Documentarist

San Francisco, California Tourist Destination (2015)

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Mon, 20 May 2019 06:25:00 +0000

Golden Gate of San Francisco- The Golden Gate Bridge is one of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks as well as a piece of engineering art. You can walk across the bridge if you want, (sadly, I wasn’t able to because we didn’t have enough time), and/or visit the visitor’s center to be briefed on the history of the park. However, since we came over there late, the center was already closed. One can, however, just admire the bridge from every angle and take a lot of pictures, like I did.

Palace of Fine Arts- The Palace of Fine Arts is a Roman-style remnant of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition. The outdoor rotunda and its lagoon are one of the city’s most photographed sights. Take a leisurely stroll around the lagoon, relax under the rotunda, or enjoy a picnic on the grass.

Ghirardelli Square-Is a landmark public square with shops and restaurants in the Fisherman's Wharf area of San Francisco, California. A portion of the area was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 as Pioneer Woolen Mills and D. Ghirardelli Company.

The square once featured over 40 specialty shops and restaurants. Some of the original shops and restaurants still occupy the square. (Source: Wikipedia)

I am a chocolate lover and I consider this place as a haven! lol

Crooked Lombard Street- Lombard Street is an east–west street in San Francisco, California that is famous for a steep, one-block section with eight hairpin turns. The street was named after Lombard Street in Philadelphia by San Francisco surveyor Jasper O'Farrell. (Wikipedia)

This street is the world’s most winding street. It’s thrilling to watch cars and bikers as they navigate the sharp turns of the road while tourists gawk at them. I felt my stomach turn when we passed by this tourist spot. However, I was still able to take a pose and have souvenir shot in this amazing landscape.

THE 16^th Avenue Tiled Steps The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps project has been a neighborhood effort to create a beautiful mosaic running up the risers of the 163 steps located at 16th and Moraga in San Francisco. The tiles are beautifully arranged to create mosaics.

Hashtag #GratefulAt43

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 07:10:00 +0000

Moving on to my early 40’s without knowing what awaits me is a tough pill to swallow. I’m a person who always thinks of the future, & devising initiatives that will compliment my long-term plan is something to me that has to be treated with importance. I know there are many other problems in this world compared to my present predicament. But hey! Don’t get me wrong. This is only my way of expressing my thoughts. I have to feel what I feel because feeling is valid, right? Because generally, I believe we have no control over what life will throw at us. I just put all my trust in HIM.

However, as an independent career woman, I am, somehow, proud of the recent milestone that I accomplished the past year. Thank you, Lord! Seeing progress in my personal scorecard has made me feel grateful to Him for being my guide and reference in all my major decisions in life, supported by my family & closest friends. And somehow, I tap my shoulder for that, for a job well done. Again, this is one step closer to my aspirations in life where the end goal is self-fulfillment by helping my loved ones develop a balanced kind of life while giving the right amount of service to the people. I just have to master the art of Work and Life balance for me to fully succeed. This time my health should be given top priority over all others, or else, all this sacrifice will be for nothing.

Also, as I contemplate, I have just lately realized that I should stop pleasing people… That you have to accept the norm of society… That the more you progress, the more haters you get. So, either you stay mediocre and be in agreement with the world, or, be great and learn to rise above the haters. Still, I choose to remain calm and proactive. These best compliments my professional strategy of handling an organization’s common dispute. Thank God there's yoga to help me get to accept this situation at work with ease. (Breathe in, breathe out...). There is only one thing I have always hoped and prayed for --- that God allow me to reach my mid-50’s still active in government service. He may reward me with good strategy and compassion as a leader on how I will handle my emotional well-being so as not to contribute negatively on the mental health state of my fellow employees.

However, as time flies so fast, doing things outside of my comfort zone is something I should start initiating. It keeps you feeling alive and motivated at life. Even if it doesn’t work out quite as you’d hoped, what matters is you take some step to realize those long hopes and dreams. Life should be about occasionally taking risks. Not necessarily crazy or death-defying ones, but something that makes you feel accomplished on certain endeavors. That’s what matters most.

That dream? To enrich your life. To make your family and loved ones happy because they see you happy. To learn new skills. To help someone else achieve something. To see new places and have new experiences. With all these hopes and dreams, I am forever grateful to our Lord for His never-ending love and guidance to a simple woman like me who just aims for a simple kind of life surrounded by my loved ones.

Davao City: 1st National Information Convention

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 02:24:00 +0000

"In the age of modern technology and information, ignorance is a choice"

I have attached here the summary report of our previous trip to Davao City to attend 2018 National Information Convention last February 19 to 21 at SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, Davao City. It has been conceptualized with the primary aim of empowering the community both public and private sectors thru government Information Officer and private media group for information dissemination of all the government's programs and project for the people. The minds behind NIC also hoped to start a movement where communicators model responsible sharing of information and use their platforms to inspire civic engagement. In short, No to Fake News. The activity is under the initiative of the Philippine Information Agency and allied agencies under the Presidential Communications Operations Office.

Selfie while waiting for take off with my office staff whom a first time flyer! Just sit back and relax!:-)

The Day one offered the participants a deeper understanding of the government flagship program and policies and provide insights on how to foster better relations between the government and the media.

The only News Anchor wearing sneaker on live news TV. haha! (Photo Op)

Our Grand Regal Hotel's view at night.

Speaker from DPWH, Department of Energy, DILG and DFA discussed their upcoming programs for the enhancement of the communities. DPWH gave emphasis on connecting people through their “Build, build, build” program that aims to construct more roads and accelerate strategic infrastructure development that will reduce inequality and will pave the way for inclusive growth by 2020. Thou the presentation of the master plan and its perspective is too good to realize, at least the national government is laying down plans to mitigate the current problems on traffic and its related issue. I just hoped that the build, build, build project of the national government are also aligned to DICT's main goal of putting up an underground Fibr Optic cabling plant to better improve the country's communication facility. The Department of Energy discussed the power of an informed energy consumer with the project titled “ePower mo”. The project aims to empower energy consumer through information on energy utilization and to make Filipinos energy-smart consumers. Campaign videos on energy utilization was also shown during the discussion. Meanwhile, DILG opened the topic about federalism and its objective to activate the region’s participation in nation decision making and accelerate the economic development of the regions. The PCOO launched the Rehabinasyon program, an initiative on fight against the illegal drugs. They also emphasize the people's need for freedom of information.

I may not be a good writer, a confident public speaker but I believed God place me where I am now to be a communicator of change for the betterment of delivering public service for the people. To all my leaders and mentors, I am forever thankful.

Photo Op with PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar w/ my office staff and mobile kiosk content developer, Myris.

Pasalubong hoarding time at Davao pasalubong centre/market.

The Day two provided specifics on harnessing the power of information contributing to social development, responsible use of information, and mechanisms for development communication. Governance and Social Security: Kontribusyong Sulit na Sulit by SSS discussed on how the members’ contribution is computed and encourage the participants to be part of SSS by enumerating the benefits they offers. Media personnel such as Mr. Luisito Beltran and Mr. Rey Langit were some of the speakers during the 2^nd day of the convention. I'm just fascinated to hear their voices while giving talks as it reminds me of my childhood days while my father keeps on listening to their radio programs. They discuss how to empower government communicators and how to fight and identify fake news. Mr. Beltran inspired the participants to always bring intelligence to work and have passion in everything we do. Grassroots communication by Atty. Mesa talked about what makes a successful grassroots campaign that will ease the communication between the government and the general public. Empowering communities through media and information literacy was also tackled during the event. The Duterte App was launched by Sec. Martin Andanar, a mobile application that aims to inform the public regarding the Duterte administration's plans, programs and current news. He also encourage the participants to fight fake news through media literacy. Fellowship night was also held during the 2^nd day, performance from the local artists and raffles for the participants sets the night.

Only one thing is for sure, there is no better way to solve the country's common economic problem than to educate its people and feed them with real data and information. Feedbacks and consensus solutions that will help build the nation will sure to follow in just one touch of a finger. #empoweringcommunities #nic2018

Always Find Your Bliss (Post Birthday Blog Story)

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 08:08:00 +0000

It took me more than a year before I was able to update my blog. Not because I had nothing to share with you, but for the reason that I’d been too preoccupied with my work and personal life. In fact, there were so many wonderful things that had happened in the past year but which I had not been able to share here.

Most photo attached in this blog post was taken last year. This shows how much difference one year can make. I hope we all realize that life isn't as long as we think it is, and that every day should be celebrated to its limit. One lifetime may not be enough for some, but live life to the extent that if today were your last, you wouldn't have lived any other way. To the people who give color and meaning to my life, thank you for the lessons learned and the shared memories…..especially to those who have given me reasons to be more thankful in realizing my purpose in life as a simple woman and public servant; praying for a healthier year ahead with my loved ones.

Surround yourself with great leaders.

I remember this photo taken last year when i had to tour around the City one of our guest from Manila. I had the chance again to bumped with my elementary retired teacher who also serves as tour guide/lecturer at Bataan Surrender Site museum. He told me to love what I'm doing even thou I'm not in the field of teaching as I humbly told her where I am now in my career as public servant. And she just give me an advise, and that is to be always ready and learn to save something for myself. As she sadly told me that she wasn't able to do it himself during the prime time of her career being the bread winner of the family. Living without a family of her own as she preferred to live a single life makes her feel unaccomplished in some aspects. I gave her a big hug after this meeting, and told her that I'm one of her proud accomplishment.

Hey look at our hand gesture,,what thus it mean? Whatever!:-)

I learned that second chances are not given to make things right. But are given to prove that we could be better even after we fall. Photo with former actor Jiro Manio.

Always remember, bad or good, there's something to learn from senior leaders. Just filter it, and take something with you as you go along your journey. Be Proactive!

As the quote says, "Never let pride be your guiding principle. Let your accomplishment speaks for you". Just always keep the humility in you.

I just keep reminding myself about all the blessings I have received from HIM. Thus, I never feel bad about getting old. Life is always fluid. We are always changing, growing, and expanding our sense of self. It's really getting to the heart of who you are and where you excel, discovering stories, habits, and patterns you cling on to that may be limiting your potential. Taking it positively, we all have so much more potential beyond society’s expectations…that we don’t have an expiry date, that we have a choice over our destiny. So, don’t let norms control you. You do you! LOVE YOURSELF! Just be around people who can radiate your life positively. Don't let anyone control your life and things that you wanted to do for yourself. As long as you don't do any harm to anyone, go for it! Life is too short to live in bitterness. All I know is, I’m just a little older, wiser and happier! And as the old saying goes, “No matter how busy life gets, always find balance.” #singleblessedness

Be with someone who will never get tired listening to all your life's issue. My strong support and shock absorber. My forever BFFs.

My strong support..,my second family..

My Family..My Life.

Despite some difficulties, the year 2017 deserves a full thumbs up! :-)

Stanford University California (2015)

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 06:13:00 +0000

Stanford University, located between San Francisco and San Jose in the heart of California's Silicon Valley, is one of the world's leading teaching and research universities. Since it’s opening in 1891, Stanford has been dedicated to finding solutions to big challenges and to preparing students for leadership in a complex world.

Stanford welcomes almost 150,000 visitors annually. And what makes it unique that time is I am one of their luckiest visitors for that year! Haha

Let’s start the long walk together with Yaya, the very smart and intelligent black-American campus volunteer, who patiently toured us around the campus discussing significant landmarks, history and academic programs of the university.

Where I stand is one of the very significant landmarks of the Stanford University where the brilliant technological invention of Hewlett & Packard comes out. According to their site, in 1939, with the encouragement of their professor and mentor, Frederick Terman, Stanford alumni David Packard and William Hewlett established a little electronics company in a Palo Alto garage. That garage would later be dubbed "the Birthplace of Silicon Valley."

Mayor Joet during his hand-over of our cocomat pouch bag to Yaya as our token of appreciation. Cocomat is locally produced in our hometown as livelihood of a small group of entrepreneurial women.

In Stanford University the access to emergency hotline is just a touch of a finger away, as shown in the picture. A month after returning to the Philippines, we have replicated this practice by strategically placing eight (8) units of information kiosks at pocket parks along the university town area of the City of Balanga. This interactive service is an in-house solution that combines the best technology from City of Balanga that is powerful and flexible enough to meet a wide range of customer needs. The solution allows users to access the information on city government social services, education-related ideas and informative videos for live interaction with our call center agent thereby reducing waiting time and increasing customer satisfaction, improving customer experience by providing services such as information about local destination and other government services. The City of Balanga Information Hub enables touch screen interactivity that delivers a variety of rich media improves customer service experience and increases student-learning opportunities. This is our innovative way of securing the safety of our students while exploring knowledge and business information using digital technology.

Standing at the metered parking post along the Bay Beach Area of San Francisco AT&T Park yearning to replicate the same practice. In the city of balanga, tricycle motor -vehicle is our common means of transportation. Despite implementing various traffic rules and regulations and city ordinances around Balanga’s central business district, common issues on re-routing, traffic congestion, and fare rate between commuter and tricycle operators are still prevalent. That’s why I am still encouraging groups of graduating students, particularly those in ICT, to come up with thesis proposals particularly on this kind of transportation system that will somehow help the city to address the related issues and possibly turn this into a startup business for the students.

The Public Servant

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 08:53:00 +0000

"There Is Nothing More Beautiful Than Someone Who Goes Out Of Their Way To Make Life Beautiful For Others"...

San Francisco, USA (2015)

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Sat, 30 Dec 2017 10:51:00 +0000

When our trip to USA had been fixed and the itinerary was set accordingly, my mind started to wander if I would be able to manage the 16-hour direct flight from Manila to San Francisco via Philippine Airlines. I admit that I am a person who feels exasperated in waiting. I’m so impatient. Just thinking of 16 hours on an airplane without doing anything makes me feel fidgety, like a handcuffed prisoner. However, when the idea of experiencing the fun and historic way of getting around San Francisco via cable car and discovering the city’s most important landmarks and shopping destinations comes into the picture, my adrenalin starts to shoot up and I get very excited! lol The purpose is for official business travel. This is in pursuant to the City Government of Balanga vision to become a World-Class University Town, the Science & Technology Advisory Council, Inc. (STAC) Silicon Valley, the local chief executive, city council members and heads of the offices of the city government will participate in a joint exposure trip where the STAC will introduce the city government delegation to various stakeholders of the Silicon Valley and Reno entrepreneurial ecosystems.

At the train station going down to basement of the airport to pick-up our service van for 10 days.

Welcome salubong by this two lovely ladies.

Touch down San Francisco International Airport

The shopping & tour itinerary should be last priority. So I must work and act like a geek and not as a celebrity fashion blogger! lol Anyway, let me share with you how I was able to balance my work and play experience in my 20-day stay in the United States of America!

Group photos in front of the Best Western Hotel in San Mateo with my colleagues

San Francisco is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. It’s home to liberals, hippies, hipsters, techies and geeks, immigrants, yuppies and one of the oldest gay scenes in the States. The iconic and world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Palace of Fine Arts, Fisherman’s Wharf, Botanical Garden and the sumptuous Chinese, Burmese food and seafoods and more are just few of the many reasons why tourist visit this state. However, in terms of food choices and preparation, the cuisine of this state doesn’t much appeal to my palate and preference. More so, everything is big size!!. Most of the food preparation is too savory in taste. I really can’t stand an American diet. Now I know why Americans rank high in number of obese citizens. However, most Americans I meet are awesome in attitude! As for me, it’s just really an exciting place for vacation. The place is kind of a complicated abode for me, everything is fast- moving! As I observe, you need to adapt yourself to their kind of lifestyle and practice for you to survive if you plan to migrate in this state.

At San Mateo-North Central while having our late dinner together with my colleagues under the freezing cold weather outside. I just observed during my stay in the US that even though there were sudden changes in weather temperature, my body adapted to the cold weather and didn’t experience asthma attacks. Though we haven’t had much tour experience in this city aside from the fact that our hotel was located in this place, San Mateo sounds livable and peaceful.

Advance Mother’s Day celebration dedicated to my hard-working female colleagues and to the very beautiful inside and out and caring wife of our LCE. This coincides with the birthday celebration of one of my colleagues, too. It’s pizza party time!

Work And Life Balance

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Wed, 07 Sep 2016 10:30:00 +0000

Did You Take A Breather Today?

If there were a trial court of justice that hears people’s life’s’ practices and which would somehow ask me if I was able to apply these best practices in my life, I would plead “guilty”.

Just last week, I wasn’t spared by the strong onslaught of the influenza virus. This despite of my flu immunization vaccine. The spread of strong influenza triggered an asthma attack. It’s a fact that eating healthy foods is not enough to maintain a healthy immune system. When time permits, I prepared my own packed of food for lunch and dinner at home. This should be balanced with physical and mental relaxation. I have no time for YOGA exercise. I’m a very stubborn person when it comes to medication. That’s why the moment I stepped into the clinic of my pulmonary physician, she asked right away what treatment I would prefer --- a weeklong rest at home, or hospital confinement? It meant my physical condition that time would no longer be improved by my self-medication practice. So, I had no choice but to take a weeklong sick leave from work.

Lesson learned: Work Hard but Work Smart. Listen to your body so you know when to stop. Ok, I actually know all these lessons, I just ignored them. I’m trying to slow down and take everything in moderation. However, just like the revolutionary face of technology, which is the main mission of my department, as a leader it taught me to think and mobilize my people with precision. My month of August was full of appointments that I only had five days of stay in my office to oversee the work and monitor the deadlines of my staff. It even came to a point that I had to cancel sets of scheduled meetings due to conflicts.

That’s why I grabbed the opportunity to take some time off with my college mates. They also craved to breathe some fresh air, given the chance, due to their weeklong and exhausting teaching workload. This was also our way to lift and boost the spirit of one of our OFW male classmates who suffered a leg amputation because of untreated diabetes. We wanted him to see the beauty of life despite his present circumstances.

Lesson Learned: Life is Short. Spend It with People Who Make You Laugh and Feel Loved. When we hit the final leg of our journey, one thing is sure: we cannot bring the possessions we have in this world to our tomb. We’re just merely passing by. That is why we should always try to pause and create memories with loved ones and friends.

My phone has been a black hole of pictures and memories. I need more space, too, so I dump all of them in my blog.

Life Is A Mission And Not A Career

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Wed, 31 Aug 2016 10:51:00 +0000

"Not until we find the reason why we serve, our life has no substance"

It’s been two decade when we were finally able to set up a Class Reunion for Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, BSED Batch ’96. It’s a day full of throwbacks and memories and non-stop story telling about failures and successes in life. At first, I wasn’t able to catch up and get into the core of the discussions as most of them are actively on the field of teaching. I was the only one who works in the local government setting, the one with just a short stint in teaching. As I listened to their individual life stories and struggles both personal and work related, I couldn’t help but wonder and ask myself: What if I pursued teaching as my career? Could I become one of them? Maybe become a Master Teacher, or a School Principal perhaps? Or just an ordinary, boring and nerdy classroom teacher who wears thick eyeglasses and below-the-knee, pencil-cut skirt uniform. I can’t picture myself wearing that fashion style! Hehehe I’m a jeans and shirt kind of person. I’m just thankful that I was able to get myself out of the old school concept that if you’re a teacher you should be in school! Maybe this principle is not applicable to all, especially to a goal-driven woman like me who doesn’t want a very routinely kind of work. I don’t think I have enough patience now in dealing with secondary students and their angst! We might possibly clash in some aspect. The type of student discipline nowadays is a big challenge to all practicing teachers. I admit that I have short tolerance for students’ behaviors and whims because I grew up in a family environment where eye-to-eye contact with my parents is enough to compose myself and behave. However, I honestly admire all my batch mates. Hat off to them, as they’re able to balance career and family life. I just hope that it is still not too late for me to realize the value and true essence of being a woman. So hold me God.

How about you, have you known already the purpose of your existence? Then what is your life’s mission?

With my BFFs youngest daughter! My friend wasn't able to finish her study then but she had this pretty little lady! :-)

One of my closest friend during my college days. I'm proud of this woman, she is now a certified School Principal! Aim high! :-)

Our Kuya's who always beside me during our stressful practice teaching.

Ang Tatlong Bibe..hahaha!

The wacky secondary teachers of the Province of Bataan! I'm proud of you all guys! :-)

What will be the next dance step Ma'am Akit?! Teachers can play like a student sometimes! haha

The trying hard singers of our batch! :-)

Can't help but laugh out loud here! lol

The revelation of our true to life story. :-)

Meetings of batch '96 in preparation for the 51st Grand Alumni Homecoming on December

Stress free weekend with this group of people.

Life Is A Gift

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Thu, 21 Jul 2016 09:20:00 +0000

“Take Time To Do What Makes Your Soul Happy”.

As I step on to another year of life, I realize that time really flies so fast that without you knowing it, another patch of growing gray locks is covering your scalp. I’m a self-confessed blogger, and online journaling serves as my distress board and relief for my jumbled, unspoken thoughts and gnawing worries. I'm starting the habit of expressing myself in the blank page and believing that at the end of my writings is a positive end-result. The feeling of self-fulfillment as I express and understand myself more deeply is motivating.

As the Lord rewards me with another year of life, I’m now developing the sensibility to find ways on how to maximize my time and improve myself. God is too generous to put this gift to waste. And I’m really grateful to Him. For the past year, I was able to face my fear of independence. Though the process is quite hard, yet it’s rewarding. I'm just thankful to my family and BFFs who supported and guided me in trying times. I just want to share the greatest lesson I learned from it- that nothing is complicated and impossible if you surrender everything to HIM. In one of my coffee-talks with my father, talking about life in general, he reminded me about a certain line in the bible that says “No One Should Live Only For Oneself”. I am just so thankful that he gave me his blessings to flap my wings and fly on my own. He knows by heart the sincerity of my intention more than anything else. And I love and respect him more for that.

When the skies are grey, and I’m tired of everything, I spend time with myself. Music and inspirational books are enough companion, at least for that moment of reflection. For me, moments of solitude are very important. Because I believe happy and peaceful hearts are way, way better than angry hearts. Throw happiness instead of anger.

I should train my mind to see the good in every situation. Most specially in dealing with every persons' individuality. That is why, I always bear in mind, that our standing in society is defined by how we treat people around us. We're all living in an imperfect world without imperfection, neither you nor I would exist. What is important is, as a normal individual you know how to acknowledge your own flaws. Acknowledging your own weakness doesn’t make you less a person. It’s just a matter of uniting yourself to others and being flexible in situations to achieve peace and harmony.

This is my way to understand the essence of my toil and its innate, undesirable effects on my sanity- as if I’m always standing between two colliding rocks. I learned that at the end of the day, all things should pass. Just do your best and stand for your principle. As long as you know where you stand, just don’t cross the border line.I think you're on the right track. And one more thing is that as an ordinary government employee, it is best to reap the value of your hard work by serving the underserved far from the limelight. It is best to master the art of sharing compassion and believing that, "You can't change how people feel about you, so don't try. Just master your craft and be happy". I just keep reminding myself not to miss any chance to be with somebody great, or with someone who can tolerate my insanity once the situation leads me, too. Live in the present and make it beautiful, Aja!

Photos below was taken during the City’s Stakeholders’ Night at Plaza Hotel in June 27, 2016. An evening of thanksgiving for the city government's community counterparts. The event was attended by private organizations that actively worked for the success of the city's strategic reforms lead by our former City Mayor now 2nd District-Congressman Joet S. Garcia.

Padre Pio Shrine: Batangas City

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 10:00:00 +0000

Always Celebrate Life

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 04:08:00 +0000

"We didn't Need Words..We Just Look At Each Other and Smile"..

Celebration of life with a group of women with a Salt and Pepper Hair. One of the things that I have learned in my years of work in government service is, I was able to get along with my senior colleagues without having any conflict despite our age differences… though I get annoyed at times with their whims because I have no choice but to give way since I am the younger one among the group. I just remind myself to be more patient with them because I believe in my own time I will experience the same erratic mood swing. Hahaha…! I just hope they will not be able to read this blog, or else they might use my hair to mop the floor, just like what Cinderella's step mom did to her! lol

We momentarily had a break and experience the authentic Asian ambiance at The Oriental Hotel, Bataan as we celebrated the 60th birthday of one of our beloved colleagues. I had been to The Oriental Hotel- Legaspi way back 2012, if my memory serves me right. I attended an ICT conference in Legaspi City, Albay and through the generosity of The Oriental Hotel-Legazpi to our City Mayor whom I represented that time, I was accommodated in their executive room for free. That is one of the perks of my work. Hehe… And I must say that the owner and developer of Oriental Hotel, both in Legaspi and Bataan, have great architectural acumen and hotel experience. Will post my throwback experience at Oriental Hotel-Legazpi some other time… from its landscape, to sumptuous foods and accommodation. It was an amazing hotel and resort experience! We really did have a great experience of taking lots of photos, even if it was just a short period of time.

Bolinao Pangasinan: Family Summer Get Away

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 04:52:00 +0000

“The Time Spent With Family Is Worth Every Second”…

Just like other normal families, ours has gone through various hardships, and sometimes disagreements. However, at the end of the day, we’re still a family that loves and supports one another and still keeps trying to make our relationships work. From the beginning, (we) siblings have worked to build our own respective careers and a family of our own…. although I’m still single. Maybe because I have a very complicated and busy kind of career (palusot)!..lol. The time to be with one another becomes too precious to the point that we have to make an adjustment from our schedule in order to meet and set a family getaway trip which we usually make every summer. This is already an anticipated out-of-town trip and bonding activity with the whole family. However, at this point, my brother and his family didn’t join us because his newborn baby was sick. This serves also as a welcome home treat to one of our balikbayan aunties who are based in Germany. We just browsed and searched the Internet to look for our itinerary and that’s it! Presto, the plan succeeded as expected and we proceeded to Bolinao Pangasinan. What made this vacation exciting was that we had no definite itinerary. I thought it would just be a one-day tour and we would go home right after, but unfortunately due to long hours of driving, my eldest sister who was also one of the drivers, advised us to stay in one of the beach resorts along Barangay Patar, Bolinao, Pangasinan… only to find out that I was the only one unprepared in terms of travel essentials. So I had to borrow and wear my father’s lousy underwear shirt and shorts to comfort myself at night! lol I’m just kidding. At my age now it’s still normal for me to borrow underwear shorts or pajamas from my father whenever I am out of one.

The epic shot of King Mufasa and Zimba the naughty one! lol

Goofing around with my sisters! I can't remember when was the last time we had this funny moments. Just like our childhood days, my auntie who happens to be the photographer in this pictorial instructed us three to take a pose. And who ever shows the most fashionable modelling moves will get the best rewards. So i take it seriously here! lol

Hash Tag #walanghilamos! lol

Capture The Moments

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 08:34:00 +0000

Little did I know that seven years have passed and this little fella turns 7. Time flies so fast! Sooner than we thought, we’ll have our own basketball heartthrob in the family. Memories suddenly flashed back and I remember when I was fond of putting fresh flowers on his ear because he looked like his younger sister. As much as possible, I try not to show favoritism to any of my 7 nephews and nieces as all of them have their own unique character that makes them adorable. All of them used to call me Mama. However, this little smart kid silently gets my attention most of the time because he is too affectionate. This is aside from the fact that among the seven of them, he is the one who is most sickly, that’s why he gets most of our care and attention. I pray to the Lord that He grow up healthy, with the heart of a kid, and the likeness of a gentleman.

Isaiah's at 7th

GSW Curry's little die hard fan!

The celebrant's signature moves!

Mama's lucky free-throw shoot!

Repeta's back to back challenge !

Our very own future PBA player from Santos Family.

Team Ma'Ropets (Ropeta Family)

The bench squad cheerer! :-)

Family is LOVE!

The Most Valuable Player of the family!

It is really love to be a kid!

There's no evidence to show that I'm one of his avid fan. :-)

Ropeta vs Matibag. The game is on!

The next Hunk and Heart Throb of the game court!

In my eyes, your still my most handsome SMURF! :-)

The loving grandparents.

The good provider and proud parents. I prayed that you will both stay united in love and christ.

And all He can say is Thank You Po! :-)

Bridging Leadership

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Tue, 10 May 2016 09:55:00 +0000

“It Is Your Job To Make Your Team Great. Not The Other Way Around”. By Chris Locurto

On March 1 and 2 I took a leadership training focused on urban poor situation and housing programs with my colleagues in and future leaders of Balanga City. The city government constantly provides trainings and seminars focused on the over-all development of its managers to “sharpen the saw” and improve our strategic management style to lead people and come up with a win-win solution in addressing the pressing needs of the community as the end result.

The training was facilitated by renowned leadership consultant Prof. Jonas George Soriano of Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). I learned speakership style from this guy. I never thought that at the end of the two-day training, we would come up with a building-block strategy indicating our commitment in providing a low cost housing project for families living along the coastal areas of the community.

Soriano identified ‘bridging leadership’ as an effective approach in dealing with the challenges of poverty and housing. This kind of leadership highlights dialogue and collaboration as keys in problem solving. While updating this blog, I’m just wondering how I was able to develop a work relationship with them while still keeping my feet on the ground and dealing with the different styles of these leaders commonly found in any work place, either in private or public institution.

Whatever the experience I gained in working with them, I am sure that I have learned a lot from them as the years go by. And I quote; “The level of compassion of your subordinates to serve the less-privileged defines the value of your worth as a leader to them”. For that, I am thankful to my mentors and selected colleagues who, in one way or another, have supported me and have continuously guided me to reach my full potential. I just hope we’re all riding on the same boat in making a difference to people’s lives.

May the good Lord lead this new batch of leaders according to their real purpose and intention of serving the people.

My profound gratitude to one of the greatest mentor I worked with, for all the untiring support and understanding. And for literally being always on my back in my nine (9) years of endeavour in the government service as MIS Head under his leadership. I am what I am now because He lead me by example. It's an honour to become part of your legacy. Thank you for believing in my capacity to serve and for allowing me to grow.

Photo Ops with our incoming City Mayor Francis Garcia, Sangguniang Panglunsod Members (City Councilors) and selected Department Heads showing our workshop output.

And my wacky moments with the working leaders of our City.

Imagination Is Your Limit

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 05:30:00 +0000

"Imagination Is More Important Than Knowledge". Albert Einstein

The City Government of Balanga recently conducted a Performance Governance System local revalida to validate the performance output of city employees in the implementation of all initiatives under the City’s roadmap.

Under the management tool for good governance called Performance Governance System (PGS), a city forms project teams called vision-aligned circles that will work to achieve a preset vision. The VACs are required to present their projects, also called “initiatives”, in an annual Revalida for review and enhancement.

This year’s Revalida was themed “Cheers to the Crazy Ones!” Eight VACs were formed by city government employees, each with a thrust connected to the city’s vision of becoming a University Town by 2020.

Through the City Government of Balanga under the brilliant mind and leadership of Mayor Joet S. Garcia spearheaded by the Management Information Services Office (MISO), introduces one of the breakthrough project COBiH or the City of Balanga Information Hub under WWW.COB initiative, where electronic displays (kiosks) with Internet connection will be installed in places where the students and the public frequently gather.

The first of its kind in the country, COBIH allows users to reach the City Hall’s contact center to talk with online helpdesk representatives about City Government services. COBiH also features fast facts about Balanga City’s heritage and culture.

From Left to Right: (Panelist) Bataan Heroes Memorial College Dean of CICT, Mr. Arnold Vergara, TESDA Provincial Director Ms. Grace Castillo, BPSU Instructor, incoming Balanga City Mayor Francis Garcia and Bataan Peninsula State University Dean of Graduate School-Danilo Galicia Ph.D who happens to be my thesis adviser and mentor during my post graduate study.

We're trying to entertain ourselves here to break the anxiety in anticipation to mind-blowing questions from the panelist right after my staff COBiH initiative presentation

The presentation of the initiative is done and as Initiative Head, I have to start soliciting questions here from the panelist for them to better understand the concept of the project.

The question and answer portion between the panelist and my team is getting intense but we learned from their recommendation to better improve our project.

However, as long as you know the over-all details and concept of the project and you're hands on in the implementation of such, all possible questions can be easily explain and presented to the panelist.

I'm such a great pretender here. Pretending that I know everything! lol

COBiH primarily serves the education and the business sector. Facts about the city’s colleges and universities will be uploaded to the kiosks. Students will find COBiH’s educational games interesting. The business sector will benefit from this project through advertisements that will be flashed on the interactive screens.

The City of Balanga is vying for institutionalization in the standards of Performance Governance System (PGS), a management tool for good governance. A third party auditing will be done in May this year for the said institutionalization of Balanga City.

COBiH VAC Initiative-Panelist Scoring Result base on 70% total score.

My Team receives a certificate of recognition for garnering the highest score from the panelist.

Photos below are some of the activities that my team/department have been done in preparation for the implementation of COBiH initiative.

COBiH in-house software system patching and installation before moving out to designated place outside city hall for easy access of end-user. In photo is MIS System Division Chief Ms. Jen Suerte Felipe and computer programmer Mr Levi Ron Garcia together with our City Mayor Joet S. Garcia.

Preparation of hardware and network set-up for Internet connectivity. Despite a lot of pressure to meet deadline, I was so pleased to see happy faces of my staff working beyond office hour. In photo is my jolly Network Administrator Adrian Grospe and COBiH software developer Mr. RJ Zabala.

Photos taken during WIFI bandwidth strength testing, students walking along pocket park take the chance to have online dialogue with the City Mayor who's out of the country that time attending for an official business trip. The students take the chance of asking the City Mayor on the process and requirements of availing scholarship grants.

Time Machine

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 09:08:00 +0000

This article was written last January, but for the same old reason I wasn’t able to update my blog. Lately, I realized that my time is too short to do all things I have in mind. Am always on the rush in doing things and personal errands. Because I was easily caught up by my hectic schedule. The time to draw closer to people most dear to me is getting shorter. Problem? Time management!

However, despite some glitches along the journey, 2015 was an amazing year for me and I am so thankful. Am starting to develop the habit of mastering the art of growing my soul even during painful times. In one of the books that I read, it says that our habit creates our future and destiny. Anyway, I believe no one in this world has a perfect ride. Do you? So many things happened to me this year that exposed the gloomy part of my journey brought by too many unexpected twists of fate. One of them is the loss of a loved one. 2015 experience sends me off to a very challenging race both on work and personal life. This year really shook my foundation a bit, but thankful to Him that I was able to stand firm and set my roots to the ground. At least at work, in the last 9 years of my government service as Department Head, at my own capacity, I have been able to deliver and serve the people with integrity with the able support of my team, superior, friends and family thru divine providence.

2016 New Year of Hope

Pay Yourself First. “Sometimes you don’t realize you’re actually drowning when you’re trying to be everyone else’s anchor”----This year, I will try to make a change…I will not allow other people and their issues to drag me down. I know myself more than anyone else. I will try my very best to live in a way that if someone spoke badly of me, no one would believe it! This is for the reason that I may possibly be not good to them if I will not be good to myself first. My moral in life is simple- you treat me good, and I’ll definitely treat you better.

My Time Is A Portion of My Life. “Nobody is too busy. It’s just a matter of priorities.” If it really matters, you’ll find the time. If not, you’ll find the excuses. “Let this year be more remarkable especially to people who are dear to me. I hope I will be able to find time doing things that I really adore and that matter to me. Honestly, I still have so many things to “tick-off” from my bucket wish list. Take time to chill out!

Capture the Moment. In every moment of your life, always take as many photos and videos as you can. Don’t believe articles that say you should enjoy the moment and not take photos because you can be part of the memories while you’re taking pictures and enjoying it. And it’s just so wonderful to look back so you can get encouraged and reminded about how beautiful yesterday was so that you can hope again tomorrow.

My Birthday Wish List. :-)

Letting Go of the Past. “My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only He will release my feet from the snare. PSALM 25:15” Hold me close while I’m in the process. We are always given the same chance and opportunity to start over no matter what circumstances.

Keep on Track. In the end we only regret the chances we didn’t take. Take one step at a time towards your goal. Life is meaningful; let’s make the most out of it. Always concentrate on how far you have come, rather than how far you have to go. The difference on how easy it seems will amaze you.” Heidi Johnson

Always Choose to Be Happy

Play like A Kid. With my sweet and loving nephew Isaiah

My source of strength and inspiration. My Mother.

Guillermo Santos Sr. Clan's 2016 Pabasa "Passion's Of Christ"

Our Family's Pride! Our very own Salutatorian and Philippine Science Scholar Diko Jonas Matibag

Goodluck Diko Nash

Precious Moments. Its kinda blurry, however, this is one of the most meaningful photos I have in my archive. Dancing with my Father again.

Happy 70th Birthday to my beloved father a.k.a Judge "Roberto Malibiran Santos"!hehe

Even thou I'm not his most favored daughter, for me He is my most favorite Father! haha

Guillermo Santos Clan: Family Reunion 2016

Family Bonding: Celebrating Father's Day

My second family. Thou not in complete group, the very dedicated and ever supportive working TEAM of my department. Thank you so much guys for all the hard work and dedication to deliver our office mandate with a heart.

Goofing around with this guy, week-end breakfast with one of my humble and closest friend in my work place.

With My Dabarkads! :-)

I was about to buy groceries here that's why I wear my favorite red pumps! lol

Kalye Serye presentation with my Colleagues during our LCE's birthday bash

Wacky Moments with my hard working City Mayor and incoming Congressman of 2nd District of Bataan, Hon. Joet S. Garcia during our Study Tour in USA last May 2015.

With my senior collegues and Ate in fashionista group. :-)

With My BFF's

Worry Less, Smile More. Don't Regret, Just Learn And Grow.

Opus Dei: Makiling Retreat Center Laguna

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 10:20:00 +0000

"I'm proud of the scars in my soul. They remind me that I have an intense life"..Paulo Coelho

Among all the gifts that our local chief executive had shared with his hard-working managers, this spiritual detox is one of the most precious rewards that I value- another best practice on leadership management undertaken by the City Government of Balanga exclusive to its managerial heads. This can really help develop the faith of his subordinates towards Christianity while being exposed to great challenges and mediocrity in government service. There are so many surprising realizations that happened to me during retreat that I was able to take down notes during my three-day stay in West Wing, Makiling Retreat Center in Laguna. After a year, I just discovered that my iPhone 6-cellphone battery is still in good running condition. Maybe you're wondering about the relevance of my phone unit to my retreat experience. Well, in my three-day stay at the retreat center, we observed strict silence to the maximum; so strict that you could almost hear the whisper of the person seated two seats from you. And to exaggerate things, we were limited in the use of gadgets while on retreat. Surprisingly, my cellphone battery lasted three days! No calls, no emails, no social media browsing and other pop-up notifications. Just needed to use SMS service because I had to respond to some urgent office concerns once in a while. I couldn't believe that I only recharged my battery once till the end of the retreat until I was back home. The fact is, I usually charge my cellphone battery on a daily basis, twice a day at worst, depending on the use of incoming and outgoing calls, emails and other SMS services. This is aside from more than 9 hours of working on my laptop computer if I was at the office. I realized that a big percentage of my daily routine merely revolves around the excessive use of gadgets brought about by modern technology.

Another amazing thing is that after more than a decade, I again experienced swollen knee due to almost 8 hours a day of serious kneeling for prayers and soul examination. I recalled my childhood experience when every third day of the week I had to join the block rosary crusade group led by religious elders of our community. We had then a family-owned Fatima religious image that we moved from one house to another for a block rosary crusade. When my mother asked us (siblings) who wanted to join the rosary crusade, I always volunteered. It's not because I am a religious catholic devotee way back my childhood, but because of the fact that right after the long queuing of holy rosary and experiencing swollen knees, the serving of food will surely follow! The house owners will prepare lots of food as their way of thanksgiving for sending off the holy image. That is a common Filipino religious tradition. :-)

My book companion for three days for I have no idea who is Jose Maria Escriva.

Even though the place is a bit scary at night, I preferred to stay at a single room for a more serious meditation. Sinners needs more chances for spiritual reflection...

What is most important is I was able to take a brave move to take one step forward to His holiness by submitting myself again to the holy sacrament of confession. I consider this a personal milestone since i have trust issue and taking the opportunity to talk with a priest has always been a point for discussion and deliberation on religious beliefs and practices. This is where I found out that not attending Sunday mass due to laziness is considered a mortal sin even if you had it replaced by a devotional rosary on the same day. Officiating priest said then that no amount of mercy and spiritual blessings can replace your presence on a Sunday mass and reception of the body of Christ.

The lady at the middle (our city legal officer-Attorney April Atcheco) is on her 30th so she may not be included yet in the panic mode age. Lol. While the woman on the right side is our City Planning & Development Officer Ms Elsa P. Ilagan.

The retreat participants were composed of the ladies coming from the panic mode age. Yes, you read it right, we were a group of professional women in our 40s, 50s and 60s who are rushing for time and effort to glorify God because we haven't had the time to worship during our much younger years due to other errands that we thought more important than glorifying Him. I may not be completely healed and still have a long way to go but I am thankful that I'm on my way.

"Allow me to grow in my faithfulness to You as you fill my empty vessel. Thus, I sanctify my work to the glory of God."

I feel elated to meet new friends from the group of single Opus Dei members Dra Geraldine "gidget" Ortiz and Ms Anette Sy who serves as our spiritual directress during the retreat. They're so reserved, fine-looing and decent. They’re my opposite alter egos. :-)

Opus Dei, formally known as The Prelature of the Holy Cross and Opus Dei (Latin: Praelatura Sanctae Crucis et Operis Dei), is an institution of the Roman Catholic Church that teaches that everyone is called to holiness and that ordinary life is a path to sanctity. The majority of its membership is lay people, with secular priests under the governance of a prelate (bishop) elected by specific members and appointed by the Pope. Opus Dei is Latin for Work of God; hence the organization is often referred to by members and supporters as the Work.

Founded in Spain in 1928 by the Catholic saint and priest Josemaría Escrivá, Opus Dei was given final Catholic Church approval in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. In 1982, by decision of Pope John Paul II, the Catholic Church made it into a personal prelature—that is, the jurisdiction of its own bishop covers the persons in Opus Dei wherever they are, rather than geographical dioceses. (Source Wikipedia)

Balanga City was awarded for Island of Good Governance (IGG)

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 09:48:00 +0000

As the old saying goes, there's a rainbow after the rain..We have no control over everything, life must go on and eventually everything will turn back to it's normal routine. Back to work!

Balanga City was recognized as model of sustainable transformation at par with global standards of governance.

Five LGU's Awarded for Good Governance: The City Government of Balanga (Bataan), Butuan (Agusan del Norte), Dipolog (Zamboanga Del Norte), Mandaue (Cebu), and Talisay (Negros Occidental) were named among the Philippines' first Islands of Good Governance during a public forum spearheaded by the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA).

The real Game Changer model of good governance, Balanga City Mayor Jose Enrique S. Garcia III while busy preparing for his oral defense and presentation. How I wished that all aspiring political leaders all over the Philippines have the same visionary skills like this man.

The City of Balanga Public Governance System (PGS) selected Core Team members, MSGC, OSM Staff & City Councilor as we introduce by our LCE to the panelist.

The women behind the Balanga PGS Core Team, my fellow colleagues, not in picture is our City Accountant, City Budget Officer and Legal Officer as member also of the PGS core group.

Photo Ops with Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA) Chairman Francisco T. Duque III MD, MSC and currently Chairman of the Philippine Civil Service Commission

City Mayor Jose Enrique S. Garcia III spearheaded the city’s presentation of its breakthrough results to prove that COB is one of the model cities that heed to the call of Philippine transformation. Successful cities of IGG will be showcase at the APEC Summit prepared by the national government this November 2015.

The City of Balanga retains its mission statement to build a family-oriented city with a strong learning atmosphere that will ensure sustainable development and participatory governance. With its high value for education, this city envisions itself as Balanga University Town 2020: the emerging hub for knowledge-based businesses in the Philippines. Balanga aims to achieve its ambitious goals of installing 48 free Wifi zones, 8 pocket parks, and 5 information kiosks in the city by 2015, in effort to make information more accessible.

The Public Governance Forum is an open event where public institution in the Performance Governance System (PGS) Pathway publicly presents their progress reports to a panel of governance specialists and field experts. They are evaluated for completion in their stage of the PGS.

Eulogy of LOVE

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 10:20:00 +0000

Just like a wounded soldier in the midst of woes you have given us a good fight. You didn’t surrender, not until you saw us strong enough to accept that you would leave us anytime soon. As Plato said, “Only the dead have seen the end of war”. You gave us time to contemplate and accept the reality of life, that our time in this world is limited, and that eventually all of us would end up underneath some sheet, never to wake up again. The idea that someone is gone is not an easy thing to accept, especially if that someone is close to your heart and is as a mother to you. That moment before I let you go brings anguish, but in the depths of it I know that all your pains brought by the big C will vanish.

As you passed thru the gates of suffering while on earth and found your inner peace in the Kingdom of God, and as I always whispered in your ears even during the time that you breathed your last, I told you that once you stand in final judgment before the Lord in heaven, please do ask forgiveness for my sins. And as you wait for me to follow you, do prepare our rooms in heaven so we can share the same blessings and promises of our Creator.

We will surely miss one of the best Auntie and teacher in the whole world. You're one of my idol. Thank you for all the sacrifices for the family. Thank you for all the life's advices and most of all thank you for all the support especially during my school days and I was empty handed. As promised I will return the same favor to the member of the clan, you’ll have my word. Your good deeds will forever be etched in our heart.

BORACAY 2015: GEEK ON A BEACH (GOAB)

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 09:01:00 +0000

It’s my 4^th chance to visit Boracay, and this time it’s official business. Sadly the weather was not good that time as we experienced heavy rains and gusty winds brought about by typhoon Ineng. I was so nervous during our flight back to Manila due to delays and super-scary air turbulence. Anyway, we stayed 3 nights and 4 days at La Carmella Resort from August 19-22, 2015. We met new people in the industry and learned technopreneurship ideas from powerful and influential speakers both local and foreign. Almost 500 delegates and 85 speakers all over the world attended the conference and I think it is safe to assume, based on attendees and activities that the conference ended successfully.

GOAB is an honest-to-goodness, no-holds barred conference where people speak the truth about startups, tech and design industries. It is a place for dialogue where you can exchange ideas along the beautiful Boracay beach wearing your most comfy beach wear. This is one conference I attended that had no rules. You could wear anything as long as you are comfortable in it. You can even attend the conference’s various sessions wearing your epic short shorts or sexy tank tops! And knowing that I have no beach body to flaunt, I just decided to wear my bare- back white dress paired with my navy neon orange slippers! Cool! Do I look like a fashion geek here? Hehe

In this photo is the visionary Local Chief Executive of the City of Balanga when he was invited as one of the guest speakers from the Local Government to discuss the initiatives of the City of Balanga in promoting and developing the startup ecosystem in Bataan--- the man who turned Balanga City 180 degrees progress on its economy. As early as now I want to congratulate this man for a job well done. May your passion to serve people with integrity continue as you take another step toward your next goal. I just hope that I was able to help you in my own little way in delivering quality service to your constituents for almost nine (9) long years.

Goofing around with Ms. Cristina Lawskowski (in black), President of Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC) Silicon Valley, an organization committed to cultivating holistic entrepreneurship, strengthening the tech ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurs & accelerating global business ideas. She is the woman behind our US invitation to Silicon Valley Exposure trip in May of this year. I admire this intelligent and empowered woman. She is a very down-to-earth person, too! I always suffer nosebleed whenever we converse. Lol

I remember what Dave McClure, 500 Startups founder and famous Silicon Valley Investor, said, “Don’t worship Silicon Valley! Learn from them. They will be YOU five-years from now”.

On my left is my smart colleagues. Our City Accountant-Ms. Myrna Roman.

It’s been a blast learning from the Philippine startup ecosystem and growing financial technology opportunities with real geeks. I was able to rub elbows once again with my colleagues in the ICT industry. Hoping and praying that the next Geek-on-a-Beach will be held in the beautiful beaches of Bataan as Mayor Joet Garcia invited the techtalkph organizer and the rest of the delegates to come visit Bataan in 2016 GOAB conference.

Vista Tala Recreational Park. Bataan Tourist Destination

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 09:38:00 +0000

One of the newest recreational parks built at the top of a mountain is set in 10 hectares of secluded grounds at the town of Orani in Bataan. Only 2 hours from downtown Metro Manila, via Sctex, Vista Tala offers one of the largest privately owned natural getaways in Bataan with clean landscape and elegant and modern architecture--- a getaway from life’s pressures in the healing tranquility of an environment that truly feels “away from it all”.

I was so spoiled with my boys that is why I love them all! :-)

It looks like it was our last supper! lol

Thank you so much to our dearest Santa Claus for this rewards! :-)

My extended family, the MIS Team, has some sort of weakness pertaining to decision making and in providing analytical solution when office-related problems arise particularly during critical situations. Those problems in turn develop and start conflicts within the team that need pressing solutions. As a leader I have seen that it might possibly affect and impede the delivery of the city’s basic services. Having leisure once in a while will help them realize the importance of working as a team with one goal and spirit.

I feel so exhausted here coming from a long day work but I need to shake up my mood in order not to spoil the moment of getting along with my team thru non stop exchange of jokes! :-)

I'm gonna miss this gentleman. Thank you for all your hardwork and contribution to the team. I am really so proud of you.

I also take the opportunity to relax considering that this outing coincides on my birthday treat to my team. Feeling like a boss! lol

Morning view at Vista Tala. It is really so refreshing to wake up in the morning with this kind of weather and view. The place is so romantic in nature! :-)

This kind of get-together will inevitably provide effective working relationship and attitude towards work and build camaraderie among the team. Thus, it is highly recommended to pursue this activity to interact effectively and build respectful relationships within and between units and among individuals. As the old saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. lol :-)

Live Agelessly And Celebrate Your Worth

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 05:48:00 +0000

My late post-birthday blog. Normally when I wake up in the morning, I perform my morning rituals before heading for work. As I woke up that particular morning, it was different. I made a change in routine. I took a minute to reflect since I couldn’t go to Manila that day for my customary birthday celebration. I owe to Him all the things and experiences I have gone thru during the past 40 years of my life. I can’t believe I reached 40! Isn’t that a huge blessing? Thank you, Lord, for all the forgiveness and blessings. As I see myself in the mirror that morning, I can’t help but feel amazed that this woman in front of the mirror is 40 and praying to be in good shape and being blessed with longevity! I suddenly recall some instances when I was mistakenly thought of as a lot younger than my present age.

The most recent scenario was when I opened a bank account just a week ago. The bank teller asked me if it was my real age I wrote in the application form as she scanned two of my identification cards for her reference. She couldn’t believe it. She even called the attention of her co-bank teller just to show her amazement and disbelief. They thought I was just a student. I felt awkward. The ladies at the counter asked me if I was married already. When I told them I was still single, they stared in disbelief and said, “Wait until you get married!” Aww!! As if getting married will make me look older than my age. Oh no!, I don’t think it’s a good joke! Lol

The other scenario happened just four months back when I was checked by one of US Immigration Officers on my way out of San Francisco airport departure area. He asked for my passport and I handed it to him for the usual checking procedure. He glanced at my passport and looked at me. He did it again. The third time he did it, it gave me a warning signal that he might possibly have found something wrong with my passport. He asked me to take off my eyeglasses for him to better see if it was really me on the passport. So I took my glasses off. Afterwards he sighed in disbelief, “Yes, it is really you. You look just like a student,” he said. “How did you do that?!”, he asked with eyes wide-open staring at me. What a relief! So thankful that he might just have mistakenly thought I was the life-size image of cartoon character Dora, The Explorer with the magic backpack! Lol! I simply nodded and said, “ Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Officer.” However, I also told him to always wear a smile. Then I left the officer with a big smile on his face. lol

With me in photo is my senior colleague who happens to be thought as my Mom during our bus trip going to Los Angeles, California last month of May. The bus driver advised me to keep an eye on her because she kept roaming inside the bus! Haha! Love you Ate Nel! Lol She was mistaken for my grandmother, too, by the PAL flight attendant when we had our flight check-in at San Francisco Airport. I whispered to her not to take it personally and to just consider it as her payback to me instead since I always helped her carry her heavy luggage and shopping bags during our entire USA trip! I actually acted like her Yaya Dub (nanny)! lol

March 22, 2006

July 01, 2012 No make-up look! :-)

June 20, 2013

This four photos in stripes was taken last February, 2014

January 2015

February 28, 2015

May 2015

Youthfulness has no secrets. The key can be summed up into three: 1. healthy diet, 2. healthy lifestyle, and 3. healthy skin care regimen.

My make up hoardings! :-)

My magic wand for my skin imperfections! :-)

One of my secrets to flawless skin! lol

This is aside of course from not eating meat for five (5) years now. As the cartoon character Peter Pan said, “Always think happy thoughts!” Youthfulness is the result of what is inside your heart. It is the essence of peacefulness, contentment and enjoyment in even small things that come along in your daily life. It’s just a matter of how you appreciate even the heavy knocks that come along your journey. My life’s mantra is to keep on setting a youthful mood. Avoid negative vibes. Be always reminded that life is like a roller coaster ride. We just have to keep ourselves protected in order to enjoy the ride. Focus on your triumph and not on your age. If you carry your childhood with you, you’ll never grow old!

Ocean Adventure at Subic Bay Freeport Zone

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Wed, 09 Sep 2015 10:49:00 +0000

As I experienced the most amazing amusement theme and marine park abroad, I told myself I should also experience and see for myself what my country can offer in terms of marine conservation and protection. What makes this activity more exciting is experiencing it with my loved ones, my family. The Ocean Adventure at Subic Bay Freeport Zone is the first and only Southeast Asian Marine Park. This is my first time to visit this amusement park, but not my nieces and nephews who have gone there frequently. We are just so thankful that we were given a huge entrance discount by Ocean Adventure’s resort manager. We enjoyed the following theme park’s activities.

1. Walk on the Wild Side at Eco Theater
2. Dolphin Friends Show at El Capitan Theater.
3. Sea Lion Marine Patrol Show at Sea Lion Point Stadium.
4. Ocean Discovery Aquarium-

I once again made an encounter with this group of African Acrobat, they are so talented and witty! I saw their amazing acrobatic moves during one of their performance in Camayan Resort and Restaurant in Subic Freeport.

I really enjoyed watching these marine animals as they submissively followed the instructions of their respective trainers. Those animals were very smart and amazing! Thru the live show presenting their skills they were able to convey to people who were watching the show that marine animals are like human beings. They also have the right to live peacefully on earth. As a responsible citizen of this country we must make an effort to protect the environment and marine and wild life animals. We had our lunch inside the theme park’s restaurant, which served a variety of delish viands.

The Regina RICA at Tanay Rizal

noreply@blogger.com (Nenette B. Santos) — Tue, 09 Jun 2015 09:01:00 +0000

As I turn 40 next month, I think about pausing for a while and wondering. Looking back at the beginning of my horizon, I notice that the road of my journey is so narrow. Humps serve as hurdles that make my journey more complicated. I see myself on the losing end, believing that I can no longer continue to finish the course. I always go back to the same old route. I am shattered. Then, I see a man walking behind me. Every time I stumble on the road He keeps goading me to continue. He keeps telling me not to be disturbed by those setbacks. Those knocks are designed to hone me to become stronger than ever. He whispers to me to keep the faith and continue with what I believe in life, that life is a gift and living it is priceless. Not all are given the chance to explore the dynamic beauty of life and its boundary. There are people relying on me so I need to continue. There are too many blessings scattered along the road. I’m just too focused on the other side of the fence. I recognized the message and told myself that I have to continue the journey, hoping to meet that man with a consecrated soul at the end.

At 40, I’ve learned how to enjoy the moment. I’ve learned that each connection to someone and to moments has a purpose. I just have to be open-minded, regardless of how I feel about that person. Am sure I will learn something new and something about myself, too. At 40 I’ve learned to become more humble in life. I just let go of people disappearing from my life. I just think that maybe we just crossed paths for some reason. Grudges aren’t worth it. I just learned how to be proactive. I am still a woman who doesn’t trust words without action. I just keep my heart, principles and dignity. Experiences have taught me how to become smart. Little by little I’ve come to appreciate my extraordinary life, and continue to live my life to its greatest potential. I am just so blessed for having a very supportive family, co-workers and most of all, my best friends.

I know I have more life full of memories and opportunities yet to come. They are more priceless than any other stuff. By then, I will have had so much to fill my storyboard. My 40s will surely give me more time for my personal growth. And I believe that there's a better and straighter path that will reveal itself if I keep my eyes and mind open. So hold me God.

After my twenty (20) days of business and pleasure trip to USA, I suddenly had this feeling of longing for some spiritual enrichment, so I decided to take a leave of absence. My good friend recommends me to visit this community of consecrated women run by the Dominican Sisters of Regina Rosarii, or most popularly known as the Regina Rosarii Institute for Contemplation in Asia (RICA). I have personally met Sister Neneng Marquilliero, so sad I forgot to take a souvenir photo with her. She is very accommodating and has angelic voice. They responded to the call to live a consecrated life that is more contemplative and more trusting in God’s Providence. So timely. The experience is so spiritually uplifting. I will definitely go back there and bring more souls that need further contemplation.