Cha cha cha!

Eksklusibo!

Dalawang headlines na talaga namang magpapaindak sa iyo to the tune of CHA-CHA-CHA!

Charter Change Only 20 Votes Shy
Ito ang pahayag ni Senador Manny Villar kahapon, March 25, 2009. Sinabi rin niya na ang mga anak ni Gloria na sina Mikey at Datu ang nagsusulong nito sa kongreso.

Arroyo Behind Charter Change
Ito naman ang pahayag ni dating House Speaker Joe De Venecia ngayon para sabihing si Gloria Arroyo ang talagang utak ng Charter Change. Inamin din niya na nilapitan siya ni Mikey para hikayatin siyang sumuporta sa pangangalap ng additional votes para maisulong ang cha-cha kapalit ng pag-restore ng posisyon niya bilang House Speaker.

Cha-cha-cha!

-bow-

Simply Irresistable!

The speculation is over.

Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao has announced on Wednesday, March 18, 2009, that he has already set an agreement with Network giant ABS-CBN to telecast his upcoming fights, beginning with his May 2, 2009 fight with Ricky Hatton.

Pacquiao has announced:

“Nilapitan ko po ang ABS-CBN at nagpasiyang gusto ko sila ulit maging partner. Asahan nyo po na patuloy akong magbibigay ng karangalan sa ating bayan."

Pacquiao's fights were previously aired by rival network GMA and Solar Sports. Moreover, Pacquiao still has to deal with Solar Sports, as he has preterminated his until 2012 contract with Solar.

The details with Pacquiao's contract with ABS CBN, however, is still kept secret, but Inquirer.net has reported that the deal could amount to 120 to 180 M per fight.

Moreover, there is another interesting clause in the contract:

The network is said to have offered Manny full media support in the next election to ensure victory in the next year’s congressional elections.

Ang Paghihiganti

Isang gabi, naglalakad ang isang lalaki sa may tulay nang may makita siyang babaeng nasa taas ng gilid nito at magtatangkang magpatiwakal.

"Huwag!", sigaw ng lalaki. At sa kabutihang palad ay nakumbinsi ang babae at siya'y bumaba.

Lalaki: Ano bang problema mo't naisipan mong gawin yan.
Babae: Kasi, iniwan ako ng boypren ko't sumama sa ibang babae.
Lalaki: Miss, ganyan din ang problema ko pero di ko inisip na magpakamatay.
Babae: So, anong gagawin natin?

Nag-isip sandali ang lalaki at sinabi...

Lalaki: Kung gusto mo, maghiganti tayo sa kanila.
Babae: Paanong paghihiganti?
Lalaki: Alam mo na ang ibig kong sabihin... (sabay kindat sa babae na nakuha naman ni babae ang ipinahiwatig na yon).

Maya maya'y nasa isang kuwarto na sila ng motel at nangyari na nga ang di dapat mangyari. Nang makaraos si lalaki, nagsindi siya ng yosi. Nang halos filter na lang ay biglang nagsabi si babae ng "Maghiganti uli tayo".

Medyo pagod, pero pinagbigyan uli niya ang request ni babae. Nang makaraos uli, nagsindi uli si lalaki ng yosi. Nasa kalahati pa lang ang yosi.

Babae: Maghiganti uli tayo.

Medyo nangangatog na ang mga tuhod pero dahil sa hilig, muling pinagbigyan niya si babae.

Muling nakaraos ang dalawa. Nagsindi uli si lalaki ng yosi. Unang hitit pa lang niya ay

Babae: Ganti uli tayo.

Talagang lupaypay na si manoy niya pero para huwag mapahiya ay muling pinagbigyan
niya ang kahilingan ng babae.

Pagkatapos kumuha siya ng yosi.

Sisindihan pa lang nang biglang...

Babae: Ganti uli tayo.




Lalaki: PWEDE BA! PATAWARIN NA NATIN SILA!!!!

Too Late

Too Late The Appreciation

On Wednesday, March 18, 2009, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo formally awards the Medal of Merits to the late Francis Magalona for upholding nationalism through his music.

Magalona died of Leukemia on March 6, 2009. He was 44 years old.

Francis' wife, Pia Magalona, together with her eight children and close friends were there to receive and witness the award.




It just came to my mind why awards of appreciation for a man's craft had to be given when he dies. Can't we learn to appreciate their work when they are still alive and able to reap the success of their labor?



Take the case of the late Fernando Poe, Jr. who was bestowed the National Artist Award in 2006. Poe died in December 2004, months after he was defeated by GMA from the Presidential elections in May 2004.

The award, however, was not accepted by Poe's wife, Susan Roces, due to the existing conflict between Poe's camp and GMA. The opposition has accused GMA of cheating in the previous election.


If only people who make significant roles in the society were given awards at their prime, I believe they will be even encouraged to improve their craft and still find ways to contribute more for the country.

The Nicole-Smith Story

How should we put a headline to it?

The Love-Hate-Love Story
Laban o Bawi?
Oh, Ang Babae, Pag Umaayaw

Three (3) years after battling it out in court, controversial Subic rape victim 'Nicole' recants her testimony and now states that she doubts if Lance Corporal Daniel Smith really raped her on November 1, 2005.

In her latest statement, 'Nicole' states:

"With the amount of alcoholic mixed drinks I took, my low tolerance level for alcohol and with only a slice of pizza all night, it dawned upon me that I may have possibly lost my inhibitions, became so intimate with Daniel Smith and did more than just dancing and talking with him like everyone else on the dance floor,"

"My conscience continues to bother me realizing that I may have in fact been so friendly and intimate with Daniel Smith at the Neptune Club that he was led to believe that I was amenable to having sex or that we simply just got carried away,"


As expected, this latest development drew various reactions:

One lawyer who refused to be named, told ABS CBN news that this latest development in the rape case has all the indications that a deal has been reached between Smith and the victim and that the recantation could eventually lead to the dismissal of the case and Smith's acquittal.

Judge Benjamin Pozon, of the Makati Regional Trial Court, who issued the guilty verdict over Smith, stated that the recantation will not necessarily lead to Smith's acquittal.

Gabriela partylist Representative Liza Maza meanwhile says, "My sense is ‘Nicole’ is being made a scapegoat for the VFA".

'Nicole's mother stressed out that no one pressured and influenced 'Nicole's decision, but rather it was the decision of the family.

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Whatever that is, we have once again seen a telenovela unfold in our very eyes.

Who Is The Most Corrupt?

Walang Ku-corrupt!!!

Pulse Asia's recent Ulat ng Bayan (February 2009) survey presents the people's view on who they think is the most/least corrupt government agency. And the top rankers are:

For the Most Corrupt Government Agency: Department of Public Works and Highways (32%)

For the Least Corrupt Government Agency: Department of Education (20%)

(What makes the survey interesting, though, is that 20% identified DepEd as the least corrupt, while 15% also identified it as the most corrupt agency).

The nationwide survey has a sample of 1,200 adults (18 years old and above). For every question, each respondent is allowed to name a maximum of five (5) government agencies.

To get a comprehensive result of the survey, click >>>>>here.

Summer Time

Summertime
New Kids On The Block

I think about you in the summertime
I'm sittin' here in the sun with you on my mind
My summertime


Here's my idea of Summertime.
Enjoy!

Salamat Sa Musika

Halos naman siguro ng kabataan noong panahon ko ay nakisabay sa awitin ng Eraserheads. Sino nga ba sa mga kasabayan namin ang hindi makakakilala sa kanilang apat? Nang sumikat sila, naglabasan na ring parang mga kabute ang iba't ibang grupo ng bandang tumutugtog at nag-define sa bagong henerasyon.

Nawala sa uso ang mga solo artists. Napuno ng tugtugang banda ang lahat ng radio stations. Eraserheads, Alamid, Yano, The Youth, After Image, True Faith, Introvoys, The Dawn, Rivermaya, Put3ska, Tropical Depression. Unahan sa pangongolekta ng mga tapes (hindi pa kasi uso ang cd). Unahan sa scoop sa kung sinong banda at anong kanta ang nag number 1 sa Top 20 at 12 ni Triggerman sa LS. Aaaah, dekada nubenta.

Sumikat ang Long Hair. Sumikat ang mga itim na t-shirts na may mga imprenta ng mga mukha ng foreign at local bands. Halos lahat ng makita mong grupo nang mga kabataan ay may mga hawak na gitara. Buhay na naman ang rakenrol!

Muling binisita at nagbigay pugay ang mga bagong banda sa mga old rakistas na katulad nila Heber, Pepe Smith, Juan Dela Cruz at Mike Hanopol.

Kung ilalarawan mo ang 90s, pwede mo siyang ilahad sa ilang mga kataga: "Panahon ng Banda".

Taong 1995 nang kumalat ang balita sa unibersidad namin: MAGCO-CONCERT DAW ANG EHEADS!!!!!!

Posible ba? Alanganin kami.

Nakapag concert na ang Alamid at Yano sa Auditorium. Bumisita na rin ang Introvoys at tumili ang mga kolehiyala kay Paco Arespacochaga. Pero darating ang Eheads? Malabo ata yan.

Makalipas ang ilang linggo, nakumpirma ang balita sa pamamagitan ng mga posters na ipinaskil sa mga puno, sa mga pader, sa mga tricycle- Confirmed na! May Concert ang Eheads sa Auditorium. May mga kasama daw na ibang banda-mga front- pero hindi na namin inintindi.

Ang tanging inintindi lang naming barkada ay kailangang makabili kami ng ticket na kulay green na ibinebenta ng isang fraternity/organization na sponsor ng concert. At dahil kasama ko sa bahay ang isa sa mga organizers, madali kaming nakabili ng ticket.

Concert Day- preparado na kami. Hindi pa uso ang cellphone kaya bago maghiwalay sa eskwelahan ay nag-usap usap na kami kung anong oras at saan kami magkikita-kitang magkakabarkada. Napagkasunduan na rin kung saan kami tutuloy pagkatapos ng concert. Kasado na ang lahat.

Nakapila na kami sa harap ng Auditorium nang may narinig kaming ingay. Bumigay ang Front Glass Window at Door ng Audi dahil sa sobrang dami ng taong nagsisiksikan sa harapan. Mabuti at walang stampede. Kung nagkataon pala, kami ang orig, at mas sikat kami sa Ultra Stampede ni Willie Revillame.

Sa una pa lang ay malinaw na ang usapan. Hindi kami uupo sa gawing harapan (alam kasi naming dadagsa ang tao doon). Sa itaas kami tatakbo at magse-save ng upuan para sa mga kasamahan namin. Pagkapasok na pagkapasok namin sa auditorium ay para kaming mga langgam na nakawala at kani-kanyang nagtakbuhan paakyat sa 2nd level ng auditorium.

Nag-uumpisa na ang concert, tumutugtog na ang bandang ewan. Pero hindi sila pinapansin dahil ang hinihintay ng tao ay ang pagpasok ng Eheads.

Hanggang sa natapos na ang mga Front Act. Nag-alisan na ang mga tao sa stage. Lahat sa audience ay tutok ang mga mata sa stage. Isinarado ang telon. Tahimik ang buong paligid.

Pagbukas ng telon, naroon na ang apat, nakahawak sa kani-kanyang instrumento. Tandang tanda ko pa ang suot ni Ely-T shirt na pula na may tatak na Adidas.

Rakrakan Na!

Mabilis ang oras. Tumatakbo ng hindi napapansin. Sunud-sunod, walang pahingang tinutugtog ang mga kanta habang sumasabay ang audience. Hindi mo na halos marinig ang boses ni Ely dahil mas malakas pa ang boses ng katabi mong lumilitaw ang litid sa leeg habang kumakanta.

Hanggang sa narinig ang intro ng Huling El Bimbo. Pawisan ang mga tao sa init sa loob ng auditorium pero tuloy sa pagsabay sa pagkanta ng banda. At bago pa matapos ang kanta, nagulantang ang lahat sa pag-akyat sa stage ng isang pamilyar na mukha- nagpa epal pala ang isa naming kaklase. Umakyat sa stage ang bruho/bruha para mapahiran ng panyo at mahalikan ang nagpapawis na mukha ni Ely.

At natapos ang konsiyerto.

Lumipas ang maraming taon......

Di na tayo nagkita.................

Balita ko'y naghiwa-hiwalay na kayo.....

At may kanya-kanya nang banda..........

Hindi ko na nabalitaan ang naging puno't dulo ng hiwalayan ng Eheads. Pero aaminin kong isa ako sa nalungkot sa paghihiwalay nila. Anu't anuman, nais kong pasalamatan ang bandang nag- define sa aming henerasyon.

Salamat Eraserheads.

Salamat Sa Musika.

Science High

Nilalakad lang namin ang science high mula sa main gate. Lugi kasi kapag nag-tricycle ka pa. At isa pa, marami ka namang nakakasabay na estudyante, kaya hindi ka maiinip.

Sa apat na taong ipinamalagi ko sa institusyong iyon, sadyang kayrami kong naging kakilala. Kayrami kong naging kasama. Kayrami kong naging kaibigan..... Ang ilan sa kanila, mga naging guro ko......

Kabo- teacher namin si Kabo. Sabi ni Kabo sa mga lalaking estudyante, "Kayo! Wag ninyong inaaraw-araw. Hindi ninyo ba alam na nauubos din yan? Baka pag me mga asawa na kayo eh wala na kayong mailabas diyan".

Toma- Tom A. kasi talaga. Tom ang palayaw, A ang initial ng Apelyido. Teacher din namin si Toma. Sabi niya, ang definition daw ng FAITH ay- Food Always In The House (Sa ilang pagkakataon ay nasabi ko na may katwiran din naman si Toma). Parati siyang may dalang tasa sa loob ng klase. Kung iisipin ay nagkakape lang si Toma. Pero marami ang tsismis na brandy raw ang laman ng tasa ni Toma. Ang consistent ka-drinking session ni Toma, si Mang Celso.

Mang Celso- si Mang Celso ang dakilang janitor ng science high. sabi nila, noon daw kasagsagan ng July 16 eartquake, inakyat ni Mang Celso yung flag pole sa harap ng building. Para daw just in case na gumuho ay nandoon pa rin siya sa itaas. Hindi naman napatunayan ang tsismis na ito.

Ginang- Gusto ko si Ginang dahil gusto ko ang subject niya-Filipino, Noli, El Fili, Florante at Laura. Minsan na rin akong nautusan ni ginang-pero hindi tungkol sa paaralan, kundi personal na lakad (sa kasamaang palad, nakita ako roon ng tiyahin kong nakasakay sa jeep sa isang di inaasahang lugar at ang sabi niya sa akin- bakit ka nariyan?)

Dayon- Paboritong pumaswit ni Dayon habang nagsusulat ng equation ng calculus sa blackboard. Ilang beses din akong nakulili sa pagpaswit niya ng "When I Dream About You" araw-araw. Pero ang hindi ko malilimutan sa kanya ay nang sinabi niya sa akin na "ano ba talaga ang gusto mong manyari?" dahil hindi ko maintindihan yung tinuturo niyang Computer Subject.

Anto- Magaling na teacher si Anto, kahit na minsan eh inaantok talaga ako sa klase niyang puro tungkol sa kemikal at equation. Sabi nung katabi kong amboy na kaklase ko- "alam mo, minsan pinagnanasaan ko rin si Anto. Pero nawawalan ako ng gana kapag nai-imagine kong nakanganga siya".

Aryo- Kaibigang matalik ni Aryo si Anto. Kwento ni Aryo, "minsan may pulubing nanghingi ng limos sa akin. Eh hindi ko binigyan. Alam ninyo ginawa? Dinuran ako! Alam ninyo ginawa ko? Edi dinuran ko rin!"

Sarzaparilla-Oldies na si Sarzaparilla. At ang kanyang codename kapag kris kringle- "Charisma". Para bang sinasabi niyang, Hoy! May asim pa!

Mamdar- *tikom ang bibig ko sabay yukod*

(Masyadong malawak ang mga naging karanasan ko sa Science High, kaya... itutuloy)

Pulse Asia's Survey on the 2010 Elections

Pulse Asia releases its February 2009 Ulat ng Bayan survey for the 2010 elections.

To summarize, the survey states that if the elections were done on February, the following Presidentiables will make it to the top:

"Kabayan" Noli De Castro (19%)
"Chiz" Senator Francis Escudero (17%)
"Erap" Former President Joseph Estrada (16%)
"Mr. Sipag at Tiyaga" Senator Manny Villar (15%)

For the Senatoriables, the survey's top 5 are:

Jinggoy Estrada
Pia Cayetano
Mar Roxas
Miriam Santiago
Frank Drilon

While those who belong to the top 5 are old-timers in the senate, the survey also include "newcomers" in the list of can-be-senatoriables, including Edu Manzano, Korina Sanchez, Joe De Venecia, and Willie Revillame (yes, you've read it right. Willie is on rank 17-23).

Relative to this survey, I have previously posted a blog to give emphasis on the importance of funds, in other words, money, for the upcoming 2010 elections. As pointed out, since the Presidential Race seems tight and we don't expect a runaway winner, money and machinery will definitely play a big role for the winner.

Columnist Manolo Quezon, in his blog entry, In This Corner, provides a comprehensive analysis on this Pulse Asia February 2009 Survey. Manolo points out that while the Administration candidates are doing badly in the survey, the local allies will still play a big role in the final stretch. Which is true! So the Opposition could not yet stage a sound of victory at this moment. They have got to take care of their local allies.

To conclude, I would like to copy on The Professional Heckler's take on the Pulse Asia Survey:


"Vice President Noli De Castro topped the latest Pulse Asia survey with a 19 percent preference rating. He was followed by Sen. Francis Escudero, 17 percent, Joseph Estrada, 16 percent, Sen. Manuel Villar, 15 percent, Sen. Loren Legarda, 12 percent, Sen. Manuel Roxas II, 7 percent, and Sen. Panfilo Lacson, 6 percent. Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay got 2 percent while MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando got only one percent. The First Gentleman was luckier. He got five percent."


Heckler, you rock!

Pepper In Some Fun at Chili's!

This is just one of those moments where I actually don't know the reason why we're dining out. After weeks of painful changes in the systems, we went out for dinner at Chili's Tomas Morato.

I'm not familiar with Chili's so I can't discuss their specialties. But I can say the food is really nice.

Might need to come back so I can have a better review.

Pera At Pulitika

Napag-usapan na rin lang ang pera, umani ng batikos si Senator (and aspiring 2010 Presidential candidate) Manny Villar sa isang komento na binanggit niya sa isang interview. Sabi ni Villar:

"If you can't raise P1 billion, why even run?"

Reaksiyon naman ng ibang pulitiko (at aspiring presidentiables din):

Mar Roxas: people would elect the next president for the candidate’s platform of government and track record.

Chiz Escudero: it’s the people, and not money, that will elect a president.

Dick Gordon: "arrogant" statement.

In reality, tao pa rin ang pipili ng kanilang iboboto subalit kung iisipin, totoo namang malaking factor ang pera sa kandidatura. Sa nakaraang BARANGAY elections (emphasis sa salitang BARANGAY), may kilala akong nanalong kapitan na balitang gumastos ng humigit sa P500,000 para manalo. Kung sa isang maliit na yunit ng pamahalaan ay may mga taong handang gumastos ng ganoon kalaking halaga, hindi malayong kakailanganin nga talaga ng P1 bilyong piso para sa isang National campaign. In fact, sa airing time pa lang ng political campaign sa TV, gagastos ka na panigurado ng daang libong piso.

Ayon sa isang editoryal ng BusinessMirror,

While Villar’s remark may sound controversial, the reality is that finances will determine in large measure the outcome of next year’s election. In fact, Villar’s figure is the minimum amount required for a decent nationwide campaign, which is P2 billion to P3 billion, per Reuters’ estimate.

Those billions would go to building a nationwide political machinery up to the barangay level. Then the candidates would have to cover all the regions once the official campaign period starts next year. Campaign paraphernalia, such as streamers and handbills, as well as the all-important TV and radio ads, will substantially jack up the cost of running for the highest public office even more. And we’re not even talking of the money involved in surreptitious dagdag-bawas operations à la “Hello, Garci,” which the Commission on Elections (Comelec) swear will be a thing of the past—a situation fervently hoped for, but not necessarily believed.

Sa pinakahuling survey report na inilabas ng Pulse Asia, lumalabas na dikitan ang magiging labanan ng Presidential elections sa darating na 2010. Nangunguna sa survey si Noli De Castro (19%) at pumapangalawa naman si Chiz Escudero (17%). Muling lumitaw ang pangalan ni Erap Estrada (16%) sa pangatlong spot, habang pumang-apat naman si Manny Villar (15%). Kasunod naman sina Loren Legarda, Mar Roxas, Panfilo Lacson, Jejomar Binay at Bayani Fernando.

At dahil nga dikitan ang labanan, sinabi ng ilang political analysts na pinakamalaking magiging factor ang pera at ang pagkakaroon ng "wide and loyal" network.

Sa karanasan ng pulitikang pinoy, malayo pa ang lalakarin bago natin makita ang isang mas malinaw na scenario sa gaganaping halalan sa 2010. Marami pang pangalan ang magsusulputan, paniguradong mayroon pang magba back-out at tatakbo na lamang ng bise presidente o senador, magkakaroon pa ng lipatan portion/balimbingan portion sa mga partido, at makakakita pa tayo ng iba't ibang drama tungkol sa ating mga pulitiko.

Hindi maikakaila na malaki ang papel na gagampanan ng pera sa kandidatura ng mga pulitiko. Ngunit sa huli, ang boto pa rin ng taumbayan ang dapat na manaig. Sa gabay ng Panginoon, nawa ay mapili na nga natin ang tamang lider ng bansa.

Pinoys in the List of World's Billionaires 2009

Famous Forbes Magazine has issued the World's Billionaires 2009.

William "Bill" Gates III of Microsoft is back on top of the World's Richest with a net worth of 40 Billion US Dollars.

Second on the list is Warren Buffett, America's most beloved investor and last year's richest man. His net worth is 37 Billion US Dollars.



Others who made the top 10 are:


3. Carlos Slim Helu & family of Mexico- 35 Billion

4. Lawrence Ellison of the United States- 22.5 Billion

5. Ingvar Kamprad & family of Switzerland- 22 Billion

6. Karl Albrecht of Germany- 21.5 Billion

7. Mukesh Ambani of India- 19.5 Billion

8. Lakshmi Mittal of India/United Kingdom- 19.3 Billion

9. Theo Albrecht of Germany- 18.8 Billion

10. Amancio Ortega of Spain- 18.3 Billion



Fellow Filipinos are also in the list.

At #234 is Henry Sy & Family, owner of various SM Mall chains, Banco de Oro Unibank, among others, with a net worth of 2.7 Billion USD.


Forbes.com writes of Henry Sy:

The richest man in the Philippines arrived there at age 13 from China to help out at father's small convenience store. Saved to start a small shoe store in Manila and built it into one of the country's largest retailers. Now controls the Philippines' largest shopping mall developer, SM Prime Holdings, which opened its 31st mall last year, run by son Hans Sy; country's largest bank, Banco de Oro Unibank, run by daughter Teresita Sy-Coson. Shares fortune, which includes stakes in a dozen companies with wife and children. Last year bought a 60% stake in Manila's National University for an undisclosed sum. In December family's SM Investment Corp. announced plans to start building casinos in Manila.

At #522 is Lucio Tan & Family. They own the Philippine Airlines, Fortune Tobacco, Asia Brewery, etc. Tan and his family has a net worth 1.4 Billion USD.

According to Forbes.com:

Lucio Tan is a former chemical engineer from China who mopped floors to pay for school. Now owns the Philippines' largest cigarette maker, Fortune Tobacco; Philippine Airlines; Asia Brewery; mining operations; banks; property developments in Hong Kong. Cigarettes and alcohol continue to do well during the downturn, but his property company, Eton, has been hit by lower property values and rents in Hong Kong and other parts of Asia. Being prosecuted by the Presidential Commission on Good Governance, which claims that much of Tan's wealth belonged to former president Ferdinand Marcos and should be returned to the country. Hobbies include flying helicopters.

Going Techie [Te-ki]

"Techie [Te-chi] na ako ngayon brod."

"Huh?"

"Techie na ako. I now have two cellular phones in my pocket."

"Tangek! Techie [Te-ki] ang pronounciation dun. Kung Te-chie, ano yun? Tetchie Agbayani?"

____________________

Aside from my old reliable Motorola phone, I have a recent Sony Ericsson phone bulging in my pocket. Now I wasn't actually planning to be a Techie [Te-ki] person, however, I had to purchase another unit out of necessity.

Other than those two possessions, I really couldn't think of anymore gadget that I own to make people call me a Techie [Te-ki].

Ok, I have an ipod on my office drawer, but we always joke about it because they say it is actually an ay-pot, an immitation of the original thing. I had to buy that ipod (which I actually don't use now), out of "pakikisama" to that friend/officemate who sells that stuff.

Wikipedia defines Techie as a term, derivative of the word technology, for a person who displays a great, sometimes even obsessive, interest in technology, high-tech devices, and particularly computers.

To most Pinoys, being techie is being up-to-date with innovative gadgets, like cellphones, music players, play stations, computers, and the like.

There is actually nothing wrong with being "techie". In this modern world, one must really catch up with the fast changes that are happening. However, people should also be aware that buying and owning these advanced technologies should be coupled with responsibilities.

Especially in this time of our economy where there are lots of uncertainties, it is important that we buy things only when we have the capacity to buy.

To add, we must consider that we buy a thing because it is necessary. Nowadays, cellular phones become necessities, even to students. But I personally say that high-end phones may not be suitable yet for students. I should know- I have two student relatives who lost their high end phones because they are not yet responsible enough to look for their personal belongings.

Parents should guide their children. Considering that the young are the more enthusiastic when it comes to gadgets, I believe parents should allow their children to use these things in moderation. The more they use their PSPs, their computers and their music players, the less they devote their time for study and for inter-personal relationship with other people.

Hope In Our Midst

Let's admit it.

We are at a point in our history where graft, corruption and deceit are prevailant in our midst. We see, hear, and listen about it in the news- people pointing fingers, accusing each other with this and that, all going towards irregularities on governance.


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Jonel Dignadisi, an Overseas Filipino Worker has been given appreciation by the Philippine Embassy in Dubai when he returned 470,000 dirhams (P6.2 million) left by a tourist passenger on a public bus that Dignadisi was driving.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Jonel Dignadisi personally returned the money to the owner. Dignadisi discovered the money inside a bag, together with the owner's passport.

source: Philstar.com

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The story might sound like an old tune, considering that we have already heard similar stories before, however, I believe there is a need to give emphasis on this act of heroism especially in these times of dishonesty and distrust in our country.

As we wait for change to happen in our government, may we also, as Filipinos, bear in mind that we can also be agents of change.

There is hope. And hope is found in each and everyone of us.

Eraserheads: The Final Set

Was it really the last?

I bet the people are clamoring for more.

Maybe for the last time, Ely Buendia, Marcus Adoro, Raimund Marasigan and Buddy Zabala (Philippines' Fab Four), reunite as one Eheads Band on March 7, 2009 at the SM Mall of Asia.

An estimated 100,000+ people gathered together at the MOA Open Grounds to witness the concert which, as they say, sealed the previously interrupted first reunion concert held at The Fort on August 30, 2008.

(A detailed account on The Final Set is described by the Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Some Highlights:

• The Eraserheads opened their set with the witty "Magasin," which was taken from the band's second album, Circus (1994).

• The band then performed the songs "Walang Nagbago," "Maling Akala," "Poorman's Grave," "Waiting for the Bus", and "Maskara".

• Marcus and Raimund took over the vocals awhile perhaps, to lighten Ely's load and help preserve his voice, given the long set list. Marcus performed a reggae version of "Huwag Mo Nang Itanong", while Raimund sang "Alkohol" and "Insomnia".

• Ely resumed vocals via the song "Torpedo" to round up the first set.

• The Second part opens with the band singing accoustic versions of "Julie Tearjerky," "Wishing Wells," and "Fine Time."

• The fans sang and cursed along with Ely while singing the famous "Pare Ko".

• The band, then, played "Back 2 Me," Trip to Jerusalem," "Spoliarium," "Overdrive," and "Minsan."

• Singing Superproxy and Kaleidoscope World, the Eraserheads played tribute to a close friend, the Master Rapper Francis Magalona. Kiko was supposed to sing along with the Eraserheads on Concert Night, however, he succumed to death a day earlier.

• They again sang "Alapaap" (which was their opening salvo during the first reunion concert), but with a much slower temple.

• Would an Eheads concert be complete without the Phenomenal "Ang Huling El Bimbo"?

• To cap the night, The Eraserheads proceeded to sing "Ligaya," "Sembreak," and "Toyang".

Again, the question remains in the heads of every individual who still clamor for more of the Eheads:

Was it really the Last?

++++++++++

I hope we could spend more time together

A few hours is better than never

If we could only make it longer

A whole day would be fine

A whole day would be fine

A whole day would be fine

A whole day would be fine

-The Eraserheads, Fine Time-

++++++++++

March 06, 2009: Francis Magalona Passed Away Today

I received news that Master Rapper Francis Magalona already passed away today. Kiko has been previously diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia.

I felt the need to write a short blog because he's been a part of my blog entries:

Pinoy T-shirts where I have discussed his now famous Pinoy inspired t-shirts

and

Kaleidoscope World-Talk about Racial Discrimination where his song Kaleidoscope World has been featured.

++++++++++
Inquirer.net reports:

Rapper-TV host Francis Magalona died of leukemia Friday at the Medical City in Mandaluyong, his co-hosts at the GMA Network’s noontime show “Eat Bulaga” said. He was 44.

Magalona succumbed to severe sepsis as a complication of leukemia and passed away at 12 noon.
++++++++++


__________________________________
Ecclesiastes 11:9 (King James Version)

Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.
__________________________________




His songs, specially those portraying Filipino Patriotism will always be remembered.

Jobs and Unemployment in the Philippines

In about a month, many students will finally graduate from college and will be ready to face another chapter of their being: Employment.

However, due to the recent scores of recession in many countries, which actually started in the United States in September last year, these fresh graduates will have to face a more stiff competition in winning a slot for a job. One, because there are not much job openings; and two, because experienced employees are also vying for positions.

The SWS survey conducted in the fourth quarter of 2008 states that about 27.9% Filipino adults, or almost 11 million people, are unemployed. Being unemployed is defined as those not working and are looking for work. Thus, housewives, disabled, students, and the retired, are excluded from the survey.

Philstar.com reports that business analysts foresee that unemployment rate in the Philippines is expected to remain high in the next few months as the global economic crisis crimps business activities. This came out after big companies, like FedEx, Panasonic, and Intel, have started to trim down or close their operations in the Philippines, thereby laying off thousands of Filipino employees.

So that leaves us with the question whether our Filipino workforce, including our fresh college graduates will have enough job opportunities.

As we wait for our economy to normalize and recover from the worldwide economic recession, here are some helpful tips for those who are currently at a look-out for jobs:

• Prepare a curriculum vitae/resume which clearly states your qualifications. When coming for a job interview, be sure to appear and act presentable. This goes with the connotation that first impressions are very important. Be corteous enough to talk to whoever is administering your application. A cheerful disposition also improves your chances of taking a positive impression from them.

• Be confident but do not overstate your qualifications.

• This is specially for first-time applicants and/or fresh graduates. Do not be very choosy on the job offerings. As mentioned earlier, there are also job seekers who already have previous experiences, so they have better chances than fresh graduates.

• Other than ads in newspapers, try to search for job openings in the Internet. There are sites which cater to the needs of employees and employers. Some of these are Jobstreet, Jobsdb, and Trabaho.com. When you post your resume on their sites, they go and look for compatible job opportunities and email these to you. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) website might also be helpful.

• Attend Job Fairs. Oftentimes, colleges and universities conduct job fairs in order to give their graduating students a head start in getting work. Local governments and other organizations also conduct these kinds of activities.

• While applying for work, it is also very useful to apply for BIR TIN, SSS ID, NBI Clearance, Passport, HDMF, Philhealth, etc., since you might need these when you start working. When you plan to work for any government office, be sure that you have taken and passed the Civil Service Examination.

• Pick the job that suits your qualifications. As much as possible, apply for jobs that will enhance your college degree, lest your career path will be side-tracked. Then, of course, the saying that says "Follow your Heart" applies. Look for work that will give joy and satisfaction to you while considering your qualifications.

• There is nothing wrong in leaving the country and work abroad. But be sure to do a background check on your employer and the agency handling your papers. We have heard lots of people who have had misfortunes on un-accredited agencies and/or bad employers abroad. So verify with the POEA whether such agencies are duly accredited.

• Do not give out Original copies of your Diplomas, Transcripts, and other personal important documents to prospective employers. Give photocopies, instead.

• Frustration is out of the picture. Do not stop when you don't get selected. Know that somewhere, there is a job that's specifically for you.

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Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

- Proverbs 3:5-6

Pacquiao Vs. Hatton: The Battle of East and West

The Stage is Set on May 2, 2009, Saturday, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Philippine pride Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao battles British prized fighter Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton via a 12-round bout for IBO junior welterweight title on another classic match entitled "The Battle of East and West".




“There is a respect for Hatton and his team but in the ring it is all different. There are no timeouts.

Like all of my fights, I dedicate this fight to my country. I remember as a little boy. I ate one meal a day and sometimes slept in the street. I will never forget that and it inspires me to fight hard, stay strong and remember all of the people of my country trying to achieve better for themselves."

- Manny Pacquiao






“This is a fight between two nice men, but there is nothing nice about either me or Manny when we get inside the ring.


We both have great fans and we will be fighting our hearts out for them that night. I want to do the U.K. proud and come home victorious.”


- Ricky Hatton







We have a new Poll!

Be sure to cast your vote on the Poll Area found at the top right side of this page. Will it be Pacquiao or Hatton?

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We're Soldiers- And Gay!

Make way for Class Makulay!

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is now contemplating on the idea of accepting gay and lesbian applicants to be part of the Military Organization.

In a GMANews interview, Army chief Lt. Gen. Victor Ibrado expressed that the military needs further study whether they could allow gays and lesbians to join the ranks, as he noted that there are certain areas where their capabilities and skills may be utilized.

For as long as you are not showing outward manifestation, you are not disturbing others, you are not causing scandals, then there is no problem with that,” said Army chief Lt. Gen. Victor Ibrado.

Bayanihan At Work

In a nation where most of the news we hear everyday implicate corruption, poverty, graft, and disagreements, it is very refreshing to hear and learn that Good Things still exist.

Such as the case in Sitio Dumaliguia, Quezon, Nueva Viscaya, where the project, Rangtay Pagbiagan, is initiated.

Residents of Sitio Dumaliguia, an agricultural village, have started contributing P5 monthly to the community’s treasury to pool funds for the repair of their hanging bridges under the project “Rangtay Pagbiagan” (Bridge of Life).

The hanging bridges, approximately 100 meters long, were destroyed during recent typhoons that hit the area.

Out of the 114 families contributing since September 2008, the project has already raised more than P2,000. In addition, the Local Government and personnel of FMC Mining Corp., provides labor in order to build at least two hanging bridges.

The hanging bridges serve as the sitio's link to the markets, where their products, like rice and banana are being sold.

Also, the bridges are being used by children when coming to schools. In previous times, when bridges were destroyed, children were forced to drop out of school, that's why the dropout rate is so high.

Indeed, Bayanihan is still alive in our culture. And I do hope that as other people are able to read and learn about this worthwhile activity, may they be encouraged and continue to believe that something good still exists in this country.

Mabuhay po kayo, mga kababayang ilokano, at pagpalain nawa ng Panginoon ang inyong proyekto.

News Tidbits 2009

(Medyo) Tahimik ang Pilipinas ngayon. Walang masyadong ingay, maliban sa Right of Reply Bill ni Senator Nene Pimentel (na hindi ko masyadong naiintindihan at hindi ko na rin pinagtiyagaang intindihin) at sa pagkapasa ng Automation Budget para sa 2010 elections (na patuloy pa ring pag-aawayan dahil kabi-kabila ang siguradong magsasabing may dayaang mangyayari. Tingnan natin, kung magagamit na ang automation sa 2010 elections, panigurado na yung matatalong kandidato eh magsasabing "nadaya ako!").

Sikat si Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez. Aba'y big-time siya! Kung dati-rati eh Pangulo lang ng Pilipinas ang gustong i-impeach, ngayon, naka-file na ang impeachment complaint niya sa Kamara. Ang problema lang, katulad din ng complaints laban kay GMA, may pag-asa ba namang umusad ang kaso? Kilalang kaalyado ng First Couple si Gutierrez, dahil classmate siya ni FG Mike Arroyo sa Ateneo De Manila College of Law. In fact, hindi pa nga napag-aaralan ang kaso eh nagsabi na si Mikey Arroyo na hindi siya tututulan niya ang Impeachment. Pati si DOJ Secretary Raul Gonsalez eh nagpahiwatig na mahirap lumusot ang kaso.

Other than the above news, wala nang masyadong matunog. Magtataka ka na lang, ano na ang nangyari doon sa mga naunang issues, katulad nang Alabang Boys Drug Case, WB Corruption Charges, Euro Generals (sabi sa news, hindi na raw kakasuhan si General Dela Paz kasi ibabalik na daw yung kinuhang pera-pwede pala yun?), Fertilizer Scam, etc.

Para tuloy gusto kong sabihin sa sarili ko: "Hindi ka pa ba nasanay?".

Kung nasusulusyonan lang ang mga nakikitang iregularidad. Kung napaparusahan lang sana ang mga dapat maparusahan. Kung kahit paano sana ay nagkakaroon ng pagbabago at kaunti mang pag-unlad ng bansa. Siguro ay tataas kahit paano ang Trust Rating ng Pangulo. Subalit dahil dito, patuloy na hindi maganda ang resulta ng surveys. Ayon sa pinakahuling tala ng Pulse Asia, halos kalahati ng mga Pinoy ang walang tiwala kay Pangulong Arroyo.

Kung wala na talagang pag-asang magbago ang patakbo ng gobyerno, sana naman ay magkaroon ng pagbabago sa susunod na mga lider ng bansa.