My iLife :)

Lucban: Holy Week Destination of the Philippines

2008-03-23T22:13:00.001+08:00

Via Dolorosa Grotto, also known as Kamay ni Jesus is a religious shrine and grotto is located in Barangay Tinamnan, Lucban, Quezon approximately 118 kilometers and 3.5 hours drive south of Manila.

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Pacquiao Rules Again!

2008-03-16T17:01:00.008+08:00

Our Pambansang Kamao- Manny Pacquiao again shows to the world that Filipinos are great fighters. The confrontation of Juan Manuel Marquez and Pacquiao is a battle against the real WBC super featherweight champion of the world and took the organizer four years for the rematch. And after 12 deadly rounds on the ring, the Philippine flag swayed again in the Famous Mandalay Bay Hotel to confirm that Manny had stole the title and become the champion.

Manny has really gone a long way, this young brash Filipino boxer whom has risen to almost folk hero status among his kababayans had proven his Mexican destroyer brand to the world.At the moment he is the first Asian Boxer to hold World Titles in three different weight divisions.

It was a real close fight and Manny had a best match over Marquez and for sure every Pinoy's watch this momentous bout. I was just disappointed for not seeing his famous knock out finale for his opponent and the excitement of his deadly move.

Anyway, I am proud of him and for not failing the Filipino people and continuing to prove that Filipinos has something to show in the world sports arena.

Pacquiao-Marquez in 2004

Related links:

* What people want Manny to endorse
* Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao Rules
* Last Mexican Standing For Pacquiao Is Marquez
* Manny Pacquiao.net

2008-03-16T17:01:00.001+08:00

Honoring our Media Practitioners

2008-03-03T16:33:00.002+08:00

PinoyExplorer honors the men and women of our mass media as they work tirelessly to deliver information to the public via broadcast and print. These people was considered as unsung heroes that are seldom being recognized but instead being lambasted for exposing the truth and sometimes are being victimized by media killings.

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Piolo Believing: Ten years of a successful career

2007-11-29T23:45:00.008+08:00

One of the country's most sought after actors and commercial endorsers, Piolo Pascual truly pave way to success. He had proven his mettle in acting with dozens of awards, blockbuster movies, record breaking albums and multitudes of endorsements.

It was during the latter days of October this year when David Fabros, approached us for a book project. An ABS-CBN resident photographer for years, David had documented and collected Piolo's memorabilia in a span of his showbiz career. Much to our surprise, he planned right away to launch the book by Nov. 30, 2007 for the 10th year anniversary concert of Mr. Piolo Pascual. We only had less than a month to go and I told them that it is a "mission impossible". Materials were not yet ready and aside from that David had to go abroad for a business commitment.

"Wow, this is really a project suicide" I said.

David comforted us when he decided that a concept was already established. He wanted a pictorial biography book for Piolo. Meaning, 80 percent would be images and 20 percent text. Well, I think this could be done if he could give us the materials ASAP, done with his printing budget and contact his Art Director for an initial book design and page lay-out that should be submitted first so we can estimate the intensity of the production work.

So after a week, boxes of images came up brought by David. He said it was from Piolo's collection and some of his shots on him. These images were already arranged as chapter plan and we only think about the Chapter divider text, captions and the Front/Back matters.

We had a meeting with his commissioned Art Director, but declined the project because of some other concerns. What I planned for the project was to outsource the concept design and lay-out so we could only look at the printing schedules. I was so busy then with my online projects and I don't have that time to engage another intensifying and deadline beating schedules.

But since we have committed as the publisher of the book, we have to make ways and make both ends meets. Editorial meeting was called up, plan the project and look for possible team to work for the project. Unluckily again, the in-house creatives can't also accommodate the project because of other deadlines. Then, a schedule from the press came. We need to come up with 3 signatures per day starting Nov. 12 but we have not yet started any single page lay-out. The date is November 10.

With the persistence of David and the commitment to make, I finally gave in and accept the Art
Directorial job for the project. I have to contact two more lay-out artists to help me and a team of photo editors for a major manipulation of the images. These images are composed mainly of images from Piolo's personal collection and need enhancements to come up with good quality prints.

It's a no turning back point for my team. The editorial team finalizes the captions provided by Piolo himself and of David. We have to work and collaborate online since David will be out of the country for a business trip. So, burden lies ahead of us.

To make this story short, I finally forwarded my cover design to David for his perusal and gladly accepted some minimal adjustments made. Actually, his taste for the book was a mix of a-la magazine and a coffee table book but was rejected by the publisher. So, we have to come up with the design discipline of a coffee table book.

After several sleepless nights and online soft proof approval of Dave, finally files are off for prepress by Nov.22 and initial press running is on schedule. Cover is with special spot UV lamination of Piolo's signature in blue. The cover is protected with matte and give a natural flat color.

Finally, on the concert day itself, the first 300 copies of the book was released from the warehouse and brought to Piolo for his autograph. We'd like to give the public something that they would treasure even it is on its introductory price.

Whew, that was just more than 2 weeks of hardwork and I'm thankful that again we have successfully beat another history in book publishing. More than 500 pix... 184 pages... in one pictobiography book...

Piolo:Believing.... and now, a book is born...

About: Piolo:Believing is a photo biography book of Piolo's 10 years in showbiz career. Published by Vibal Foundation as a fundraising project for WikiPilipinas: the free Pinoy encyclopedia.

Destination: Eagle's Point

2007-06-21T23:15:00.000+08:00

Pinoy Explorer is on the go again. Recently, I was able to visit the fabulous resort of Eagle Point in Batangas. Local residents in this area called the place "Bagalangit" which means "Almost Heaven". It has something that they can be proud of, clean sea air, pristine waters, perfect for scuba divers and fantastic sunset view by the bay.

The place is located on the tip of the Calumpang Peninsula and just two and a half hours drive from Manila but actually we had reached the place form Manila almost 5 hours. That includes a stop-over in Lipa, Batangas . This privately-owned haven is one of the biggest and best resorts so far in Anilao-Mabini area.

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Pinay Heroes on Everest

2007-05-20T22:54:00.000+08:00

Philippine Flag has been raised again at the top of Mt. Everest for the second time. The first is when three Filipino mountainers (Leo Oracion, Pastour Emata and Romi Garduce) successfully reached the summit last year during the 1st Philippine Mt. Everest Expediton and now, three Filipinas made their historic feat as the first ASEAN women to reach the highest mountain on Earth.

Pahiyas: Feast of San Isidro Labrador

2007-05-15T22:49:00.000+08:00

May is a month of fiesta in the Philippines and mostly devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Countless Flores de Mayo are being held in various barrios throughout the country where flowers are being offered by children and Santacruzan are for young ladies who vie for the Reyna Elena status.

But the month of May is also about celebrating the feast of their patron saints. To all of us, May 15 is just an ordinary summer fiesta but to many religious believers, its more than a celebration for it comemmorates the feast of San Isidro Labrador, the saint of the farmers.

Today, He is considered as the number one choice as Patron Saint of Churches in the Philippines not because of any religious congregation established in his honor but he was chosen based on the number of terms the churches honoring him as patron saint.

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My Wife's Day

2007-05-13T11:06:00.000+08:00

I was at home reading a Sunday paper and I throw a glance at my wife with my2 year old kid watching the photos during our last year's vacation in baguio. My son was so happy enumerating names of those what he sees on the photo slides on the computer monitor. He giggles and he was very smart calling his mother's attention to turn the photos in portrait mode. He already able to identify what is correct in his vision.

As i watch them, there's a spot in my heart that says, "You must be fortunate to have a family like that." I can also tell that that my son was contented, enjoying his life as a kid and was raised with the loving hands of his parents. Two years had passed and I can't really imagine that my son is growing fast and smart. He can already recite his ABCs and other nursery rhymes that his mom had taught every night. He can already mimic some TV commercials and dance some of its tunes.

I seldom recognized my wife's effort for all these years and I want to commend her for being so patient with me and being understanding. Aside from that, I want to be thankful for her nurturing love to our beloved son, for her caring and affection, guidance and for teaching him to be smart.

I turned the pages and I see a half-page ad. Its Mother's Day and I almost forgot. The election fever is making its headlines and I almost missed the importance of this day. I have kissed my wife and whisper ...."That's a kiss for being the best mom for Chad" Let us all greet all mother's with a KISS! Happy Mother's Day!

Photos Led to Boracay's Discovery

2007-05-05T20:39:00.000+08:00

We are surprised by its awesome beauty. We enjoyed the powder-like white sands and breathtaking sunset. But do you have any idea how this beautiful island called Boracay was discovered?

It was my second time in Boracay and I was not here for any ordinary outing experience. I was here in search of Boracay's history, art and culture. But the truth of the matter is, this island does not have much of a history and it's quite challenging to find out its past.

I began my work early morning strolling down the 4- kilometer stretch of the beach shore, even if I was a bit tired from the party the night before with my officemates. I went to the southern part and found myself in the unexplored haven of Brgy. Manoc-manoc. Though the place has a few sprouts of establishments already, it is not overcrowded. The sand is also refined but not as first-class white that you can found in Stations I and II. The harbor is quite a scenery and
fresh air can be felt for it has a bountiful of forest reserves which are still unspoiled.

I had the privilege to talk with a certain Manong Ruben while he was busy unrooting wild grasses around his mango tree. He told me that there's a lot of stories about Boracay but he only gave me a few. He said that there were early settlers who inhabited the island and fishing was their primary source of income.

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Uncovering the Beauty of Miag-ao

2007-05-02T20:28:00.000+08:00

I really don't know much about Miag-ao but I often heard it from my colleagues about its historical importance. So, when the opportunity came, I took the time to make the most out of the place.

I have been to Iloilo City when I was in college but I had never been to Miag-ao. I just came here now to visit our branch office. I added as part of my itinerary the Spanish-old church of Miag-ao. Though some of my officemates decided to cancel our Miag-ao trip because of the intense heat this summer, I pushed with my plan and went along with my 6 other officemates.

We travelled about 40 kms south-west of Iloilo City by a hired jeepney and we reached this famous religious gem of the south about 45 minutes. The Santo Tomas de Villanueva church which was listed in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest baroque churches in the country built more than 200 years ago.

When banks stole your money

2007-04-23T16:45:00.001+08:00

Have you experienced being stolen by your bank?

Well, it's about time to be wary and vigilant as you put your card in any convenient ATM machines because you never know, one day, you might also experience what I had been through.

Last December, it has become a tradition for me and my wife to go to Divisoria in preparation for the Christmas season. We go there without cash in hand as long we had our precious ATM card with us. We just scout for any available ATM machine inside or outside the mall. This time, we chose Equitable Bank because it is an affiliate of the BPI and the only available bank that's not been offlined yet. We waited patiently even if there was a long line of people waiting for their turns. To our dismay, no money was dispensed from the machine. And an error said that the "machine was unavailable."

I have a suspicion that the machine went offline. So I went to another bank to verify my account while I let my wife stayed in front of the ATM machine for the hope of having the machine dispensed the money I've withdrawn. When I verified, I proved that I was right. I was debited with PhP2,000 pesos.

I approached a bank personnel of Equitable bank and reported the matter. He advised us to report what happened to BPI through its hotline number, 89-100. So we called up BPI and they gave us a sort of a reference number that will be recorded by them so we will be able to follow up our complaint. We called them after a week but the phone attendant told us that nothing had been debited from my account and instead file our complaint directly to Equitable bank in Divisoria branch where we used the ATM machine.

I was a bit mad for that conversation because for me, it is their responsibility to follow-up the incident with their partner bank and verify the matter for further investigation. In the first place, we reported the matter to them immediately so that they can make possible actions on it. The solution should be in their hands already but unfortunately, nothing has happened yet.

After almost 5 months, we are still following up the matter through 89-100 and they only gave us the same feedback over and over again that the company is still verifying the incident. It's been months and my wife got her blood pressure on a scale talking with these operators who kept on repeating the same lines. They couldn't even give other suggestions on how they could speed up the process. They just reassuring us of nothing.

ATM or Automated Teller Machine was invented to facilitate the public with easy banking service. But with this type of scenario where debited account was no longer in the vocabulary of these banks was really a violation of public trust and consumer's rights. And it's a bit alarming. What If you withdraw a big amount of money, will it make a difference?

These and many more questions hounded me. This only reflects of how some companies do their businesses. They never took care of its loyal customers, they are only after the money that you can give and the quality of service is at stake. It's only a small amount of money but we felt that we've been stolen.

So Beware...you might be their next victim.

Camarines Sur: Home for Xtreme Sports in Asia

2007-04-13T12:56:00.001+08:00

I have been to Bicol region just recently and the talk-of-the town there was about the new sport complex that is still being developed by the provincial government. It is a world-class facility that will house extreme sports such as dirt biking, skateboarding and the now popular cabled-waterskiing.

The Cam Sur Watersports Complex (CWC) was the first world-class facility in Asia located inside the Provincial Capitol Complex or commonly known as "Kapitolyo." The concept was patterned in Florida, USA who led the popularity of extreme watersports all over the world.

"Kapitolyo" is also the place of the regional government office. It has facilities for all sorts of public recreation. I remembered during my high school days when we regularly visited this place for our outing. I also brought my wife here before we get married three years ago.

This 6-hectares of reclaimed land has 6-point cable ski system that has become a favorite destination spot of sport enthusiasts all over Europe, Australia and the United States. It has a 700 meter long manmade lake constructed for wakeboarding or surfing. Aside from sports, the lake invites visitors to have a swim or bath under the sun.

Cable skiing as the name suggest, is a sport wherein a skier is being pulled by an overhead cable suspended 8 to 12 meters above water surface by specifically designed pylons. It is the same with the water ski being pulled by a motorboat. The cable travels continuously and run counter clockwise with an estimated speed of 20 to 65 kph.

Pieces of Hope in Albay

2007-04-11T16:25:00.000+08:00

Cagsawa Ruins, the famous landmark of Bicol region are still intact and are spared from the ravaging flash floods brought by typhoon Reming last year. It resulted to more than a thousand deaths from various municipalities surrounding the Mt. Mayon in Albay province.

It is contrary to the reports made by foreign and local media who covered the fiasco and said that it was washed away and half buried by pyroclastic materials from Mt. Mayon. Local residents said that mediamen were not able to reach the Cagsawa ruins because roads leading to it were impassable and full of boulders and sand that reaches up to 20 ft. high.

November 30, 2006, four months after the strong typhoon, I visited this place again and witnessed the real condition of the people and the landmark. The roads that led to it were already cleared but you can see the 20 feet wall of sands in both sides. Some houses were abandoned and was half-buried in the mud.

I saw construction-owned trucks passing back and forth loading boulders and sands from the former Busay river. It was devastated and now cleared with pyroclastic deposits, sands and boulders. Some folks are still trying to catch fish in this almost dried-up river.

A Time to Reflect

2007-04-04T20:07:00.000+08:00

In the Philippines, the Holy Week culminates the solemn observance of Christians faith. Countless "Cenaculos" and "Pabasas" reciting and re-enacting the passion and death of Jesus Christ will again be traditionally observed. This rituals became one of the tourist attractions during the Lenten Season.

Last Sunday, April 1 marks the Palm Sunday. It signifies and highlights the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem nearly 2,000 years ago. In Sto. Domingo church alone where I usually attends mass was full of vendors with their palm branches reaching people who will attend the mass.

Truly the world is turning so fast and here comes another year for us to reflect on what we have done so far. We, at the big city sometimes forgot about these festivities and usually go the beaches and relax. Yes, I have also been there few years back and I have experienced how the crowd enjoys the Boracay and Puerto Gallera's party even if its Good Friday. Commercialism has crept us the observance of Holy Week which may have been helped along by the lack of understanding of the Paschal mystery and our faith.

Are we still the Christians that our forefathers expect on us? Do we still live by our christian faith? Well, you have the answer.

I still don't have any religious plans this holy week because I will be going home to my hometown in Bicol to visit the destruction of our province brought by the recent typhoons and at the same time to be with my ailing father.

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Make Your Officemates start Blogging

2007-04-03T14:12:00.001+08:00

It's so funny. I have a short chat with some of my coleagues in the office about blogging. Their perceptions is that blogging is just a personal diaries of a teeny booper who are a friendster addict and are hunger for a real romance.. ha-ha-ha...do you think it's funny.

Then I told them that I'm a blogger and at Friendster, too. Then, they start to ask why?. I told them that there's a social network revolution out there that they need to see and find out if their perceptions were correct. They never knew that some personal opinions that I discussed to them on the current events, trends, politics, technology and the like are all based from what I read on blogs. And they were amazed.

When you start blogging, for sure you will gain network of friends while learning things how to earn dollars out of it. Mind you, I see more dollars on their face as they are puzzled and intrigue with the last phrase i have uttered :)

The craze for instant publishing is unstoppable and the battle for supremacy is unimaginable. I told them that blogging is more of words and not just for pictures as you see it on your Friendster accounts. Mine is just a start-up and should catch-up because I'de like to achieve more readership. They asked me how I do it because they are aware that I'm not a writer...and I told them " wala lang sinubukan ko lang."

They want instant hint on how they should go about the process and I give them some pointers that I have researched from probloggers on the net.

The web is about words. No matter how visual and audible it becomes, it continues to be about the words. Some claims that content is king and I think they are right. Blogging is all about writing and It should be king that you should protect.

Here are my top 10 things to think about in creating an army to protect your blog.

Know your Subject: If you have several topics you want to cover in one blog post, all unrelated, what are you writing about? If you like to do that, make sure you create categories for every post you like. Use Wordpress not Blogger because it has ways to categorize your post.

Originality Wins: Original content will always win over redundant, blockquoting, and echo chamber content. Even if you can’t write well, the attempt to say it in your words is always appreciated and welcome.

Make Blog Paragraph Short: Blog writing lends itself to shorter sentences and paragraphs for easier reading on a web page. Web readers want information fast and in small digestible chunks. Huge bulky paragraphs make reading online very difficult, however single sentence paragraphs can make the reader uncomfortable.

Make your Blog Talks: It’s important to write in a conversational style because your readers will relate to you, the person behind the blog. Your writing should give the illusion you are speaking directly to the reader. Match the writing style with the content.

Move Your Reader Through the Story: A blog post or article has something to say. It begins, has a middle, and ends. Move the reader through the content, as well as into it. Make them want to scroll down for more.

Present Facts: Everyone has an opinion. What makes your opinion different from other opinions is that yours is based upon the facts. Wild accusations, suggestions, and analogies do not build trust and respect.

Make Your Point in the First 200 Words: You have less than a second to capture your reader’s attention. If the user on your site, feed, or search engine summary doesn’t “get the point” in the first two or three sentences, you’ve lost them

Make Your Images Speak: Photos that you inserted in your blog should have something to say to compensate your post. Don't put images that are irrelevant to your contents. Readers sometimes are turned-off with this kind of behavior.

Be a Friend of Google: With the recent public release of the Google Patent for Blog PageRank, you must be aware of your keywords that will work to the algorithm and multiple content matching of the keywords match with your content. This will help your blog increase your page ranking and visibility. More importantly, write with keywords and tags or labels to help your reader know exactly what you are writing

Learn to Earn Dollars: Google adsence is helping site owners to monetize thru their sites. Take advantage of it and create your account for free. The program combines pay-per-click and pay-per-impression advertising - meaning you get paid for valid clicks on the ads on your site or search results pages as well as impressions on your content pages.

I just hope with these basic tips, Blogging would be a regular habit to everyone of us who are bonded in the corner of an office cubicles. It's about time for us to see and know things in a new light.

technorati tags:blogger, officemates, wordpress, tips, monetize

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Long Live Philippine Blog Awards!

2007-04-01T10:46:00.000+08:00

Finally, the bests of Filipino Blogs was acknowledge at the 1st Philippine Blog Awards last night at the Podium of RCBC Plaza in Makati City. I was able to attend the awards night with my wife and I was thankful to the organizer for sending me an invite.

I accompanied my wife at the Glorietta to do her regular shopping before we proceeded to the venue earlier at 5:00 pm. She was actually hesitant to go because she was already exhausted but I have been able to convinced her to go since we are already in Makati.

We have meet Mr. Abe Olandres who was one of the early birds. He was known to the bloggers as "Yuga" and one of the pioneers in the blogging scene in the Philippines. Actually his group are the ones who conceptualized this project because they believe that there's a blog community growing in the Philippines.

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Philippines Kicks-off Blog Awards 2007

2007-03-28T15:09:00.001+08:00

The heat is on this summer as the final night is being awaited by Filipino Bloggers around the globe as the 1st Philippine Blog Awards culminates this Saturday, March 30, 2007 at the Podium 4, RCBC Theater, RCBC Building in Makati City.

The Philippine Blog Awards aims to recognize notable Filipino-owned blogs in their respective niches — a venue to showcase notable blogs with quality content that engages readers from around the globe.

All Filipino bloggers who have full ownership of their blogs are allowed to join the contest under 11 major categories : Personal, Technology, Travel, Entertainment, Home & Living, Socio Political, News & Media, Business & Entrepreneur, Sports and Recreation, Fashion and Lifestyle, Photo Blog, and Podcast.

All entries to this year's blog award will also vie for special awards such as Best Blog Design, Best OFW Blog, Best Free Custom Theme, and Best Plug-in/Extension. Additional special awards was generously given by one of its major sponsor. They were the Blog Achievement Award, Pinoy Ako Blog Award, Family Blog Award, Blogirl Award and Deliblog Award.

As not to over-crowed the event, the committe decided to post a regulation from their site on how to avail for the entrance tickets. The event is expected to gather more that 500 attendees.

technorati tags:Philippines, Blog, Awards

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Philippines

Flock: The new browser in town

2007-03-27T22:05:00.001+08:00

My blog is getting so boring...ya i know...it is because of the nature of my work that i seldom post an updates to my blogs. Yes i have several blogs and I am fond of creating multiple blogs. Maybe it is because I am just an addict propelling Filipiniana.net site to reach the no.1 slot in major search engines and thank God I have made it. Blogging was a great help in my SEO strategies... but now, I still don't know what particular topic or area of concern should I pursue to become a serious blogger. Maybe I'm just a person who just want to separate myself from things that i really wanted to do and planning to do in life..

Well, to tell you the truth I am afraid of writing because I'm never good at it. I am sorrounded by real writers and editors and I'm just being afraid of being scrutinized with my grammar and style of writing.. who cares by the way..this is only a personal stuff...this is my own style.. I'm just speaking my mind and I did it little by little.... "kahit pilit."

For this new entry, I want to share something very interesting specially to those who are busy as me and who's life depends on a web browser. I spent 8-12 hours of my daily life in a browser...ya, because my work calls for it. These browsers helps me navigate things easily because of the features being incorporated such as multiple tabs, integrated bookmarks, Answers.com and Google toolbars and more. But, as I went thru it, my browser got cluttered of so many tabs and it's annoying. I have to open every bookmarks and tabs for sites that I wanted and that happens everyday.

What you see and reading right now, is brought by the new browser I have come across reading to a blog of Bryan Veloso - the man behind the internationally-renowned blog, Avalonstar and a pinoy who is a part of the creative team who works for the social web browser called Flock.

I'm so lucky that it runs into may Intel-powered iMac and have installed it right away, navigate and wham! here I am jotting down notes for my blog with ease as if i am inside my blog page.

Flock enables you to import your log-in parameters to almost any popular blog and networking sites plus a feature to use APIs. This browser just like the Safari, is a RSS reader. You can start subscribing to an RSS news feed in a single click to the RSS icon of your browser and it gives you the headlines via a drop-down menu. Trying to view the RSS feed of your blogs, it gives you an snippet view of the entries neatly arranged like a comment box in two columns.

Well, this is quite amazing for me and a must download for all net addicts out there..

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KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!

2007-02-18T12:17:00.001+08:00

2007, according to our Chinese friends is the year of The Fire Pig. And as usual different beliefs proliferate in every conversation, in the mass media and in every Filipino Feng Shui believers, everything has to change to be able to adjust with the Yin and Yang balance required by the Fire Pig year.

For those who don't know if their birthday were covered by the Year of the Pig here's what I've researched that could guide us to what really is with this year and how it will affects our lives.

Year of the Fire Pig ( 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995 and 2007)
Zodiac: Courageous, gallant, courteous, innocent, gullible, naive, peace loving, defenseless, trustful, honest, correct, pure, sincere, very deveoted, sensitive, indulgent, sensual, cheerful, generous, tolerant, hates quarrels, fortunate and not good in handling money but can be a perfect friend.

So, let's go back to Feng Shui, and have us study how it evolves into a Chinese concept. According to some write up on Feng Shui, they said that in the beginning, the Universe has nothing on it and this "nothing"was divided and have two complementary forces called "Yin and Yang". Yin is characterized as the negative, moon, feminine, dark and passive while Yang is the positive, sun, masculine, light and active. One is better than the other, and yet both are important and a balance of both is highly necessary. Meaning as day follows night and night follows day, they are constantly balanced.

Ancient Chinese astrologers is said to divide and look for the "Balance" of Yin and Yang. When this is achieved, Yin and Yang comes a harmonious environment. They also looked for Ch'i which is the energy existing within the landscape. These concepts are the basis of what is known today as "Feng Shui"

Feng Shui literally means Wind and Water. According to ancient Chinese scientific art in oder to combine the knowledge of environmental theory and magnetism, you must relate to the planets Jupiter and Saturn. The purpose of this is to identify the Yin and Yang that creates Ch'i in its five elements which are the Water, Wood, Earth, Fire and Metal. These elements create the constructive cycle or the destructive cycle. For sure, the constructive cycle is the proper balance that can lead us to living harmoniously, benefiting our health and facilitating
good relationship with people.

Remembering my Mom

2007-02-14T23:42:00.001+08:00

I was 23 years old then, fresh after college when my mom dies. She has a cervical cancer and was predicted 8 months of life when she was first diagnosed. It was malignant and as they say only miracle can spare her. At my tender age..I know she gonna die... what can I do... who could help us save her...no one.

We are hopeless, I need to be strong and only prayers can make me stand against the pain I have felt as I see my mother anguished in pain. She undergone many things, from chemotherapy up to the last quack doctors or "albularyo" we could find just to keep her.

During her last months, she requested to be transferred to her hometown in Baao, Camarines Sur—an adjacent municipality next to ours. I don't know why she made that decision. Maybe because she wanted to get a closer place for her visitors who lived in Baao at the same time she likes within the comfort of my aging "lola."

During the time of her confinement here, she become strong and cheerful. We joke around, feed her and tell her stories about my schooling in Manila. My other siblings who was then very young was not that aware of my mothers situation. I am the one who took care of her during her medical treatment in Manila and that was so tiring having to look for blood donors, processing some loans and other help to sustain her.

I know she is tired of all the medical procedures she underwent. All she wanted was to see her children and other close relatives. She was so happy when they visited her and give inspiration on the value of living. They cheer her up for a while but when they gone I feel her lament behind her eyes. And I don't want to see it.

Then comes Valentines day. While I was feeding her for lunch, I told her I got a date in the afternoon and she just smile. I always see those glitters in her eyes every time I told her about girls..you know. Maybe she was excited to see her eldest son growing into a man. "Habang tumatagal kamukha mo na papa mo" she always said whenever she pleases me. I remember her to be the one on stage every time I got an awards in school and during graduations. I also remember her borrowing money from my lolo and lola, co-teachers, other siblings whenever we are financially down. Aside from that, she always reminded us to study hard because according to her "Its only education that they can afford to give us"... typical for a mother whose only dream is to give her child the best they can have.

Yes, very typical that she even exchanged her health just to send us to school. She always postponed her check-up because her children has to pay bills in school. We never knew that it would come up with an illness that we can't imagine.

At 3:00 pm, Valentines day, she perished. It was like heaven and earth and I cant move while she hold me that long as he grasp her last deep breath. Tears flows inside of me and I cant take it.

Now, I'm 33, married with a cute two year old boy. She will never see this boy grown into a man and her other children who have already graduated and starting to live a life on their own. "Mama, you have missed a lot... how I wish, you were alive to see us and see your first "apo" and experience how it feels to be called "lola"

I really missed you mom.........

FABIAN: An Artist worth remembering

2007-01-10T12:08:00.000+08:00

In the art circle, the name "Fabian de la Rosa" never rings a bell. It is because nobody pays attention to his works or probably, he has been forgotten for the past centuries and has never been taught or introduced to the younger generation. I also have to accept that I was not knowledgeable about him and his works and never seen one until I was involved in an artbook project of Filipiniana.net and UP Jorge Vargas Museum.

Later did I realized that "Lolo Fabian" was a vital link that bridges two generations of artists. My research on his life allows me to know that De La Rosa was the direct heir to the artistic traditions set forth by homegrown talent Simon Flores, his uncle and first teacher, and by the European-trained Hidalgo and Luna. He was also the first Filipino director of the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts (1926-38), and then became the mentor of Fernando and Pablo Amorsolo.

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Christmas in Baguio

2007-01-03T21:54:00.000+08:00

At last, a vacation was fulfilled after the hurdles in the office. But still has to work in Baguio for a day's meeting with our librarian/editor and to give the indexing of the book that is already scheduled for the press. The Xmas break is the only time that I should pursue since the coming year is expected to be tight with deadlines and activities.

Anyway, three days and two nights in a cozy old house of my "Ninong Lloyd" is something that I cherished and thankful about. At least, I have saved money for other expenses as we stroll all over this romantic place with my wife, my little prince and my younger siblings.

This is my second long trip with my family for a vacation. We have been to my hometown in Bicol a few months ago and now here, in the summer capital of the Philippines-Baguio City.

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Holiday Stress

2006-12-21T23:19:00.000+08:00

The December rush is a stressful days for me this year. Unlike the previous years wherein I have felt its spirit and importance, now, I can't even so sure to myself if its really christmas time. Last year, it was meaningful as I have managed well my time and have prepared for it spiritually.

This year was a tiring experience. I was engaged with some projects that involves mental torture and braincell swelling where deadlines should be met at all cost. The shortest is just a week to complete while preparing yourself for another deadline to beat.

Would you believe that I have even forgotten to shave my face and cut my nails? It's also my first time to miss mass for my birthday thanksgiving and even failed to attend a single "Misa de Gallo". It's a working birthday for me as my drinking buddies starts giving gestures for a night of celebration.

Well, this is my life in 2006. I was involved in a very hectic deadline driven website wherein our American-trained publisher is pushing us to our limits. Simultaneous presentations are being prepared and scheduled so as to introduce it to the netizens and its target audience. Our site's presentation is for high caliber historians, researcher and filipinist that's why we are pushing ourselves to come up with his expected results in our database.

A few days before christmas, still we are on the rush and simultaneous meetings are being held because we also have a print publication project that is ongoing, video presentation and podcasting projects. Now, you can tell me how busy this simple man whose trying to find a space to breath :)

My godson's are already expecting this christmas and I haven't prepared their gifts yet or went into shopping at least for myself. My wife, is already complaining about my coming home late. Though, she understood, I still feel some guilt. My little prince was already asleep when I come home and still asleep when I report to the office. My God, I have to do something for them too.....

When Typhoon Strikes

2006-12-13T22:19:00.000+08:00

Its the worst typhoon that hit the Bicol region for decade. Sad to say that its prominent landmark "Cagsawa Ruins" was totally vanished after the scourge of "Reming" that visited this region and created havoc to its path.

Many lives was taken and millions of damages was created by the aftermath of this super typhoon that any Bicolanos would consider as worst since the eruption of Mt. Mayon in 1814. Mudflows devastated many agricultural and residential areas in Albay and heavy floodings was experienced in the City of Legaspi. Malls and small commercial complex was wrecked and total blackout was experienced in Bicol's key cities and nearby municipalities. They are expected to regain its power after or before christmas.

Some says that Christmas is no longer in their vocabularies. They can't afford for a celebration. Ours were also affected but not as worst as in Albay. I have no news of a friend who lived by the Volcano and till now, I have no idea if they survived the fiasco. The typhoon really created an anguish to every Bicolanos and they have suffered so much after the typhoon "Milenyo" dropped by last month. Now, another news of a low depression is creating another scare to all of them.

They need your help... we need your help to make us put those pieces back to its norms again. Supply of construction materials has become so scarce due to immediate demands. Ours, was also devastated with strong winds that flatten parts of crops and leveled parts of our house. Trees were downed and lots of highways are unpassable for commuters. Communication was also downed for a week and I have only contacted my family and relatives several days after the typhoon.

I feel it, and I can't do anything for now, we're in the big city and I can't just go home to comfort them and assure them that everything will be fine. Some roads are still unpassable...only God knows what will lies ahead for this region.

The national government is now moving its way for relief and other infrastructure projects. But this could not help everybody, they need more volunteers and kind hearted people to help them generate their lost. They need something to rebuild their souls..they need your prayers..please help me pray for them, too.

Epix-06 Honors Best Images of the Year

2006-11-03T12:45:00.000+08:00

Last Sunday, October 29 was a very commemorative date in my photography world. This is the day when budding photographer like me will be honored with pride as we contribute our talent preserving moments of our time.

I rushed to MRT station going to Chino Roces in Makati City for the awarding ceremony of Epix-06 conducted by Epson Philippines held and organized in cooperation with One Workshop Studio.

I come late because I have a visitor then in my house in Quezon City and I was so tired that made me fall asleep. I was able to reach the venue almost past six and everyone are having their heavy snacks.

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Sa Kambas ng Lipunan

2006-10-28T16:01:00.000+08:00

My research on a video project leads me to find a very touching and inspiring work of an artist. The message made a big impact and delved to my inner self. It teaches me how to value and appreciate life. It touched me with its sincerity of execution through his canvas. Obviously, there is social cancer that has been prevailing around us that we simply deny to ourselves that it exist and get blinded by the reality of it. We see all these kind of situations everywhere and immediate action is salient. But where do we start from here?

Through Joey Velasco's work, I saw the true picture of our society. The depressing sights that linger around and continue to cause grief and sorrows that is vividly defined as Poverty. It is precisely depicted on his obra, "The Last Supper" where it integrates social relevance by putting street children instead of apostles with Jesus. These children has a "colorful" stories of their own.

He made a difference by sharing his talents and come up with this video to share his work and social campaign. I am proud of his work so to speak. It is a successful "video virals" for any commercial site with same relevance and worth for commendation.

What is important , he had made his point and had delivered his message clearly and powerful. I just can't imagine, that such video campaign should come from an ordinary painter and not to our elected politicians who had so many promises for our country.

Joey Velasco used this medium to enlighten us. How I wish I could also do the same work similar to this video. Try to reflect, as you watch it 'coz if you do, you can understand your own value. Allow me to share his work through this blog.

Have made it to the EPIX-O6!

2006-10-25T09:00:00.000+08:00

An invitation came for the 2006 Epson Photo Imaging Exposition Culminating Day. Its from the organizing director himself and fellow photog Mr. Ross Capili the director of One Workshop Studio. I'm glad that i was one of its 200 selected few to be honored and be featured on a photography book. T'was an accidental entry that I can consider and was lucky enough to have a single entry that have made it to the finals.

Here's an excerpt from the book:

EPix06- Preserving the past, capturing the present

By Yugel Losorata

Both the images of the past and the present possess a sense of absolute power. They take individual full control and recognition by means of a powerful medium called
photography.The magnificence of the past is always a target of extinction while the present, a window view for reinvention. Thus, a photographer' s job is to capture the images that show their authority; loudly saying that looking back is paying homage to the present while seeing today is honoring the past.

Architectural sights and home stuff of yesteryears provide an exciting visual journey back to a period when all of today has yet to exist. While current portraits of ordinary people, attending to their daily exploits, are details our generation can really be proud of and pass it over to the future of this land. The Philippines, known as a country rich in heritage and a nation which gave birth to modern society's people power revolution, is nevertheless a paradise on its own, boasting endearing images of the old as well as poignant pictures of everyday Pinoys' resolve which the digital age neighborhood sensibly describes as heroic.

The sweet, good harvest of photographs featured in this collection has successfully
empowered both the value of preserving the look and style of the old times and freezing the genuine tales of today's common tao via the art of imaging. Preserving, because most of the antique architectural and interior designs are already on their way of becoming history themselves; freezing, because even the ordinary has become extra ordinaire, with heroism broadening its scope, meaning, to be a hero is not just dying for the flag, but also living (and working responsibly) for one's love.

The themes for this year's EPIX06 (Epson Photo Imaging Exposition) competition are
emphatically intertwined through the line drawn between the past and the present.
"Vanishing Scenes" reflects the preciousness of the disappearing old while "The Filipino Achievers" mirrors our generation's pride for the regular Juan Dela Cruz at work. The 200 photos selected here from both the Professional and Enthusiast divisions, most especially the 12 prize winning submissions, are images breathing the impact of such themes, like melodies providing soul to some moving lyrics of a song, or character to emotion-driven lines of a story. These are photographs capturing not just pictures, but the very essence of photography, which to the great Ansel Adams is a powerful medium of _expression and communications that offers an infinite variety of perception, interpretation, and execution.

In her book "The Power of Photography, " author Vicki Goldberg said, "No photograph ever changed anything all by itself, for photographs are highly dependent creatures and their influence is entirely contingent on words, circumstances, distribution and belief systems. A photograph has power only if the right people see it in the right context at the right time." Indeed, the following photos sincerely caressed the illuminating themes in all their subtleness, vibrancy, and eloquence.

Yes, the sheer power of documentation lies at their very substance taking form, with
emphasis on the `unposed' (a farmer and his carabao readying for work) and good subject choice (a vintage electric fan in a classic-styled house). Just the thought of how these shots and subjects were taken and chosen should pass for a tender topic over a cup of coffee. And isn't that `decisive moment' originator Henri Cartier-Bresson applied a style wherein he would wrap a large hanky around his camera and pretend to be blowing his nose while clicking his shutter? And that the great architectural lensman Frederick Evans shone brightest through his posterity shots of exteriors and interiors of England's medieval cathedrals?

Apart from the artistic grandeur of the entries pulled off by the featured `drawing in light' talents, emerging in here is the Filipino lensman's ingenuity – passionately peering and pouring. Every Pinoy photographer must be wishing to be the next Joe Rosenthal, Alberto Korda, or Dorothea Lange. But no, he or she needs not dream of that. A Filipino artist has his own place in the world. His visual recognition of his country's history, environment, and community is proof of his mark.

To put it on cue, photographs like the ones you'll about to marvel at cannot truly bring back the past nor sustain the present, but they freeze moments and images to keep warm the hearts and forever embrace the future.

On October 29, Sunday at 3pm. Epson Philippines Corporation will honor the 200 Best
Photographers with their best images. The top twelve will be revealed and be placed on pedestal of history. Come join us in honoring our great artists!

Emerging digital library in the Philippines

2006-10-05T22:38:00.000+08:00

Last month was a very hectic, mind boggling and design eccentric-focus deliberation of a project that soon will be making history in the Philippines. It's a portal that will addresss the insufficient dessimination of educational information to our students, scholars, researchers and filipinist on the value of our history as a nation.

Conceived a year ago, Filipiniana.net was born in concept of passion and love of the country. It's the passion that drives its founder and publisher Gus Vibal to reinvent the model concept of publishing in the Philippines. The need of instant information at the comfort of individual's PC drives him to share his knowledge and vast collection of rare, unpublished and out-of-print books and images to the Filipino people. With this initiative, he will be pionering online publishing amongts his contemporaries in the publishing scene.

So, working with him is really the most challenging part of my corporate career. I have been in a creative field in half a decade and with only 3 years in IT experience, here I am challenging myself to put my little knowledge in practical application. Need help? Yes, I need help because of the high expectations from my highly techie boss. He was so updated that even social networking sites such as Friendster and MySpace is his favorite hang-ups:) He understand well the concept of Web 2.0 and he wants it to be our model structure.

After 8 months of research for the appropriate tools for this project, design revisions and tedious coding, finally it goes online last September 27, as the rage of typhoon "Milenyo" hits Metro Manila. We are at our office and still working on it while our publisher is in New York waiting for it since last month.

The site is still on its beta version and we're still building its contents. We have lots to improve especially its navigational search to our master database.

Working on it gives way for 25 year search of our publisher's patriotic and nationalistic endeavor. It defines his love for the country as he is driven with passion to bring back to the Filipinos the almost lost history of its people. They tend to be neglected nowadays and he wants to win it back thru this site.

His collections was a labor of love and with this initial endeavor, I may consider it as a philantrophic move were most of his contemporaries never imagine to do. Yes, we need funding, but through the help of their family's publishing business and others who believe to this patriotic endeavor, I am sure, this would be a history in the making. Mabuhay Filipiniana.net, Mabuhay ang Lahing Pinoy!

Related Link: The Excited Publisher
On Web 2.0 Standard

A Father to my Son

2006-09-25T23:11:00.000+08:00

My time was already eaten by my work that sometimes I have already forgotten that my family needs my presence and quality time. Last week, I ponder things and I realized my shortcomings when I was at the hospital holding my son while he was being injected with syringe to control his high fever. I felt his heartbeat pounds so hard as he struggled to escape from the medical procedure. I told myself that I should took that pain instead of him for he is not supposed to be prone from pain and hardship. My heart seemed to break from pity especially when my child uttered the word "Papa, Papa!" Try to imagine that, and you'll probably feel what I feel.

The dextrose had slipped-out of his hand because he tried to escape from the grip of many hands holding him. I suggested to stop the doctor from doing it and instead lull him to sleep first before he do the procedure again. With his tender age of 1 year and 8 months, he still couldn’t control his emotions for total strangers.

We decided to rush him at the UDMC hospital by 2:00 a.m. because the medicines didn't help to subside his high fever. Though he is still active, his eyes is a little fussy, a sign that he is not in a normal condition yet. This is his 2nd time to be confined in the hospital since his birth. His first was when we left him in the nursery care due to infection and jaundice. And with these people in white uniform made him scared. My baby got an infected toe that triggers his fever. It reaches to 42 C and according to the doctor, with that temperature it could trigger a convulsion. I was thankful then that he was blessed with a strong immune system so he could overcome the dilemma he’s in at the time. It is my consolation that I have a wife who is very diligent and full of patience to be there to take care of him.

Read more...

THE KID NAMED "INGGO"

2006-09-22T19:51:00.000+08:00

Another dubbed "Super Serye" in local television was launch by ABS-CBN recently about a little boy who dreamed to be a super hero someday. This boy named Makisig Morales was launch to his instant stardom via "Super Inggo". He was a former contestant winner in a singing competition "Little Big Star" before the management of ABS-CBN give him this big break to be the leading star.

I personally met him in one of his appearance guesting and I find him very charming. He already get used to his newly found celebrity status as he enjoyed waiving hands to his supporters and fans. VGold Publications, Inc. (formerly Golden Books and Publications) has also launched its printed version simultaneously via coloring and activity books. It is a partnership publications with ABS-CBN but I just don't know why it is not given any credit on their website and campaign ad. It is now available in all National Bookstore. This is the website that I am working on Super Inggo project but was temporarily postponed due to some licensing technicalities according to the management. Though this project was put on hold, I would like to share it's main page so you can have a peek into what I have accomplished so far with the project.

So, for now "tuloy and paglipad ni Inggo sa kalangitan" and it becomes a by word to all filipino household. In the succeeding episodes, the viewers will get to know their local favorite superheroes in one show. Super Inggo is really filled with special effects as I personally watch it on TV. It has a cast of more than 30 actors and each character will revolve around the life of Budong (Super Inggo) as he discover that his life is intended for greatness.

An International Bookfair for Filipinos

2006-09-03T18:58:00.000+08:00

With the theme "Make it a habit", The 27th Manila International Book Fair culminated last August 30-Sept. 3, 2006 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. This is an annual event for book lovers and a big show for all book publishers. Everyone has its own strategies and way to attract book lovers to visit their booths, attend special events and a showcase of their respective products and services. One of them is Vibal Publishing House - one of the big publishers who has free story telling for children. They have children's story and coloring books that are bestsellers. They have invited Ms. Cha Chua and her group from Alitaptap Storyteller's Club to conduct storytelling session at the Function Room B of the bookfair. It was a success and needless to say that it had attracted not just kids but also adults because of their theater-like presentation. It is now the modern approach that is used by storytellers to gain attention and let the listener fully understood the stories being featured.

After that, I went around and take a look on their booth. I was greeted by a presentation showcasing their new multimedia products. These are nominated to the World Summit last year. As I turned around I see more product showcase and glad to know that some of them contains my contribution on photography and other creative stuffs. Some of them are the multi-awarded Regions of the Philippines interactive DVD, the Book Award winner for best in Trave Writing Murada: A Walk to the Historic Instramuros and also I am doing a website project for their coloring books based on the popular TV series "Super Inggo". Their booth is very well designed that it gain as third placer in the booth competition.

The World Trade Center in Pasay City was the venue of this international event. There are more than 80 exhibitors who had joined and it caters all types of books from kiddie books to professionals in all levels. Some of them consist textbooks, educational supplements, general references, religious and inspirational titles, self-help books, management books, Filipiniana, coffee table books, popular novels, children’s books, art books, graphic novels, rare and hard-to-find titles, magazines, audio and e-books, multimedia, teaching supplies and services, publishers’ technology, and travel materials. Giant bookstore chains of National Bookstore and Powerbooks covers the largest part of the venue and it lures the public with big discounts and other surprise gifts.

I scrambled through their isles to look for some books on electronic publishing and other reference books. I'm into book on blogging, wiki's and other computer jargons such as AJAX and XHTML. I need these because I have a huge site being develop. These are new tech-terms that surface and getting popularity among web masters and I think these books has not yet been published. Some of them are just available as documentation online. What I really wanted was a book on actual project implementation and in-depth experiences from several companies who had applied these technology.

This year's event really attracted book lovers and to my conclusion, the event was a big success and more innovations will hopefully be seen next year.

A day with Ana's band

2006-08-27T09:47:00.000+08:00

For a photographic point of view, perfect lighting is very important to achieve the drama that we wish for the final output of an image. And for a natural lighting, we depend on the time where sunlight is on its perfect form. That's what I am trying to explain to my clients everytime we do an outdoor photo shoot.

This time, I have an emergency pictorial for an upcoming band named Ana Loves Sundays. You might ask why its an emergency? My friend Dennis called me up late in the evening and referred me this project. We come up for a half-day shoot because it's the only time I'll be available. I have some pending jobs in the office that needs attention. We have decided to start early at 8 am so we can make most of the natural lighting.

The plan don't went fine as we have expected. We are at UP Diliman by 7:30 and expecting all members of the band to be there and ready for the pictorial. They never thought that we can go as early as this. May be Dennis don't clarify with them his intention for a day light effect on their pictorials. To make the story short, we ended up shooting around 11:00 am which give us a harsh lighting in the background. The sun rays is so distinct and its not perfect for them. It might give them a squint eyes one's they are at the middle of the field. We understood, its their first time and they never expected that we are that serious. So, we have modified some concepts of the shoot to take advantage of the sun lights.

A Hero and a Father

2006-08-21T20:31:00.000+08:00

August 21, 1983 was really a significant date for all of us Pinoy. On this particular date we remember the martyrdom of Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr. and thru his death, the nationalistic spirit of Filipinos from all walks of life was reborn. They have joined hand-in hand for a massive unified crusade on the streets of Manila and EDSA and ended the 20 year dictator regime of the late Ferdinand Marcos and this was became popular as the bloodless People Power Revolution.

I was just a grade 3 pupil when he was assassinated and I really don't understant what my teachers are talking about Ninoy. Also I remember on this date, we go to an early mass with my father before we went to school and this continue every year without knowing why. It was only on my six grade that I stop going with him. I have already so many barkadas and have more priorities at school. Then, I ask him why?

They were ambushed by guerillas and he was a lone survivor. He was paying homage to his comrades who lost their lives in that tragic moment in Mindanao. He was also thankful for his life that he had continued his mission not on the high forest and feaful terrains but to the loving care of his wife and his eight children. . .

Power of Colors

2006-08-19T13:15:00.000+08:00

The tradition of publishing books in black and white is already obsolete. Am I right? Though, i was sent to a private school by my parents, I seldom see four color reading materials being supplied in school not unless we went to our library to read foreign textbooks for our research. It is only in the mid-80's when I encountered two-color textbooks from local textbooks publishers. Most covers were already in full c0lor but I really don't admire our books being in two colors and in a low grade grainy skinned paper. Publishers call it black newsprints. I wanna admit that I've been a witness on how the world of publishing had matured and continue their efforts to supply quality reading materials to our educational system.

Now, we must be thankful that modern technology for printing were already adapted by these publishers. They start to come up with a new outlook in textbooks readership for modern Filipinos. Publishers now a days are creating a new world for our children to enliven them with a new outlook in their studies and this will eventually create sparks to their eyes when they start to use it.

Vibal Publishing has pionered the idea and they are launching it via the theme " A World of Colors, A World of Difference. " This is to promote full colors reading materials in Vibal text books series and will kicks-off at the 65th CEAP National Convention to be held at the historic Manila Hotel.

To start with it, I was given the opportunity to handled its principal photography for the second time. We shoot on location at Xavier School in San Juan, Mandaluyong City. I work simultaneously with the video production unit of Blitz. They are also shooting the ad video teaser for the CEAP affair. We had different situational and static shots and these will be used for its collaterals, banners and posters. And again, these will be given away and to be distributed in schools nationwide.

This campaign is really a big effort for publishers like VIBAL to deliver their message to students, teachers, parents and educational institutions. So, perfect image is necessary to work with the copy. This time, I like it to be more dynamic than last year. The theme ask for it and the image I create should carry the theme of the ad campaign. Well, that's another challnge on my part and hoping that it would be a success.

Violent Mayon

2006-08-08T23:05:00.000+08:00

As I go with my life in this big city of Manila, I was strucked by the news that one of my friend was going home to our province in Bicol, I can't help my self but to reminisced those days where I was invited in their small and remote town in Guinubatan, Albay and stayed there a couple of days. We have good times swimming by the cold springs and bird hunting while enjoying the scenic view of Mt. Mayon.

But now, as the news broke out about the pending major eruption of the famous volcano, I can imagine the fear and worriedness of my friend over the safety of his family. The volcano has already spew sulfuric clouds and continues lava flows on its mouth for over a week now. They live in a Danger Zone being announced by the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council and for sure they are already in evacuation areas. This is his life every time the volcano erupts and they continue to fear his family's lives who can't give up their livelihood and the life they get used to for decades.Although some of his family members already settled in Manila, his old folks and relatives are still there. I just pray for their safety and hope they can go through it as what they have done in the past.

I have witnessed some major eruption of the volcano during my early school days. And we are lucky that we are kilometers away from the volcano. I still have some photos of its major violent eruption and I can remember how it attracts tourist, local and international media to cover this natural phenomena. I might still be lucky to find these photos in my "lumang baul" that I can share but I have to find it first. In the meantime I have to link with other sources :)

Here comes the Water...AGAIN!

2006-07-26T04:17:00.000+08:00

History is really a repetition of events. And this events keeps on every year and yet our government remains blind with the course of nature. And this will continue to take lives until this government of ours has satisfactorily demonstrated that those who have died in a previous disaster has not died in vain.

And now, for severals years already, this area in Araneta Avenue has never changed. How many projects has been announced to solve these floodings in the metropolis, how many budget proposals have been laid that only ends up to some influencial few.
I may sound so rebelious for now but for sure, you may feel what i have felt if you see people's lives are being ruined inspite of the fact that they have already been doing their part as good citizen of their own community.

These people in Araneta and Ma. Clara had already suffered enough for almost a decade, every time the creek overflow, for sure, the water threatens their lives and belongings. Their shanties will be flooded again up to 8 ft deep and children would be prone to
water borne diseases. During rainy season, this is a common scene for them and they are already used to it. They have no plan for relocation since the water can subside fastly whenever the rain stops.

International Law Conference + Photography

2006-07-17T09:50:00.000+08:00

I have an opportunity to listen to the International conference with the theme "Trade, Investment and International Law: Perspective for Development conducted at Syscip, Salazar, Hernandez and Gatmaitan Law Centre in Makati City yesterday, July 12, 2006.

So what I am doing with these populated venue of Lawyers and Associates? Well then, I was contacted to be the official photog to cover the event. It was a very tearful skies the whole day because of the incoming typhoon as per the weather bureau and going somewhere else specially to the office is such a second thought. Besides, I have a lax time since I have accomplished much of back logs at the office. So, going for this "raket" is something that can make my mood swing to a hip. So, I am here trying to understand the language of the law :)

The speaker is Prof. Peter L.H.Van de Bossche, a professor and authority in International Economic Law, consultant to international organization on WTO law and an author of "The Law and Policy of the World Trade Organization". Attendees are mostly celebrity lawyers of their own, to name a few, former Sen. Wilberto Tanada , former Chief Justice Florentino Feliciano, Sec. Peter Favilla of Trade and Industry, etc.

One of the topic that I like most besides the discussion on GATT,Economic Policies, is the concern on Intellectual Property Rights. It discuss on International Policies on IPR but to what I have observed on the policies, mostly, are in favor of the western countries. Participating lawyers of out government sectors has commented and give their reactions but they can get sufficient response to give way to our end because we lack of pre qualifying bill that can uphold our IPR claims and patents to our scientific and medical inventions and findings. Sad to say that our lawmakers have not done anything to create such law that can give us more opportunity to be at par with the international trade. This meant to say that the Philippines has no concrete law on IPR to protect us againts foreign claims.Our present law on IPR should be amended to have broader scopes that can address different issues to our advantage.

I am saddened for a while, we too have problems with IPR. The photography community has been lobbying this to the government about the protection of their images. There are several instances wherein a photographer had claimed his rights against the unlawful use of their images by these multinational companies who are gaining profit from the impact of the images they have created. If the government is fair enough to its people, their benefits are the most given priority before their own. We are being discrimated because we are allowing it to happen. Unless the government and lawmakers have understood that we Filipinos are capable of anything and always making good to what they do, Protection of their creativity is the only thing they are asking in return.

Pictorial and a Party

2006-06-26T23:05:00.000+08:00

It's a busy day again. I took a four-hour overtime at the office last Saturday. I had to think and move fast because I need to go to the penthouse of Pacific Plaza in Fort Bonifacio. I committed a pictorial with a former actress turned stylist, Ms. Rachel Lobangco whose figure had never faded after a decade. She made a stir as the Shh-Boom girl of a popular beer commercial.

We started at 3 pm and I was late for my 1:30 schedule. Heavy rains and traffic cause a delay with my appointment to Rachel. Though I felt I was unprofessional, I don't want her to think that I was like that. To pay for the lost time, I was able to make it up to her by giving out my best shots during the pictorial.

We chose the pool, the long winded stairways, and the very cozy jacuzzi as the best ideal locations. Some who were fortunate to take a look might be expecting for some hot and exciting scenes beside the skimpy swimwears Rachel and Honey wore. By the way Honey Samia is a friend of Rachel who graced the pages of FHM magazine many times before. These two gorgeous ladies both have great bodies that made men sigh.:)

RELATED LINK: The Pacific Plaza w/ Ms. SSH-BOOM

After the pictorial, I had to go to a party thrown by my boss Gus before he go back to New York for a business trip. I was so lucky that these activities were held in one place. So, I went to his unit late again. My officemates and other bosses have started to arrive at 4pm and they were having dinner when I got there along with Lito, my office buddy. I was unaware that my boss had made the announcement earlier about my pictorial and they were all expecting me to bring in my two models. I was hesitant because Lito told me that our bosses who are a bit conservative might not like the idea and would received negative feedback and comments afterwards. Instead, its the other way around. My boss Gus scolded me by not doing so. He said it was his party and everyone is welcomed even if its not an employee of the company. When I submitted the CD (models' photos) to them the following night, I brought my boss along and they have a brief chat. That's how I make peace :)

Home for Romi

2006-06-19T23:07:00.000+08:00

Finally, its home sweet home for Romi Graduce after his successful adventure on Mt. Everest. His eyes were sparkling with excitement as you could see on his trademark smile.

With him on the convoy were the UP Mountaineers and support team of Northface. It was a lucky day for me since I was with him to cover his return to Bataan.

The adoration of the crowd was truly a sight. He was flocked with his kababayans and supporters. The same scenario with Pacman Pacquiao when he won a war with a Mexican boxer last year. His "kababayans" lined up on the street just to have a glimpse of him and everyone chanted his name. School children are also waving their flags to show support and admiration for an achievement of a Filipino in the international arena.

Romi is home. And with the status quo of an instant celebrity he gained from his quest, the people await him for another extra challenge that would befit him and might surpass what he had already attained. The public is now all eyes on his every move and look forward to what he is capable more of doing.

RELATED LINK: From Everest to Bataan

PHIL. HISTORY TREASURE

2006-06-16T21:39:00.000+08:00

It's been an honor and privilege to hold and scan the pages of "Noli Me Tangere", one of the works of our greatest hero, Jose Rizal. Although it was just a replica of the original book, its a rare find and collection of a man who's nationalistic spirit was resurrected while in abroad for over 20 years.

The book was reprinted here in the Philippines decades ago and when you browse its pages you feel as if you are reading the original manuscript. As we all know, it is the novel with the greatest impact on the Filipinos' political thinking in the 19th and 20th centuries.

This book was written by Rizal not to attack the Spanish regime but the ruthless Friars who have made the Catholic religion an instrument for enriching themselves and perpetuating themselves in power by taking advantage to the ignorant Filipino in fanaticism and superstitions instead of teaching them true Catholicism.

This book is a charter of nationalism. It calls on the Filipinos to recover his self-confidence, to appreciate his own worth, to return to the heritage of his ancestors, to assert himself as the equal of the Spaniards.

Rizal finished the Noli in 1887, and published 2,000 copies in Berlin. Thousands more have since circulated in the original Spanish and translated in other languages such as German, French, Chinese, English and Tagalog. The book that I have seen was from the original manuscript (penmanship and pen correction).

Now, as we celebrate the 108th Anniversary of our Independence, this book is something that we should reminisce and take pride for the bravery and patriotism Dr. Jose Rizal and other martyrs have shown and done for the country to achieve our independence and freedom from the oppression of the Spaniards for almost 300 years.

"Touch Me Not, I am not yet ascended to my Father, but to go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father, and to my God and your God."

Bonded@the office

2006-06-15T22:38:00.000+08:00

My boss has arrived from abroad and simultaneous meetings of various projects follow suit. I have several concerns (some of them are not already connected to my present appointment) are on my backlogs and he needs updates of them.

So, after a meeting with others, I have to stay put since the next discussion also involves my presence. We started with the updates of the structure of our room. Well, as i've mentioned, we work on moving wall. The network cables has to be place with the telephone lines and electrical outlets. Good thing is that I have already anticipated the scenario that during my hardware purchase requirements, I see it to it that our computers (Mac and PC) are all wireless capable. So , any time there's a need to move, our work can cope up fast. Even, our tables, i have to customized the design as one package. Only the outlet of your UPS will be upluged and everything is under one place.

The next project are the websites that are under development. Some of them are still on its infancy stage and some needs to be polished. Three of them needs to be up at the end of the month and one more is for conceptualization and should be up before the launch of the product on the 15th of July. Maybe you would ask me what are those sites but sorry to tell you that I cannot announce it here. To give you a hint, one is related to upcoming teleserye on TV, the other tackles on Philippine History, next one talks about romance and the latest is the achievement of another Pinoy as contribution to our history.

Another project concerns on the infrastructure of the new business we are starting. This is more on the technical matters since we have to work from the ground up (see my other blog). We are still learning while on the process and little by little i'm positive that we can achieve our goals.

So, until this time, while I'm waiting to for the network installers to finished their termination at the Data Center, I'm writing this blog. I cannot easily leave them and endorsed them to the roving guard because I have promised that tomorrow morning the network will be ready.

Btw, I still have to reconfigure the Internet connection. I have to dedicate one direct internet access for him since he does't want to be included in the bandwidth of those guys who loves to download porn , as he usually kid me :). Good thing is, I have a back-up solution for that, so by tomorrow he has his own surfing line.

So, tomorrow.. another round of meeting with our consultants

The Palace Has Closed

2006-06-13T18:03:00.000+08:00

Consider it corny, but I was a regular "tagasubaybay" or follower of the very popular Korean telenovela which captured and attracted many Filipino audience because of its unique plot and play of stories.

Although I have missed some of its episodes, I can still update myself because I have so many offices mates who are also an aficionados of "Jewel in the Palace". That's why, i was inspired to write this blog before it closes today at 10:00 PM on GMA7.

What I really like about the story is their attack on many aspects of life that when reflected, it has an attack on personal character. You would consider yourself to be as one of its villain or would like to be admired as the Great "Jang-geum." Its unique combination of two themes: the successful rise of a female, which is rarely covered in historical genre, and the elements of traditional food and medicine gives a remarkable ratings to the show.

For almost eight months, it become number one telenovela to its time slot in the Philippines (Ups, sounding like Kapuso?). But seriously, it has something to brag about because the show had gained popularity among Asians and America.

I am facinated with the way the costume was represented in their society, a very traditional yet so elegant and gorgeous to look at. The hairstyles of the higher-status women are also cleverly portrayed by the cast. And what i love most of the character of Jang-geum' is her remarkable determination and wisdom, she takes on even greater odds, challenging numerous foes and even society to achieve a position never-before-held by a woman in Korean history!

Now, as the show "Jewel in the Palace" closes its doors to many Filipinos who watched the show, Let it give us something to think of....ourselves and our politics.

How i wish too, that our own film industry would come up with something like this in the future. We have so many historical figures that can be made and worth to film. But I think, It's up for the creativity and intensive research work of the writers to come up with something like the true story of Jang-geum.

MOVING WALLS

2006-06-12T13:58:00.000+08:00

"Nothing in this world is permanent... our office"

The building post in our office is permanent, the rest are moving. You know why? Every time the owner arrives, everything change after a week. That's how she loves changes :)

I don't think she is a fung shui believer because some of our office structures are against its rule. Well, i think she has it and as long she wanted it, no one can stop her.

Every time walls moved, everything has to move, too. Its just alright if it doesn't affects us employees. We have our own deadlines to beat and a day of unfinished job means a lot to us. Well, as she said always "Masanay na kayo sakin". Telephone cables, network cables, chairs, tables, printers and faxes are moving. Whew! what a life.

There's one time that she called my attention over her concern on the telephone system. After that conversation, I'm hoping that she understood my predicament over the moving walls in our office. But after a week..the carpenters are on their gears again..

Sidetrip to Everest

2006-06-12T12:46:00.000+08:00

June 7, 2006
__________

The hype over the climb to Mt. Everest continues and everyone were so excited to get the latest update that leads to some sort of network war on their coverage of the 1st Philippine Expedition to Mt. Everest.

Well, at first, I'm not interested to the news when it was first announced. But when the news broke up that Filipino made it to the summit. I have this deep admiration and sense of pride realizing that a Filipino can make it.

Actually, as the news broke out about the climb, we have conceptualized a book on Mt. Everest quest by Filipinos. Our writers starts to gather the news and starts on their research while on the wait for the actual events of the said ascend. My only role is the conceptualization of the book design and help the writers for the possible title.

I started my research by downloading some images i found on the net for my visual concept presentation. During this course, i have seen and appreciated the beauty of Everest from countless stock photos available and feel the drama behind those who had earlier conquest of the Summit.

Then, here goes the chance to meet one of the conquestor—Mr. Romi Garduce, a veteran climber, member of the UP Mountaineers and the third Pinoy who had reach the Big E.

We had an interview with him at a Cafe' in Greenbelt 3 last June 7 and were so lucky to hang with him in spite of his countless visitors at the adjacent table. His schedules are hectic and talking to him about his quest is like a Side trip to the Summit and much excitement awaits us when he showed to us his personal photos of the great Everest. He's very accommodating and very funny, just like any other mountaineers who always crack a joke to relieve their exhaustion during climb.

I don't want to elaborate more on our conversation but one thing for sure, Mr. Garduce is in love with his passion more than anything else. His quest for the seven (7) peaks in the world is his ultimate dreams and you can stop this man with great determination and passion.

AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS ROMI, Mabuhay ang Pinoy!

(from http://chardsg.blogs.friendster.com/my_blog/)

Home Alone Working

2006-06-11T23:20:00.000+08:00

I'm alone at home because my wife and son went to my in-laws in Laguna. They were fetch by her cousin last friday and my son will be staying there for two weeks.

Although its Sunday, i have to work on some backlogs and good thing i have my laptop at home and can easily update some websites that i manage so my boss would be happy when he returns from abroad next week.

Its good that i have a dsl connection and accessing my cpanel is fast and i can easily monitor my virtual server and manage the stats of the sites i maintained. I'm just having some trouble configuring the forum page of two sites that i have created, konting tyaga pa kuha na rin ito..
but wait i have to continue tomorrow because the "Garduce Docu on his Mt. Everest climb is about to start via GMA 7. By the way i have a book to process about him : )

Start Blogging my iLife!

2006-06-10T15:02:00.000+08:00

Welcome to my little world. A day to day account of my activities will be posted here (if not busy) and just a place to jot something from my brain.

I have some other blogs that i can't update and now, here i am creating another blog with a hope that i would be able to continue what i have done. Let me start thinking of something i can write. so hold on ....