations via SmartMoney 5577514418667103, GCash 09179751092 and Paypal http://is.gd/3GvuN
World Vision partners with Phil Coast Guard and kind individuals for relief distribution to 3k families. Call (+632-3747618 local 242) or text (+632917-8623209) to help.
Worldvision Foundation is also accepting donations/volunteers to pack relief goods in QC. FOR PESO DONATIONS: BPI SA #4251-0024-15 Matalino cor. Malakas St., Diliman QC OR BDO SA #2700-4341-1. FOR USD DONATIONS: #4254-0050-08. Please fax the deposit slip to +632374660 or call Donor Care Services +632327777. Meanwhile, you may call PAM at +639178623209.

Religious/ Schools & Universities

Assumption College San Lorenzo is now accepting donations. Please drop them off at the AC guardhouse.
Ateneo de Manila University is now accepting donations for the victims of Ondoy. Donations can be dropped at MVP Lobby. For those stranded/those who need help: To all students who need help or know of people who need help. Please text the name, location, and contact number to (+6329088877166). ATENEO, which is now an open shelter, accepts refugees. Call (+632917-8952792)
Ateneo Law School – Rockwell. Looking for donations and volunteers. 20 Rockwell Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City. Call (+632-8997691 to 96)
Caritas Manila Office at Jesus St., Pandacan Manila near Nagtahan Bridge (+632-5639298, +632-5639308)
CCF Ortigas St Francis Mall Room 402
CFC Center Ortigas is now open for donations in cash or kind. Call (+632-7270682 to 87) or text (+632922-2542819)
De La Salle University-Manila – The Sagip Metro relief operation will start to accept donation for Ondoy victims starting Monday @ 8:30 am. Please bring goods to the South Gate of DLSU-Manila.
De La Salle Zobel will be accepting donations tomorrow at Gym 5 (Near Gate 7 in Molave St.)
DLSU Medical Center will accept canned goods, blankets, clothes, water. Location is at Congressional Avenue, Dasmarinas, Cavite. Telephone lines are at (+632-8447832) and (+6346-4164531)
Hillsborough Village Chapel – Water, blankets, shoes, and clothes may be sent to Hillsborough Village Chapel in Muntinlupa City. These will go to families whose houses were washed out in the nearby sitios.
La Salle Greenhills for Greenhills/Mandaluyong/San Juan Area, if you want to help out with the rescue and relief operations, you can drop off your donations (clothes, food, etc..) at LSGH Gate 2 or volunteer from 9am to receive, sort, repack the donations.
Our Lady of Pentecost Parish (+632-4342397, +632-9290665) per Gabe Mercado, donations are very much welcome. The Parish is located at 12 F. Dela Rosa corner C. Salvador Sts., Loyola Heights, Quezon City.
Peace Retreat Movement – leave all donations at the Peace Retreat Movement (PRM) office, 2F, Rm. 72L, Christ the King (HS) Bldg. on Wednesday, Sept 30, 12noon
Playschool International in Better Living is open to receive relief goods. Feel free to drop it there for your convenience. No Cash Pls.
Radio Veritas at Veritas Tower West Ave. Cor EDSA (+632-9257931-40)
San Beda College of Arts and Sciences Student Council – accepting clothes, meds, water, canned goods, soap, money, etc.
Santuario de San Antonio Parish – McKinley Road, Forbes Park. Accepting all kinds of relief goods. Contact JJ Yulo or Mike Yuson
Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan Task Force Noah, a disaster response arm of the Jesuits, is accepting donations. Please drop it off sa Ateneo Cervini Dorm.
Southville International School and Colleges – will only accept goods. (+632915-5385113, +632915-4151319)
St. James Church Multi-Purpose Hall – Drop off point
St. Pedro Poveda College is now accepting relief goods. call the Social Action Center (+632-6318756 loc. 121)
UA&P Please contact Dae Lee [SEB EVP] at (+632917-8323533) needs donations and volunteers.
UP Sigma Alpha Nu Sorority MANILA – collecting food, water and toiletries. You may drop them off at unit 12-O One Adriatico Place, Ermita Manila or contact (+632917-8857188, +632917-6659948).
UP College of Arts and Letters (CAL) is accepting goods and cash. Donation center at CAL/text (+632929-6454102).
UP Diliman USC is collecting food, clothing and/or cash. Contact TITUS (+632917-8001909), JOSE (+632927-3056607) and TIN (+632915-4906106)
UP’s OVCCA accepting donations of relief goods starting tomorrow. Please help by disseminating this info. Contact (+632-9282947).
Katipunan Avenue. Contact Erica Paredes at (+632917-4741930) — they need bread, packed juice, sandwich filling (tuna, chicken, anything) You can help her make them, deliver the sandwiches to her house, or help her distribute! Call for more details.
Valle Verde Mansions – 135 CAPT. HENRY JAVIER ST. BRGY. ORANBO, PASIG. This is near ULTRA for relief drop-off
Xavier School in San Juan is now accepting donations, please bring to Multipurpose Center (MPC).

Private Citizens

MAKATI: 5729 Calasanz St., Olympia Makati City or call for pick up at (+632-5017405 or +632-7290530) c/o Omel Santos
SOUTH: Accepting relief goods in SOUTH AREA. Please contact Anne at (+632915-2854240)
Karen Ang of Pasig 3 Kagandahan corner Kabutihan Streets, Kawilihan Village, Pasig (+632920-9520900) will forward donated relief goods to Red Cross
Colleen Manabat (Heartrio Prints) of Angeles City will accept bottled water, canned goods, blankets, clothes, medicines from 9 AM to 6PM. Address is Stall 2 MGY Building, 2444 Sto. Entierro St, Sto. Cristo, Angeles City. She will forward the donations to Sagip Kapamilya – ABS-CBN Foundation.
Joseph Castillo of Cebu – will send a 20 ft. container to Manila and is looking for donations from Cebuanos. Get in touch with him through (+639082368999 or +63932-2117111)
Bianca – will pick up donations from Greenhills/San Juan area. Donate food, medicine, or clothing. Call (+632-4123861, +632927-8436002)
Kelly & Jodge – Colonade Residences, Legaspi St. corner C. Palanca, Makati City. Will accept relief goods.
Omel Santos – 5729 Calasanz St., Olympia Makati City. Call (+632-5017405 or +632-7290530). Drop off point for donations. Also willing to pick up.
RJ Ledesma and friends – call us at (+632917-8131601) for pick of donations. Only relief goods

Every time I say I Love You...

2009-09-23T09:15:00.002+08:00

Tara,

I'm really trying to say so much than just those three little three words: I'm trying to express so many wonderful feelings about you. I'm trying to say that you mean more to me than anyone else in the world.

I'm trying to let you know that I adore you and that I cherish the time we spend together.

I'm trying to explain that I want you and that I need you and that I get lost in wonderful thoughts every time I thing about you. And each time I whisper " I Love You ", I'm trying to remind you that you're the nicest thing that has ever happened to me.

Day 15

2009-09-19T11:05:00.000+08:00

On this day of your life, Rc, we believe God wants you to know

... that God accepts even the smallest offerings of your devotion with great love.

The size of your offering does not matter to God. It is the attitude with which the offering is made that matters.

Dimitri the Stud is Fake

2009-09-17T09:13:00.001+08:00

I found this story on http://www.progressiveadvertiser.com and i think i need to share it.

the guy who stay behind Dimitri the Stud hoax is James Sears who call himself Dimitri the Lover and run a website with the same name. He lives in Toronto and used to work as psychiatrist but in 1994 he lost his licence. Now James call himself a pick up expert and sell books and advices for guys who want to be successful with women.

Credits: Sergey Rusak

Accepting Our Mortality

2009-09-15T22:41:00.002+08:00

'For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.' 1 Corinthians 15: 21-22

Death is the final intruder into human affairs. It comes to all of us. With it's awesome power it calls to a halt human activity, notwithstanding all its significance and pomp, or its folly and fragility. The inevitability of death's knock at our door is usually far from our minds. We are far too busy with life and the things that seem so important. It is only when we are stricken with some illness that we have to face our mortality and begin to evaluate the motives and purpose of our busyness and existence.

Some on contracting a serious illness, are propelled into a frantic search for healing, particularly when conventional medicine has nothing more to offer. Such a search is not inapprppriate for death should be resisted, more so when its intrusion appears to be premature. ( What is unhelpful is the frantic nature of such a search. ) God's healing has certainly come to some but clearly not to others. The significant difference in most cases has not been a lack of faith or prayer. The difference remains shrounded in mystery.

Healing through God's intervention is never a matter of human technique nor it is under human control. Thus the search for healing can be embarked upon but healing can never be demanded nor made certain. It can only be a cry of faith in the face of mystery.

At the same time, there needs to be a recognition that it may well be time to go home. Living in the hope of the resurection, that homecoming need not fill us with fear, and may even be a welcome prospect. In all of this, we need to recognize that our human life is ultimately fragile. We need to accept its limitations and embrace the reality of our own mortality. Then we can cast ourselves upon the grace and promises of God.

- Rest in Peace Patrick Swayze.Too Bad, no more dirty dancing for you but you will be remembered and missed.
- Rest in Peace Mark Reyes. You will be missed especially your Music.

credits:
www.monash.edu.au
www.biblegateway.com
Life in full Stride, Charles Ringma

Michael Jackson's "This is it " Movie Trailer

2009-09-15T09:15:00.010+08:00

Last night MTV premiered the official movie trailer from the highly anticipated Michael Jackson's THIS IS IT during the 2009 Video Music Awards.

"MICHAEL JACKSON THIS IS IT" TO BE PRESENTED EXCLUSIVELY FOR TWO-WEEK LIMITED ENGAGEMENT AROUND THE WORLD

TICKETS TO GO ON SALE SEPTEMBER 27. INTIMATE PORTRAIT OF MICHAEL JACKSON AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN HIM BEFORE TO HIT THEATERS WORLDWIDE OCTOBER 28.

Michael Jackson THIS IS IT will offer Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer as he developed, created and rehearsed for his sold-out concerts that would have taken place beginning this summer in London's O2 Arena. Chronicling the months from April through June, 2009, the film is drawn from more than one hundred hours of behind-the-scenes footage, featuring Jackson rehearsing a number of his songs for the show. Audiences will be given a privileged and private look at the singer, dancer, filmmaker, architect, and genius as he creates and perfects his final show.

"I have never been partners with a more creative, innovative or groundbreaking entertainer than Michael Jackson," said Randy Phillips, President & CEO, AEG LIVE and producer of Michael Jackson THIS IS IT. "While the concerts would have been the greatest shows in the history of music, our film will provide a historic event for Michael's fans to see for themselves the genius that he was and the creativity, talent and imagination that the entire cast devoted to create the ‘greatest concert that never happened'."

For more info visit http://www.thisisit-movie.com/

I hope He's not George!

2009-09-14T08:12:00.011+08:00

Look at that poster. Grrh, Can't wait. Alright. Few weeks from now, all eyes will be on Seattle Grace Hospital again. As we inch closer to the Season 6 premiere of Grey's Anatomy, they're a lot of rumors and unanswered questions: like Cristina and Owen, will they take it to the next level? What's next for Izzie and Karev? for Mark and Lexie? how about Meredith and Derek, will they tie the knot this time? and that John Doe is not George O'malley, really? But in the season 5 finale, George wrote 007 in the palm of Meredith. I don't know either but "007" means George, right? Remember Episode 1 " A Hard Day's Night" of Season 1?

GEORGE: "007. They're calling me 007, aren't they?"
MEREDITH: "No one's calling you 007."
GEORGE: "I was on the elevator and Murphy whispered 007."
CRISTINA: "Okay, how many times are we going to go through this, George? Five, ten? Give me a number or else I'm going to hit you."
GEORGE: "Murphy whispered 007 and everyone laughed."
IZZIE: "He wasn't talking about you."
GEORGE: "Are you sure?"
MEREDITH: "Would we lie to you?"
GEORGE: "Yes."

So here's the anticipated Season 6 premiere sneak peak of Grey's Anatomy

See? Lexie said it's not George. But when you look closely to John Doe, the eyes, nose, you will see more of O'malley, in my opinion. But whether the Faceless patient is George or not, ~~i know you will all agree with me~~ that George is one of the characters that will remember forever.

Unforgettable Cebu 1.5

2009-09-13T02:42:00.010+08:00

Okay, It's 03:20 a.m here in Cebu and I can't sleep... excited for Bohol? I guess. lol. Since my Insomnia attacking me right now, I will post the second to the last part of my visit in some places here in Cebu. So here it is:

Taoist Temple

Built in 1972, the Taoist Temple is constructed in a highly ornate and some would say, gaudy style of chinese architecture and it is topped with a pagoda-style roof.

Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro is the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines. Built by the Spaniards to repel sieges by hostile natives and Muslim pirates, the fort was deemed finished in 1738, some 200 years after it started construction.

Santo Nino Basilica

It was built on the exact spot where the image of the Santo Nino, a sculpture depicting the Holy Child Jesus was founded by Spanish explorers in 1565 preserved in a burned wooden box which was left behind during the 1521 Magellan expedition.

SO, after Ayala Mall - The Terraces (one of the best malls I've ever seen so far), we went to
SM Cebu

4th largest shopping mall in the Philippines.

Casa Gorordo Museum

was the home of Juan Gorodo, first Filipino Bishop of Cebu. Casa Gorordo Museum Cebu is located in Lopez Jaena Steet. At present, the museum houses many old and ancient relics. The displayed relics give a picture about the lifestyle of the Filipino people during the period from1860s to 1920s.

Alright. So that's it, the places we visited. This is not my last entry about Cebu, actually second to the last entry about this city. It's almost 4:00 am here, need to get some energy for our next adventure. Tc. :)

Unforgettable Cebu 1

2009-09-13T01:52:00.017+08:00

Rain

I opened my eyes
And looked up at the rain,
And it dripped in my head
And flowed into my brain,
And all that I hear as I lie in my bed
Is the slishity-slosh of the rain in my head.

I step very softly,
I walk very slow,
I can't do a handstand--
I might overflow,
So pardon the wild crazy thing I just said--
I'm just not the same since there's rain in my head.

-Shel Silverstein

This is our last night here in the beautiful City, Cebu. I need to pack all my things for tommorow's flight to Bohol, but before that I guess I need to share some of my experiences here in Cebu.

We spent our days in the awesome Cebu Midtown Hotel.I love our room, like the service, the staff were nice. About the food.... superb ( in my opinion)!

Our Sink and a night view from the room.

During our stay here the rain keeps on pouring... bad timing I guess. Lol

In spite of the heavy rain, we still managed to visit some of Cebu's Tourist's Spot.

Ayala Center Cebu - Terraces Day and Night

So that's the first part of my adventure in Cebu. I wanted to post all my adventures but I need to prepare for tommorow's flight. And lastly, when it rains I remember the poem by Shel Silverstein entitled Rain. Ahhhh. lol

Credits: Laylander. Cebu Midtown Hotel, Shel Silverstein

Day 14

2009-09-12T07:03:00.002+08:00

On this day of your life, Rc, we believe God wants you to know...

... that when people tell you nice things, stop shrugging them off as if they are nothing.

The sincere compliments you receive are your jewels, - collect them in your heart, - they highlight the beauty of your being and empower you during challenging times. Never say 'oh, it's nothing' or shrug your shoulders when you hear a sincere compliment. Pause, breath it in, and really feel its meaning.

Week one - Cebu City

2009-09-09T04:09:00.021+08:00

Week one - Cebu city. Me and my 3 good ol fella decided to have a break from the noisy, pressurized Manila and have a 2 weeks vacation in two of the most beautiful cities in the Philippines. First stop Cebu City. When I was a kid, I heard lot of good things about this city. The people, the culture, the food (ooh, so far Lechon is awesome) and most of all the The Beaches (one of the reasons why i'm excited about this trip...i love beach...the sound of the waves, it made me feel secured, peace and comfortable.)

For you guys who don't have any idea about this amazing city, here's a brief introduction about Cebu City.

The City of Cebu (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo; Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu; Spanish: Ciudad de Cebú), is the capital city of Cebu and the second city in the Philippines, the second most significant metropolitan center in the Philippine Islands, and known as the oldest city in the country.

The city is located on the eastern shore of Cebu, and is the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. Cebu is the Philippines' main domestic shipping port, and is home to more than 80% of the country's domestic shipping companies. Cebu also holds the second largest international flights in the Philippine Islands, and is a significant center of commerce, trade, and industry in the Visayas, and Mindanao region. According to the 2007 Philippine census, the city has a population of 798,809 people.

Cebu City is the center of a metropolitan area called Metro Cebu, which includes the cities of Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay. Metro Cebu has a total population of about 2 million people. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located in Lapu-Lapu City is only a twenty-minute drive away from Cebu City. To the northeast of the city are Mandaue City, and the town of Consolacion, to the west are Toledo City, the towns of Balamban, and Asturias, to the south are Talisay City, and the town of Minglanilla. Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island where Lapu-Lapu City and an aquarium attraction are located.

Cebu city is an important cultural center in the Philippine Islands. The city's most famous landmark is Magellan's Cross.

This cross, now housed in a chapel, was supposedly planted by Ferdinand Magellan when he arrived in the Philippine Islands in 1521. It was encased in hollow tindalo wood in 1835 upon the order of the Augustinian Bishop Santos Gómez Marañon to prevent devotees from taking it home chip by chip.

Magellan's Cross

Inside of the Magellan's cross

A few steps away from the Magellan's Cross is the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño (Church of the Holy Child), an Augustinian church which was elevated to the rank of minor basilica in 1965 during the 400th year celebrations of Christianity in the Philippines, held in Cebu. The church, which was the first to be established in the islands. It is built of hewn stone, and features the country's oldest relic, the image of the Santo Niño de Cebu (Holy Child of Cebu).

This religious event is celebrated on the islands cultural festivities known as the Sinulog festival, held every third Sunday of January which celebrates the festival of the Santo Niño, the patron saint of Cebu. The Sinulog is a dance ritual of pre-Hispanic indigenous origin. The dancer moves two steps forward and one step backward to the rhythmic sound of drums. This movement resembles somewhat the current (sulog) of the river. Thus, the Cebuanos called it Sinulog.

And finally, the main reason why I'm here: the resort and beaches:

Typical day in shores of Cebu:

Wait, my favorite part of the day, Sunset:

And lastly, the Skyline of Cebu: Day ang Night.

So, I hope you enjoy the lil tour of the city. And if you want to know more about Cebu, just type: www.cebu.gov.ph Ok, so that's it for now. WE been here like 2 days so we need to explore the city and meet some locals. lol. After this.... Bohol is our next destination.

Day 13

2009-09-09T03:58:00.007+08:00

On this day of your life, Rc, we believe God wants you to know...

... wealth does not come from your bank account, wealth comes from the depth of your heart.

What you really want is happiness. You might believe that a fat bank account will get you there, but that's false. Happy people are happy rich or poor, unhappy people are unhappy rich or poor. Money simply masks your real being by giving you activities to occupy your mind. Don't fool yourself, recession or not, your true wealth comes from your heart and is always only there.

A new way of ordering McDonald.

2009-09-07T05:34:00.005+08:00

Guys, I found this on youtube.I would like to share this video to you guys... especially for those of you who are tired of the usual way of ordering your favorite fries, big mac or maybe your double quarter pounder... try this one...cool isn't it?

Day 12

2009-09-06T02:05:00.004+08:00

On this day of your life, Rc, we believe God wants you to know...

... that you are not to shut love out of your life by saying it is impossible to find and keep.

The quickest way to find love is to give love. If you want it too badly, you will not find it. The most secure way to keep love is to give it space and care to grow. If you hold it too tightly, you will lose it.

How do you sleep? And what does it say about you?

2009-09-05T20:50:00.016+08:00

While droooling the net, I found this interesting feature about "what's position when you sleep?". Honestly, I don't really know what's my position literally,so I asked my mum and sisters and they said "position 5" hahaha. Some of you I know will believe and have a good laugh and some will say "what? is this for real?" . Anyway I just wanted to share this to you guys and hope you'll have a good and nice sleep. lol

How do you sleep? And what does it say about you?

Position No. 1 Unknown covering from head to toe: You may appear real macho in public, but deep down inside you are shy and weak. You tend to keep loads of secrets. If you encounter any problem, you will rather keep it to yourself and agonise over it than ask for help. No wonder you grimace in your sleep!

Position No. 2 Back Sleeper with Legs crossed: Anyone who sleeps cross-legged is said to be self-obsessed and finds difficulty in accepting changes. Solitude is your priority. Yet, your redeeming quality is your threshold for tolerance.

Position No. 3 Cuddled Up: You feel lonely and depressed because you are obsessed with your past failures and setbacks. You are hesitant and indecisive, giving others an impression that love has been missing in your life.

Position No. 4: Side Sleeper Curling UP: Selfish, jealous and vindictive are words that describe you. People around you got to be careful not to step on your toes as you are easily irritated!

Position No. 5 (My position accordig to mum..lol) Side Sleeper with one Knee Bended: You are inclined to be fussy, always whining and complaining. Nervousness is probably your second name. You tense up easily and get overly excited over small matters. Life isn?t such a big deal. Learn to relax.

Position No. 6 Side Sleeper Lying on one Arm: You are gentle, polite, sincere and loving. Well nothing is perfect. Build up your self confidence and learn to accept mistakes or imperfection. Happiness will then come your way!

Position No. 7 Side Sleeper Lying on one Side: This posture indicates that you are a confident person. You will see success in whatever you undertake, owing to your unrelentless endeavour. People who sleep on their right side with their right arm stretching over their head and lying on the right side are said to be blessed with power and fortune.

Position No. 8 Back Sleeper with Arms and Legs spread out: What a liberty loving-soul! Well, this posture reveals your true identity. Comfort-lover and beauty-worshipper, you are also a real spendthrift (but luckily you earn just much). Your other undesirable trait is that you are a bit nosy and seem to enjoy gossiping. Well, who did you mention in your tales lately?

Position No. 9 Tummy Sleeper Sleeping on the Stomach: If you sleep face down all night, you are likely to be narrowing minded. You are probably self centred and always force people to comply with your own needs. You are also likely to be reckless and desultory. Time to change sleep your sleep posture.

So, What's your position? I hope It's Position No. 6 or 7.