electronic writing: redefined

AFTER ALL...

2007-03-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

Everything has been said and done, and at this juncture, I would like to recognize what this teacher has asked us to do during the Final period in our Electronic Newsroom class.

Before I always question the rationale of inviting people from different fields and to serve as speakers in a form of a colloquium. But now, I might just swallow these words because I was all wrong in doubting the very purpose of these works. I was all wrong because I did not see it earlier the real essence of having the series of colloquia. I did not see the great learnings that we could just have from these.

But at least, right now, I am very honest to admit that I was all wrong. I learned a lot from the series of colloquia that we’ve had. I learned something from the field of health and medicine, business, philosophy and literature, fashion and entertainment, campus journalism, media and politics, education, sports, and military.

This would tell us that learning must not be confined only on the grounds of the syllabus distributed for each semester. It could also take place in listening to these people whose expertise in their chosen fields were already proven to be exemplary.

For this, I would like to commend the use of a series of colloquia for classroom discussions. You learn and get some networks at the same time. To the teacher who started this out in us, sorry but thank you also for letting us experience this wonderful encounter.

But still, not every colloquium turned well. I would suggest that the organizers must have prepared well before the discussion. The organizers must have assumed also of the possible technicalities that might happened during the discussion so that mean and lame chances could be avoided.

And, the series of colloquia would have been more interesting if it were patterned from different formats. Like there would be a different format for every colloquium. This is so that students will not get bored in listening to the same thing, day after day.

WHEN ME...MEETS POL...BU...MEETS MIL...

2007-03-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

The media, being the fourth estate of the society is expected to play its role in the politics responsibly.

Councilor Jay Sangil, the invited speaker for Media and Politics shared to us his basic experiences as a journalist and as a local government official. He shared to us that journalism is a very sincere profession that must be viewed as a serious field in this world. He also related his profession to the other field he has taken- the Politics. He said that it takes enough toughness and intellect for a journalist to become part of the politics. First, there would be a lot of tests and challenges a journalist could face if he’s into politics. There would be these offers which will test his sincerity, honesty and loyalty to the ethical codes. Second, his life is always at risk. Journalists, next from the actors and actresses are the hottest persons in this world. They hit big personalities and so their life is being on put to hit.

There is still a greater hope for this country to become a successful once again because there’s still the youth who will save this country. This is the answer of the invited businessman to my question, "Is there still hope for this country?"

I must admit that with the youth who is very intellectual and genius these days, people must expect greater chances for this country. During the last ASEAN logics held in Cebu, I must say that I have discovered the new portrait of today’s Filipino youth. A picture that will stand tall against the brave odds. A picture that will keep an eye for hope. A picture that will keep his struggles on bold. A picture of the youth that will heal the wounds of this country.

ENTERTAINMENT…FASHION…BUSINESS…SPORTS…ALL INTO ONE

2007-03-22T20:15:00.000-07:00

ENTERTAINMENT

Entertainment, particularly farce and comedy has been part of the general Filipino life. He may be experiencing political turmoil, economic deficiencies, moral dilemmas, and personal gaps- but a smile and laughter still radiates from his within. This is what makes the Filipino people different from the other races.

Pong Manio, an ABMC 4 student was invited last time to talk about the entertainment world. It has been a funny and a nice discussion I must say. The person is indeed funny and the words he utters are definitely amusing. Well, nothing so serious was discussed on that day. I did not learn any significant matter as well. But, what I got from the discussion is to laugh and take a look back amid all these problems that we face. The discussion would have been more amusing if the speaker were able to interact with us, the audience.

FASHION

“Fashion fades but style is eternal”, as Isa Minel Gozun, the invited speaker for fashion said during her interview in the last colloquium.

I must agree with her when she said that because we all know that time dictates the modes and trends but one thing time can never tell us is our own style. We may all be following the same trend but definitely and still, each person’s style will always be different from the others.

The discussion became interesting when Mrs. Bautista asked the invited guest to choose one male and female from the class and suggest the nice outfits they could wear.

Again, the discussion might have been a sensible and a nice one if the organizers were able to bring wardrobes and fashion stuffs that will be exhibited during the colloquium. In a way, this suggestion might just show the actuality of the topic being discussed.

BUSINESS

The supposed monotonous discussion (since business is a very boring one) turned to a hotter discussion when a number of the students raised sensible questions to the invited guests during the business colloquium.

SPORTS

Being composed and reserved amid the lifestyle she lives makes the invited speaker for Sports to be one of the personalities in AUF be one of the few persons I look forward to.

Personally, I have been working with Ms. Roxy for my Physical Education class and I have been a witness to all her efforts as to her scholastic standings, teaching profession and to her sports organization that she handles.

LIVING A LIFE AT MANY RISKS

2007-03-22T19:54:00.000-07:00

Medical professions have been the most dangerous field as far as malpractices and inadequacies touch the matter. In the United States, thousand of cases unresolved are about medical malpractices and so in the land of these days’ Filipino great exports (nurses) London. For this concern, a release of malpractice insurance, protecting a medical practitioner was passed.

Among the agents of the medical field, perhaps being a medical technologist is the toughest one. Everything is asked on you if you are an MT practitioner. From the spill of the physician to the records of the poor nurse, everything is tasked on you.

Having this on mind, I really have appreciated the invited speaker in last day’s colloquium who tackled about the MT profession. It is indeed a challenge and a great test for her being an MT practitioner. There is this that her life is being on risk because every chemical and substance she holds might just in a snap cause her own death. There is this she does not have enough time for herself because she concerns much for her poor patients. And worse, there is this setting when she disregards spending quality times with her loved ones, particularly her family because she is called by a life at risk.

It is just dismaying to think that with all the sacrifices these people are doing; still they receive criticisms from others. In Canada, the MT practitioners are usually the ones being sued in every accident that is happening on health establishments.

WHEN PHILO…EDUCATION…AND LITT. MEET

2007-03-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

Talking about existentialism was the main topic discussed by the invited speaker in Philosophy. For his talk, he made mention that the moment we were born, we already have our essence and existence.

Boasting the poem he has made on the spot became the highlight of the invited speaker for Literature. He talked about his love and passion for poetry. He made mention of his inspirations in writing poems. He said that the best topics to talk about when dealing with stanzas and rhymes are death, love, friendship, and sex. I find the talk better because my classmates were challenged to forward good sounding questions to him.

The importance of education and being both a mother and an educator became the pot topic of the invited speaker in education. I have learned from her the challenges she has taken in being both an educator and a mother. For that, my praises for Mrs. Luna for all the struggles she has surpassed in her life.

Mr. Jay Pajarillo, Faculty from the Social Sciences Department of the College of Arts and Sciences, Mr. Lawrence Bansil, a student from the College of Nursing and Mrs. Luna, a former Faculty member of the Christian Formation Center of this university were the speakers for the second colloquium.

PRESS FREEDOM KOH

2007-03-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

During the first colloquium held on March 6 at the PS 307 Building, the statement of Editor in Chief Sarah Marie Kotowich, Allimed (College of Allied Medical Professions’ Official Student Publication) that the “campus journalism in AUF is dead” created a hot discussion.

Personally, the statement does not create any after shock in me. For this is really what’s prevailing in this university, when campus journalism touches the line. Being the Editor in chief of the CAS Ideas for the Academic Year 2005-2006, I would leave a testimony that the state of journalism in this Catholic University is near death.

During my term, the adviser screened the articles. The basic reason? This university is protecting and maintaining its claim as the First catholic University in Central Luzon, therefore no paper releases must be issued that will create a nastier picture of the scene.

But, this is issue is not limited to the portals of this university; other school organs are also experiencing this worst scenario.

Now, being student writers, you and I play a very vital role in redeeming the true spirit and essence of campus journalism. The power of the pen is in our hands. Let these prolific hands mark something on the lines. At any rate, we are still all honored for this privilege- the right and freedom to speak our minds.

And so, make your move. Take pride your minds, get back your rights.

THE MOST ANTICIPATED SCHOOL PRODUCTION

2007-03-01T00:42:00.001-08:00

I can’t wait anymore on how our first production will look like this coming March 7. This is our first production in our Comm 07 class and I could sense that this will be the most applauded and appreciated production inside the class. Thanks to Renddy, our Director, for having the patience in handling us and to Mrs. Bautista, in giving us this test.

MEET THE FILIPINO PHILANTROPRENEUR

2007-03-01T00:33:00.000-08:00

AUF-TOS AWARDING 2007

2007-03-01T00:23:00.000-08:00

Awards are very nice to hear but when they become as students' sole driving force in serving the University, these awards are sounding irritable in the ears.

How I wish students will be having that heart that would have a goal without any condition as expected in return.

But for now, I would like to congratulate this year's AUF-TOS Awardees for a job well done. To Kuya Jon, Bei and Diane, keep it up for the coming TOSP screenings.

KUWENTONG AYALA KO TO

2007-02-26T16:51:00.001-08:00

Si Mariang sosyalera nag-shoshopping sa Ayala. Si Katrinang sobrang arte gumigimik sa Malate. Si Arturong presko kung kumilos tumatambay sa Frisco. Mga karaniwang larawang nagpapakita ng mga gawain ng modernong kabataan. Kabataan, saan ka nga ba patungo?

Pagdating ko sa Filipinas Heritage Library para sa oriyentasyon ng Ayala Young Leaders Congress 2007, natakot ako pagkat iba’t-ibang mga kapwa lider ko ang nakaharap sa akin. Panu naman kasi ako ang pinakahuling dumating, excuse ko naman, kasi po from Angeles City pa ako, (kamusta naman yung mga taga Mindanao at Visayas, dib a? haha) ehehe… at una pa akong natawag dahil “A” ang simula ng paaralan ko.

Nakatabi ko sa upuan ko mga tag San Beda at Ateneo. Siyempre English ang labanan dito. Napilitan pa akon gumamit ng ibang accent dahil ayaw kong matunugan nilang Kapampangan ako, hahaha. Nagkuwentuhan kami tungkol sa mga karanasan naming as “Youth Leaders” kuno. Siyempre binida ko ang mga projects ko sa AUF, hahaha. Pagkatapos, sinerve na nila ng lunch, medyo disaapointed ako kasi halatang maliit ung chicken ko, hahaha. After our lunch, we departed to Tagaytay City, kung saan daw gaganapin ang madugo ngunit sobrang saying Congress. Trully, I felt na sobrang bigatin kami dahil habang nasa Private bus kami, sobrang ang daming mga alalay ang nakasunod samin. Siguro feeling nila, kikidnapin kami, mga Ayala Girls and Boys ata kami, eheheh.

Nung nasa Tagaytay na kami, nabigla ako nung pagpasok ko sa Private Room ko, aba, susyal, hinakot ko buong bahay ko, eh bibigay naman pala ng mga Ayala ang lahat ng susuotin ko. Magmula sa T-shirts hanggang sa AYLC Jacket na plantsado’t nka-hanger pa. Sandali kaming pinapunta sa Dining room na bukas hanggang 10 PM ng gabi, upang kumain n gaming susyal na snacks, hahaha. Pagkatapos ng snacks, nandun ang Asia Ability na galling pa sa Malaysia yata, upang ibigay sa amin ang First Challenge Courses namin, haha. Actually, nung una hindi na ako nag-eenjoy sa mga pinapagawa nila dahil kamusta naman, mainit talaga kahit mahangin sa helipad. Pero nung bandang huli, nung nag-eenjoy na lahat sila, nag-enjoy na din ako, eheheh.

After nung mga challenge courses, nagpunta kami sa Session Hall para sa mga seminar sessions namin. Hay, nung mga time na yun, di ko pa talaga nafifil masyado ang spirit of Ayala. After our seminar, pinapunta na kami sa dinign room ulit, for our dinner. Grabe, sinong may debut naisip ko sa sarili ko, hahaha. Parang may negdedbut sa amin sa mga kinakain naming, hehehe. Talagang kakaiba sa mga kinakain sa mga typical na seminars. And take note, mainggit ang mga gusto mainggit, haha, unlimited service sa mga ice creams, bottled iced tea and sodas, bottled water, tetra packed fresh milk and chocolates, hahaha. Feeling ko nga sobrang nag-gain ako dahil 3 Am ng madaling araw na, nag a ice cream pa kami, hahahah. At syempre, ganun kami araw-araw, araw-araw may parang nagde-debut sa amin.

Pagkatapos, mabibigla ka nalang dahil pagbalik mo sa Private room mo, may mga freebies ng naghihintay sa iyo. Ilan lamang sa mga natanggap naming ay mga notebooks, pillows, sangkatutak na bags, at take note, may free USB pa kami from IMI, hahaha. Pero siyempre, mga “Youth Leaders” kami, hahaha, kaya nagfocus parin kami sa mga seminars naming sa Congress.

Ilan sa mga nagbigay ng talks sa amin ay sina, Mareng Winnie, Pareng Randy David, Former Chief Justice Panganiban, Cheche Lazaro, Malou Mangahas, at marami pang iba. At syempre, nagtanung ako ng mga questions after each talk, ehehehe. Syempre, malay mo, baka may equivalent grades kami pag sumasagot diba, ehehehe.

Pinakagusto kong nagyari sa Congress ay yung mga Outdoor Activities naming. Grabe, I conquered my fears, especially for heights. Kasi nag wall climbing kami, ehehehe, first time ko lang eh. Nag cross din kami between strings, huhu, may lift of faith pa. Talagang duduguin ka sa takot if first time mo lang, hehehe.

Nagustuhan ko din nung nag reflection kami sa Caliruega, ahahaha, nakakatawa kasi lahat ng ibang groups nag-iiyakan, ehehehe, kami lang kasi young nagtatawanan, ehehehe. Akalain mo, sabi ng facilitator naming, akala daw niya, Nuclear Physics ang tine- take ko, hahaha. Kamusta naman yun, Nuclear Physics daw, ahahaha.

Tapus may presentation kami, akalain mu naman, nanalo pa, ehehehe. After nung awarding of winners, sobrang namangha ako. Pinaglakad kami sa madilim na way, pero may madadaming candles sa nilalakaran namin, pumunta kami sa helipad at duon ininduct kami as new members of the Ayala Family, ehehehe.

After that, may fabulous party na binigay ang Globe sa amin. Mixed emotions na kami by that time, kasi alam naming the next morning magkakahiwalay na lahat kami, huhuhu. Pero siyempre inenjoy na naming ang lahat. Inenjoy ang foods, lalo na nag ice creams at kahit anong pwedi naming pagsamantalahan, hahahaha. Of course, hindi na kami natulog by that time, ehehehe, nagising pa ata si president Vicky Garchitorena, dahil nagvideoke kami, ehehehe.

Ilan lang ang mga ito sa mga experiences ko sa Ayala, pero ang tanung saan papunta ng mga lives namin after the Ayala.

Nasa sa amin na ang kasagutan sa tanung na iyon. Kung pipiliin naming magserve sa country o kung anu man. Pero ako, alam ko na may dapat akong gawin sa AUF, sa Angeles City at sa Pilipinas, syempre. Kaya gagawin ko ang bagay na iyon.

Dahil sa AYLC, alam ko na ngayon kung saan ako patungo, e ikaw, san ka?

PROCLAMATION RALLY 101

2007-02-26T16:51:00.000-08:00

I must admit that at first, I really did not like what we are doing at that Proclamation rally that we have attended last Tuesday for our Communication 07 class, Radio and Television Productions. I mean we could have done other things that will not require too much effort on us for us just to be able to comply with the description of the course. But, after all, when we were already at our bus, I have just realized the very essential role media practitioners do in this society. And, every headache, heartache and hotaches (if there’s a word) I am experiencing just vanished away.

What do I mean? I may seem and sound cliché, but what can I do, the next thing I would say is the very reality. During the proclamation rally, it took sweats and stresses on us before we were able to pass the doors of the Convention center. Many people were there that made me thought that a stampede, perhaps, might be created. But since what we are doing is simply a requirement, we can’t do anything but to follow what is tasked on us. But you know, what is important there is what I have realized among us, future media men.

Our basic purpose then was to invite a senatorial candidate and ask them some questions for us stand up report. Like most media people nowadays, they would do everything, even risking their own security, just to earn a news bit that would be very helpful to the people and to the society.

After the proclamation rally, I am now more inspired to do all my best to finish my studies and to become a professional and sincere media person years from now.

I guess, worse than what we have experienced is what these days media people are experiencing, but, did they ever give up. I may not know the most true answer about this, but I am sure, they never. Instead, every hardship becomes their inspiration in striving for excellence and integrity in their career.

I hate the heat of the sun that have darkened our skins, I hate the crowd that have irritated all our senses, I hate everything that happened during that moment, but I really love what I have realized in the end.

THE HAPPIEST MAN

2007-02-02T21:07:00.000-08:00

Happiness is the most important

thing for you to achieve in your life

Happiness can not be gained

It is earned by your heart

Happiness can be found

When you are close to God

and obeying his words

Happiness can be found

When you show your kindness to others

Happiness can be found

When you are nice to those you hate

Happiness can be found

When you help others

Happiness are the love and kindness

And learn to enjoy what ever comes along

Happiness is not far away from you

It is close to you heart

Happiness is serving God for all eternity

and once you fulfilled your wishthen

you are the most happiest man.

HAPPINESS WITHIN ME

2007-02-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

As the Vice President of the College of Arts and Sciences Student Council, I am very much fulfilled with what have happened in our recently concluded Variety Show this morning.

I hope, what we have started would be maintained this coming Academic Years.

TO EKO...

2007-01-26T20:23:00.000-08:00

different languages, different styles, different point of views, but oe song, bumtarattarat

Warm greetingss there!

I suppose that by now you are already in your country. I really have had fun with your company. How I wish you could one day go back again in the Philippines and share your ideas with me. I hope the end of the ASEAN Summit will not be the end of the good friendship that we have started. I decided to attend my classes and not to go with you guys to the airport for it will be more difficult for me to leave seeing you bidding your lonesome farewell

Please keep connected, I miss your cute shots in the flash. Godspeed! Carpe diem!

DIFFERENT STLES AND PRINCIPLES, SAME AIMS

2007-01-26T20:14:00.000-08:00

The AUF Chancellor, Dr. Emmanuel Angeles, President Ricardo Pama, Director Lou Nepomuceno of the Office of the International Affairs, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ruben Umaly, Vice President for Administration Mrs. Sylvia Soriano, and all he people behind the recently concluded, dubbed successful, 2nd ASEAN Stdent Leaders Summit deserve the warmest Congratulations.

I would personally like to thank all those people behin the event for i was able to appreciate the beauty of ASEAN, I was able to know different people from the ASEAN Nations, especially my Indonesian friends (EKO), Gloria from Macau who gives me hope, and everyone, and i was able to shae my ideas on certain issues.

To all the ASEAN Student Leaders, KUDOS!

CAN'T WAIT LONGER

2007-01-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

I can't wait anymore for the coming 9th Ayala Young Leaders Congress. Not because I am excited to hear my name being recognized by the Ayala Foundation, but because I am sure that I am going to meet different student youth leaders who could inspire me and dedicate something on me.

To the Ayala Young Leaders Congress Batch 2007, KUDOS!

ON SETTING RESTRICTIONS...

2007-01-15T02:43:00.000-08:00

Why set restrictions when we speak about love, when that fuckin' restriction will just deprive total happiness and maximum fulfillment from a young man?

I hate it because I really can't be totally free when we speak about love.
Holy Shit! If that will be the case and still be maintained, better I die. I hate it, I really hate this damn.
Hell! Better be no love, better be no sex, better be no life. Damn!

OPENED EYES TO THE FIRST GENTLEMAN

2007-01-14T21:48:00.000-08:00

In every action he does, surely there would be an equivalent reaction. So, if may suggest, he better watch his move all the time, for whatever he does, surely there would be an eye that will stare at him and a tongue that shall speak about him.

During the first quarter of the Arroyo Administration, the media has never stopped in publicizing and declaring all the flaws of the First Gentleman, Honorable Mike Arroyo. On newspapers, several issues linking Mike Arroyo to different corruption scandals were published. On radio reports, stories saying he is having illicit affairs with other women making him not able to sleep at night with Gloria Arroyo were aired. And on televisions, top of the hour news headlines have been televised, saying these and these, all against him and nothing praising him.

Being the First Gentleman of the country, Mike Arroyo must have been assumed his great responsibility in building integrity, excellence and credibility in this country. He must have realized that if he does something illicit, surely it would be known to the general public. And in the end, will create a wrong impression to the present Administration.

First, the money of the country is only for the concern of the general people of the Philippines. This and nothing more is where the money should be used. It doesn’t mean that if you are the First Gentleman, you are already authorized to use it in your recreational activities. It doesn’t give you any power neither, to control its uses. In simplicity, you are not suppose to handle nor desire for it. To the First gentleman, think about this.

Second, being the model father for all the Filipinos, the First Gentleman must maintain the strength and fidelity of the Filipino family. He should not be linked to other women for this will greatly influence the dying concept and essence of the Filipino family. It would not only a disgrace for him and to his wife, but also for the image of this poor and dying country. To the First Gentleman, please meditate on this.

There would be no issues and fire flying controversies, if there would be no root and action that shall be seen. Surely, there would be root basis for all these underlying accusations against the prime father of the Philippines.

Let’s make it like this, we give you the freedom to do things you desire, but when we caught you in the rush, prepare for our assault.

To all the Filipinos, keep your eyes looking in his every motion.

To the First Gentleman, beware.

9th National Ayala Young Leaders Congress

2006-12-11T19:06:00.000-08:00

... a gift from the Ayala Executives to the successful passers of the Ayala Young Leaders Congress 2007

Wow! This is really a year for me. I've just learned it from our dean this morning that I qualified for the 9th National Ayala Young Leaders Congress.

With this, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following people:

To Mam Virgie, our Mass Comm. Program Coordinator, thank you for nominating me and believing on my skills and potentials.

To Mam Elvie Balinas, our coucil adviser, what can I say? I've made it because of your thoughts.

To Dr. Bella Panlilio, our dean, this is for CAS. Thank you so much for believing in me.

To Mrs. Gwendelyn Oronce, how can I thank the woman who believed in me and made me realize the true essence of leadership.

To Kuya Jon, thanks for letting me realized the art of leading. (Remember PACSA '06)

To Tin and Ben, I love you guys!

To my classmates, especially to Analou, Spring, Marianne, Joowon, and Analou again, hay, gosh! I can't believe this.

Thank you for all the blessings you have shared to me.

To Kuya Paul, wow! Thank you sa mga tips and advices.

To my parents, this is my surprise for you.

To Dennis, ahmahmkoh! I've made it.

To the Argonauts batch inclding Mykel-KASAUF, thank you very much.

To Mrs. Sylvia Soriano, thank you very much for all the thoughts whichh you have shared to me.

To the Ayala Foundation, to the Ayala Executives, I'll not fail you for your decision. I'd be sincere to this mission.

To Jehovah God, I know you're the reason for all these. Thank You so much for always being on my side.

SURVIVOR CHALLENGE: HOW TO SUCCEED A SAD CHRISTMAS!

2006-12-10T23:08:00.000-08:00

Why suffer the bad stuffs of your life during Christmas when there are fun shots you can spot.

It is really frustrating when you see people who are having so much fun amid the cold breeze of the season when you are there celebrating the tons of problems you are experiencing. Indeed, the season of Christmas is drawing nearer to the curtains. But, still, you've got and still attached with so many problems.

It's quite insulting when you hear children at your doors singing Christmas and holiday wishes when you are there crying alone for your boyfriend have just broke up with you. You want to give them coins, but the more they become happy and energetic, the more you become irritated.
But hey, don't think that the Earth has turn it's back on you. Mate, it's not yet the end of the world. At least for this season you become happy and gay. Yes, you may be having dozens of dilemmas, but my mate, this is not yet the end of all. There's always reason to celebrate life and enjoy Christmas. How, here it goes:

EAT TILL THERE IS. The celebration of Christmas means the preparation of many foods. Why not eat and try different delicacies instead of drowning yourself to the pool of problems you have. worry no more if you're thinking of your diet. Whether you're thin or thick, you are simply beautiful. Anyway, you'll not have these foods after Christmas. So, while there's more and a lot more, you take advantage.

BE A CHILD FOR ONCE. Lucky those children are for they seem to have no problem at all. They always laugh and just cry whenever they are hungry. Other than hunger, they seem to have and live in a Utopia world, a perfect society. So why be a child even this Christmas. Join the seven's and eight's as they sing and dance the night's carols.

SHOP 'TILL YOU POP. Go to malls and refresh yourself. It's for free anyway. But if you've got the money from your sugar daddy, shop the best stuffs in the malls. By shifting your attention to your personal needs, I am sure you're sadness will leave you.

GIVE A GIFT. There's no more merry and fulfilling thing to do than to give something to somebody. Think of the important and special people in your lives and thank them through a simple but symbolic gift. The fact that you remembered them is something for them. In that way, they'll also make you feel special, which will sooner give you happiness, in return.

FIND AND MAKE LOVE. Merry are the people who have someone special in their lives. Happy are those who attend the Misa de Galo with their partners eating putos and sipping hot chocolate during early morns. If you're sad, then find yourself a partner. Friendster is there to give you more guys and gals. And when you find one, make him feel special as he will make you very special as well.

ATTEND PARTIES. Being with you're friends, you're neighbors or you're relatives during the saddest and lonesome moments of your life is very much healing. The matter that you know they are there to help you is really something. To be gathered with them, attend Christmas parties and family reunions. Don't just confine yourself at the four corners of your dark room. Remember, being alone is dangerous. You might have just done something gratifying for you, but sinful to the Lord God (ehehe).

BE BEAUTIFUL. Make your problems you're magical mantras to make yourself feel better and be beautiful. After all, if you're beautiful, no one will think you're problematic.

FORGIVE AND FORGET. The spirit of the season of Christmas is when you let you're enemies join you in your celebration. Yes, they did something to you, but forgiving them will be very helpful. Isn't a pleasure when you're there and o'k to everyone?

Christmas is the right moment to celebrate life. The right time to be happy and forget all the bad stuffs of your life.

These may be little and simple thoughts, but I hope, they'll help.

PINOY SPICES

2006-12-10T22:48:00.000-08:00

Juan dela Cruz will never be like Uncle Sam, nor John Bull.

I have friends who have been to Europe, to Land Down Under, and some have experienced the bright nights of New York. Some said perfumes from Paris are really first-class. One said that the Australian terrier( a small short-legged grayish wirehaired of Aussie origin) is definitely unusual. Frankfurts from Germany and chocolates from U.S. are really delightful said by another friend. But, never did I hear them saying........."Filipinos are like the people of France, of New York...............!".

There are a multitude of spices that savor Filipinos to become special from the odds. Aside from the fact that Filipinos are genuinely handsome, there are still pure x-factors which draw Juan dela Cruz as a distinct character. Some traits may be noted as the plus factors; some are observed disagreeable, and lots may be labeled as amusing.

Input a 64- dollar question: which Filipino traits are noted as plus factors?

TRYING HARD. At first sketch, this may sound unpleasant. But, use the term in a lighter manner that it can build up the entire Filipino nation. Filipinos, though in the middle of this economic's stratum of competition still try to rank Philippine products in their greatest height. Foreign goods may ever be scattered along the islands, but never will the native ones be forgotten.

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME. It is so finical, that with all the offers of the technological era and the indulge of the teen's world, still a family that is bonded with God's heartstrings, remains. Through centuries, the Filipino family has proven its closer ties that it vindicated itself to be stalwart and stronger versus the forces of worldly immorality.

VIVA LA SENORA. HALA-BIRA, HAAAAAAPPY FIESTA. My 16-year stay in this country has made me said that this nation's culture is the richest among all. The cultural continuity in social attitudes which was cast-off by other countries is still on the line of its legacy. Sinukwan, Moriones, Maskara, Sinulog, Pahiys and Panagbenga, just some of this country's festivities which incessantly fire their race towards the arts and humanities. Aside from these festivities, are the old practices of showing values appreciation and manner decorum in the heart of a pure blooded Filipino.

Hospitable. Pakikisama. Utang na loob. Regionalistic. Some other Pinoy spices that make us diverse.

Inscribe another 64- dollar question: which Filipino traits are the messy ones?

PIRACY IS THE BEST POLICY. Filipinos are renowned for their "gaya-gaya system". They sometimes tend to minimize the value for intellectual property rights. An existing scenario is the nature of the sphere of piracy. CDs, VCDs, DVDs, thesis documents, inventions, and even talents are being pirated.

DOG STYLE. Some dogs are hated for their impertinent manner. Same tale goes to Filipinos. To urinate or micturate on public places such as walls or treewards is a messy act of a dog which a Filipino does. To go deeper on this issue, Filipinos are indifferent with dogs when they just go with the flow without even knowing the real stands of controversies. Being associated on rallies and strikes for two heads of Manuel Roxas and shouting and screaming are just a typical zarzuela.

CRAB MENTALITY. Black propagandas. The Republic of the Philippines. People pulling others down to their deepest grounds. Combine them all, the dubious puzzle will be revealed. Like the lazy crabs, Filipinos will do all, in whatever manner, just to get their desires.

There are quite a number of Filipino traits which may appear negative, but in other ways, become funny. Stuffs like:

DEBT FOR DEATH. During Christmas, New Year, and Barrio Fiestas, Filipinos are assiduously visiting house to house to borrow money for a possible celebration. Imagine, just to feed the mouth of others, they will risk their possible income. Then comes the day that they will hide themselves from the collectors. "Anak, sabihin mo pumunta ako sa bangko ha!", sort of a practical excuse.

KANTANOD. Originated from a Fray Botod, Padre Damaso stated that Filipinos are fond of going to occasions where they are not officially invited. What is more embarrassing is that they even take out foods, stuffs, and utensil (I mean spoons and forks) secretly.

ORGANS FOR SALE. In certain points, this may be a sort of a serious topic......but on the other side, a bit facetious. Nowadays, flesh and escort services for a one- night stand are not the only life aspects which are bargained for a small scale price. The purchase of kidneys, lungs, heart, and even yellow teeth is not impossible. What if, the front teeth planted on you by your dentist is from that garbage collector you most hate............you'll never know.

GALING UK...........! Remember the teen star on a detergent ad pretending as if her cocktail outfit is from United Kingdom. This just speaks that Filipinos are a great pretender.
You may find it nice, irritating or sometimes, amusing, but one thing's for sure, "walang ganyan sa States."

xxx:liberated

2006-11-14T00:38:00.000-08:00

Papa, enough please.

I want to live my life by my own example. I want to live for myself and not for anyone else’s sake, to grace every moment of my life with my own identity and uniqueness. I want to continue to believe in what I’ve got; to stay as I am and not change for anyone.

I really admire the influence my father has instilled in me. I admire him for his fidelity and compassion for my mother. I admire him for his sacrifices in providing us with all our needs. I admire him for surpassing the difficult challenges he experienced. I admire him for his intellect. His thoughts and ideals have molded me. Lastly, I admire him for being an instrument of God, for making me realize who I really am and what I’m supposed to be.

I witnessed how my father pressured my older brother while he was studying. My father was there to guide and direct him from his elementary, high school until his college years. But as days passed by, I noticed how my father was becoming too strict. My brother is a real genius: a regional champion in academic competitions, a national delegate in some conferences, and a Math wizard. However, these achievements are not enough for my father. I often hear him talking to my brother, how he should do his best and never allow himself to be at the bottom. I understand that my father did that because he simply wanted my brother to succeed in life.

As days passed by, the same story happened to me. I was a winner in some writing competitions. I was the editor-in-chief of our school paper, a delegate in some conferences, a winner in quiz shows, a student leader in college and an achiever in our school–but again these are not enough to impress my father. Now, I partly understand my father, but when will he stop pressuring us?

Now that I’m eighteen, I somehow realized how to live my life by my own ideals, making my own identity and doing what I want. I want to live my life without others dictating what to do and what not to do. I am already growing up. I already know what is right and what is wrong for me.

I truly believe that my father is an experienced man who has suffered from his past, and that gives him the authority to lead us. I admire him for that. But I also want enjoy life while I’m still young and strong. I want to stress though that enjoying life does not mean engaging in worldly acts of the youth today, like engaging in premarital and homosexual sex, use of drugs and alcohol abuse. What I meant by living my life is having my own preferences and prerogatives.

I want to live by my own example. I highly respect my elders for their past experiences. I’ve learned from what they have experienced but now I want to make my own example. This doesn’t mean disregarding the elders’ teachings. This means learning to live my life by my own decisions and assumptions.

I want to live my life for myself and not for someone else’s sake. I am doing things the best as I can because I want to succeed. I want to have my own identity and to leave a legacy when I die. I can’t meet these goals if I don’t do what my heart and mind dictate.

Another thing I realized now is that my father loves comparing us to other people. I am a unique person, created by God with different skills and talents. I can do things others can’t do. I do things my own way. I am totally different from my siblings, my friends, my cousins and other relatives.

Last, I can’t change for someone else. Sorry but changing for others is a disgrace on my part. I truly admire Arts Instructor Katherine Watson in the movie Mona Lisa Smile for she refused to change her personality, her beliefs and ideals. Like her, I am a person with strong and firm convictions that no one can challenge. Who cares if I don’t get the highest position or if I am not in power? Huh, to change myself for others, that is a no-no for me!

I would like to clear that I am not against my father. He is a well experienced man and he knows what’s best for us. He molded us well. My brother is still a genius and I can say that I am an achiever on my own. My younger brother just graduated valedictorian last school year. My other two siblings are doing well in their secondary years.

I just want to tell my father that I can’t always live my life following his teachings and orders. I also want to live my life with own options and ideals. But hey old man, I’ll never forget your words that have made us better persons.

I just wish Papa wouldn’t scold me for revealing his life to the public. (Hehe, I’m crossing my fingers.)

This article was posted at www.tinig.com.