Sunday, December 30, 2007

Falls No. 1 of Lake Sebu

This will be my last post in 2007 so let me start by thanking all the readers, friends and bloggers I have met this year. Looking at the counters and the comments you have made in this blog, I couldn't help but be amazed and be grateful for even in few minutes of your lives, you allowed me to be a part of it. And I could only wish everyone prosperity and happiness in 2008. So to everyone - HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Lake Sebu - A Place of Serenity

Have you ever been to a place where all you want to do is to sit down comfortably, staring at the reflections of the moon and the stars on a calm lake, San Mig Light on hand, and having the sweetest inihaw na Tilapia on the table?

Well, if you haven't, let me take you there through the following photos I have taken:


Friday, December 21, 2007

Road Trip - From Davao City To Lake Sebu

After staying two days in Davao City, we woke up very early because Lake Sebu is a six-hour drive from Davao City. Since it was my first time in Mindanao, I never slept during the entire ride and just enjoyed the roadside view that the trip offered. We have passed sixteen cities/municipalities heading to our destination and let me share these places with you in this blog.



Sunday, December 16, 2007

Davao City - 2 Days Were Not Enough

Two days are really not enough to explore the largest City of the Philippines - Davao City. The City is famous for lots of things. Among them are the Philippine Eagle, Orchids, the Durian and the highest mountain in the Philippines, Mount Apo. I gather that you need at least four days to climb and explore Mount Apo so I was just contended to view its outline from almost anywhere in Davao City. I happened to feature the Philippine Eagle and Orchids in my previous posts and I have eaten durian on a roadside. Ok just a spoonfull, Durian is sweet but the smell is really powerful. But hey, Don't mind my opinion on this one because my friend said it does smell like hell but taste like heaven.


Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Davao City Orchids Farm

If you ask any person to name three things that they associate with Davao, undoubtedly, orchids will surface from that list. Thanks mainly to the world famous Waling-Waling which is dubbed as the queen of Philippine orchids. In fact, every every 3rd week of August, Kadayawan sa Dabaw festival is held to give thanks to the bounty of fruits and flowerers as the Waling-Waling orchid blooms. Colorful floats are adorned with beautiful orchids and other flowers in the grand parade.

Monday, December 10, 2007

Flowers of Eden

I got stung by a bee...
... and got my shoes wet...
... got bruised on my arm...
... and got penalized for breaking a branch...
... got mud on my shirt...
... and got bitten by ants...
But I don't mind ' coz these pics go out to the ones I love.



Friday, December 07, 2007

Eden Nature Park, Davao City


"TAKE NOTHING BUT PICTURES
LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS
KILL NOTHING BUT TIME
BRING HOME NOTHING BUT MEMORIES."



Sunday, December 02, 2007

The Philippine Eagle Center, Davao City

The extended weekend brought me to the largest City of the Philippines in terms of land area. Davao City is known as the City of orchids and durian and of course, the home of the country's most famous avian - Pag-asa, a monkey-eating eagle.

My first stop therefore is to see Pag-asa and other Philippine Eagle at The Philippine Eagle Center. Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Mount Apo, the Philippine Eagle Center is the Philippine Eagle Foundation's facility for the care and propagation of the endangered Philippine Eagle. The center is a captive-breeding facility designed to help increase the eagle's number, thereby avoiding extinction.

Primarily a research facility, the Center is also a vital education venue and a key tourist attraction where visitors are given a glimpse of the country's forest ecosystem. It is located in Malagos, a 45 min drive from the city center. Aside from being a temporary home for the eagles, it also hosts other animals that are native to Davao's dwindling forest like deers, wild pigs, crocodile, monkeys and other birds.



Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Underground River, Palawan

No trip to Palawan is complete without going to the Underground River. This river is part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which is a World Heritage Site. This natural wonder features an 8.2 kilometers navigable river reputed to be the world's longest that winds through a spectacular cave before emptying out into the South China Sea.

The following photos were taken during my trip there last year. Pardon the because these shots were taken using my old low-res sony cybershot digital camera:

From the City proper, it took us almost two hours to reach Barangay Cabayugan in Sitio Sabang. Then, from Sabang Beach,we had about thirty-minute boat ride to reach the Park.


Upon arrival to the site, what will greet you is the powdery white sand of the beach front leading to a mini-forest trail. Then, you have to wait in line for your chance to ride another boat that will tour you inside the cave.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Buwaya



The photos above were taken during my trip to the Crocodile Farm and Nature Park in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Located in Barangay Irawan, the farm is a joint venture between the Philippine and Japanese governments. The idea is to breed the animals in captivity and eventually harvest them for the meat, skin, and whatever a crocodile has that is valuable. There is a fifteen minute film-showing followed by a tour around the area where you can see the crocodiles in various age. You can even hold a young crocodile for posterity for just a minimum fee. The museum needed a little work done on its displays, but it did have the skeletal remains of the largest crocodile caught in the Philippines.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Two Pampanga Churches

I got up early last Sunday to attend an early mass in my parochial church. Since I learned the night before that my appointment for the day has been cancelled, I decided to go to SM Pampanga to do a little shopping. It is on my way there that I happened to pass these two statuesque churches of Pampanga:


Sta. Monica Church, Mexico, Pampanga


Monday, November 19, 2007

SIQUIJOR - Truly Mystical

This will be my last post on my trip to the Mystical Island of Siquijor. First let me start with the urban legends. What excites me most about this trip is the mystery that surrounds the infamous island. So, when my friends learned that I was going to Siquijor, they have advised me (even texted me at the night of my flight) to be cautious about the following:

Thursday, November 15, 2007

San Juan's Rocky Side

As an alternative to swimming, snorkeling or just plainly walking in the sand of the San Juan Beach, one could wander or trek around the rocky, limestone hills of the beach. As an added bonus, one could explore the various crevices and openings of the caves surrounding these areas. The various images that can be formed on these rocks are good and eerie conversation pieces.

Here are some of the pics I have taken while I was on the beach overlooking the hills and shots I have taken while I was on the hill overlooking the beach:

Monday, November 12, 2007

San Juan Beach

There are several beach resorts that dot the coastal areas of Siquijor. They serve as tranquil hideaways where the sky meets the sea. Beachfronts are covered with fine, white sand while rows of huts, cottages and other room accommodations are available for pic knickers and bathers.

We stayed overnight at the Coco Grove Beach Resort located in the Municipality of San Juan. For features of the resort please click here. The beachfront of the resort is truly amazing with its white sand and coral formation at the sea side. However, is you want to go swimming, you have to walk to a neighboring resort where the sand is finer and there are less rocks and stones at the shore.

Friday, November 09, 2007

Salagdoong Beach

Salagdoong beach resort is one of Siquijor Islands's most frequented beaches. It boasts of crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, high rock formations and favorable diving spots. Lines of dense molave trees usher every visitor to the intramural breadth of the beach. The beach is managed by the Government and that a minimal entrance fee of only ten pesos per guest is required before one could enter the resort.

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Mount Bandilaan Nature Park

Located at the center of the island of Siquijor, the park's highest peak rises at 557 feet above sea level. The park which covers an entire area of the former Siquijor Reforestation Project, is home to numerous endemic fauna and flora. Other attractions include a shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, The Way of the Cross, five natural springs, caves and butterfly sanctuary.

Sunday, November 04, 2007

Churches of Siquijor

Feels like the holy week but the first thing we did at Siquijor was to visit its famous century-old churches. After all, the smallest island province in the Central Visayas is the home of the historical St. Isidore Labradore church and convent constructed in 1891, believed to be one of the oldest and the biggest in Asian and the bell tower of St. Francis of Assisi built in 1870.

They say Siquijor heals the spirit of any weary traveler with its peace and tranquility. So before our venture the mountains of the island and explore the its folk traditions of healing rituals, it was only proper that we offer prayers and visit its famous Christian churches.



ST. ISIDORE LABRADORE CHURCH AND CONVENT


Thursday, November 01, 2007

Siquijor - The Mystic Island



HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL OF YOU!!!

I am now in the Mystic Island of Siquijor. My itinerary includes visits to the famous old churches of the island, then I will also be going up to the mountains made famous by faith healers and mambabarangs.

Will I see ghosts, aswangs and lamang lupa? We will see. I'll keep you all posted. If I do comeback alive. (Insert twilight zone soundtrack here)

Friday, October 26, 2007

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

"The convent of the Sto. Niño de Cebu was founded by Fr. Andres de Urdaneta OSA on April 28, 1565 , the very day the Legazpi-Urdaneta expedition arrived in the island. On May 8 of the same year, when Legaspi and his men planned the urbanization of the city, they allotted a “place for the church and the convent of San Agustin, “where the Santo Niño image had been found.”

In 1599, the convent was made a house of studies of grammar, headed by the Visayan linguist, Fr. Alonso de Mentrida.OSA It also served as a rest house for missionaries working in the province and as a retirement home for the aged and the sick, usually attended to by a lay brother.

The church has always been the Sanctuary of the Sto. Niño, under the custody of the Augustinians. The number of priests assigned to the church varied from three to five aside from one or two lay brothers."



Thursday, October 25, 2007

Magellan's Cross

"The kiosk of Magellane's Cross was built in 1836 by then Bishop of Cebu Santos Gomez Marañon to commemorate the Portuguese Navigator Ferdinand Magellan who successfully reached the Indies by taking a different and by then unknown route, the Pacific.

Although the original cross erected by Magellan and his men in 1521 may no longer be there but the kiosk is a potent symbol of the presence of Catholicism in the Philippines. The kiosk is made of coral stone while its roof is made of teja or clay tiles. It is a landmark of Cebu City and synonymous to the city which proudly emblazons it as its corporate seal.

The kiosk of Magellan's Cross is very significant in the sense that it reminds everyone who go to the site that almost five centuries ago, the Christian faith was brought to Cebu and from thence to the entire Philippine archipelago."


The text and photo above were lifted from postcards that I have bought from the Museum of the Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño De Cebu.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Fort San Pedro



Our next stop is Fort San Pedro. Built primarily to protect the Spanish settlers from attacking the pirates in the area, this fort witnessed the different changes in the history of this island until much of it was destroyed during the Japanese occupation when it served as a prison camp.
.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Heritage of Cebu

As the rain started to pour in the City, we headed to Barangay Parian to see the Heritage of Cebu Monument. Located on the original Plaza Parian, the Heritage of Cebu Monument showcases the significant and symbolic events in the history of Cebu.
.
It really is very unfortunate that it is raining in Cebu when I visited the monument so the sky is a bit gloomy. Anyways, let me share to you some of the pictures I have taken of the monument:




Saturday, October 20, 2007

Taoist Temple



I recently had a trip to Cebu City. Known as the "Queen City of the South", it boasts of a rich social, economic and religious history. Commerce and recreation blend harmoniously in Cebu. Cosmopolitan lifestyle in a provincial rustic ambiance permeates the air. The combination of different people, from Cebuanos with thick accents to foreign and local tourists, Cebu is really a mixture of people and culture.
.

Monday, October 15, 2007

Pangatian Concentration Camp and Shrine


Let me just share a part of the city where I presently live. I have decided to do a post on this one mainly because of two things. First, my City is not gifted geographically in terms of natural attractions. There are no mountains, no beaches, no cliffs but just plain plateau of rice fields everywhere. Secondly, there is a very strong possibility that I have to move to another place because of my new profession, so I might actually kinda miss my beloved place.
.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Hinagdanan Cave

There is something eerie about caves. It feels like you are traversing the unknown. All your fears and phobias could easily come into reality when you set foot in a cave. Maybe because we are brought -up in a society which view caves as something dark and inhibited by monsters. Added to that, we always associate caves with snakes, spiders and bats - animals which we connect with the dark side. Then, there is the fear of height, fear of close space, fear of darkness and the fear of the unknown. However we regard it, cave really scares most of us and if you want to test your phobias, then, a cave is the place to go.
.
I must admit that I am not a fan of caves. This probably is only the third time I have entered a cave. The first time, if I remember it right is the Crystal Cave in Baguio which I visited with my family when I was still a kid. The second cave I have visited is the Underground River Cave in Palawan a couple of years ago. So this is, as far as I can remember, only the third time that I will enter a cave.
.
The Hinagdanan Cave in Bohol is the most well known and easy to reach cave on the island of Panglao. HInagdanan means "laddered" mainly because of the large number of stalactites hanging from the ceiling and matching stalagmites sticking out of the earth below them. The cave leads to a large underground cavern, that contains a pond. Its underground pools with their limestone bottoms glimmer clear and green, however, it is not advisable to swam in there because it is not clean. What makes this cave really amazing is the cave is lit up dramatically by natural skylights that enters from two holes at the cave's roof creating an eerie and remarkably beautiful natural effect.
.
Here are some pics I have taken of the cave. (Pardon the shots 'coz it is really dark in there):





Monday, October 08, 2007

Baclayon Church

This blog is no stranger to Church. Whenever I travel, I see to it that I visit the place's churches. I have already featured the Churches of Manaoag, Taal, Kawit and of course my own church in Cabanatuan here in my blog. So when I was Bohol a couple of weeks ago, it is a must that I have to visit one of the oldest church in Asia and the oldest coral stone church in Visayas - the Baclayon Church.


Friday, October 05, 2007

Passport Renewal

My Philippine passport expired last May and I got so busy these past few months that I forgot to renew it. I have plans of going-out of the country at the end of this year so I have to renew my passport.
.
I proceeded last week to my favorite travel agency for them to process my renewal for a fee of one thousand five hundred. I feel that the fee is fair enough considering that I got to avoid waiting time as well as gasoline and travel expenses. However, to my surprise, according to new DFA rules and regulations, effective October 1, 2007 all passport applicants, either new or renewal, should appear personally to the DFA. So, I have to go to DFA-Manila to personally appear before the processors of DFA.
.
My travel agency scheduled my appearance last Tuesday but since it coincides with a previous appointment, they re-scheduled my appearance on Wednesday. So I filed a "Government Transaction Leave" in my office and scheduled my self to Manila on Wednesday.
.
I left Cabanatuan at 8 in the morning and because of the heavy traffic in Bulacan and Manila, I arrived in DFA at around 12 noon. I had my lunch there and proceeded to the Passport Section at around 1 pm where a representative from an affiliate of my Travel Agency is waiting for me.
.
There are lots of applicants that day that I have to endure a waiting time of almost two hours before my application is processed. Actually, it only took about 5 minutes for the whole appearance thing that includes signing and thumbmarking. The rest of the time is really just for waiting.
.
I also appreciate the fact I have an agent because some applicants took almost forever to have their applications processed. Further, there are lots of fixers in the area that victimizes unknowing clients, so you just have to beware.
.
Processing of passport normally takes about 12 days, so I have to wait for 12 more days to have my new machine-readable passport. My Travel Agent shall personally deliver that to me in Cabanatuan City.
.
I left Manila at around 5 pm and arrived home at about 9 pm.

.
For those who have to apply for a new passport, you can do any of the following:

1. Do it yourself. Go to DFA-Manila and endure the long lines of applicants. Prepare to pay P750 (express-5 days) or P500 (regular).

2. Get assistance from Travel Agencies. They will do all the works for you for a one-time fee of P1,500.00.

3. Apply online in Pilipinas Teleserv. Just go to the link and follow instructions there.

In any case, personal appearance is required.

Friday, September 28, 2007

Picnic at Bais City

On our second day stay in Dumaguete, we woke-up early because we have to travel by bus to Bais City. The City is located on the east coast of Negros island, about 45 kilometers north of Dumaguete City. Its name is derived from the Visayan word “ba-is” for brackish-water eel – a fish specie native to the City and one which has become the City’s delicacy.
.
Aside from being the cradle of Oriental Negros' sugar industry, Bais City has become famous for its dolphin and whale watching packages that continue to enthrall lovers of gentle cetaceans who troop to the city in the months of May to September to cruise along Bais City where if you are lucky, these entrancing mammals, untrained, leap and glide in a delightful acrobatic shows.




Tuesday, September 25, 2007

The City of Gentle People

After a little more than an hour travel via Fast Craft from Tagbiliran City, I arrived at Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental - The City of Gentle People. My two day itinerary here include a tour around the City on the first day and a trip to Bais City to watch dolphins and whales on the second day.

(Dumaguete Seal in Rizal Park)



Monday, September 24, 2007

Bar Exam 2007 Is Over

I have to make-up for lost grounds. It's my first time to join my friends in Araullo for the Bar Operation of 2007. Because of previous engagements, I have to beg-off from going to Manila on the first three Sundays. I promised our Dean that Batch 2006 Bar Passers will attend on the last Sunday. However, Atty Joan has Sore Eyes so I went alone to Manila where I met with Atty. Jenny and Atty Zea and then proceeded to the Bar Site.
.
Call us nostalgic but we really can't help reminiscing about what we went through last year. Today we can only smile and tell our parts of the story but we really feel how our Barristers are feeling right at this moment. My friend even quipped that even if you offer her one million pesos, she will not take the Bar exam again. I said make it 3 million and I may reconsider (Just kiddin').
.
The ambiance may be different, because of a Supreme Court Order, there are less activities in the morning. However, come 3 pm, the Festivities has begun: the drums and the cheers has started. Based on my personal experience, I prefer that drum beats be forever prohibited because it really distracted me last year. The room where I was assigned to last year was not totally soundproof and I can hear the beat of the drums as early as 3 pm. Just imagine the beat of the drums chorusing with the beat of your heart. There could be panic attack right there.
.
But hey, supporters are supporters no matter what. They really mean no harm but just wanna cheer you up after eight grueling exams.
.
So, after four years of law school, six months of review and a month of examination. It is now time for five to six months wait.




Been there. Done than. Now... it's time for the post-traumatic bar exam syndrome to begin.

To all my friends who took this year's exam, you can hold my hand anytime.

Friday, September 21, 2007

Loboc River

Ah life. A smorgasboard of seafood above a floating restaurant navigating Loboc River. What more could you ask for? . After climbing 214 steps in a stair leading to the Observation Deck of Chocolate Hills and a brief tour around Billar's Man Made Forest, we headed to a Floating Restaurant in Loboc to take our lunch. It was an "eat-all-you-can" array of mostly seafoods and barbeques with lots of native puto or kakanin. We were even serenaded by a guy who sang Native/Folk songs through-out the trip.


Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Chocolate Hills

I had a hearty breakfast at Bohol Divers Resort in Alona Beach, Panglao Island because this is going to be a busy day. My itinerary for this day includes visit to Chocolate Hills, then lunch in a ferry touring Loboc River and a tour around the province of Bohol.

Our first stop is the Chocolate Hills. It took us almost an hour and a half from Panglao to
Carmen, Bohol where portions of the hills are located. Although it is a long drive, you won't get bored of the road side sceneries which includes the man-made forest, Loboc River and Nipa/Coconut plantations.

Once you have reached Carmen, you have to climb a stair of about 200 steps to reach the top of one of the hills. A beautiful marker (shown below) shall greet you.



On the observation deck atop the hill, the view is definitely breath-taking.


Monday, September 17, 2007

Panglao Island

The beach, the sand, the fun in the sun - it's all here in Panglao Island. If you are looking for an alternative to Boracay or Puerto Galera, you may want to visit and try Alona Beach in Panglao Island, Bohol.



Saturday, September 08, 2007

It's My Birthday

Today is my birthday . Another year older. (Another year wiser? --- hope so). September 8 is also the birthday of Mama Mary so I can proudly say that I am in good company.
.
I chanced upon this site which tells us what does my birthday mean and just for fun, I am posting the results here:
Your Birthdate: September 8
Watch out Donald Trump! You've got a head for business and money.You'll make it rich some day, even if you haven't figured out how yet.A supreme individualist, you shouldn't get stuck in a corporate job.Instead, make your own way - so that you can be the boss.
Your strength: Your undying determination
Your weakness: You require an opulent lifestyle
Your power color: Plum
Your power symbol: Dollar sign
Your power month: August
Hahaha. I wish what the results say reflects what I am but honestly I do not see myself as filthy rich or a business tycoon but rather a simple married person, a father of a twin, living in a house in a ranch, in a home surrounded by gardens and having three Golden Retrievers who will accompany me when I take a stroll. Of course I will not complain if there is a Porsche in the garage. (WAKE UP!!!)
.
Anyways, dreaming is fun and its free isn't it. Well, back to reality now, and my families and friends are starting to come in a simple lunch I prepare so, Happy Birthday to me and I believe that my past year has been eventful that I deserve a pat in the back. Cheers!!!

Friday, September 07, 2007

Yet Another Plaque...

Thank You Department of Education for the Plaque of Appreciation I received today. Thank You my dear teachers, I'll try my best to continue to be a principled public servant that you have perceived me to be.

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Tree Planting

The City Government of Cabanatuan had a Tree-Planting activity along the newly concreted road along Gen. Tinio Ave. This pic was taken early this morning together with some of my staff in the City Accountant's Office.

Monday, September 03, 2007

Mr. India VS Mr. Philippines

Just wanna share this. Got this thru e-mail and I almost fell-off my seat laughing...
.
Presenting Mr. India, purportedly one of the most gorgeous guys in the world:


And now presenting, his challenger... Mr. Philippines:

See how similar their poses are... Place your bets...
.
GO PHILIPPINES!!! HAR HAR HAR

Sunday, September 02, 2007

GOOD LUCK 2007 BAR EXAMINEES

The four grueling Sundays of the 2007 BAR Examinations starts today. I got this e-card from one of my fave blog, so I wanna share this to all of my friends who are included in nearly 5,800 graduates who will take the BAR this year.
To my friends Aries Christian, Tin-tin, Rico, Kaye, May, Zenia and other examinees of the 2007 BAR, GOOD LUCK and we will pray for your success!!!

Friday, August 31, 2007

Another Baguio Trip

Just got back from another three-day trip (August 29-31) in Baguio City. This time, I am in Baguio to conduct a seminar on the Barangay Officials of Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. Cabiao is the 23rd of the 32 Cities/Municipalities of Nueva Ecija that we have to train and since there will be Barangay elections come October, the COA and ALANE have decided to conduct the seminar of the 9 remaining Cities/Municipalities after the election.

Sunday, August 26, 2007

BAR 2007 Pre Week

Isn't it ironic? Political and International Law was supposed to be the subject which we are most prepared of considering that it is the first exam of the eight BAR subjects. But when I received my ratings during the last year's BAR exams, it is the subject where I got the lowest grade. To wit: here are the rankings of my eight BAR subjects from highest to lowest:
.
1 - Labor Law and Social Legislation
2 - Civil Law
3 - Mercantile Law
4 - Criminal Law
5 - Taxation
6 - Remedial Law
7 - Legal Ethics and Practical Exercises
8 - Political & International Law
.
Maybe it was jitters, or anxiety and nervousness set-in because it is the first exam of the series. Or maybe because I had to sleep only for about two hours the night before. Believe me, I tried to sleep but I really can't. I was really surprised at my rating in Labor Law considering that it is not one of my strongest subjects in school. Also in Criminal Law, I felt really down after taking the exam last year and just hoped that I won't get a DQ but hey, my grade in Criminal Law was even higher than my grade in Taxation - the subjects which I thought I aced (but evidently not hehehe). Well, everything is under the bridge now and what matters most now is that I passed the BAR on my first try.
.
For the barristers of 2007 BAR, their pre-week starts now. The first decision they will have to decide on is whether to attend a pre-week review class or not. The decision entirely depends on where a barriester is most effective. In my case, I decided to attend the pre-week class because my class is in the afternoon. I used my mornings and nights to read my pre-week notes, important codal provisions, hand-outs/summaries and short pre-week reviewers. During my slack time, I listen to recorded lectures I took during the review.
.
SOME PRE WEEK ADVICES
.
1. Pray as you wake up;
2. Find the most comfortable place to stay for the pre-week. Be it in the library or in the comfort of your own room;
3. Do not rely on tips or hopes of leakage;
4. Do not cram, Relax!!!;
5. Try to establish an earlier sleeping habit so that you can get up earlier;
6. Do not review anything for the first time this week;
7. Pray before going to bed.
So to my friends taking the 2007 BAR and other Barristers. GOODLUCK!!! You will see me and your friends cheering in the BAR-OPS.

Friday, August 24, 2007

Surf and Browse

Unbelievable. Today, I find myself in front of the computer all day. That's basically eight hours at the office and another six or so hours at home. I got to install new virus softwares and at the same time removed the "Taga Lipa Are" lurking in place of my Windows Internet Explorer.
.
Then, I got the chance to check all my e-mails as well as my friendster account. I also changed some of the items and links in my sidebar here. Too bad, I do not know how to make my blog look better visually but anyways, at least I like it as it is now. Maybe someday I'll commission some technokids to improve the look of my blog.
.
I also got the chance to visit other blogs linked here as well as other bloggers in the blogosphere. One blog I liked so much is the blog of the anonymous lawyer. In his latest post about his associate who invited him to his (the associate's) wedding, he posted:
.
"It bothers me that this associate has friends, and family that's still speaking to him. It means we're not working him hard enough. I fear I've failed him. I'll have to work harder at getting him some time-consuming assignments this next quarter."
.
And in one of his latter posts about age discrimination in law offices, he said:
.
"Maybe you're willing to work hard. But you're probably not willing to be humiliated, and honestly it's a lot less fun to humiliate a 40-year-old, with 2 kids and 3 ex-wives and a mortgage and a limp than it is to humiliate a 25-year-old without any responsibilities except to the firm. You want to blame someone for this? Blame your law school for accepting you. No one forced you into this game. No one pretended you would be employable. And don't think law is the only industry where this is an issue. Ask a 40-year-old TV writer. If you can find one. Or a 40-year-old exotic dancer. Don't see too many of those either, at least not at the summer associate strip club events. Maybe we just pick our venue carefully, but I've got to believe there's some pretty big age discrimination going on there too."
.
Honestly, this blog is entertaining with some semblance of truth in it. And no doubt about it, I will read his previous posts when I have time. In fact, I put his blog on top of my everyday reads. So go check it out.
.
Another blog that is on top of my list is Ferdz Decena's blog Ironwulf. I admire and at the same time envy this guy not only for the way he took his pictures but at the same time on the way he writes. He tells a story as if you are traveling with him. So, there is no more need to go to such places because he has already captured the essense and beauty of the place. One day, I wish that I could meet this guy and shook his hand and congratulate and at the same time thank him for his job well done.
.
Two blogs worth mentioning are the blogs of two of my friends in highschool. During my highschool days, there are six of us who formed a barkada group called JANREM. We were really close during our highschool days but kinda go out of our separate ways in college. Except for one or to occassions, we rarely meet and see each other since high school graduation.
.
To my surprise, two of them maintain regular blogs. Momar (the "A" in JANREM)has Flipped & Twisted - a blog of a filipino in the twisted us of a showcasing his rants, raves and ramblings, random thoughts (or not) about everything and anything under the sun. Movies, tv, dvd, books, coffee, food, places, people, concerts, shows, musicals, cities, restaurants and cultures. Momar is presently the editor-in-chief of Asian Journal and is now based in Los Angeles, California.
.
My other friend is Mayette (the "M" in JANREM). We haven't talked in about seventeen years so I was really glad when she leave a note in my blog. She authors Everyday Ambiguities - a blog about anything and everything which showcases her literary prowess. She is now reviewing for the 2007 BAR, and I have no doubt that she will make it.
.
Hmmm. Time flies do fast. Blogging really makes the world smaller.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Caught Sleeping?

Nah! I am not sleeping on the job, I am just pondering on several choices that I have to make this coming days. Let me tell you a little habit of mine: I think better when its dark. So, most of the times, whenever I am confronted with having to choose, I close my eyes first and put my hands over them. Thus, I usually come-up with my decisions in the dark. Eerie? Hope not!!!
.
But what am I thinking? Well, basically I can not be in two places at the same time right? It just so happens that two forthcoming activities will happen at the same time.
.
BAGUIO OR BOHOL
August 28 to 31 - Should I go to the seminar of Barangay officials of Cabiao, Nueva Ecija for which I am the facilitator/lecturer; or August 29- September 1 - Should I instead attend the Seminar of DILG in Bohol for which I will just participate.
.
BAR OPS IN MANILA OR UNANG SIGAW NG NUEVA ECIJA
September 2 - Should I go to Taft to support my friends who will take the BAR or should I proceed instead to Palayan City to attend the mass and festivities of Nueva Ecija's Founding Anniversary.
.
And lastly, I have been spending so many sleepless nights over this career decision - SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?
.
The answers and choices I will make shall be posted soon.

Monday, August 20, 2007

Mine's View and Good Shepherd

In my nth trip to Baguio, I decided to drive and visit Mines View Park at 6 in the morning. As usual, it is foggy and raining and visibility is almost nil. At this time in the morning, i have learned that it is useless to go there because you will not be able to see Baguio's famous mines and landscapes. But nevertheless, it is still the perfect time to reflect and feel the breeze that Baguio mornings can offer.


Friday, August 10, 2007

Sea Weed Salad Break-Up

Me: Why do you have to order something we both don't eat?

Her: I dunno. Maybe I want to try something new.

Me: Well... Are you gonna eat it?

Her: If I do, will you try it also?

Me: Nah, I don't eat something I don't like.

Her: That's the problem with you, you are too safe.

Me: What? What the heck has food got to do with me being safe?

Her: I want change!!!

Me: Sure!!!

Monday, August 06, 2007

Same Time Last Year

Worried. Anxious. Stressed. Burdened. Nervous. Dreadful. Panicky. These are just few words describing how I felt, same time last year, with barely a month before the 2006 Bar Exams.
.
At the beginning of last year, I have set-up a time-table and schedule of all the topics that I have to read in preparation for the Bar. Each topic per Bar Subjects were carefully laid down to the effect that by August, I should have substantially read all the topics and that all I should have at my disposal were mere notes and nmeumonics.
.
However, attending review school and accumulating lots of review materials certainly changed my review pattern so much that by August, I still feel that I haven't read all the things that I was supposed to read and that what I have learned was still inadequate for me to face the Bar.
.
But hey, I made it. I passed the Bar. And I am blogging about the experience to share it with my friends who are in the very same situation as I was before.
.
I still firmly believe that you don't have to know every law of the land to pass the BAR. Although little knowledge is dangerous, what we have learned from four years of studying in law school and another six months of review is no little to me. Everything you need to know, you have already learned. It is now just a matter of applying what you know in a given Bar question.
.
Further, Bar answers are combinations of presentation, knowledge and logical sense. That is why you have to write legibly and neatly. A professor told me once that thru your handwriting, checkers of your examination papers can tell whether you exude confidence. So what I did in the Bar was even if I have no idea about the answers, I made intelligent guesses (if there is one) and just present my answers in the best presentation possible. (Except sa question sa political law asking who is the president of ICJ kasi blanko sagot ko don.)
.
At this point, last year, even if there are topics in my schedule that I have not read, I threw my schedule away and just be selective of the things I have at my disposal one month before the exams. The materials I have at this time consisted of Codals of All the Bar Subjects, Jurisprudence on recent cases I obtained from San Beda, Digests of Landmark Cases and U.P. Law Center's Bar Q & A.
.
So, to Aries, Tintin, Rico, Kaye, Zenia, Mhay and to all of my friends and other candidates who are going to take the Bar: Hang in there, I know you can make it. I will pray that God will give you good health and clarity of mind for this month and in the telling month of September.

Sunday, August 05, 2007

Upset

Just when you think that everything is all set-up, someone will mess it up. That's exactly what happened this week with my supposed seminar in Lupao. I have arranged everything as I always do (the venue, the kits, the speakers), then two days before the supposed seminar, the Accounting Chief and Staff of Lupao wanted to cancel. Because everything was already arranged, I reasoned to the best of my ability to push through with the seminar but to no avail.
.
Well, another lesson learned - some people just take their responsibilities lightly. A**holes.

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Pagkalaki-laking Bakya ng Gapan!

If someone will give you a slipper that is taller and wider than you? What would you do?

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Pampanga's Best Halo-Halo and Palabok

On our way home from Subic, we stopped by this little restaurant in Pampanga to have a snack. One way or the other, you must have heard of Razon's Halo-halo and Pancit Palabok. Mmmm. Yummy right?


.

We ordered their house special: Halo-Halo and Pancit Palabok and they certainly live to their billing as Pampanga's best.


Monday, July 16, 2007

Subic - Another Rainy Trip

Its another rainy trip to Subic. I think there was an announcement of a typhoon but it is too late to cancel on my appointment so, as an alod adage goes - "Rain or Shine, The Show Must Go On".
.
It never stopped raining on the three days I spent on Subic, so the planned strolling on the beach and getting a tan has to wait for another trip.
.
Here as some pics taken on my rainy Subic Trip:





Next Stop... Baguio (again...)