Brown Pinay

An OFW's Homecoming - A Sad Story

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:46:00 +0000

Almost a week ago, I chanced upon a Facebook stat post of friends extending condolences to an equally dear friend of mine. Immediately there after I sent her a message. Today, I received an email from my dear friend Beng confirming the sad news. I would like to thank Beng for unselfishly sharing her story to us.

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hi cie.i was in pinas for 10 days.got back here in dubai last fri evening.to answer your question, i wrote something which i'd like to share with you so u can post in your blog , if ok lang. Sensya na di nko nakapag inform,lutang na e. Jejo and winnie were there btw.I want to share this to all OFW family's out there coz it's the worst thing that can happen to somebody away from home.
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This is written in the hope of reminding all OFW’s to always cease the chance in telling our love ones back home how much they mean to us while they can still hear and appreciate it.

By:Beng Castillo
Dubai based OFW

An OFW’S homecoming.

There are things that happen in one’s life that leave them scarred forever. October 25,2009 was the day i will never forget. As I was busy with office work here in dubai, a family friend told me to call my brother in Phil’s. Immediately my heart started to pound, I knew something was wrong. First thing I did was to ask friends from church who were online at the time to intercede for me—I could feel my heart beat as I type the message. I prayed before I dialed my brother’s number. I got a busy tone so I called my mother instead and heard her crying on the other end. I remained calm & asked her to pass the phone to my eldest brother.

I strongly believe in the power of prayer, even if I knew something serious has happened I know God is in control…but nothing prepared me for what I was about to hear. My kuya managed to tell me what happened in between sobs-tatay was rushed to the hospital because he was having a hard time breathing and was supposed to be transferred to the city hospital when while he was being loaded in the ambulance, he had a stroke and was being revived the time I called. I remember begging my brother to put the phone in my father’s ear so I can talk to him which he did, I remember telling him to still bring him to the city hospital where can get better care, I remember telling my mother to stay beside tatay and not to stop praying. What happened next was a blur…

My tatay has been battling diabetes and other complications for the past years. Although he’s been in and out of the hospital all those times, by God’s grace he manage to pull through and was even looking forward to seeing me and my brother (both dubai based) for Christmas. He is well and his usual self whenever I call to check on him these past 2 months.

After almost an hour, he died surrounded by my family & his siblings.

I felt empty, the pain was unbearable. I never imagined it could hurt this much, as if a part of me has died with him. I cried because I was far away instead of near my tatay, holding his hand and telling him how much I love him. I cried because I was deprived of the chance to see him, hug him and take care of him. I cried because I have been preparing for my homecoming this Christmas to be with him. I have been learning how to cook & bake-planning on giving him a foot spa etc. It was supposed to be the best christmas ever , all for him. I cried because I am an OFW and the senselessness of being one dawned on me. I felt my sacrifices were all in vain. That every fils I earn is equal to the time away from my famiy, senseless & painful when you are at this point. It’s the worst thing that can happen to an OFW and wouldn’t wish it on anybody.
In the end, there’s nothing left to do but succumb to God’s will. For with Him everything happens for a reason. I am humbled by His grace, He gave my father a peaceful death, He surrounded me with a strong support group and comforted my whole family. He sent angels (friends & relatives) to help us bid him a peaceful and orderly goodbye.

I had the best tatay for 38 years and I know I will never stop missing and loving him. May God continue to comfort my family as we start a new life without him but keeping with us his legacy—to love and care for one another .

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Happy 68th Birthday My Mama Lina

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:43:00 +0000

Every day of my life now, I feel like crying whenever I see my Mama old and gray. Gone are the days when she was so feisty and mataray....but she remained to be makulit. She would insist that kaya pa nya...when in fact....mahina na sya...But she remain to be lakwatsera hehehhe. She loves malling until this very day...Today is her birthday and together with the whole family we went out to celebrate it... (For the benefit of my OFW hubby, I will be posting the pics and our kwentos on my next post).

Mama, I love you, Happy birthday. Alzhaimer might have hit you...you may loss some of your memories....but please do not forget how much we love you no matter what...

Happy Birthday Mama...

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Eid’l Adha - Holiday Recall on November 27 & 28, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 07:35:00 +0000

Malacañang Palace issued Proclamation No. 1808-A issued last Oct. 26. Amended Proclamation 1808-A, Eid’l Adha will no longer be a national holiday but a regional holiday in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). It will be remembered that the President issued Proclamation No. 1808 - declaring November 27 to November 30 (Friday to Monday)as Non-working Holiday, with the Eid’l Adha and the Bonifacio Day.

The celebration of Eid’l Adha is supposed to be the second long weekend this month after the back-to-back celebration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, Sunday and Monday, respectively.

This is a sorry note for those who have already made early holiday vacation plans. The business sector appealed that there were already so many holidays for this month and having so many days off would result in a severe drop in productivity.

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Early Christmas Shopping

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:19:00 +0000

Christmas is fast approaching, as ever and as a tradition world-wide this is the season for merriment and gift giving. At this early, I am already done shopping for kids for the younger genX in my family. I had already completed shopping for toys. I am not yet done with my shopping, but I have already started...

Gift giving is a part of my family’s tradition during our Christmas party. I know for a fact that our children would always look forward for their loot. I myself get so excited opening my gifts. Although economics has been that tight, my siblings and I make sure that this tradition is always carried on. So no matter how simple the gift might be, it will always be the thought that counts. Not to mention the extra happiness that it bought in opening that gift and ripping that well wrapped box.

In the Philippines, thrift shopping is synonymous to Divisoria. While in the US and other western countries, discount coupons are very widely use. It is a practical way to get the best discounts and deals, it is not only for over the counter buying but online as well (i.e Amazon). I just hope that establishments here in the Philippines will follow suit. More often than not you can only grab a discounted price during “Sale”, whereas sometimes the items on sale are not really on tip top shape, or at times those items are not really what you need.

But for now, with Christmas around the corner, I am still vying for that ever reliable Divi – the haven for cheap stake like me hehhehe.

Too Tired, I am Now Considering Another Facet in My Life

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:39:00 +0000

I’ve been quite busy this past few days attending meetings and evaluating the inventory software for our company. Tons of reports and lots of matter to attend to at the office. Although I am happy at the work place I really feel so wasted. I am now feeling a second thought on pursuing this so called corporate ladder. I am not in the competitive mode anymore for those promotions, not unlike before when I was a bit younger. It only shows to say that as we age, we discover different priorities in our life. Right now I have already ascertained to myself that MY FAMILY comes first.

As of now as a preparation to a life away from the corporate world, I have established a small online business which started as a sideline, but later on it has grown its own clientele and now earning. Also, I have other source of income in the Internet. Indeed, there is money in the Net.

I am now in the verge of thinking whether or not to resign and pursue being a work-at-home mom. But ofcourse, you will be part of the next episode in Brown Pinay’s life – as a work at home Mama.

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My Home : I Want This In My Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:12:00 +0000

Eight months from now we will be transferring to our new house – the fruit of our love and labour. Every detail in it is of our personal choice. I can’t barely wait for that time.

Though our home is not that big, I want a stylish bathroom and kitchen. I've seen Grohe’s innovative design for faucets that will surely give our kitchen and bathroom a rich look. I heard that these Grohe products are engineered in Germany and its company is one of the principal exporters of bathroom faucets in the world. Grohe stainless steel faucets were installed in the bathroom while we chose the velvet black Grohe faucet in the kitchen. Even though these Grohe faucets are quite expensive, you better opt to have one,’coz it’s unique for a modern culinary space. Its technical distinction and longevity adds up to the standards for a high end kitchens nowadays.

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On Weight Loss : Going Herbal

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:33:00 +0000

In one occasion during a photo session in our office, my male officemate poke fun on those chubby or rounded girls. He plays for laughs on how the big “chubbelitas” as he frequently addressed posed during the photo session. According to him there are some who pose and turn partially sideways, some hides and positioned themselves at the back, just showing the face, while others are sucking in their stomachs and just give their best smile. Bottom line of this is that they want to look fit and slim in the picture. But too much projections and strategies did not helped,’ coz pictures show veracity; unless they make used of the Adobe Photoshop program in the computer. So time of awareness and consciousness comes in. And the next move? To slim down. . . the battle of the bulges and weight loss begins.

Like any other girls and gals, everyone wants to look fit and slim. But of course -slimming without too much suffering. If you happened to visit a health store, slimming teas are in the counter, be it natural, safe, Chinese, herbal or non herbal. Aside for the slimming teas, there are also anti obesity drugs prescribed by the doctors like Xenical (Orlistat) and Reductil (Sibutramine).Since there is an increasing number in obesity, many are now encouraged to take the herbal weight loss pills. This herbal weight loss pills are made of pure herbs and is organic in nature, which usually contains honey, molasses and hoodia. Others say that this is more reliable than those conventional medicines ‘coz it speeds up metabolism and suppress appetite.

But we should be cautious - remember “Health is Wealth”. Seek professional advice before taking any weight loss pills, be it herbal or non-herbal., and other than that ask testimonies from our friends and/or relatives who have taken it and can attest to the effectiveness and side effects it brought .If you are in about to take it, read and follow the instructions carefully. Take note also that, pregnant and those who breast feed should not take any weight loss pills. (herbal or non-herbal).

Proper eating habits, sensible diet and proper exercise are still the best and safe way to have a fit and slim body, and loving one’s self tops of it all.

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Vacation Galore : Destination - Florida

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:27:00 +0000

After a long stressful year round work, everybody else deserves a break, a rest, a vacation and escapes the nerve-racking routinary chores. Where else can one recommend to go? Well on top of travellers recommendation is a vacation to Florida and get a different kind of high. Many who have been there shared their insights during their stay in Florida.

I remember my sister commented that spending for Florida vacations is worth it for their hard earned money. The activities and attractions on the theme parks (universal Studio Florida, Disneyland, Paradise Island and others) make their fairy tale dreams come true. They got fun also at the Disney Quest and Sleuth Mystery Dinner Theatre. Moreover, they recommend us not to miss the World Skyscapes Balloon Tours and the spectacular ship of the Disney Cruise Line in Cocoa Bench Florida. Their hungriness and wants were satisfied also by visiting the exciting evening entertainment at Hard Rock Cafe and Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville where burger and fruity hurricane are great. There are also nearby beaches for relaxation and surfing that they visited.

To top it all their vacation is awesome and it’s a family favourite trip that they always wanted to impart and share.

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Copper Kitchen Sinks : The Art of Science in The Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:18:00 +0000

Let me talk about the copper kitchen sinks being an Art of Science in The Kitchen.

Since me and my siblings are fond of cooking and are kitchen people, we made it a point that our kitchen is the main showcase in our house. We always give our kitchen the elegance it deserves. In my grandmother’s old house, she has a rounded basin like copper bowl but she uses it for display purposes only. When stainless sinks are in, we go for it, and now copper designed as sinks for hotels and household kitchens are currently in and stylish. And we are considering of replacing our stainless sink with copper sink.

If I remember it right, in my Chemistry class, Copper (Co) is malleable metallic chemical element and one of the most common and useful metal. A soft element which can easily be shaped and become hard when it is cold-worked; a good conductor also of electricity.

From the element’s characteristic we may analyze that copper sinks are anti bacterial, thus, they are maintenance free, we may just use mild soap and water and/or a soft fabric or sponge, but harsh chemicals like chlorine or vinegar is a “no-no” ‘coz this can harm the sink’s surface. Having it in one’s kitchen brings life time elegance and the look of it is worth it. Since many of us tend to mix traditional and contemporary style in interior decorations, why not give this a try and add this to your kitchen showcase.

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On My Christmas Shopping List :Techie DigiFrame

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:13:00 +0000

Christmas is in the air- and it’s a gift giving season again...and on my daughter’s gift list includes the digital frame. It’s the 21st century gift, I supposed. And I may say another product of advanced technology. This digital frame is rarely seen in stores before, but now it is viable and always considered as a gift for all occasions, be it wedding, baptismal, birthday, anniversaries or graduation. It’s not spacious unlike the traditional photo album that we have before .This is also recommendable to those who want to keep the memories and images of their loved ones or either those who loves to collect valuable photos of places, foods, or have collectible shots of their favourite items.

Well, this fits her personality. Why? coz’ she is fond of taking photos and mind you, if you happened to open her file in our computer, you will notice that she got pictures save in almost every special and important occasions of her life. She got lots of her father’s pictures too, ’coz she hasn’t seen him very often being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW).Since my daughter will be starting her college next year, the more I am convinced that this is a perfect gift for her, so she can upload more pictures of her friends particularly on her graduation rites.

Maybe, I should also bring with me my memory card from my camera, to be able to try it on the frame. With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, I think as soon as I receive my take home pay, got to go to that store where I seen this digital frame in various sizes and designs and buy her one.

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I Love that Luggage Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 05:25:00 +0000

There is this Samsonite Luggage that I saw in the mall which really caught my attention. It’s a red luggage that would perfectly match my personality. Even though it’s costly you are assured that it’s durable and handy. Plus it’s fashionable because of its red color. Once I get my salary at the end of the month. Surely I will consider purchasing that Samsonite Luggage.

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Study Habits

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:55:00 +0000

Study Habit is a key in achieving good grades in school. That’s why I’m keeping on telling my daughter isha to create her own Exam Tables. That would serve as her guide to her studies. First, Goal setting; knowing what is her goal, why does she need to do such in the first place. Secondly, prioritizing; doing what must be done in the moment. Lastly, Motivation; being motivated will keep her focus on something. With these 3 elements she can schedule everything she has to do equally. She can value studies, friends, and family at the same time.

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Home on the Wheels

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:34:00 +0000

Wonder how is it to move your home anywhere you wanted it to be. Last week I met this guy who has a motorhome. He told me that having a motorhome is very unique. Because you are not worried on what time you will go home; whether your house is safe from burglars; most of the time you got your home beside you which makes it more secured. Going anywhere with your home always present with you makes you more comfortable. Because you have all the things that you need with you without having problems that you left something on your house; just like when you have a separate home and vehicle. I asked him where he bought his motor home. He answered me he got his motorhome in a Sell Motorhome auction in an affordable price.

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Dealing with Acne

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:01:00 +0000

Teenagers nowadays are really conscious when it comes to their appearance. They should always look presentable on other people’s eyes. Most especially when it comes to their faces; one of the most common problems of teenagers during their puberty stage is the appearance of acne on their faces. Which my daughter “Trisha” is encountering right now. As a mother I’m telling her some tips on how to prevent or even to get rid of those acnes. I’m telling her to avoid oily foods; to sleep early at night, wash her face every morning and before sleeping. These are my usual routines during my teenage life. But it doesn’t mean 100% assurance of no acne at all. Acne Treatment by consulting a dermatologist would be the best option.

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The Call for Help Was Heeded....Unfortunately...

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:47:00 +0000

At the height of the calamity, almost everyone with a good heart has heeded for the call for help. The "bayanihan spirit" was rekindled, young and old alike, rich and poor extended whatever help they can give. It was really overwhelming. Balikbayans and OFWs abroad has pooled their resources to give back and help. Donations from different nationalities start pouring in. Indeed their is still hope and love for one another.

But when I read the blog of Ella, recounting her experience as a volunteer, I feel so depress. Their are many donations coming from different channels, unfortunately their is a problem in distributing it.

See Ella Ganda's special report :

Aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ang kabayo? (A special report from a volunteer)

Sana lang ay maibahagi ang mga donasyon sa mga talagang nangangailangan. Kung gusto may paraan, kung ayaw may dahilan. Baka abutin pa yan ng expiration date, mas lalong walang makinabang dyan. Galaw galaw baka maistroke. Sana, sana, sana walang magtake advantage dyan. Tulong kababayan para sa pagsulong....

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Rant : Grrrrrr DM Consunji of LRT Line 1 North Extension Project

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:10:00 +0000

May bumagsak na 5 bakal from LRT Line 1 North Extension Project sa may Cloverleaf Balintawak, sa harap mismo ng car ko....Thanks God....hindi ako nahagip...right before my very eyes nahuhulog sya...I thought I will be dead. Bumagsak sa harap ng hood ko, di ko napansin nung bumaba ako na nagasgas ang ilalim ng bumper ko dahil sa pagbagsak nung bakal sa harap ng car....Hello DM Consunji...safety first.....pinag init nyo ang ulo ko......

I arrived late at office and when I reached my workplace, I received a call from my OFW (saudi) husband, telling me na kinakabahan sya at di sya makatulog (5 hrs delay sila sa time natin). Talk about instinct ng isang nagmamahal na asawa.

As I was driving my way to the office, nagsink in sa akin that I am very lucky, just an inch away and I am dead.

But on the brighter side, God is good all the time. Thanks God I am safe and sound.

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Pinoy Celebrities Care : Shop and Share

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:09:00 +0000

It is a welcome respite to know that apart from the glamour and glitter of local showbiz is a very noble project - Shop & Share (http://shopandshare.ph). A project conceptualized by Filipino actress and Red Cross Ambassador Angel Locsin. Along with her fellow Filipino celebrity friends-Ann Curtis, Kris Aquino, Ruffa Guttierez, Luis Manzano and Pokwang, Ambassador Locsin has posted several designer items up for auction.

Shop & Share was created to help others after the devastation, brought about by "Ondoy" and "Pepeng".

The website aims to encourage celebrities to donate their any items they owned, which will be up for auction the site. It also invites people to donate through the Philippine National Red Cross. All the proceeds and sales generated from the site will go to Philippine National Red Cross’ disaster relief efforts.

To the primemovers of this cause, Mabuhay kayo...Yan ang Pinoy

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For those who want to help, be cautious since there are some posters/ hoax pretending to help or asking donations but are in fact taking advantage of the situation. Always check directory list of legit groups where you can send yur help and donations.

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Happy 6th Birthday, My Icko

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 10:32:00 +0000

After Ate Ishi's birthday last 15th, its Icko's turn today...Yipee it is his 6th birthday . Koy...You are our little bundle of joy. I can see myself in you. Though you've got the looks and temperament of Papa, you surely have my sense of humor. I would be sharing some of my bunso's hirit.

My bunso is in his hyper-active mode and then he noticed that he is already so talkative. He blurted and asked me. "Mama, kanino ako mana, sa iyo ba...ang hirap kasi eh ang daldal ko"
Scene : I was watching the eulogy of Kris Aquino for her Mom during Pres. Cory Aquino's funeral. I am really emotional that time and crying. Then my Icko looked at my face and told me. "Mama, why ka cry, friend mo ba si Tita Cory". Biglang bumalik ang mga luha ko sa mata at natawa talaga ako.
Today, his birthday, early in the morning..."Mama, walang kwentang buhay ito, walang kwentang birthday, walang bati sa akin" and he was crying.....Then his face really brigthens up when the door buzz...His Lola, Tito/Tita and cousins were all here to greet him.

That's my Icko...

Happy 6th Birthday Bunso!!!!

(Icko in his usual playful mood - SonGoku costume)

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Happy 16th Birthday My Ishi

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:14:00 +0000

Dear Ishi;

Now that you are already 16 years, I would like to tell you and to reassure you that I am so happy that you came into our life. You are already growing so fast, dont grow that fast anak. Enjoy every inch of the way. Enjoy life and note of all the lessons that you have learned along the way.

If ever that you will encounter problems in your life, do not hesitate to approach me. I am not only your Mama, but I am also your friend whom you can share your secrets and problems with.

I love you my first born, I fill so fulfilled having you in my life. You are with us during the time that your papa and me was at our lowest and now that we have much in life, I promise you that we will try our best to give you and Icko the best that we can give.

Again Anak, Happy 16th Bday...

Its me,
Mama

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Automated Tubig Machine

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:08:00 +0000

Franchised Water Refilling stations have mushroomed throughout the City. The business boomed because of the fact that consumers became aware of drinking water straight from the faucet that may cause some of the common diseases like amoebiasis and the like. Some prefer buying purified distilled or mineral water because boiled tap water changes the taste (isip ....isip muna.....)

Nowadays there are different refilling stations depending as to process of purification. Like the purified ionized drinking water which is healthier and safer than tap water. Indeed water filters and water refilling station has become a good business.

Several months from now, my OFW husband will be coming home for good and I am on the look out for a good business venture that we can indulge in.

I come across a very interesting marketing concept - ATM (Automated Tubig Machine) , ATM mineral water goes through a similar 16-step purification and filtration process of a manual water station. But a 5-gallon container retails for 25 pesos versus the usual 40 pesos sold by others. It is the portable model that dispenses one-peso and two-peso cold drinks. ATM’s mineral water is low-priced because there is less overhead. There are less employees needed, reduced electricity, less soap and waste water.

Now talking of Pinoy ingenuity....Great mind, great concpt. Yan ang Pinoy

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Insurance Anyone?

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:05:00 +0000

Couple of years ago, many Filipinos lost interest in insurance firms, particularly educational plan due to the rumoured bankruptcy for some were not able to get their claims on time. However, this was settled with the help of the government who mediated to speed up the processing of insurance claims.

It was really a tough persuasion, Insurance companies really have to fuel up their insurance marketing campaign- long explanation, testimonies and lots of convincing power on the part of the agent to sell a plan. Prioritization of expenses was one of the usual reasons/alibis why many disregard to avail insurance plan. But as the saying goes “Life is like a wheel”. It’s a different story now, when the country was hit by a devastating typhoon and properties were lost, many come to realized that it is essential to have lives as well as properties be insured.

I am just wondering as to whether insurance companies were caught by surprise by the extent of typhoon Ondoy’s destruction in terms of properties and vehicles in the Philippines. The Philippine Insurers and Reinsurers Association (PIRA) have mobilized their workforce to process the insurance claims for immediate payment to beneficiaries. I am quite sure that there will be a huge backlog of repair of those with AOG (Acts of God).However, there are also thousands of car policy holders with wrecked vehicles who are at the moment facing a blocked wall knowing that there will be a refusal for payment of claims for the repair of their cars as “acts of God” is beyond the scope of their insurance plan.

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Are you Acne Prone?

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:52:00 +0000

My daughter Ishi is now in her teens. One of her problem and I am sure other teens would agree is their - Acne.

How can we get rid of acne? Do I have to pass that “acne stage”? What shall I do if I have it? Is it hereditary? Is it real that once you have acne, it means you are in love? .....These are the frequently asked questions of teenagers like my daughter, nephew and niece when I sit down with them on my weekends. Gee, teenagers of these generations are really aware and conscious on looking good and proper grooming....At that time as if I am a beauty guru giving lectures. Those what’s, whys and how’s doesn’t end there, because I myself came to realize that even an adult experienced it and sometimes you cannot easily get rid of it and sometimes also its coming back.

First we should be aware for the causes and then the preventions. But what really are the causes of acne? Is it the hormones brought about by menstruation cycle? The birth control pills? Or the high levels of stress? Wearing heavy make ups? Or occupational exposure, - like too much exposure under the sun or graveyard works?

Whatever caused it was or it may be... still the best thing to do is to clear up our skin and be more aware on activities we do. Picking, pressing, rubbing and popping it is a big “No”.. “No” because the spreading of bacteria is of high risk.

Cleanliness-washing face properly. This may include the use of mild soap with warm water, they say that if one has an oily skin better choose soap with benzyl peroxide.

Seek professional advice- see a dermatologist for your acne treatments, do not self-medicate. Do not just self medicate and put some over the counter ointments. Dermatologists prescribed antibiotics depending on the acne type. Some acne has nodules (cyst) the size of the end of our little finger or larger than a match head (quite alarming as I may say).

Don’t Exfoliate – meaning do not remove the top layer of dead skin cells. Avoid brushes, sponges and cleansers that can irritate the delicate skin.

Avoid oily products – better choose water-based make ups.

Sun Exposure can help acne growth, why not use an umbrella (Teenagers are lazy to bring one)
As I know we can still eat chocolates, peanuts and the like (it isn’t proven yet if it has something to do with acne problems).

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Ondoy and Pepeng : The Aftermath

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:32:00 +0000

The aftermath of Ondoy and Pepeng is really devastating. Not only did it damage billions worth of properties and livelihood but the wrath of these typhoons has claimed precious lives (the count is still rising until this very moment).

After the flood has subsided, then comes the reality of all the damages that the typhoon has done to the affected. Apart from the damaged indoor and outdoor furnitures, vehicles and everything physical that was lost and submerged; it is the emotional and the mental pain bought by the calamity which is really hard to recover from. It is hard to look back thinking that you had lost almost everything you had saved for, but the only consolation is that at least it can still be replaced. While others are not as fortunate, some has lost both properties and precious lives of their family.

On the other hand, despite of all the pain and damages that Ondoy and Pepeng have bought, it elicits the Bayanihan Spirit in every one of us. In times of calamities, the Filipino "bayanihan" spirit never fails to surface. You can see it everywhere.

In the places devastated by tropical storm Ondoy & Pepeng, people take it upon themselves to conduct rescue and relief operations spontaneously.

I just hope that we should learn our lessons well, we should love and take care of our Mother Earth. After the flood has submerged, we see tons of garbage almost everywhere, landslides due to illegal logging and quarrying. Our earth is the only place where we live, let us take care of it.
There may be storms and trials that will come our way, but we as a nation should cling to our Lord God. Prayers can move even the stronger storm.....God is our shelter, let us take refuge.....

Photo Credits : Yahoo News

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Call Center Jobs (Project Based)

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:16:00 +0000

In this time of crisis, it is good to know that there are still some companies offering jobs. PLDT for Ventus needs Project-Based Customer Service Representatives (Duration : Two (2) Months). It may be a short term job but surely it will be a help. Jobs at call centers are not exactly for everyone. It requires a lot of patience. Hopefully you have a good personality, a lot of patience and love talking on the telephone. So if you possess all the qualities then apply now. See details below.

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Help Save the Mother Earth

noreply@blogger.com (Cielo) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:39:00 +0000

What is happening to our world? There are series of typhoons that hit not only the Philippines but different parts of the world, bush fires in Anaheim California, deadly earthquake in Indonesia, tsunami in Samoa and typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng just to name a few. It is really frightening and at the same time alarming. Is Mother Earth really claiming back what is due to her?

I hope that the situation will not be aggravated. I constantly pray that each and every one of us will be kept safe and sound. May the entire human race turn to love our Mother Earth. The world that we live in is so abuse. The Earth today requires much help to recover her balance that has been so badly damaged over time.

It is not yet late, let us all help save the earth.

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