The Growing ALTHEA

Every day, I and my wife were thrilled and surprised with our daughter Althea. Because most of the times, She’s showing us things that made us her parents realize that Althea is no longer a baby but now a growing child.

Althea will be turning four next year. And as days goes by before her big day…She’s showing us more skills and talents that really made us very proud of her.

We discovered recently new skills with regards to her speech development. This was observed when we had her checked-up with her Doctor last December 7, 2012, Friday, at the Healthway, situated at the SM the Block, in Quezon City.

The conversation goes something like this…               

Doctor: Hi Friend, What is your name?

Althea:  Althea.

Doctor: How old are you?

Althea: Three.

At first, some of the questions raised are just easy and simple. Until, it became a little complex and difficult because the Doctor attending her was adding more words on it.

Doctor: What is your mother’s name?

Althea: Mary Anne.

Doctor: What is your favorite food?

Althea:  Kanin, (Rice) and hotdog.

Doctor: Wow. That’s very good!

And later on her Doctor was telling us that She was impressed because at her age, she was very responsive. The doctor even cited that at this era, most of the kids were having a hard time interacting with other people. This was because most of them usually distracted with iPod and computer games that made them forget to communicate.

The Doctor reiterated that at times like this, parents or guardians must not be forgetful about the importance of interpersonal interaction. Throughout the activity every Kid should be guided and, there should be an existing communication every now and then.

The reading of books is an essential one and should not be taken for granted as well. Because according to a Doctor’s observation, if a certain kid will first learn everything in a iPod for her ABC’s , one’s given a book the child couldn't identify and learn.

She also reminded us to monitor her time spent when watching a TV. At least two hours and the rest should be spent playing outside and interacting with other kids.

Also we were both enlightened about a certain fact that at her age Althea should not anymore be feeding herself with formula milk.  Or at least limit the intake by two to three feeding bottles. And introduce and teach her to learn drinking it at a princess glass.

But you know what, at the end of the day…aside from the first hand information we've got from Althea’s Doctor, above all we are very happy as parents to know that Althea is really growing.

We are very proud that despite of our work schedules, we never go wrong in raising her.

For both of us, this is a major accomplishment. And we are looking forward for more skills and talents Althea, will soon learn and discover.

TGIF with my FAMILY

It started with a simple text invitation I personally sent to my wife that day.I wanted to see my wife and my daughter after a whole day battle at my work. 
It was actually an instant invitation, I just felt that there was a need for me to see them and spend time with them like what we usually do during weekend going out and having fun.
At first, I have to meet them at the 'healthway' also located at the SM North to check on Althea's health for She was having cough and colds that started last weekend.
She was checked and the doctor said Althea has to continue her medication and soon everything will turn out well. 
After that, we all stroll at the mall and of course taking pictures for remembrance is actually one thing we never forget.
We had our dinner at Jollibee and end up having a cup of coffee and tasted on our favorite doughnuts at the 'Krispy kreme'.
I have to say, that a time like this is actually what I am always looking forward to. For it gave me a wonderful opportunity to be with them, a moment that if ever given the chance, I want the time to stop. So that we will all have a never ending happiness. But as an old cliche' states...'all good things must come to an end' , for I do believe that there will be another wonderful moment that we will all be together, having fun, and again we will all be sharing a very good stories with one another. So that is why I am thanking GOD for a wonderful TGIF!

I think I have to say this...: No longer a baby...Now a grown up Girl

I think I have to say this...: No longer a baby...Now a grown up Girl: Her cover photo in the album is Althea's new look after her first hair salon cut. Before, her hair grows almost at her waistline. Now,...

No longer a baby...Now a grown up Girl

Her cover photo in the album is Althea's new look after her first hair salon cut. Before, her hair grows almost at her waistline. Now, it's below her shoulder.
She had her haircut at "Cuts for Tots", located at SM, The Block, for only two hundred and ninety five pesos.
The salon has four motorized car replica that was three inches high. And the stylist was a male.
To prevent Althea and other kids from making unnecessary move, facing her was a flat LCD that has a cartoon movie playing.
So far, it only took 20-25 minutes and She's all done!
Hurray Althea, for a new and even more better look! (-:

How to report an abusive Taxi driver

The Christmas season is fast approaching. And after making a Christmas shopping for your loved ones, family, and friends, you want to have a ride going to your home using a cab/taxi. 
But if they still refuse or abuse you in any means or ways here are some important details how you can act on it.

A Post Graphic illustration courtesy of Solar News Channel.

To ME FAMILY means...

F- For they never fails to make me happy all the time.
A- All the effort and hard work that I've been doing is for both of them.
M- My very reason why I am still alive.
I- In their eyes I am seeing a clearer definition of commitment, responsibility and Love.

L- Lots of dreams and lovely memories I want to spend with them forever.
Y- Yes I am always happy and feeling home when I am with them.
MY FAMILY!

A Water Dip

Part of our original plan upon staying at the hotel was also to check and try for ourselves how was the pool.
It was such a perfect timing knowing that the weather today is sunny.
I and my daughter dipped into the pool and enjoyed it!
Most of the shots here was taken by my wife Mary Anne.

A 'D DAY' Press

Its been so long I couldn't even remember when was the last time I hit the gym. At home I usually do push-ups and a little stretching only, this was due to weekday work load tight schedule.
Today, given the chance staying at the Holiday Inn again, I never think twice about pursuing it and finally gave myself a chance to do bench press, mid-section crunches, and a lot more.
Why not?
After all... its for free! (-:

A Joyous Day!

Life is full of surprises like what I had experienced today.
A day before my birthday my wife booked us in a hotel. I even had the chance to see both of my parents and had merienda with them. And my two bestfriends from college, Aileen Gaviola and Sheryl Gervacio, was with me today in a dinner held at Max's restaurant in Robinson's Galleria, Ortigas.
I even had an early greetings from a good friend Imay Natividad Ang, and a former classmate from High-school.
I may not have everything, but looking at people that's with me and love me...I believe that would make me say I had more than enough.

Thank you Lord for a very wonderful blessings!

I wanna grow old with YOU

Today, after church we have seen an old couple dining together.

I think both of them are in their early 70’s.

My wife started to ask me a question,

“Do you think we will grow old together like them?”

Without hesitation, I said… “Yes!”

I also added, “Especially if you look at what you eat and take good care of your health,

We will grow old together.

And if ever one of us passes away, even though you think I am your life,

Still look for a reason to live”.

Goodbye Bone!

As far as I and my wife remember our dog 'Bone' is with us year 2005. Several years ago, 'Bone' was so thin and black, and from that look I arrived with that name.

But because He was taken cared of well, Bone grows appealing to everyone.

He's very sweet, never even failed to give me and the rest of the family members a very warm welcome every time He sees us.

He even barks and always defends us, if He thinks someone is trying to hurt us.

Bone never run out of appetite, that is why several days ago, when he seemed not eating anything, we are all bothered about it.

I don't know if it's too late for us to respond, we saw a need to bring Him in a Vet, after two days.

The initial finding was 'Bone' could have eaten a pesticide, clorox, a rat, that made him sick.

But after His oral medication, and some injected antibiotics to stop Him from vomiting and prevent the spread of His ailment, nothing happens 

Bone is still not at himself. 

October 1, 2012, Monday, again we consulted a Vet, and upon checking on Him that day, and upon knowing some symptoms related to it, right then and there, Bone, was diagnosed with a Leptospirosis.

Action taken, again Bone were injected with antibiotics and a dextrose was inserted on Him, for He's not eating anything for three consecutive days.

I might be personally bothered about it financially, but what I am more concern of is His welfare.

I might be busy working daily, but I and the rest of the family members never fails to check on Him.

Bone's Vet told us that the vomiting were lessened, He can even stand. We are all happy to hear some of these changes, meaning Bone is getting better.

I remember, I paid him a visit last October 3, 2012, Wednesday, immediately after coming from work.

Bone even did an effort to stand. He even looked at Me in the eye. 

I wanted to open His cage and hold Him, or at least caress Him in the head.

I hope I did that. But I never did. 

After four days, I and my wife told Bone's Vet that we will be continuing His oral medication at home.

We plan everything to pick Him up last October 5, 2012, Friday, but at work that day, I received a call from His Vet, that he died at 4 in the morning after defecating and vomiting with blood.

If only we could all turn back time, and wish that Bone is well and alive again, we will definitely do that.

My wife was asking me the same day if I still wish to see Bone's remains, but I told her not too.

I don't think I will have the guts to see Bone’s dead  body at His cage.

I just told my wife to bury Bone.

With the help of my brother Ralph, Bone was buried with a cross and a rosary courtesy of our youngest sister Rosalie.

May His soul rest in peace.

We will surely miss Him a lot.

For the last time, we all wanted to say thank you for seven long years you are with us.

We love you so much Bone!

A Breaking News

Just this morning, I posted something on Facebook regarding the current condition of my wife and praying that what were both worrying will not manifest. But I am here to break a bad news that my wife Mary Anne, had been diagnosed with Urinary Track Infection (UTI).

She had Her urinalysis and the count as indicated in the paper showed that She exceeded up to 90 Pus cell, where in the normal is 0 to 1.

The attending resident announced it as...it's just a common and normal thing, where in, in my case and I believe my wife also did, it was a very shocking news.

The dictionary defined the ailment as...Urinary tract infection (UTI)

 Infection in one or more of the structures that make up the urinary system. Occurs more often in women and is most commonly caused by bacteria. 

My wife was given an antibiotic to prevent the ailment from worsening. Bad for She has to be taking it for a week, and twice a day.

Personally, maybe i'm just lucky because never in my entire being I experience it. Upon learning it, interests develop and some helpful research as to understanding it's very nature and how to avoid it really puzzled me.

Facts related to it came out from the google.

It is more common in women than in men because of the relative shortness of the femaleurethra. Men over the age of 50 are more susceptible because of enlargement of the prostate and urinary stasis. Symptoms include dysuria, malaise, nausea, urinary frequency and urgency, and nocturia. There also may be a feeling of suprapubic fullness not relieved by urination. If the infection is higher in the urinary tract, in the ureters or kidney, there can be lower back pain or genital pain.

Treatment includes antibacterial, analgesic, and urinary antiseptic drugs and increased fluid intake up to 3L/day, unless contraindicated. Teaching the patient about increased fluid intake, frequent voiding, and good perineal hygiene is also helpful.

A good way to clean your unrinary tract system is to drink cranberry juice and other high acid drinks. This will remove the bacteria due to high acidity or at least help the process of you getting better.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Pain or burning during urination
• The need to urinate more often than usual
• A feeling of urgency during urination
• Blood or pus in the urine
• Cramps or pain in the lower abdomen
• Chills or fever (fever may be the only symptom in infants and children)
• Strong smelling urine
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Nausea, vomiting, and malaise

What Causes It?:

Risk factors include:

• A new sex partner or multiple partners
• More frequent or intense intercourse
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Escherichia coli (E. coli)
• Staphylococcus saprophyticus
• Use of irritating products, such as harsh skin cleansers
• Use of irritating contraceptives, such as diaphragms and spermicides
• Use of birth control pills
• Heavy use of antibiotics
• A blockage in the urinary tract (benign masses or tumors)
• A history of UTIs, especially if the infections were less than 6 months apart

Nutrition and Supplements

Following these nutritional tips may help reduce symptoms:

• Drink a lot of fluids, such as herbal teas and water. Avoid sweetened fruit juices and other sweetened drinks.
• Cranberries and blueberries contain substances that inhibit the binding of bacteria to bladder tissue. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice regularly helps lower the risk of UTIs.
• Try to eliminate potential food allergens, including dairy, wheat (gluten), corn, preservatives, and food additives. Your health care provider may want to test for food sensitivities.If you are susceptible to UTIs, drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry pills may help prevent recurrence.
• Eat antioxidant foods, including fruits (such as blueberries, cherries, and tomatoes), and vegetables (such as squash and bell peppers).
• Eat more high fiber foods, including beans, oats, root vegetables (such as potatoes and yams), and psyllium seed.
• Avoid refined foods such as white breads, pastas, and especially sugar.
• Eat fewer red meats and more lean meats, cold water fish, tofu (soy, if no allergy is present) or beans for protein.
• Use healthy cooking oils, such as olive oil or vegetable oil.
• Reduce or eliminate trans fatty acids, found in commercially baked goods, such as cookies, crackers, cakes, French fries, onion rings, donuts, processed foods, and margarine.
• Avoid coffee and other stimulants, alcohol, and tobacco.
• Drink 6 - 8 glasses of filtered water daily.
• Exercise at least 30 minutes daily, 5 days a week.

My wife was advice to undergo a urine culture examination, for Her to determine what type of bacteria it is

But of course, as her husband, I am also concern with this, 

Is it safe to have sex if you have a urinary tract infection?

And a health expert said this...

I don't recommend having sex while you have a urinary tract infection (UTI), because it could worsen your symptoms. This is particularly true if you haven't finished taking the full course of your antibiotics. In addition, intercourse might even feel uncomfortable if you are still suffering from the burning associated with UTIs.

That said, if you do decide to have sex, be sure to go to the bathroom and urinate before and after the act. And drink plenty of fluids. These simple steps may help you overcome your current infection, and they'll go a long way toward preventing infections in the future.

Now, we are both very cautious about it, I and my wife are now praying that after her medication everything will go back to normal again.

I know it will manifest. It will be.

References: 

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/urinary-tract-000169.htm

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/urinary-tract-000169.htm#ixzz27sOcQw67

http://www.everydayhealth.com

An inspiring story

Rain struck me today as I went home from work.

Although I have an umbrella, I still fear that I might get wet.

Aside from pouring rain, I am confronted with an almost knee high flood.

I really wanted to go home, the shoes and socks I’m wearing is almost wet.

When I was about to lose hope, upon uttering a little prayer,

A little while here comes an approaching pedicab driver.

It was handed by an old-man, whom I believed in his 60.

I asked him if he can bring me home, he replied where.

I thought he would resist me, but he was brave to face floods and

a hard rain.

While he was driving his pedicab on my way home, the old-man keeps on coughing.

Successfully after a five minute and more struggles from rain, I got home.

I gave an old-man a penny, and doubled it.

He looked at the paper bill I gave him, and showed a gesture of giving me back a change.

I said no, it’s okay.

Upon uttering that, the old-man in return said thank you.

Today, it gave me a very important lesson, that I am very lucky.

And I really thank God for it.

And I promise to myself that I will continue to do good to other people no matter what.

Little things that matter

Today, I didn’t go to work and that gave me a chance to go back to my normal daily routine at home.

I thought I was dreaming, for I heard a very familiar voice waking me up. Upon opening my eyes, I found out that it was my 3-year old daughter Althea, who’s at the time giving me a wake-up call. 

It was such a very long sleep. Normally if I have a work I can only rest for 4 to 5hours. Today, I think I had so much sleep.

I even had the chance to have breakfast with my wife, and we had coffee paired with a peanut butter sandwich.

I must say I missed times like this. During weekdays, I normally had my breakfast alone. It became extra-special for it was prepared by my wife, Mary Anne.

After that, it gave me a chance to look at my things. I specifically fix some kept documents and there I spotted important papers that made me went back to some important chapters of my life.

I was once again had the glimpse on the very first script I did way back 2001, in my very first job at ABS-CBN2. Also still existing some of the syllabus I kept during my masteral degree in UP Diliman. And important memories I had with Roosevelt College, at the time I was teaching.

I remembered that I kept some previous lectures and materials on most subjects I was teaching before. And what excites and interests me are some of special greetings and notes my previous students wrote about me.  In a short bond paper printed there a note which says…”What do you think of me?” along with a cute clipart boy wearing a hut. And there I was excited to read once again messages of my students that really warmed my heart.

There was a special letter that one of my students gave me when I left the College, it was a letter written from the bottom of her heart, in behalf of her other classmates. At some point in my life, by reading her letter, it made me realized that as a former Lecturer I was able to touch lives, and became very effective in changing their behavior.

I even looked at pictures of my first out of the country trip when I left Manila and bound to Bangkok, Thailand. I remembered, only to make the trip possible my Mom borrowed money from an officemate. Again, it made me realized, it’s all worth it. It even gave us (my fellow MA’s classmates) a time to bond with each other.  And up to now, I am so thankful that my Professor, Ma’am Paz, included it in our class syllabus.

Some pictures also helped me go back in time, when I officially became a father.  I was able to turn pages of my daughter’s album at the time she was at my wife’s womb and pictures of her at the day she was born. Another important chapter of my life that I wouldn’t forget, and I believe it was all worth it.

I even watched today my favorite noon time show, “Eat Bulaga”. The year it all started was the exact year I was born, circa 1979.

And I was able to clean the kitchen, and wash the dishes.

And also I had the chance to watch over my little daughter while she was enjoying her day playing outside. Put her into sleep and had a nap beside her. I even carried her at the time she wakes up. It’s like going back at the time she was still a baby.

A little effort was exerted as well when I prepared a merienda for my wife.

And most importantly, I was able to write a blog again.

I couldn’t believe that today I was able to experience my daily house routine.

I thank God for a time shared, little things that really matters to me.

Metamorphosis

"Imagination is the highest kite one can fly", this is one cliché that best describes Rodolfo Garabot, also known by many as "Bong",
when he finally got His long before dream and that is to work in a media industry.

When he finishes his degree in Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) Major in Communication Arts at the University of the East, Caloocan in 2000, months after… He finally landed on a job as Researcher in ABS-CBN, Channel 2, which is known by many as 'Philippines largest and number one network'.

Bong is very proud to have worked first in a program named "Balitang K", which was then hosted and produced by today's ABS-CBN, Chief correspondent, Ms. Korina Sanchez.

After a while Bong has been transferred and experienced working with many programs such as TV Patrol and later on given the opportunity to explore works in The Filipino Channel, TFC shows such as Balitang Europe, Balitang Middle East, and Kuwentong Disyerto as Editing Supervisor and Segment Producer all of the same time.

In between Bong's career in Media, he also pursued Teaching at Roosevelt College System, in Cainta, Rizal. This gave Him a chance to finally share some of his learning's in the world of broadcasting to an up-coming media practitioner.

Bong's teaching profession lasted almost a year in a half, and eventually shifted to another job that made him as a Marketing Specialist.

But fate intervenes later on...Bong went back on his first love and job, media.

The next thing he would have known He’s now working at Kapamilya's number one rivals Kapuso Network, GMA7.

Bong recently worked as Segment Producer of a weekly magazine news program named, "GOOD NEWS, Kasama si Vicky Morales.

In Bong's quest for professional growth and career stability, he spotted a better career in media industry.

He is now currently working at Solar TV, whom he considered his "Shining Beacon of Hope", as an Associate Producer for Solar Headlines, and Solar News Day aired via TalkTV.

Change is Inevitable

Here comes my cellphone, beefing again. It was always set 4:30 in the morning during weekdays, I’d better be going up now…or else I wouldn’t make it for a 7:00am daily office call time.

After fixing the bed, sometimes I usually do some stretching. And since breakfast is the most important meal of the day (which is very true), a peanut butter sandwich and a glass of milk is just enough to start the day.

Every minute counts, the clock is now ticking at 5:30 in the morning…meaning I should be out the house.

On my first week, I was able to master a perfect time-in going at the office. But after a week, changes have been made by the MMDA banning buses, trucks, from entering flyovers, tunnels, and underpasses and that gave me a failure to be there on time.

Another option I have in mind…riding the MRT. I don’t really consider this before as better means of transportation, for I fear that if any commotion happens, I will be a victim of stampede. But my desire to always be there on time conquers my worry.

From a thrice a week work before, now it became daily and it has to be ten hours. I even experienced working during weekend.

I remember one movie that stresses a point “Great Power, Comes Great Responsibility”, this is one obvious change now that I am handling supervisorial position. A follower before became a leader and is now entitled for giving commands and thus, all the time supervises people in the production.

When I applied for the position, I think of growing, I even think of learning new things, and always reminded of the word “responsibility”. But the word we are talking about here, requires action taken, and stresses consistency all the time.

Yes, it is true that the only permanent thing in this world is change, and it will always happen. But i'd like to end this by telling everyone that in able for you to survive whatever changes that comes your way...you'll have to be adoptive of it.  After all it's for your own good.

When God closes a door he opens a window

It was April of 2012, when I left my previous post for GMA7, and I have to confess that during that time I don't have any concrete plans where to go after.

I can still recall, I even seek for a friend's help. I have undergone two weeks training in another TV station popularly known TV5. I don't know, at that time I would consider it as a lousy decision because I accepted the offer without Me knowing the salary and how long the training would be. Within that week, my wife's dad demise, after days of mourning, I came up with a concrete decision, and that is to leave the company and seek for a new and better job offer.

I wouldn't forget two of my other bestfriend's Lala and Iaree for the enlightenment.

In my desire to get back to my daily work routine, I even found myself in a very familiar TV station, ABS-CBN 2, attending an interview. But since I am not happy with the offer, considering the experiences I had in the same field, I had to decline it.

I also attempted to go back from GMA7 but at the time I was looking, my desire didn’t manifest. I stayed home for more than a month, I was then beginning to lose hope until one of the application I’ve sent via e-mail… responded by sending me a text message.

It was I believe June 12, 2012, Tuesday, the following day… I was scheduled for exams and interviews. I completely don’t have any idea where it is in Mandaluyong, at the time Metro Manila was experiencing a bad weather, and when I came in, I was late for 15minutes. I was then bothered that I am creating a bad impression at the time, but I was so lucky that I was just in time before I was called for my examination.

It was a whole day exam together with two tough interviews. After that, I was told they’ll be sending me a text message or gave me a call, if I will be a part of their shortlist.

I started to feel bother again and I must admit after days they haven’t called for me, I came to think that there are more deserving people to fill-up the position.

It was June 22, 2012, after almost a week, when I was inform through text that I was scheduled for final interview. The interview only lasted for 10 minutes or maybe less, after that I was told to wait for their call again.

At some point, It was a mixed feeling of…I was thinking I wasn’t able to impress them and also there’s a part of me confident enough that I was truly deserving for the position I applied for.

At home, I receive a call from an unfamiliar number, not knowing that it was someone from HR and the next thing was…I was told that I am eligible for it!

I was really jumping and shouting for joy! My wife and my daughter are both happy and proud for it. I even extended the good news to my parents and family members.

It was a gift I’ve been praying and longing to have. God have answered my prayers and I feel that I am the luckiest being in the whole world! I remember there was a time in my life, I’ve been talking to God, and in my prayers I was asking Him if what was really He’s plan towards me. But now I know that God is just preparing me for a bigger and better opportunity. Now I’ve been seeing a clearer vision towards my goal and that is to achieve professional growth and career stability.

MMDA IS GETTING WORST!

I was one of the many commuters who started to experience having trouble accessing EDSA this Monday. At first I don’t know why. But while on a trip I noticed that most buses were not allowed from entering flyovers. And normally based on my daily routines going to work, one hour is just enough for my trip. The result…I was late!

I have to report at the office by 7 in the morning, but then I arrived almost 9. But because I was working in the media, I was able to confirm that the traffic turmoil I dealt with was brought about by Metro Manila Development Authority, MMDA.

This was because traffic officers under the new directive, bans buses and trucks from entering tunnels, flyovers, and underpasses following a string of accidents involving heavy  vehicles.

This might be a valid reason because MMDA has recorded 25 thousand plus related vehicular accidents and 133 of them were fatal. And the numbers of incidents was only for the month of January to April this year. 

To some Filipinos who own a car do not bother at all about this, but for many including Me, it was a total inconvenience.

MMDA Chairman Tolentino, the following day, reportedly seen looking at the traffic situation brought about by this new scheme. And news said according to Tolentino, that traffic was light compare to yesterday.

Okay, now here’s my challenge to MMDA Chairman Tolentino, instead of looking at how the traffic goes during the implementation, why not try to become one of the commuters who wish to go to their office on time for work?

This time Tolentino, would be using bus for transportation, and see for himself, if He would reach actual time before a duty for work.

For I have never seen Him bothered about people like Me who’s been spending so much time dealing with the traffic turmoil. It was so horrible and frustrating at the same time!

Maroon 5 - Payphone (Explicit) ft. Wiz Khalifa

Just got LUCKY!

I only asked for a piece of bread from God,

but what was given to me was real burger,

a french-fries, my favorite drink, and a sundae

for dessert.

It was overwhelming!

Up to know I’m still in ecstacy,

I don’t know if I am going to shout,

or jump.

This emotions was brought about by a call

I received from a certain company I applied for.

I dreamed about this all my life,

I tried to pinch myself, it was all real.

Finally, I and my family will start to have a better life now,

A gift wrapped specially for us!

It was true when they say never lose hope,

that the world is round, and soon you’ll be on top.

I’d like to thank my family, and people who strengthens me.

From now on…I will always consider trials as part of life’s beautiful journey!

Two Thumbs Up to… The X Factor Philippines!

After so many months of preparation finally today at ABS-CBN 2, after MMK is the pilot showing of “The X FACTOR Philippines”!

The show gives a viewer from different part of the Philippines several reasons why you should develop a habit on watching it every Saturday. Not to mention the good line-up of credible judges in the industry today such as Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Pilita Corales, and Charice Pempengco!

I was a bit surprised to see the diversity of judge personalities in giving their verdict to every contestant. You wouldn’t imagine seeing them standing while applauding when they feel finalist WOW them. There was even a part when Gary V, almost but prevented himself from saying a bad words because of the previous performance he had seen. You would also see here how Pilita Corales, became so game and even had kissed one finalist who did well on stage. Plus you would see how Charice broke into tears when one contestant sang a song that reminded him of her deceased father.

The show never fails to show also wonderful line-ups of talents on its pilot day. To name one, I won’t forget Mark, who shines on his number.  There was also a guy who defines what “Self-confidence” is all about.  Audience were all moved by his chosen piece “What makes you beautiful” of One Direction, as well as the four judges.

And you could just imagined four million pesos at stake waiting for the lucky winner who would win the title of the first Filipino “X Factor Philippines” grand winner!

But wait there’s more, the show has four different categories for boys, for girls, for age 25 up, and for group. It only goes without saying that we never really know from all four given categories who would be the winner.

Ooops, there’s more, I can’t even help myself say that KC Concepcion is very “perfect” as the chosen host of the show. Her charm plus her genuine talent in hosting added more reason for all the viewers to see it.

At first I thought “X FACTOR Philippines” is just a duplicate of “PILIPINAS GOT TALENT”, but you know what, I even find it more delighting than AI!

Mirror Mirror, the Movie Review

I was never interested before about fairy tales, especially that of intended for the pleasure of most kids. But now I started to change my very perception towards it and thus beginning to fall in love.

The change of mind set was brought about by certain influences mainly number one from our little daughter Althea, who loves watching fairy tales. I am not supposed to see it, but because I was inside the house while she was viewing it, I was left with a choice but to see it.

It came to my senses that every fairy tales has a wonderful story to tell, not to mention the valuable lessons it leaves us all. When I was young I am more familiar with “Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang”, (fairy tales of Lola Basyang), mainly because it was all in Tagalog.

Another reason for that happens after seeing the movie “Mirror, Mirror”, it was a foreign film that attempted to narrate the story in a different manner.

Obviously, the movie is not in cartoon, it features Oscar winner Julia Roberts as the Evil Queen and newcomer Lily Collins as Princess Snow White, and the handsome Prince Alcott, played by Armie Hammer.

At first, what I have in mind it was a film intended only for kids. But I was happy to see that it was a well act and well written film.

I was completely out of my usual thinking that “Snow White’s “ queen step-mother is just mad at her because she’s at all more gorgeous than her. But more than that…the Evil Queen freaked out to know that the handsome prince fell-in love with Snow White, plus the fact that she’s the right successor for the thrown, and she cared more enough for her subjects.

In the film, Mirror is not just a simple hanging mirror on the wall, they’ve re-created a portal that leads to a more beautiful mirror. It was also the beautiful Julia Roberts in the reflection she was just dressed in white. Very wise, enchanting and has a powerful spell. It was revealed here that the queen’s wishes to the mirror will persecute her beauty at the end.

The story started to tell an interesting fairy tales when the Prince appeared. He was tall, handsome, and a little funny here. The Evil Queen Julia is broke here, and the only way she could save her selfish self-drowning palace into poverty is by marrying the prince.

This gave Julia a perfect reason to kill Snow. But her trusted servants showed cowardness and run as fast as he can when they were in the forest. That led Snow White to get to know the Seven Dwarfs. There was a big lift to Dwarfs character here, they were all represented here as bandits and thieves not miners along with their names as well.

This is not just a typical timeless Snow White Fairy Tales since each characters has a twist you will never see here Snow White eating an apple and later on fell into sleep and thus follow the old fashioned way of story telling the Prince will arrived and will soon be awaken with his kiss.

Costumes were great especially that of Snow White and the Evil Queen Julia Roberts. The writer of the story has an interesting way of showing how was beautification done during the era. Believe me, I have never seen something like it before.

Over-all the movie Mirror Mirror, were able to tell a beautiful story in comedy and light drama. Thus I am highly recommending this to movie goers of all ages.

The Truth about Kimmy Dora and The Temple of Kiyeme Movie

My wife on the celebration of Father’s Day said…”I want to laugh!” We went to SM North Edsa to catch the movie and there are some interesting facts we’ve discover about it.

 At first, there was a blurring as to what really the genre of the film was. We both have seen its trailer and shocked to find out that the movie was horror.

This may be intentional but it gave viewer like me an idea that seeing the lead star of the film Ms. Eugene Domingo, it is normal to expect that the film is made to inflict laughter.

Although, it was there, the movie fails to highlight the very genre of it, because it was trying to stress horror and comedy at the same time.

Hitting two birds at one stone seem to be an in-effective approach here because at some point viewers were torn on particular feelings as to laugh or to be frighten.

Even at the time Ms. Eugene Domingo portray the role of Kimmy, although the character she’s playing appears to be intelligent and classy, still you would notice that the character is played like the way the actress speak.  And it was also not so clear if every time she portrays “Dora”, it has to be all the time speaking with her neck bent.

The movie is actually trying to inflict cue to fear every time the ghost, “Sang Kang Kang” appears. But the sound they’re making as to imitate the beat of the drums is quite weak. It has to be a little noisier, to match “Kimmy’s” reaction hearing a very loud noise.

The exciting features of the film was  the following; number one casting, I believe there was no one deserving and can act like the way Ms. Eugene Domingo did. Second, you’ll be surprise with several actors and actresses around in full-support to act in the movie. To name one, you would see here the queen of all media, Ms. Kris Aquino. Third, was the choice of location and props and visual effects used which I believe made the producer/actor Mr. Piolo Pascual, spent millions of peso.  One remarkable visual effect was the appearance of the ghost, Sang Kang Kang, in a form of a dark cloud.

As to story concept, if given much attention on horror it would seem to be one of the most effective way to market the movie. And I am looking at Kris Aquino as the best actress to portray the role. Or it would be someone of your best choice!

HAPPY DAD’S DAY!

Yearly there are several occasions we don’t forget to celebrate. Before, I was only concern on the celebration of my birthday, and each year  I’ll make it appoint to prepare for that special day by calling all family members, relatives, and most of all closed friends to come over and join me when I’m having fun. But that was the attitude I have long ago. Everything changes now when a new chapter of my life came in, the fatherhood stage.

It was 4 years ago, I got my wife pregnant. We were engaged then and have an agreement that we are planning to settle down when we’re financially ready. But life really is full of surprises, we have to rush everything after the big revelation.

At the time, I really don’t know what to do. Like everyone else in the world confronted with similar problem or doesn’t have a clear plan to do…we were both obliged to tell our parents about it.

This was the time I experienced so much nervousness. I remember when we visited Mary Anne’s father who’s now a deceased, just to let everything out of my chest, we sought a help from her father’s lived-in partner.  The next thing I remember Meanne’s father was in front of me directly asking for a clear plan to do.

That’s when the next big thing happened. July 01, 2008. Mary Anne and I was in the Manila City Hall attending our civil wedding.

A few months after that… she gave birth to our first born child, Kirsten Althea and that made me an official father!

It was a feeling that is hard to explain and no words could ever describe it.

To sum it up, really I wouldn’t be called a father without having a wife and our only daughter, Althea beside me. I believe I am also sharing the same perspective to all fathers throughout the world.

 Every member of the family I would like to encourage all of you that this is a MUST celebration that should not be taken for granted. Whether your father is still around or in heaven now…do not forget to say, “HAPPY DAD’s DAY!

The unfortunate Manny Pacquiao!

And the winner for the WBO Champion of the World…Timothy Bradley!

What?!

This is the split decision or the result of boxing champ Manny Pacquiao fight with Timothy Bradley on the 10^th of June in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Far from the very expectation of many Filipinos and Manny Pacquiao’s followers and fanatics all-over-the world!

Even Bob Arum, Top Rank, CEO is very disappointed about the outcome and would have wanted to review and look at some anomalies behind this.

As to number of punches it’s pretty obvious that Pacman should win over his opponent.

But why is this happening?

Several reasons are now coming out as to the boxing promoter would have wanted Pacquiao and Bradley to have a rematch. This is arriving with the conclusion that boxing is like a business of gathering lots and lots of money.

I remember one theory in communication that clearly defines what this is all about…”Political Economy Theory.”

Some reasons for this according to some sport analyst that Pacman is now doing a multi-tasking role as a father, husband to Jinkee, a congressman, a bible preacher, and lastly a boxer, which at the end distracted him from winning the title.

And also for the very first time the presents of his kids during the fight would have been putting him out of concentration.

Attributing also why Manny couldn’t win the title is because according to News that Manny finishes watching a basketball game before committing a fight with Bradley.

And some weird conclusions that Manny is expected to lose after he reaches his sixth fight. One great example to this was when Morales defeated him last time on the same cycle.

But the changed Manny wholeheartedly accepted his failure to win the fight, and told everyone that the Lord is maybe just testing his faith. 

But to all Pacman’s supporters let us all wait and see what’s going to happen on their rematch happening this November.

Let us all wait for the final announcement which says…”and the winner for the WBO Champion of the World is…(it could be you!) Just kidding aside.

In the heart of many, Manny would remain and will always be a WINNER!

But thank you very much Manny for giving us all a very good fight!

I MISSED FPJ movies!

As usual I and my wife went to mall again and visited a video store and there spotted a classic Filipino film produced by the late “The King” Fernando Poe Jr. AKA FPJ movie entitled, “Ang Syota Kong Balikbayan.” I believe I have seen the film several times before but still excited to watch it over and over again.

Tell me who wouldn’t watch FPJ again (Nanding), and Anjanette Abayari (Kathy), who began to establish a relationship comparable to dogs and cats. Kathy went back to the Philippines to fulfil the wish of her deceased grandmother to distribute to the poor her 20 hectares land.

Nanding, first met Kathy in a traffic encounter that later on put him temporarily in jail. Even though the two lead star of the movie had a bad start…they’ve reconciled and became lovers at the end.

Another interesting reason why I am willing to see it again is actually because of one scene I couldn’t forget. This was when Kathy and the insecure girl who had crush with Nanding, Digna, played by Maritoni Fernandez, held their fighting scenes in the slum area of the barangay.

And there was no other movie producer who could have done combining all late but great antagonist of Philippine movie Industry but FPJ alone. Imagine, here you’ll see Dencio Padilla, Paquito Diaz, Max Alvarado, Romy Diaz, and Bomber Moran. Here you’ll see also the special participation of the funny comedienne “Chiquito”.

You will even see the late FPJ singing a particular tagalog song while doing a “harana” to actress Anjanette with the help of Janno Gibbs and Randy Santiago.

I remember laughing loud out loud when I saw once again the horror part of the movie where there was an appearance of a gay “Manananggal”.

I am very glad to have seen it again and even more happy to have a DVD copy of an analog film of yesterday.

I must say that although we have an existing major film outfits today, who’s been making movies of popular actors and actresses, there’s nothing like of FPJ movies. Because an FPJ film is incomparable to any of them today…must have been the unlocking of a secret formula that hasn’t been discovered yet by film producers of today’s generation.