Enrico - Fierce Blogs

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam – 10 Million People & 1 Billion Motorcycles

2010-03-06T16:55:00.019+08:00

It was my first time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. Armed without any knowledge whatsoever (except that I know Kim from Miss Saigon lived and had her dramatic life here), my office friends and I toured the city. Normally, I do a little research before visiting a foreign country; but not this time. I told myself, “How can it be so bad if I live in the Philippines?!”

And boy I was so wrong!

Sadly, my first impression was the evident poverty the moment we arrived at their airport. When we left the airport, the sadder it became. Second was the extreme heat that could kill! When we arrived it was 35 C. Now beat that! It felt like all my facial pores opened in anger and it could devour the person in front of me. Third, 1 billion motorcycles all waiting to rampage the tourists strolling along the street.

Again I told myself, “How can it be so bad if I live in the Philippines?!”

***

Our goal on our first day was to walk around the city and eat noodles.

Sounds easy, isn’t it?! Think again!

On Strolling

I never thought I would witness such driving uglier compared to the Philippines. Guess what? We got beaten by the Vietnamese motorists. The Harakiri driving of their motorist made our wild driving cute and funny.

Short clip using my digicam.

Last time I checked, the sidewalk was designed for human to walk along. Not in Hi Chi Minh City though! Their narrow sidewalks are infested by rushing motorcyles all wanting to be ahead of the pack. Most of their main road (particularly during rush hours) can be hazardous if you walk like a sissy. It takes real talent to survive the experience. You need to walk like a Tazmanian Devil - all guarded and prepared to jump when circumstance ask for it. So, if you ask me, where does this leave the walking tourists? Death row!

While this was all happening, I told myself, “How can it be so bad if I live in the Philippines?!” Suddenly, I felt better.

We walked for hours and hours until we can no longer feel our legs. Naturally, I was the first to complain and asked my friends to stop and cool down. Did they argue with me? Not a word, really.

On Drinks

There is no Starbucks in Ho Chi Minh (Another way to die! Coffee deprivation). But don't fret, they have Highlands Coffee where coffee and refreshments are superb (but a bit pricey). I won't bother to tell its location since they are literally everywhere you go.

If you want to survive the heat, fruit blends are everywhere for cooling down.

On Food

If there is anything that redeemed my trip to Vietnam is their food. Their use of lemongrass, mint ,Thai basil and other herbs is simply to die for. Their traditional way of cooking is something I really admire - fresh ingredients all the time.

One should not leave Ho Chi Minh without exploring their local noodles. Breakfast in Vietnam is usually Noodles - which I love! check out picture below.

What I also noticed is the influenced of french bread in their country (baget bread). Normally dipped in beef stew Vietnamese style. I tried this during our first day and enjoyed it.

On People

Generally, the Vietnamese are friendly (like most Asians are). Although, their lack of ability to speak neutral English limits their interaction with tourists. On most occasions, I experienced their effort to converse with us - but due to language mishap, it can be very frustrating for both parties.

On Shopping

This is the fierce part. Shopping is generally cheap in Vietnam. If you are into bags and leathers, go pack your luggage and head straight to Ho Chi Minh, now! Clothes and shoes are also cheaper; but Thailand wins on this department.

Home decor and ceramics are also something to look at. I got a couple for my pad.

***

Now if you ask me, Did I enjoy Vietnam? Hell, Yeah!

The simplicity of the country is something I really admire. Culturally, I do not feel that they are trying to be somebody who they are not. They know their roots and they are proud to show it. Their country may not be known for its global power, but their nation's humility and well-being is something to be proud of.

Note- My friend Ros and I collaborated on a video about Vietnam (wacky). We will post it very soon.

Home Maintenance Blog - Charcoal to Bust Odor

2010-02-17T19:54:00.003+08:00

I remember growing up and seeing my Granny frantically put charcoal all over the house. She likes placing them inside a rusty, old mug and put them in every corner known to household. I had no idea what she was doing at that time. I thought they were home for the ants or some form of ancient voodoo. It was crazy, I thought back then.

continue reading here.

Fierce Blogs _ Enjoyed his breakfast at Whistlestop, Jupiter Makati

2010-02-14T11:16:00.012+08:00

I have always known that the Whistlestop branch along Jupiter, Makati already closed ages ago. But no! They re-opened!

This morning I was soo hungry to the point of imagining of eating my sofa already. Good thing my "usual hungry" friend, Sukey (like me) IM-ed me.. It was salvation time, I knew!

We decided to meet up and have breakfast. But if it's 7:30 am and you are in Makati area, finding a nice breakfast is as hard as looking for a straight guys in tinseltown Where to eat? Google to our rescue!

***

We decided to go to Whistlestop but not without a bit of sweat looking for their new location. Although they are still along Jupiter, the new location is a bit secluded from the center where the food haven really happens. But nevermind the location, we have bigger problem to conquer - HUNGER!

After 10minutes... Alas! We found it!

Facade of Whistlestop

Look at Sukey's smile! She can now eat!

And here's the food we had this morning.

Beef Salpicao with Garlic Rice - P230.00

Sate Babi (Pork) - P170.00

All Tokwa - P70.00 (My Fave)

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Menu

More than anything in this world, they offer Wi-Fi.

Downside - It is hard to call the attention of the waiters if you prefer to stay outside. I guess they should get one of those push button when guests dining outside need assistance.

By they way, thank you Abbie (the food attendant) for finding time to give back the DVD I left at your resto.

Contacts:

Adress - 116 Jupiter St Bel- Air Makati
Tel No - (632) 8904728

Fierce Blogs Review - Kamayan sa Palaisdaan (Tayabas, Quezon)

2010-02-11T18:26:00.012+08:00

If there is one thing that I look forward to during weekends are those opportunities I get to leave the city. This is of course because of a lot of obvious reasons (I am a city boi!). I don't appreciate much the long drive - but I get a rush from the thought of not seeing the uneducated driving ways of the buses and jeeps that stray along our streets.

Luckily for me, I have friends who share the same passion for "my-butt-is-all- numb" from the long drive but we still want to travel, ANYWHERE! Not mention, "I NEED TO PEE" moment and "I NEED TO GO, NOW". But these are all part of the out of town drama., isn't it? They make up for the sweet moments of discovering places and products you come across along the road you less travel. It makes the friendship bond fiercer!

Every now and then, there are also those moments when you discover a place and you can't help but re-visit them.

***

We have already visited Kamayan sa Palaisdaan 2 year ago on our way to an ugly resort (can't remember the name and I wish never to remember it!) somewhere in Quezon. province Our experience with the restaurant was significant that's why we have always planned to return again. Palaisdaan can be summed up in 3 ways: indigenous gastronomy, tropical backdrop and fierce fierce price (easy on the pocket, that is!) ! I guess it was really the price we all fell in love with (admittedly) and the rest are just secondary (cheapo!).

Here are the usual food we normally order: Mixed vegies, grilled pork, tilapia and another type of fish I don't know the name (LOL). I am not really a big fan of the mermaid menu (fish), sorry. I simply enjoy MEAT (no pun intended)! But my favorite is their manga with bagoong (mango with shrimp paste). I swear I can eat it all day. The bagoong tends to be on the spicier department but is all worth the sweat and kick!

Our usual order

My fave

There are also a lot of spots where you and your family can take photos (this is where we all pinoys connect, dont we?). Check out our photos last week.

Oui, Raqs and Gerry (The birthday boy)

Me being serenaded by the boys to Men (40 years from now)

The blogger with his new pet (Cocky Monster)

On a nega side (downside):

1.Their restrooms are not well maintained. It is a gift to visit their resto if you have colds. Your virus will save you from the ungodly smell inside the restroom.

2. It is currently being expanded. It is best to wait for the finished improvements they are currently doing.

3. Their signs needs to be internationally readable (Check picture below). I didn't really see the monkeys until I saw the sign. Although they are caged (poor monkeys), they are still most likely to be missed since they are knee level.

(English translation - Stay Away from the Monkeys)

Other than that, Kamayan sa Palaisdaan in Quezon is a sure treat to families, barkadas and balikbayans.

How to get there? You know the drill. Just google it!

May the fierce be with you!

Playing Farmville makes one Person Gay?

2010-02-06T04:54:00.009+08:00

This is an elevator scene that happened today.

There are 4 casts:

1. The guy with the bad haircut. Let’s call him Boy Bangs.

2. The pizza face guy. I swear his pimple count could surpass 5 youngsters combined quota! For that I’ll name him Gumburumbu!

3. The guy who has no participation and was so busy playing PS2. Let’s call him Anna Williams.

4. The blogger who bought something to drink at their lobby; now heading up.

5. And the irritating digital voice of the elevator ( “stating the floor”… “door closing” and what have you…)

Let’s start the story.

From the lobby, I was the first to enter the lift while there were 3 other guys who closely followed. They were being kids - noisy, rowdy and freaking UGLY! I try not to mind them but something between their pathetic discussions caught my attention.

Gumburumbu – Pare, sumama ka na kase sa amin mamayang gambi.Wag kang bad trip! (You better join us tonight and don’t be a flaker!)

Boy Bangs – Dehins pwede pare eh. Walang tao sa condo tsaka magfa-farmville pa ‘ko (I really can’t. There is nobody home and I want to play Farmville)

At this point I was intently listening already! It’s “Farmville Talk”! I can relate!

Gumburumbu – Bading ka ba? Pang bading lang yang Farmville na ‘yan, pare! (Are you gay? It’s only for gay people!)

All right, I was not only listening at this point; I WAS ALREADY FURIOUS and I REALLY CAN RELATE NOW! I wanted to pick my floppies and madly slap his cheeks until all his pimple erupts and bleeds! I bet he would have to thank me for doing that favor for him, someday! And what was Anna Williams doing while this was all happening? Busy trying to kill Kazuya Mashima while his character is Anna Williams! Now isn’t that “gayer”!?

Boy Bangs – Basta harvest and plant muna ako tapos sunod ako sa tower 3. (I’ll harvest and plant first and then I’ll join you in tower 3.)

Gumburumbu – Bading ka talaga! (You are really gay!)

The lift open and it was my floor already. There is a gawd after all! Imagine spending 10 more minutes inside the lift with them?! Really painful!

I hurriedly went inside my loft in pursuit of a goal. Say, sort–of-a-mini-investigation to put sanity in Gumburumbu’s claim - “That Farmville is Only for Gay People?” Not that it matter really, rather to give the youngster a venue to defend his claim. And not to mention my being a Farmville addict only validated Gumburumbu’s opinion! Urgh

With so much excitement (mixed with rapt and nosiness), I counted all my straight friends in Farmville. Naturally they exist! What was my official count? There are 14 straight guys (straight at least when I last saw them in flesh) all willing to BANG a girl given the right opportunity!

***

On a serious note, it is really interesting how putting a “label” to people can be passed on the younger generations – considering that there is no formal learning or sit-down-lecture about it. This is really sad… But I believe labeling and mankind goes hand in hand for as long as the latter still exists.

Anyways, it’s FARMVILLE time! Can I just say I can’t wait for my horse sable to be complete? I’m soo excited!

Life is fierce! Forget the labels (on characters only but not on apparels).

Fierce Blogs – On Foul Days!

2010-01-30T11:38:00.002+08:00

There are days you just don’t feel good about everything. Everything you think of simply reminds you of how things are not running as you have planned them before.

But that is life… Sometimes it’s totally FIERCE and sometimes you just want to vanish!

***

Today I woke up feeling down - the same reason why it took me 30 minutes to drag my freezing body (from aircon) away from my bed. I went to the bathroom for my morning rituals and a quick cold shower. Did I feel better after? Nah, I just started sneezing. I guess I need my daily dose of nicotine sniff and everything will be better. I searched everywhere to realize I have none left!

That does it! I dressed up, left my place and hurried to a nearby Hypermart. Five seconds of walking inside the supermarket; I realized I am slowly feeling better. May be the frozen hotdogs or the hundreds of Lucky Me that surrounds me reminded me that it is simply fierce to be alive and healthy!

***

Three hours ago I felt low but not anymore! Not when you are having a Selecta Ice while watching Australian Open. Life is simply fierce and fabulous!

The Disadvantage of Having A Regine Velasquez in the Philippines

2010-01-19T10:44:00.014+08:00

When Regine Velasquez first entered the Philippine music scene, a lot were taken aback with her vocal prowess. The lanky 16-year old lass made everyone listen to her sound and style with much attraction. Whether we appreciate her flair or not (then and now), Regina Encarnacion Ansong Velasquez created a resonance that is very new to our ear. Critics back then described her music as the screech style while others were simply wowed when she starts hitting those notes. But whichever side you take, The Songbird is considered to be one of the pioneer of music in the Philippine Industry. To denote her accomplishments would be too laborious of a task.

The music of Regine all started in February 1986 and let’s have a look of what have become of our music now.

At present state, if I were to sum up how majority appreciates music here in our country – that is by belting! A female singer to be considered excellent must be able to hit those high notes with ease. The same reason why most singers stretch their range to heights their vocal cords could not naturally support. We can’t blame them, of course. Singers will not be singers if they can’t sell thousands of records – it’s all about the money, as always! In their efforts to sell, they give what the public wants; and that is to sound like Regine Velasquez.

Case in point, if you were to list down the top 5 lady singers in the country; for sure if not 5 out of 5, 4 of those are known to be belters! Is this bad? I don’t know! But what I know is, a song can still be beautiful if sang in the mid-range. This was proven when Regine released her 15^th album entitled, Low Key. The album received a gold record award after a few days of released. It was even the first OPM album to have reached platinum status in 2009. But then again, she is already a “made artist” who can experiment with her materials and would still have her followers supporting.

In one of her shows, Regine once humored, “Bakit kaya ang Pilipino, gustong-gusto kapag nahihirapan ang singer? (Why is it that Filipinos find thrill if they see singers perform difficult songs?). I think she should know the answer to her own question.

Regine is indeed the leader of the bandwagon of belters we have in the local scene. Honestly, we already have a surplus of lady belters all wanting to follow The Songbirds path. Too many to the point they can outnumber those people in protest in EDSA revolution (LMAO).

What this blog is all about? It’s time for a change. Regine Velasquez is only one of the fine artists we have but she should not represent the entirety.

Fierce Find - PawParazzi (Grooming and Pet Supplies)

2010-01-10T07:32:00.015+08:00

Last November '09 I blogged about a Fierce Find called Paw Parazzi - A shop catering to the needs of our four-legged friends. Their services ranges from health care, obedience training, pampering, styling and a whole lot more. You can also find fierce products here from food, toys and of course... blings for your pets to show off.

What I really find interesting and kinky is that; PawParazzi can also hook up your pets "in heat"! Their website offers a database of listing for you to chose from. A four-legged dating service as they call it. All you need to do is to place an ad(for free) and just wait for a possible mate for your pet. I think this is a fierce way of pimping your beloved pets. Very up-to-date and posh (compared to those accidental matings and what have you). I guess this would put an end to their habitual accidental lovers drama (LOL).

Another service which I think is very convenient is they offer pick up and drop offs. Now you don't have any alibis to neglect your pets . Busy or not, you can just dial their numbers (Landline - 410-5098 / Mobile - +63916 698 3275) and what you have is an endless pampering only a true four-legged diva deserves.

Give them a call and try their service. Just tell tell them fierce blogs whispered this great opportunity to you.

May the fierce be with you!

Fierce Blogs – Bigger in 2010

2010-01-01T13:45:00.007+08:00

Being away for almost a month from blogging makes me dead sick! But we have to do what we have to do – and that is to WORK! As my good friend would say, “Work is Love”.

For my first blog in 2010, I decided to talk about the plans for Fierce Blogs. So what to expect? Fierce blogs will still write about what it is known for; that is providing fierce reviews of products new in the market, hotel and restaurant reviews, fierce trips and a little of photography here and there. But what I am really excited about are my plans for my site. This year Fierce Blogs will be video blogging! This is rather an unfamiliar territory but I am willing to get my hands dirty all in the name of blogging. I am way too excited just by talking about it and I can’t wait to shoot.

There is also the plan of introducing the segment all focused on grooming. So, you guys watch out for that.

This is going to be a good year, I can feel it! So, let’s put all that bad things that happened in 2009 behind and embrace 2010 with FIERCENESS!

Speaking of big, look at this red lighter! My friend, Ros, gave it to me. Thanks!

One big plan I also have is to diet and be more athletic. Just a plan, okay!?

Picture taken by Tin

Happy New Year to all!

Anne Curtis - Singing Live and Fearless!

2009-12-18T11:50:00.006+08:00

And the biggest mistake I did was to finish the entire segment hoping there will be some redemption in the end!

Her dreams came true but we will be forever tormented by it...

Fearless indeed...

My Home Decor Blogs - www.homeandspaces.com

2009-11-29T02:40:00.006+08:00

If you are not aware, I also blog about Home Decor. I guess it's my love for colors and balance that made me blog about this - not to mention my passion in interior decoration.

My articles are here:

Challenged with Small Space

The Doors

Color Your World

A Magic Carpet Ride

In Search of the Perfect Center Table (Series)

What You Need to Know When Looking for a Table Lamp

In Search of the Perfect Center Table (Week One)

Decorative Candles to Add Sparkle to Your Room

How to Spice Up You Hallways

Fake Windows Anyone?

Living Room Makeover in Jiffy

Fierce Find - Paw Parazzi (Grooming and Pet Supplies

2009-11-28T09:43:00.003+08:00

Here is another Fierce Find that I can share - Paw Parazzi .

It's about time for our four-legged friends to be pampered.

My New Blog Domain - http://www.ericcapacia.com/

2009-11-28T08:31:00.004+08:00

I finally did it!

It's been probably 2 months already that I have been thinking whether or not to purchase my own blog domain. Well, I have decided and went for it.

After 3 day, my blog site will now be http://www.ericcapacia.com/

So, what will change? Nothing really major. My blog site will still be called "Fierce Blogs." Well, except that blogspot was only removed from the my domain name.

I guess by doing this, I am officially an Internet dork. In a fierce way that is...

May the Fierce be with you!

Blogger Coconuter Finds it "Natural" for Manny Pacquiao to have an affair

2009-11-25T11:15:00.009+08:00

I was blog hopping this morning and came across Coconuter's blog about Manny Pacquiao. The blog is all about the heroic accomplishments of the boxer and the pride he brings to our country. But then again, the blogger touched a very sensitive topic concerning morality.

Well... this is all about the alleged affair the famous Filipino boxer is having with Krista Ranillo (who is she, by the way) . I will not however dwell on that since Fierce Blogs is not about showbiz etc.

What really intrigued me was the comment made by Coconuter:

"Until something materializes, as he said in his Cotto post-fight interview, he plans on taking a break, getting some rest, and having some fun. I guess I would assume that this would involve time with his family and also time with his reportedly new flame--Krista Ranillo. To me, I can empathize with Manny regarding this issue, and I think that as long as he takes care of his responsibilities then he should not be restricted of his liberties. I find the situation quite natural and the instinct innate in the human male. I believe that it gives Manny added inspiration, motivation, and/or pleasure in his life, which is something that we all need in life to keep going. Thus, I feel that the media should just let it be." (Blog here)

Honestly, I read it 3 times just to make sure I really got the message right. I sure did!

Fierce Blogs comments on Coconuter’s views...

This is a classic example of the double standards we have in our society. It is but natural for fathers to fool around for as long as their function in their family is performed (crappy crap crap!). But then again, let's say.. the acts were reversed, the woman is just simply... IMMORAL . No questions, no defense and no way out of trouble.

Fierce blogs is not taking sides. Fact is, it should never be morally accepted to both sexes . If it is going to be acceptable to either, then let's all forget about the sanctity of marriage and promote living in set up to the children of the world.

To consider this act of men as innate in nature is lame and simply an excuse to rationalize one big ugly behavior." If committing adultery is something that will keep the male population inspired and motivated in life, I only have one thing to say... God save the Queens!

May the FIERCE be with you!

My Friendster Account - Should I Delete or Not?! (Series)

2009-11-25T09:40:00.014+08:00

This has been my question for sometime already...

For some reason I could not decide whether to delete my account in Friendster or not. In fact, I have not accessed it for almost 3 months now. Unlike before, it was my means to re-connect with old friends and relatives domiciled abroad. But now; I really do not see the point of keeping it active.

Reason to keep it?

Before Facebook, Multiply and all of these social networks emerged, it was only Friendster. Back then it kept us close to those people distant to where we are. Loyalty I guess.
I started blogging because of this site realizing how easy it was to connect with people.
There are still this few friends who are somewhat loyal to the site and prefers not to open an account with Facebook.
Commentaries from close friends that are fun to read again and again.

Why I should delete?

It is now very boring.
It is full of porn. Its site moderation is very poor!
Most users are unpleasant and
Spam! Spam! Spam!
It features got stuck in the 90's.
Layout makes me yawn.
I dont think there's goung to be an upgrade happening very soon.
Does not really attract web traffic for my blog.
Friendster is full of posers...

Will all of these being considered, I am giving myself a week to decide whether I will delete my account or not. If I eventually decided to keep it, then I should be active again and use it.

What do you think?

Fierce Blogs - New Blog Banner

2009-11-24T07:41:00.012+08:00

After sometime, my new blog banner is now available.

Well, obviously this is not my work because of the heavy artistry involved. My new banner was created by my friend, Charley. The concept was mine but of course execution of colors and layout came from the artist. Overall, the artist was able to capture the essence of my blog theme - fierce with humor.

If you would like to hire the artist, you can get in touch with him thru this email address - dio_21@lycos.com.

Final Blog Banner

Irene Cara - Out Here On My Own

2009-11-22T13:18:00.005+08:00

This song is one of my favorites for many reasons - melody, lyrics and artistry.

I guess I miss the songs I grew up listening to. Lyrics back then were so rich. Singer are really singers and not "celebrities". Records are sold because of musical brilliance versus today's publicity and marketing antics.

I am such an old school!

Video here.

- Thanks to bsedits for the video upload in YouTube.

Ice Cream Ad Gone Wrong!

2009-11-21T07:44:00.008+08:00

I don't know about you but there is really something wrong with this picture! When I saw this ice cream ad, my stomach churned and I felt like getting sick.

I guess this is just one of the million things that have changed over the years, huh? Print ads have gone a long way from gorgeous celebs showing skin and what have you. This time they want to show the "other side of life"...

Those on a diet, you now have a reason to forget ice cream.

God save earth!

Thanks Ros for the photo.

Fierce Blogs Turns 1 – Happy Birthday!

2009-11-08T09:25:00.004+08:00

Exactly 1 year ago a blogger friend encouraged me to create my own blog site instead of just blogging for other sites (www.sportingo.com, www.homeandspaces.com, etc). Honestly I thought the idea was really crazy! As it is, managing my time in the office plus going out with friends afterwards can be laborious already. The last thing I need is to add more pressure and deadlines to what I already have.

But obviously my friend talked me out of it and I have no regrets.

Conceptualizing the theme of my blog wasn’t really hard. I knew what I wanted at that time in terms of content. All I needed was a catchy and up-to-date adjective - nothing serious but spiky that will leave a mark to the readers! Then came the birth of “Fierce Blogs”.

My first ever blog here is about the crappy commercial of Piolo Pascual. I got quite a number of comments from readers that made me realize the importance of blogging mainstream topics. Something people can relate to so they can comment. That is why Fierce Blogs is categorized into three: A. Fierce Finds, B. Review and C. Travel.

A. Fierce Finds

This is where I feature products that are new and old in the market that I find worth sharing to readers. I purchase the product, use it and observe. Once it passes the mark of Fierce Finds, comes the blogging part. Since then, Fierce Blogs received a number of Product Review request. I decline most particularly those not falling to my comfort zone.

B. Review

Fierce Blogs review anything in general: from services, food, products, people and etc. The goal is to make sure establishments are aware of the faulty or good services they provide to us – the consumers. We deserve nothing but the best, ONLY!

C. Travel

Since the blogger travels whenever his schedule allows, places and experiences are shared. Again, the travel blogs here are reviews of places, restaurants and overall experience. This is where majority of my blog traffics and comments are coming from.

After a year, Fierce Blogs made a lot of friends – BUT MORE & MORE ENEMIES, really! Fact is… the blogger does not really mind those casual cursing and negative comments from his readers. For as long as the purpose of the blog is achieved, the site does not really mind comments coming from cyber morons here and there

Thank you to all my readers!

Now this is the part where I become showbiz.

Thanks to the following sites:

htt://www.blogspot.com/

http://gostats.com/

http://feedjit.com/join/

http://www.sonicrun.com/

http://freewebsubmission.com/

http://feeds2.feedburner.com/

http://www.blogcatalog.com/

http://www.freebielist.com/

http://networkedblogs.com/

Fierce Blogs Found Empadana Avenue – Homemade Empanada of Bulacan

2009-11-08T07:07:00.011+08:00

On my way home last week, the service driver asked me if it was okay to drop by a store before bringing me home. Since it was early and I was in a cooperative mood, I nodded and gave him a quick smile.

Apparently he was hungry and wanted to get a quick fix for breakfast. He stopped by in front of this humble store selling empanada. The store is not that posh-looking and all but there’s something to it that made me check the scene. Well, I didn’t just check it really; I bought a box full of empanada for breakfast too!

Facade of Empanadad Avenue

I ordered 3 pieces of tuna and 3 pieces of chicken. Their empanada costs Php12.00 each ($0.20 each).

How was the experience? I love it and it’s another fierce find I can share to you guys. A single empanada will already satisfy your hunger because it’s not all-crust. Once you bite it, you will notice that your empanada is not about "a crust filled with air" (like others). You are really eating what you bought. No drama and hullabaloos - just a simple and delicious empanada for you to enjoy. And what I love above all, their empanada is not oily like most.

Mang Ed Ordering

Other flavors are ham and cheese, bacon and cheese and pork.

Empanada Box (6 pieces)

You can visit them at P. Binay Street (corner Dela Rosa Street) at the back of SM Hypermart South Super Highway extension. Or you can call them at 889-5769 for special orders. Unfortunately they do not deliver for the lazy people out there.

Another fierce product revealed

Blog Ranking and Other Statistics

2009-11-02T08:49:00.008+08:00

I came across this website during my usual blog hopping activity. This web tool is really interesting and helpful for those who are really serious about their blogging.

The website is called Cubestart. What it does is calculate the statistics of your website - worth, page views, your revenue and a whole lot more. Even if out of pure curiosity, you can have your website analyzed.

It is as simple as typing your complete URL where the "Enter URL" bos is. Allow 5 to 10 seconds and you'll have your data.

I would like to share mine. My page stats is not much really. A lot of work needs to be done.

Fierce Blogs' Result

You can eventually check he progress of you blog site and see if your hard work is already paying off.

Good luck on your stats results.

Fierce Blogs - Bohol Philippines (Loboc’s Floating Restaurants and Bohol Bee Farm)

2009-11-01T12:52:00.023+08:00

Three weeks ago I visited Bohol for the 2^nd time along with office friends. Honestly I was not really excited about the travel because Typhoon Ondoy happened a week before our scheduled trip. I was feeling a bit apprehensive because of utter fear of being stuck in an Island away from home – Makati, Philippines.

If there is one thing that I remember during my 1^st trip in Bohol was the warm and gentle breeze the island has. Not too strong and not too meek; just about right for you to enjoy. There was also that usual short drizzles in the afternoon which I find relaxing to steady the heat of summer tropics.

This time around...

The Air Flight

Our e-ticket says our flight was supposed to be 3:00pm of October 17 via Philippine Airlines. Along with me are my friends, Ros and Denise. We had talks before the trip that we wanted something new away from our busy work. Little did we know that we are up to a challenge on the day of our flight to Bohol.

(Phone call…)

Eric – "Hi Ros! I am already outside the airport. Can you meet me at the lobby because I don’t have a print out of my e-ticket."

Ros – "You don’t need a copy of the e-ticket. We got inside the airport without showing it. We’ll meet you at gate 3."

Eric – "Oh, okay. I’ll see you in a while."

I felt odd after we ended the call. “Gate 3 of Philippine Airlines Domestic Airport? I don’t remember PAL having gate numbers. They only have one main gate.” – I muse to myself.

(Another phone call…)

Eric - “I am not outside the main gate. Where are you?”

Denise – ”We are here inside. Ros will meet you there.”

Eric – "Okay. Hang on. Which terminal are you at? Terminal 2, right? Where PAL is?"

Denise – "Oh noh! But you said Terminal 3?"

Eric – Did I? I meant the airport where PAL flights are.

(In short it was my fault. Goof part)

This is the part where we became part of the reality show, “The Amazing Race”!

We sure made it to our flight. But it was full of drama and comedy.

When Ros and Denise arrived at the airport, it was already quarter to 3. I was not hoping we’ll made it but we did. We were directed by the lobby guard to the “Supervisor Counter” where we were told that we are late already.

“Ganon?!” Sige na please.” (What?! Can you please accommodate us?) – I pleaded (with my Academy award face) to the supervisor.

“May check in bags ba kayo?” (Do you have check in luggage?) – The irritated Supervisor continued.

“Wala!” (None!) – I gleamed.

My friends who took part of PAL Amazing Race (Ros and Denise)

That’s where the part I realized our trip to Bohol will happen.

I love PAL for being flexible to their late passengers. Five Fierce Points for this!

In Bohol

After our tiring experience at the PAL Airport, we were welcomed by the rest of the group who travelled via Cebu Pacific. When we got asked how was our trip, Ros, Denise and I laughed like there was no tomorrow.

***

Then it was time for our dinner. Our 1^st stop was Bohol’s famous Floating Restaurant – Loboc River Cruise.

I didn’t try this during my 1^st trip in Bohol. It was so hot that time and atop of us was the 12pm sun. Heat heat heat! Thus, we decided to dine where there is air-conditioning.

Since it was dinner, I thought it will be okay to join my friends.

How was the food? REALLY, REALLY BAD! For a buffet fee of Php500.00 ($11.00+), the food that was served to us was nasty as hell! The rice and vegetable were overcooked and rest of the food was bland. On top of the tasteless cuisine they offer, the food on the table was not enough for everyone. It was like battle of the fittest just to get enough food on your plate. I felt like being in the "wild" hunting for your own food and I was a novice.

I fought hard to get this on my plate and I don't get to eat it (Urgh)

Unless management changes the way they served their meal, the experience is pointless and plain ripped off.

A single Fierce Point for the floating Restaurant. A give them credit in creating the colorful ambiance along the river. Other than than, forget it!

***

Since we were totally disappointed from our dinner, we had to hunt for a more edible food. And it was DBR Grill who rescued us from hunger that night. It was one of those so-so grills you find along the road. But since we were in Bohol, that so-so grill is instead located near the beach.

DBR Grill may not be famous but their food is FAR better than the 500-worth buffet we had earlier.

The Grill Bar that Saved us from Hunger

Dinner at DBR Grill (we can now smile for the camera)

(From Left: Charley, Jed, Flor, Ros, Denise and the Blogger)

***

Bohol Bee Farm

I enjoyed my time here because the place is not pretentious. The experience was really relaxing and the food was something to enjoy and remember. From ambiance to the food they served on your plate, Bohol Bee Farm is a must stop when traveling to Bohol.

The blogger taking a rest at Bee Farm

Bee Farm is a villa dramatically housed on a cliff. It is one of those places where you get to be part with nature - too much of nature that is you’re also exposed to the insects. That’s why you need to bring those special lotions to keep the mosquitoes away. A must have!

What I really love about my experience here is how they combined good food and present-day pleasures. That is the ultimate service for me!

You can also visit their souvenir shop where you can buy their organic food.

Contact Information:

Address: Dao, Dauis, Bohol Philippines

Phone: +63 917 304 1491

Email: vickywallace@boholbeefarm.com

Other Fierce Finds - Reasons to Go to Bohol

Bohol Beach in Panglao Island

An air-conditioned Toilet?

(Sure it is and it's cold! Too cold my balls shrank!)

Credits:

To rosedralin, thanks for allowing Fierce Blogs to post your photography here.

Fierce Blogs ' Latest Banner

2009-10-31T23:10:00.009+08:00

After being away for almost 2 weeks, I'm back to blogging. Tonight I feel re-charge and ready to blog a lot of fierceness for my readers to enjoy. But before all that, I want to share my latest blog banner.

My latest blog banner is different this time because I personally designed it. Unlike my previous ones, it is either a friend or some web designer who created them. This time I wanted it to be more personal. It is not artistically 2 thumbs up but my blog banner is so me in hundred ways.

Credits:
- Photos were taken by Gerry M.
- Banner design by my hands.

Fierce Blogs - Back to Basics

2009-10-11T08:59:00.019+08:00

I met up with friends last night over dinner. Darn! I really miss them. It was probably a month since I had the chance to be with them. Why? I am blaming the crazy weather we had in our country and nothing else! I mean, from Ondoy to Pepeng? Not only did they bring misfortune in our country, they also have a hideous name! Can we at least just follow the international names of these typhoons instead of changing it to a barriotic-sounding names? Please!

(Bloggers bubble thought, “Which leads me to wonder, may be Ondoy and Pepeng are long-time lovers who are having issues. Probably Ondoy slept with their neighbor, Morong and was caught in the act that lead to the whole disaster”)

We had Thai food for dinner and a whole lot of catching up with our personal lives - work, romance and the bad encounters we all had because of the recent typhoon. We all missed each other and everyone was hungry for bits of scoop over the other. We hardly ate, actually. A lot of rice, chicken curry and Pad Thai left on our table. In fact, we even had to ask our leftover food to be bagged – which we forgot to bring along with us (LOL). Call it senior moment!

After dinner we drove to Bonifacio, High Street where coffee and dessert await the gang. Oh! But not before we check the stores! Some shopped while most of us checked the hotties we see along “the zone”. As I told my friend, “Tonight is a good night! The crowd is infested with hotties”.

We ended the night in a very odd note, though. When we were about to head to the car park, we suddenly saw ourselves sitting (again) under the light post. May be we still don’t want to go. May be we wanted to chat more. But whatever it was, it was fun sitting at the drivers lounge with friends for more chatting.

It was really nice seeing everyone (even if we’re not complete). It was a refreshing change from the usual humdrums of our busy lives. These past few weeks have been tiring for me in many ways. I was wondering why? I mean, work is good. I don’t feel sick and all –but I feel somewhat restless from thinking of so many things.

I guess this is where the balance in life comes in. No matter how thorny things are, there is always a safe and sound side we can always go back to. It is a place close to our hearts but mostly ignored because of the demands of our individual roles.

Last night I went back to basics. It was the basic need of interacting to people who have known you all these years. It was that kind of company I was really longing for to take me away from a path I am not familiar with.

Some pictures using my Nokia E65 mobile phone (really back to basics, huh).

Oui Facebook-ing...

Gerry who is now addicted to "running"

Raqs - Soon to be worth millions (LOL)

And the blogger posing..still a narcissist...

Fierce Blogs - Inspiring People to Blog

2009-10-02T10:11:00.014+08:00

I’ve been a blogger for quite a while already. I never expected though that I would be inspiring friends to be bloggers too along the way. That was never in my plan. All I wanted 4 years ago was to write and share what I have between my two ears – my craziness that is!

I still remember my very first blog. It created such a disturbance I had to delete it (but I kept a copy). Actually, it was more of a short gay-themed story about the writer. Some thought it was too personal for me to even write it. Others though it was funny and real. But just the same, I removed it and just retained a copy on my multiply account (toned version here).

But this blog is not about me (for a change). Today, I will feature the blog sites of my friends who I have “inspired” somehow.

Chi - Blurred and Hypoxic - "TAKE A DEEP BREATH ...close your eyes and hold your breath ... see the silence ... hear life ... then let go ... BLURRED & HYPOXIC ... unclear views ... devoid of air ... it begins with chaos .... ends with acceptance ... in the middle ... the clear TRUTH..."

You may think his blog is DDD. That’s Dark, Deep and Dangerous. In fact that was my comment to him when he asked my opinion about his blog. But as I read his posts, the more curious I became to connect his blog theme to his persona. Quite tricky at first if you ask me. Why? His madness can be damn scary – which is also the reason why I think his work is unique. He is a natural and passionate artist by heart and it shows a lot in his writing - Inspired by life’s realism engined by a kid’s imagination.

Ros – “Thought bubbles and rainbow-colored days”

I first saw her photography at Facebook. I instantly became a fan and was really amazed on how talented the lady is. Her eye for balance and color amaze me to this day (which by the way reminds me of my photo shoot with her very soon. Am I excited or what?!) But that’s not all she has to offer on her blog. Ros is one busy bee always on the loose looking for adventure and misadventure. While most of us enjoy sleeping for hours, this Wonder Girl tends to forget all about that. From one event to the other, our lady super hero will be there to blog it.

As her blog header says, her thoughts are indeed bubbles a floating a many; full of colors and wonders.

Fierce Blogs simply love it!

Lemon – “My Lifestyle – My Life – My Blog”

He is one of my friends who I can put under my list of G.A.P – Gay and Proud. For he really is! This flamboyant stunner may be new into blogging but never misses the “scene”. His larger than life attitude is infectious. He doesn’t like those “one-liners” because he is the headliner, so to speak.

Fierce Blog is honored to have coined his blog header, “My Lifestyle – My Life – My Blog”.

More featured bloggers on my future posts...