Mumblings of a Jaded Mind

Why G1BO? (a repost)

2010-05-06T02:58:00.000-07:00

A “Dark Horse” Emerges - The Non-Cliche Among The Stereotypes

In any race, everyone looks out for the proverbial ‘dark horse’ to emerge from the shadows and wrest victory from what one would assume to be the predictable winner of a predictable race.

The 2010 Presidential elections, prior to the death of Corazon Aquino was already in the bag. Villar was the strongest contender, with years of painstaking PR efforts to build a good reputation and positive image behind him. Mar Roxas (my personal choice) was highly unlikely to even make a dent, with the likes of Chiz Escudero also in the running.

The hullaballoo surrounding Gilbert Teodoro’s selection as the Lakas-Kampi-CMD standard bearer raised a lot of eyebrows. He was formerly with the NPC where he began his political career, and to date declines to comment about the reason behind his alleged ‘desertion’. He has, however, emphasized in interviews that it’s strictly a family affair. Governors mobilized to rally for his selection, while Lakas stalwart Bayani left the party in a huff for being ignored.

“Huh?!? Gilbert Teodoro? Sino yon?”

Just like a blind date gone wrong, Murphy’s Law intervened and made Gibo’s introduction to the presidential battle shaky. How? Ondoy and Maguindanao. Gibo was the Secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND) and concurrently the Chairperson of the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) before he resigned to run as President - long before the Supreme Court made any ruling on the matter, if I may add.

Stress Tests: Ondoy and Maguindanao Massacre

As NDCC Chair, everyone was furious with Gibo, whether it was his fault or not. My sister, Information and Networking Coordinator at the Asia Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) replied to my rants, putting to rest many of my own misconceptions about disaster preparedness and risk management.

One thing I noticed early on about Gibo that earned my grudging respect was that he never made excuses for whatever shortcomings he had in handling Ondoy. In our country where blame is the name of the game, Gibo never lashed back at his detractors in typical defensive fashion. He didn’t make excuses. He didn’t say “Boo hoo, look at me. It’s not my fault.” He quietly did his job. On the day Ondoy struck, he rode the MRT and swam in murky flood water just to get to his office (I guess siya ang literal na nakalangoy sa dagat ng basura) - he didn’t make a big show of it. In a later interview with Al Jazeera, Gibo did not let the reporter bully or provoke him about Ondoy, answering his questions fully and emphasizing that the country’s response to the disaster met international standards - including the UN. He handled the problem admirably, quietly and with grace.

The Maguindanao Massacre in late November should have been another crushing blow to the aspirant. “What did he do to stop the Ampatuans?” many have asked. Gibo answered this in ANC’s Tapatan - as DND, the Ampatuans did not receive more than they were allowed, and Gibo rendered a proper accounting of this, but he quietly added that the DND has no control over the ‘discretionary’ issuances of guns and ammunition to CVOs directly from the Office of the President.

It must be noted that it was Gibo who was the first to act decisively and demonstrate his outrage at what happened - he caused the expulsion of the Ampatuans from the party and he personally accompanied Mangudadatu to file his certificate of candidacy, together with his friend and former party President Sarangani Gov. Migs Dominguez. Gibo has earned the respect of Muslim groups, as articulated by Amina Rasul-Bernardo (director of the Philippine Council on Islam and Democracy) herself.

These two incredibly difficult situations would have easily broken a lesser candidate - add to that the ‘kiss of death’ of the current administration.

Whether you like Gibo or not, you would admire his extraordinary humility as a government official. Extraordinary because in our culture of blame and defensiveness, Gibo exemplifies what our public servants sorely lack - someone who will take the shit and still do his job, irrespective of praise. On a positive note, the Ondoy typhoon and Maguindao massacre became the ultimate stress tests and Gibo passed with flying colors.

Why I Am Not Voting for the Other Candidates

Moral Force and Integrity

Who has the monopoly of moral force and integrity, pray tell? Noynoy Aquino? Villar and his ads? We have other candidates running on integrity and the promise of a clean administration. We have Bro. Eddie - a religious leader, upstart JC De Los Reyes, we have Richard Gordon and we have Gibo. I’d count Jamby, too, if I were sure she was serious about running.

Because I am writing about Gibo, I will not go into the gory details of Hacienda Luisita or the C-5 controversy, and all the other sensationalized demolition jobs that have little relevance to my concerns as a voter.

Morality/integrity is not a birthright you can claim, it can’t be glossed over with ads and it’s easier said than lived.

Political Will

If anyone has the capacity and will to implement CARP with respect to Luisita, then Gibo would be in the best position. He has the strength and will to do it, he is in a unique position as well, being a Cojuangco. Just read up on Hacienda Luisita issues and watch videos to know more about it. He may be a Cojuangco, yes, but he’s on the other side of the fence, one that doesn’t depend on Luisita. Now, as to what he will do with his own uncle’s numerous legal battles as a former Marcos crony, well, he is bound by his duties as Danding’s former lawyer to act on it personally.

As for GMA and even his political opponents, Gibo has stressed many times that as President, he will not engage in the politics of vengeance and he will not interfere in any way (for or against) in the prosecution of PGMA, among others. In other words, he will not exacerbate any further the problems with an already politicized justice system. I infer that he will do his part in ensuring the independence and integrity of the courts as well, corollary to his commitment.

His swift and decisive action on the Maguindanao massacre when others dilly-dallied, as I have earlier stated, have earned him the respect of no less than the Muslim community. The fact that Mangudadatu himself has stayed with Gibo and Lakas-Kampi when the more logical choice would have been to move to LP is telling. Why is he staying? Because of PGMA, who is believed to have benefited from the Ampatuans’ ruthless rigging of the elections? Highly unlikely. On the other hand, Andal Ampatuan Jr. is courting the yellow and orange camps - he probably thinks it’s the “in” thing to do.

Track Record

Gibo is not running on “Galing at Talino” for nothing. He is a Bar topnotcher (number 1, in 1989), a NY Bar passer, a UP Law and Harvard Law School graduate, and a friggin’ pilot for crying out loud. He is the youngest DND secretary.

If we go by legislative accomplishments, Noynoy has passed zero bills while Gordon’s is the most impressive.

I have gone over Gibo’s legislative record. Many of the bills he filed are of local application - often related to building roads, schools and hospitals (in particular, he was actively pushing for the institutionalization of the teaching of forensic medicine, among others). His other bills are related to the administration of justice (establishing PAO as an independent and autonomous office, procedure for the removal of Sandiganbayan justices, etc.), human rights (prohibiting the public display of persons arrested, abolition of death penalty), and tax measures, among others.

I will not wax poetic about his legislative record and successfully enacted laws, lest I be accused of doing what NA’s PR spin team is doing to make mountains out of molehills. On this score, Richard Gordon’s achievements as Senator are far more impressive.

I will say, however, that if we were to analyze Gibo’s legislative record, then it’s clear that for his term as Congressman, he focused on the improvement of his district and his province, which is more than I can say for his cousin and fellow Tarlaqueno. I can also glean from the record that as President, he will start on the fundamentals of nation-building: education, infrastructure development, health and justice.

As DND Secretary, I will just refer you to this. Parenthetically, I will add that among PGMA’s much-maligned Cabinet, only he and Sec. Cabral are widely respected for their hard work and integrity by allies and opponents alike.

I have no reason to doubt Gibo’s intelligence and capacity to formulate and implement policies, and thus, I believe that while he may not have a particularly impressive legislative record out there, he has done good, solid work wherever he went.

Loved by his friends and allies, admired by his opponents

Who commands respect even from opposing camps and various personalities? Gibo. Anyone who has met him or worked with him speaks of him highly.

Jinggoy and Erap Estrada themselves told the public, if you don’t vote for Erap, vote for Gibo. Granted that it’s not exactly a shining endorsement coming from our deposed ex-President (and his son), but the fact that Estrada not only respects but admires Gibo is something.

Even Manny Villar’s wife, Rep. Cynthia Villar, sings Gibo’s praises. Outspoken PGMA critics respect and admire Gibo for his intellect, professionalism and integrity.

If we go by his untarnished record of public service, we can thank his father for setting a good example. We can also rely on Gibo’s word on this - he has not given us reason not to, in any case.

Why I Am Not Voting for Gordon

(Note that I will not even bother including Noynoy here because I don’t consider him qualified or competent for the post. As for Villar, he is a creation of his amazing ad agencies - but he is admittedly more competent than Noynoy, in my opinion. Still, among the candidates, the only other one I considered was Sen. Richard ‘Dick’ Gordon.)

As Francis Maynard S. Maleon put it, “In a better world, it would be Gibo v. Gordon,” and I wholeheartedly agree. If people were more discerning, it would be obvious from the beginning that only the two are legitimate options for our next President.

Both are competent and credible leaders. Gordon is truly formidable, with years of legislative and executive experience that he never fails to remind us about. He is also known for his integrity and independence.

It wasn’t easy choosing between Gibo and Gordon. Both have the potential to bring significant improvement to our country’s worsening political and economic situation.

After watching debates, reading interviews and articles, various authorities have pointed out that Gibo has a better grasp of issues. He is more specific about his platforms and agenda. In the Choices and Voices 2010 forum in Cebu, for example, Gibo impressed the audience with the depth of his knowledge about Cebu, down to the city’s infrastructure and his specific proposed solutions to problems and concerns raised by them. Gibo likewise displayed a commanding grasp of issues, even in the area of tourism, where presumably Gordon is more knowledgeable. (In saying this, I’m quoting the observers who attended the forum and said that Gordon gave more general answers compared to Gibo’s specific, credible ones) Gibo also won the mock polls in that forum.

Gordon’s attitude and abrasiveness - trivial as it may seem to others, has likewise put off other people. (His recent breakdown on national television doesn’t help, either) From personal experience, Taytay councilor and mayoral candidate Joey Calderon recounted to us during our relief mission his own Ondoy encounter with Gordon. He called Gordon for help, desperate because Brgy. Sta. Ana was not receiving much-needed aid for supplies and food because of the difficulty reaching the evacuation center (waist-deep in flood water). When he finally reached Gordon by phone, begging for help from the Red Cross, Gordon answered, “Wag kang makulit!” and hung up. Contrast this to Eastern Samar Gov. Evardone’s account of how Gibo left his father’s wake and personally delivered relief goods and medical supplies to his typhoon-ravaged province in 2008 when no one else wanted to go because travel there was dangerous. (I’ve read somewhere or watched in an interview that Gibo flew the plane himself, because the pilots didn’t want to since there was no adequate landing area for the plane)

Unlike Gordon, Gibo is dealing with the pressures of the campaign with remarkable cool - something I’d like to see in my future President when he takes on bigger problems. Gibo also has greater potential for pushing for national unity. He is the only one who has vowed not to engage in vengeance and retribution after he wins, and offers an olive branch to his political opponents.

I also believe that the two will work together well, should the other win, and their synergy will do wonders for our country. I believe that any Vice President under Gibo should expect fair treatment from him as well.

A Positive and Principled Campaign

One would expect that as PGMA’s anointed one (with kiss of death, too), Gibo would be spending most of his time thrashing it out with opponents who insult his intelligence and call him a puppet. Gibo, who is far more intelligent and educated than his opponents is being painted as a man without a mind of his own.

The easiest way out for him is to sever ties with PGMA - stand on the pulpit and call her names. Many people I’ve talked to have told me that his association with PGMA is the only reason they are not voting for him.

Of course, better than anyone else, Gibo would know the implications of joining the general ruckus. Being Anti-GMA would very likely win him a lot of votes whether he stays with the party or not. Being Anti-GMA would certainly save him the trouble of coming up with a platform of governance - all he has to do is to mouth anti-GMA, anti-corruption slogans and motherhood statements, and people will love him.

On the contrary, Gibo, by his own choice is forcing voters to stop and reassess the situation. Why would an otherwise good guy, the best man for the job, even, stick it out with the reviled administration? Why can’t he just do what is expected of him?

Gibo doesn’t shirk from the responsibility of being the guy who is being backed by the most unpopular President to date. He answers questions/allegations about his GMA connection without hesitation - even if people think his answers are unpopular. He avoids retaliating with mudslinging and demolition jobs even when many of these are directed at him.

His overall conduct of the campaign is a good indication of his moral bearings.

Gibo’s positive campaign draws on the force of the formidable party machinery but the truly amazing phenomenon people should be aware of is the massive and organized youth-led national volunteer movement that tirelessly campaigns for him.

Whether or not it was a sound idea, politically, for Gibo to resign as party chairman, his move certainly purged the party of opportunists and trapos (Chavit, Salceda, among others) who will stab him in the back anyway.

Palabra de honor (word of honor) and delicadeza are shockingly new words in our political vocabulary but Gibo and the public are holding fellow politicians accountable for their actions. Instead of saying - “It’s acceptable, it’s politics,” people have begun to question the motives behind defections, the principles (or lack thereof) of politicians seeking an easy and convenient win by jumping on the bandwagon.

Gibo is walking the talk, and at least he can proceed with the campaign without looking over his shoulder, waiting for the next betrayal. Meanwhile, these defectors have been welcomed with open arms by the other parties desperate for votes but political defection is not what it used to be - now you have to answer to the people.

More importantly, while media outfits trumpeted the collapse of the Lakas-Kampi merger, it was the overwhelming show of support of Green Team movements scattered all over the country that countered these highly sensationalized defections.These volunteers rallied behind Gibo and in a superior show of strength, demonstrated that Gibo is truly the people’s candidate.

Gibo leads by example; his volunteers are constrained to follow and resist mudslinging just to get ahead. In the Gibo Facebook fan pages, you will find volunteers gently reminding fellow volunteers not to wage word wars or say derogatory things about other candidates. Try to visit other fan pages/blogs/sites of other candidates and you will see the difference.

Gibo has never resorted to gimmickry to draw attention to himself. No celebrities, no patronizing ads or slogans to pander to the masses. He assumes that every Filipino is an intelligent voter who will vote according to reason, platforms and not propaganda. On his part, he is certainly doing his best to engage on issues, platforms and advocacies.Likewise, he does not complain if media reports are biased against him, if there are biased moderators in debates, if he is only given a short period of time to talk about his views and stance on issues. He doesn’t pretend, mince words or conceal his feelings about the likes of Nograles, and you can’t accuse him of being ‘plastic’ about it.

For volunteers, that means engaging other detractors/undecided voters/hardcore supporters from other camps in principled debate. Green Team volunteers can’t just come up to someone and say, “Vote for Gibo - basta, hindi siya magnanakaw.” No, volunteers have to be knowledgeable about our candidate - his platforms, agenda and positions on various issues. We have to follow his example and not resort to fighting, name calling or cheap, bandwagon methods just to get people to vote for our candidate.

It’s so easy to engage in negative campaigning, to dish out creative insults and to point fingers, say mean things to other supporters. What about your self-respect and how can you admire or believe in your candidate who does it himself?

A Presidential candidate who not only tolerates mudslinging but practices it is not worthy of respect. How will he even lead the country?

A candidate who respects himself also earns the respect and pride of his supporters. A candidate who keeps the campaign clean and principled is admired by allies and opponents alike. We Gibo supporters and believers wear that distinction like a medal, because no one else can claim that - and believe me, it’s harder to actually practice integrity than just talk about it.

Above all, we volunteers are spending out of our own pockets, contributing to the campaign creatively on a budget (wallpapers, stickers, etc.) - whether it’s transportation fare to regularly visit the Gibo HQ or a small-scale production of materials to distribute. Some use internet bandwith to constantly post about Gibo news and updates, others have devoted their blogs on cyberspace for Gibo. These are things being done by other supporters as well, but you will have to admire the sheer determination, the good vibe and the unity behind the Green Team movements.

Gibo’s supporters and volunteers are striving to make up for what dubious party loyalties cannot do for him. Of course, party machinery is important, but what truly moves the people is the outpouring of support and sacrifice, of volunteers mobilizing all over the country - winning over voters with their sheer earnestness and belief in Gibo and what he can bring to the country. All this is done by volunteers without asking for or receiving anything in return. Whether it’s the media or pollsters talking, greenies are recognized as an important factor in Gibo’s campaign. Greenies are walking credible advertisements for Gibo, more important and influential on people than the ads you see on TV.

He is firm on his commitment to a clean campaign, and he is even more firm about his commitment to forging national unity. I believe him.

The Future Beckons

… And it’s not a rosy one if we do not get our act together. But six years is enough for a good president to put us back on track. I will quote Gibo directly:

I believe the country, more important than needing a strong leader, needs strong leadership. This is the difference between what I perceive to be contemporary viewpoints, the failure to distinguish between the person and the institution. Oftentimes, strong leadership is built around an individual and stays that way, while I believe in creating lasting institutions with the clear position that my participation will be temporary.

A leader who is development oriented and who is humble enough (more importantly, not deluded at all) to center his administration around himself alone deserves my respect. He is thinking of the future, of setting the stage for us to work together to confront the problems confronting our nation.

I don’t want b.s. from my future President - he is not going to end poverty overnight. I just want him to roll up his sleeves and get to work. We Pinoys should follow his example, too, and make nation building our responsibility and not just our head of state.

I Think Therefore I Am For Gibo

Gibo never asks people to vote for him just because he says so. As I earlier stated, he doesn’t rely on other influential people (celebrities, actors, whoever) to sing his praises and use their clout and appeal for regular folks to vote for him.

He encourages every voter to be critical and informed about their candidates and should they find him the best one for the job, then he welcomes the support. Gibo’s ads have been branded as abstract and elitist (especially the sulong commercial) simply because there are no celebrities, no perpetually exploited images of poverty and despair or anti-corruption slogans (so popular in our jaded political landscape) and no unrealistic promises. Gibo is likewise out in the cold because he doesn’t want to the join the Star Wars like battle of good versus evil that simplistically defines the 2010 elections. Pragmatic voters who are polarized into batting for Noynoy and Villar only are weighing their options based on winnability.

Yet support grows for Gibo with each passing day. Don’t be fooled by the surveys. Don’t vote based on popularity alone, or misguided illusions. Ask why the media is intensely focused on reporting on black propaganda instead of educating and informing the public about issues the future President should be prepared to handle. Look for other sources of information and opinion - a little research goes a long way.

There are three things I never thought I would do for any Presidential candidate, I have done so far in my earnestness to persuade other people that Gibo is the best man for the job:

1. I finally decided to become a registered voter just so I could vote for him. I tried to register twice, and was successful on my second try last December. It dawned on me that I was actually doing something concrete and embarrassingly, long overdue. I was doing it for my candidate; I was doing it as a responsible citizen.
2. I am doing my part, no matter how small, to contribute to Gibo’s campaign.
3. I am actually going to pray (I don’t pray) as hard as I can for the success of Gibo’s presidential campaign.

In our popularity and personality-driven politics, it’s not “in” to be green. They have painted the battle as narrowed down to two candidates only - to the exclusion of a third candidate who has inspired many of us by his word and deed.

We see through the smoke and mirrors and we are not deceived.

Don’t be fooled, a silent majority is supporting Gibo.

Like Gibo, even in the face of serious doubts about the capacity of Filipinos to vote based on platform and not popularity, to be rational instead of emotional, to vote based on conscience and not convenience - I know that Filipinos will make the right choice.

*Disclaimer* this post was taken from : http://enuhski.tumblr.com/post/547517406/gilbert-teodoro-is-my-president

2010-01-09T03:29:00.000-08:00

[A REPOST]

10 Things to Think About:
1. What if Noynoy was not the son of Ninoy and Cory?

2. What if Kris Aquino is not an actress?

3. The role of Congress is to legislate laws. If you're part of it but wasn't able to legislate any law, what do you call yourself?

4. (on number three) Trying maybe good. Trying to pass the reproductive Health Bill is good? (It is important to note that whereas the general tone of the bill appears to be positive and health promoting in style, upon closer scrutiny it contains deeply tricky principles, impositions and subtexts).

5. If character, competence, etc. are inherited, why do great people have prodigal sons?

6. 'Sa Ngalan ng Tubo'? (film on Hacienda Luisita) is a good film.

7. Why did Erap win? He was popular. He was not corrupt. He was service-oriented. (Until he became President) Noynoy is? Popular. Not corrupt. But not service-oriented. (What if he becomes President). <<
8. Let's talk about platform. (Someone answers: What platform? Let's talk about our parents)

9. Why not really think about these?

10. Truth hurts doesn't it? Why not share these.

Some points I want to add:Nung kay GMA din naman di ba, all in good faith, thinking because she's a woman with conscience, we put her (thrice) on the highest seat in the government. Yet, we were disappointed. Who says it is not impossible for Noynoy to become one in the future either? Besides, why don't you take a look at their lifestyle, especially his celebrity sister? What more if her brother was put in the position, wouldn't you think they'd become power-grabbers too?

And yes, I'd like to agree with No. 8, he doesn't have a clear platform at all. I heard when he visitied Archibishop Aniceto of Pampanga, Noynoy was asked of his platform and he couldn't even give one! I bet Mar Roxas is laughing his ass out in his bubble thought how vagabond his partner is. Clearly, Noynoy is just a victim of unprecedented, aimless euphoria of the yellow movement. As for No. 2, it indeed just happened that Kris Aquino was an actress, that she's already putting to good use to manipulate the minds of celebrities alike who clearly cannot say NO to her.
Villar, too. Did you know that he had already spent more money for his campaign ads than the whole McDonald's-Philippines ever did for their own? There goes the C-5.

Disclaimer: This Article wasn't written by me personally, but i kinda agree on the points raised here. We Filipinos are known for SYMPATHY voting, this shouldn't be the case for 2010... Noynoy is nothing more than Cory and Ninoy's son... But as a leader, he is weak.

Source: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/photo.php?pid=227239&id=100000008541765

Something About Marriage

2009-12-15T22:20:00.000-08:00

I found this old email while browsing through my files...

And I thought I might want to share this with everyone ^_^

A wife emails tech support for marriage counseling. An interesting conversation takes place.

Dear Tech Support,

Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed that the new program began making unexpected changes to the accounting modules, limiting access to flower and jewelry applications that had operated flawlessly under Boyfriend 5.0. In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs, such as Romance 9.9 but installed undesirable programs such as PBA 5.0, NBA 3.0 and Playstation 7.2. Conversation 8.0 no longer runs and HouseCleaning 2.6 simply crashes the system. I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no avail.

Signed:
Desperate Wife

- - - - -Reply Separator- - - - -

Dear Desperate Wife,

Keep in mind, Boyfriend 5.0 is an entertainment package, while Husband 1.0 is an operating system. Try to enter the command: C:/I THOUGHT YOU LOVED ME and install Tears 6.2. Husband 1.0 should then automatically run the applications Guilty 3.0 and Flowers 7.0. But remember, overuse can cause damage, with Husband 1.0 defaulting to GrumpySilence 2.5, Happyhour 7.0 or Beer 6.1. Beer 6.1 is a very bad program that will create "Snoring Loudly" wave files. Be especially cautious about the "HotChik virus" programmed to corrupt Husband 1.0 utterly (as well as all future Husband upgrades). DO NOT install MotherInLaw 1.0 or reinstall another Boyfriend program. These are not supported applications and will crash Husband 1.0. In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have limited memory and cannot learn new applications quickly. Consider buying additional software to improve performance. I personally recommend HotFood 3.0, Lingerie 5.3 and Keep-a-nice-body 10.1.

Good Luck,
Tech Support

In some hilarious way, it addresses the issues most newly weds have. Am not planning to get married anytime soon, but this one gives me an insight of prolly what'll be like.

Of Clans and IMBA items... (just my thoughts)

2009-09-02T01:18:00.000-07:00

On the natural order of things, Clans rise and inevitably fall… If it’s their time, just let them be… After all, all Games isn’t just about Wars… there’s a lot of other things to do aside from that.

But the more important question is, during their time, what have they contributed to the game? Or are they the one to further funnel the source of dissatisfaction among the players?

Throwing out accusations without any solid evidence (despite the overwhelming suggestiveness of the situation) might just be discarded as plain bitterness and bickering. Albeit we see some things happen that is hard to explain, isn’t it always best to probe first and ask before assuming things?

Problem is, people are being labeled before they are even judged. It doesn’t really matter how clean one does things, when he’s already labeled a cheater, he will always be a cheater in the eyes of everyone. Sad, but true… People have this notion to label and group things around them, and their opinion about them, is determined by the which group they belonged to.

Doesn’t really matter how one’s Items are acquired, albeit legally or illegally, but what matters is at the end of the day, how we feel about ourselves. Am I feeling this way because I think there is injustice happening or am I doing this because I am envious of the things that they have?

Fact is, Life is really never fair, and even Online games are no exception. Imbalance will always exist, because some people have more resources at their disposal. And most of the time, game handlers never really cared as long as the game brings in profit. Just like in any other business, it’s all about the money.

What we can do is work on what we have, although it’s disappointing sometimes that we toil and labor hunting materials for our equipments, while others get theirs in a snap of a finger. When these moments pass us, what we can always look at, is our reason for playing. Surely, everyone has different reasons, why they still stay despite of it all. I mean, one can just easily give up everything and walk away when we had enough, but why are we still here? Is it because we’ve already invested so much in the game? Or is it because our friends are still here? Or is it because we still hope that the game will eventually be better? Whatever your reason is, its only for you to know, after all, each game is meant to be enjoyed, and not to further stress us out…

For me, the Pride that comes from Integrity is something more fulfilling from the one that comes from being powerful, wealthy and strong. Godly equipments have their price tags, but the Respect you earn from other players is priceless.

The Science of Sex Appeal

2009-08-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

I was glued to the television last night (thanks to the crappy internet connection) because of this 2 hour special from the discovery channel - The Science of Sex Appeal. Briefly, Science says we are predisposed chemically away from long-term monogamy and pair bonding, but we can choose to use the tremendous power of our gigantic human brains to maintain our relationships.

To sum it up, the sexual attraction game consists of three parts: choosing a partner, keeping a partner, and building a nest together to raise children. The show talks about determining the most appealing body shape in the eyes of the opposite sex, to the effect of a person’s voice, what makes us fall in love, and eventually what keeps humans in love. Essentially, it all boils down to finding someone to mate with. When men was asked about their preferred body type, the researchers found that the ratio of 7 (waist) to 10 (hips) as the most preferred because it was the healthiest for carrying children. They let women smell men’s sweat at different periods in their cycle to show that women were most attracted to masculine males when they are ovulating, and the feminine looking ones when they're not. They also discussed dopamine, the drug released when we are in love, is what keeps us connected to our significant other.

Women tend to choose partners based on status or resources as a priority as illustrated by the research study. Groups of women, selected at random, were shown photos of similarly dressed men of equal attractiveness. Following a baseline numerical rating of attractiveness, later groups were shown the same pictures, but with an indication of social and economic status — five- or six-figure incomes. The attractiveness ratings rose or fell significantly in direct correlation to perceived income level.

The science of partner selection continues with human odor as a factor, which affects us on a subconscious level. It showed that couples can discern the special smell of their partners. "Eau de man" as what they call it, is a unique smell of every man. The effect of human odor cannot be controlled since no two people smell the same or have the same ‘HMC’, as it is called. There is an optimum match for HMC.

Women are generally repelled by men’s scent (except when they are within a day or two of ovulation); but men, when exposed to vaginal secretions, are consistently attracted. In experiments where men inhale low doses of artificial copulants, the attractiveness rating of women shown in pictures is higher. These copulants impair men’s ability to discriminate whether a woman is attractive or not. The scent prevents them from thinking clearly. The segment concluded that Odor helps us steer clear of relatives, and plays the evolutionary role of "incest avoidance".

Question is, with chemistry-inspired flirting, lust, and love all continuously active below our level of consciousness, can we maintain attraction to one partner? Attraction has many stages, beginning with a single biochemical jolt resulting in a change reaction. Anecdotal reports indicate the ‘first kiss’ is highly memorable in the attraction that builds (or fails to build). The abundant testosterone in saliva increases the sex drive.

Even more sex appeal chemistry influences occur through the dopamine triggered in our brains. Dopamine is the brain’s pleasure chemical that produces a high that can be addictive, energy producing, and exhilarating. Biochemistry shows the link between dopamine and testosterone with exhilaration and lust. But dopamine is not uniquely linked to sex appeal. The thrill of sports, bungee jumping for instance, can produce a dopamine rush. What about love?

Researchers set out to find the ‘brain in love’ through MRI scans of people viewing photos of a significant other and strangers. And they did. Brain activity rose and fell according to the attachment. But science confirms that it is having sex (not being in love) that makes us want more sex. We can be in love, and never have sex. Professionally, I understand that loving a spouse (partner) does not (necessarily) include sexual attraction or the desire to engage in sex.

According to Science of Sex Appeal, chemistry brings us together and drives us apart. We are biologically programmed to mate for life and most religions and cultures urge us to do so. Still, there are two primary paths of choice — stay together or have an unrestricted strategy and remain noncommittal. Newer research shows that women also seek sexual variety similarly to how we have stereotyped men as wanting to play the field.

Many of our unconscious preferences and behaviors are conditioned by our chemistry. Studies report that women find slightly feminized pictures of the same man more attractive when they are not ovulating. Married women are biologically driven to promiscuous behavior as reported by an experiment based on digital movies of the female participants dancing during a "girls’ night out." The women with long term partners and on their fertility cycles were the most provocative. This was concluded from movement and appearance analyzed through pixels and an estimated percentage of skin showing. These committed women sent out more sexual signals than the available ones. In contrast, other research pinpoints the role of the chemical oxcytocin in monogamy for women.

The science on sexual attraction claims that evolution prepares us to stay together just long enough to raise children. One study across 58 societies demonstrated a dual reproductive system going from pair bonding to straying at about the four-year mark in a relationship. The study conclusion: we are fundamentally built to stray. Does this mean that our exhilarating experience of early love is destined to be undermined by our inherent biology? Will we always fail at long-term love?

Science claims that the chemistry of passion, lust, and love bind us together for a limited period of time. Haven't most of us figured that out at a personal level? My observation is we already know we need to build for the future before the reality storm hits. Yet many of us neglect our marriages and relationships anyway. Over focus on careers or children, and overindulging in our selfish habits through individual use of time frequently lead to rampant neglect of our partners. Science help us?

The science here reminds me of the Three Little Pigs story. Early love and lust are like building a grass hut on a romantic island. Eventually, the wolf-like hurricanes of time and routine daily living blow it to smithereens. And even if we upgrade to sticks, we still gotta invest in mortar and bricks. What are the bricks and mortar of satisfying long-term pair bonding? How do we build a cooperative and monogamous alliance that lasts a lifetime?

Science of Sex Appeal suggests that our spirituality, life memories, and our children can become the building bricks for lifetime commitment. (I add that friendly roommate-like compatibility and economic convenience or necessity are common factors that prevent break-ups, while not necessarily firming up commitment.) But those commitments can remain shaky or shallow alliances without the intense love mortar. In this documentary, it is proposed that if you want to love longer than 10 years, you must build a mental chemistry of love.

There is scientific proof that we can remain in love with sustained intense romantic love that is stronger, deeper, and more complex than the explosion of early love. Studies of the MRI activity of a male subject in an intense, 24-year marital relationship showed that the ventral tegmental area of his brain still lights up. This brain region is active in early love. How do we utilize our brains to keep that region blazing with light?

Often, one partner may describe feelings of loving the other without being "in love." These conflicting emotions often signal doubts of whether their marriage or union should continue. How can they handle that? Of course, they may just stumble along without taking action, but they can also choose to break up the relationship or go to a counselor to build solutions.

Science teaches (as do therapists) that any novelty increases the dopamine level in our brains. We can constantly refuel with that wonderful pleasure chemical by bringing new challenges and experiences into our relationships. While this would seem to be a no-brainer, in my work, I see that many relationships suffer from neglect by failing to make that effort. People walk away from relationships or settle instead.

We are not at the mercy of our hormone clusters ebbing and flowing. The chemistry of sexual attraction may be beyond our control; however, the way we act in response is totally our choice. We have huge brains giving us the ability and opportunity to make deliberate decisions with our lives. Science informs that we can use our conscious minds to sustain our relationships. When we decide to do that, we can make everything else fall into place for us and value our families of creation.

The Science of Sex Appeal concluded with the optimistic promise that sexual attraction and chemistry do not dictate our actions or partner choices. Our brains give us the option to choose how to live our lives.

Consider how carefully crafted food marketing triggers our desire to eat. We can pass on eating. We have the ability to edit our food choices to create healthy bodies and, if needed, consult a nutritionist. And despite the science of the chemical triggers of sex appeal, we are capable of choices, which honor and create healthy emotional relationships. Exit the role of physical science and enter self-help, relationship coaching, and professional counseling. We can put our brains to work building our understanding and skills to achieve satisfying marriages and other types of long-term pair bonds.

For More Information you can visit
Discovery Channel
Source

Farewell Tita Cory

2009-08-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

I was born a year after she became President of the Philippines. I never got to know her better until sometime in College when we studied Philippine History.

For most of the Filipinos who witnessed the EDSA Revolution in 1986, she was a shining beacon of hope, who, alongside many others, mustered the courage to fight and end decades of oppressive rule.

She made history, leading a peaceful revolution that influence a lot of other countries, being the first woman President in Asia, and most importantly, by being an example of a leader who never succumb to the temptations brought about by power.

A lot has been said about her, unending praises about her leadership, strength, unwavering faith and love of her countrymen. It's really a shame for me that I had known so little about her, someone who made big sacrifices, to steer us to where we are now. Reading articles on the web, hearing her speeches on youtube, makes me want to wish that we'd see another great leader like her.

She was so many things to so many people, but as my mom would put it, President Cory will forever be remembered as someone who "made us feel proud once again to be a Filipino".

Farewell Tita Cory, may your legacy live on forever.

A Sweet Birthday Surprise

2009-07-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

People do crazy things when they're in love... I couldn't agree more. Until now, I still can't believe Louie dragged us all into making this stuff for Ryce's birthday. Some may find it cheesy, but nevertheless, it's still the effort that counts. He has to go through everyone she holds dear, including family members he has never met before, as well as talking to her high school friends, and of course, sweet talking me, kimmy and mabelle to accompany him take pictures of the places they often hang out, and those memorable to both of them. Thanks for the Seoul Treat by the way. Yum!!

It's been more than 3 years since these two got together, and now, their relationship is put to test by distance. She's in New York, and he will be in the UK 2 months from now. It's hard just with the US - Philippines thing, and would double once he flies to UK. I just wish the best for them both as they work on their long distance relationship. Personally, I am not in favor of long distance relationships, for a lot of reasons (including a failed one haha) but I can see how these guys are trying to make things work for them, making the ends meet. Really, nothing is impossible for two people who shares a strong bond, something more than what love can do.

Anyway, here's the video Louie made for Ryce's birthday. Hope you guys enjoy...

Her birthday was July 9th, haha sorry for the late post... Although the video made it in time before her birthday.

My New Baby (Canon 400D)

2009-07-02T22:43:00.000-07:00

Well, technically not that new, since I bought it second hand. Nevertheless, its something I wanted for a very long time. Ever since I was a kid I always have this fancy for taking photographs, although most of the time I prefer to be the one taking them than the one in them.

So, I must admit am still a noob at these things (well, photography lessons might be my next target) but nevertheless, what's more fun with having a new baby than sharing it with friends, who are more than willing to tag along for my test drive.

Here are some shots I took. They look better when on full size. Enjoy...

Louie

Belle and Kimmy

Be posting some other pics later, but now gotta run since am late for my class hahaha...

The Last Airbender - Avatar's Movie Adaptation (Trailer)

2009-06-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

I bet almost everyone is familiar with the Avatar: The Last Airbender cartoon series aired over Nickelodeon. A friend of mine let me borrow his dvd copy of the first book Water, and from then on, I got hooked. The series was a success, and as expected, a movie adaptation was announced.

It came as a surprise to me when it was announced that M. Night Shyamalan would be the director for the movie. I dunno but it gives me the feeling that he won't give justice to the movie, well putting a guy known for weird twisted endings to direct a movie adaptation of a popular cartoon series, isn't something really sensible. I just hope he doesn't disappoint this time.

Aside from that, there was some controversy over the cast. There was even a campaign to boycott the movie since they see it as a miscast and racial discrimination to some extent (all the heroes are white and villains Asian and other cultural minority in the US). I had my share of doubts as well with the cast, specially I think that it should remain faithful to the core material. The fire nation people are all white skinned, while the Earth and water kingdom are mostly dark skinned folks. On the movie adaptation, Zuko is Dark skinned (WTF), while Katara and Sokka were white...

I'm not a racist its just that for a series fan like me, I think it's annoying that the characters doesn't match, why change the race of the heroes? Somehow, for me it affects the integrity of the characters. Looking through the series, one would notice that the cultural basis for Avatar: The Last Airbender are mostly Asian, with a mix of ancient cultures such as Aztec and Mayan. I'm just really not satisfied with the way the casting was handled.

Another indication that it doesn't remain loyal to the core material are the lines I heard from the trailer stating that "Aang is all that remains of a once powerful nation". If M. Night Shyamalan watched the cartoon as he claimed he has, then he would know that Aang is an AIR NOMAD, which doesn't really have a FORMAL nation. They are free from borders and emphasize on freedom of the body and the spirit. Air nomads focus on PEACE and they are not show offs. Furthermore, they don't have their own territories aside from four Air Temples in each direction of the compass where these Air Benders train.

Here's the movie Teaser:

*Sigh* I don't know, but something tells me, that this might end up as a total disaster, something similar to what happened to the Dragonball Z franchise...

I just hope am wrong...

The Frog Princess, Walt Disney's First Black Princess

2009-06-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

Walt Disney Co. has started a production for an animated Musical fairy Tale entitled "The Princess and the Frog", based on the book The Frog Princess by E.D. Baker. This features Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana, supported by an impressive ensemble of cast including Oprah Winfrey as the voice of Eudora, Princess Tiana's mother.

The film is set to be released December 11, 2009. This is Disney's first hand-drawn film after pledging to return to the traditional animation, of which, made it a worldwide brand.

First titled as “The Frog Princess,” The Princess and the Frog, a musical scored by composer Randy Newman, is “an American fairy tale” starring a girl named Tiana who lives in the French Quarter in New Orleans, said John Lasseter, chief creative director for Disney and Pixar Animation Studios. A prince named Naveen from the land of Maldonia is transformed into a frog by the evil scheming voodoo magician Dr. Facilier. The frog prince asks a princess named Tiana to break the spell by kissing him. However, the kiss doesn't break the spell, but instead turns Tiana into a frog as well. Together, the two of them must reach the good voodoo priestess of the Bayou, Mama Odie, while befriending a trumpet-playing alligator and a hopelessly romantic firefly along the way.

“The film’s New Orleans setting and strong princess character give the film lots of excitement and texture,” Walt Disney Studios says.

A press release describes the story as follows:

"When the free-spirited, jazz-loving Prince Naveen of Maldonia comes to town a deal with a shady voodoo doctor goes bad and the once suave royal is turned into a frog. In a desperate attempt to be human again, a favor in exchange for a fateful kiss on the lips from the beautiful girl, Tiana, takes an unexpected turn and leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana to the banks of the almighty Mississippi and back in time for Mardi Gras in New Orleans. An unforgettable tale filled with music, humor and heart where two frogs—along with the help of a 200-year-old voodoo priestess, a love-sick Cajun firefly, and a trumpet-playing alligator—discover that what they want isn’t as important as what they need."

Here's the official trailer of the movie

Well, I think having a black princess would raise the eyebrows of some folks, but lets face it, we are in a generation where race should no longer be an issue. And its about time that Disney produces another movie worth lining up with the classics.

Zhu Xian PH 6 Months after OB

2009-06-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Zhu Xian Online Philippines started its Open beta around December of 2008, and had its commercial launch March 2009. Since then, the game progressed rather really slow. The pet system was missing, the level cap froze to 90, updates were only limited to mounts, fashion, in game items, needless to say, the game reached a stalemate... We saw people leaving the game for other titles, since they didn't have anything to do in Zhu Xian...

Finally after 4 months of waiting, the cap has been lifted straight to 150. A refresher, and a much awaited news to all that has been faithfully playing. But then, is it already too late for this?

If you would ask me, it takes more than a major update to bring the players back, and encourage the new ones. Yes, Zhu Xian's Community Manager and Game masters are competent, but they are just the half of the deal. I think we have to get the whole community involved. The zest and drive to make ZX among the top MMO's in the country should emanate and be passed from the Game's Management to the players and the community. Make everyone feel involved... I hope they could come up with programs and incentives that would help bring "numbers" (increase the game's population) at the same time motivate other players to help recruit their friends to the game.

Zhu Xian needs aggressive marketing, as one might have noticed, most of the players are home based. We seldom see internet cafes / shops offering the game, why is this so? I guess it's something that they should look at and address.

I might sound too idealistic, but I just don't want to see the game go down the same path as Supreme Destiny did...

I know that updates are mandated by China, but it also helps if we don't keep players in the dark of what is actually happening. A common trend nowadays, is that players have little patience for updates, and given several titles to choose from, they can easily jump from game to game. This game is pretty young and really offers something more than the usual hack and slash type MMOs, and I do think it can still attract and retain players given the proper marketing.

Roles, Stereotypes...

2009-06-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

The eternal ate, the life of the party, the Nerd, the Geek, the high school jock, the Leader of The Pack, the Bully, the football star, the cheerleader, the class clown, the mascot, the rebel, black sheep of the family, the "crush ng bayan", the boy/girl next door, are just some of the labels we often hear and associate to everyday...

Just like any other Cosplayer, most of us assumes a role to play in our daily life. We might or might not be aware of it, but it would often dictates everything, from the way we speak, act, our clothes, preferences, and others... It becomes a sub conscious effort to "fit in" to whatever that role is. And like dressing up for a cosplay, that tries as much as possible to really look like the character one is potraying, we often find ourselves trying so hard to be exactly as what we tagged ourselves into, and that a little deviation is unacceptable.

People have this innate nature of wanting to belong... More often that not, we immediately associate ourselves to groups surrounding us, and by doing so, accepting and assuming a typical role to play, which leads to stereotyping ourselves for that role.

Most of the time, we are stuck with the role that everyone expects us to play, that we lost our real selves in the process. We do everything just because it fits the description of who we're supposed to be, and by doing so, feeling good about ourselves as well. And if anyone wants to take that entitlement / role away from us, they are faced with a harsh resistance and hostility...

We try to break away from that label people placed on us, and we are faced with fear of becoming an outcast, ending up alone - A jock can't be a Geek... do they really think so?

People stereotype for various reasons, one of which is that other people are too complex to understand from one's own perspective. Even though it is inaccurate, it's efficient because it enables us to simplify, predict and organize our little world. Problem is, once we have sorted and organized everyone into categories, we try to stick to that and avoid processing new or unexpected information. We then immediately assume a person's behavior based on the categories/groups we put them into, by doing so, it saves time and satisfies the need to predict the social world.

People also put themselves into stereotypes / roles because of the need to feel good about themselves... It protects one from anxiety and enhances self-esteem, providing one a sense of worth. We tend to be happy when someone gives us a pat in a back for fulfilling the role everyone expects us to play, and unknowingly punish ourselves whenever we fail to conform to the role we are supposed to be in. Once a stereotype is learned, it often becomes self-perpetuating.

Often, stereotyping goes hand in hand with prejudicial thinking. I too, am guilty of judging someone and categorizing them, before I even got to know them better. Something I am still learning to overcome.

All I am saying is that, it's pretty normal for us to try and want to fit in, but we should not limit ourselves to whatever the role people expects us to play. Life is a never ending journey of discoveries, and that includes learning more about ourselves, and not just be confined to whatever everyone thinks you should be. Don't be afraid that people might not like you anymore just because you try to deviate from what is expected, what the hell do they care anyway, its our life, and we should live it the way we want to, not the way "they" expect us to.

And yes, a geek can also be a jock and a circus freak... It's all about perspective and being open to possibilities... After all, stereotyping, itself, is a never ending chain of thoughts.

*This post was inspired by a friend

Archie to Marry Veronica?

2009-05-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

After 67 years, Archie has finally decided to settle down with no other than Veronica Lodge.

I have been an avid reader of the Archie Comics since I was a little kid. And who would've forget the longest running love triangle in the comic book history - Betty, Archie and Veronica. There are moments when I'd settle for Betty, but for the most part, I just kinda love Veronica. I don't know why, but for me she seems to be the type that's fit for Archie.

After reading the news, I went to my old trove of treasures and started going through the pages of Archie Comics again, reliving the adventures at Riverdale High till College... Boy, a trip down memory lane, and I realized it was fun reading those Archie comics once again. Twas fun to see the `ol brat Reggie, the geeky Dilton, the gluttonous Jughead, dorky Ethel, the faculties - Mr. Weatherbee, Ms. Grundy, Ms.Beazly... and a lot more. They made me laugh again like the first time I've read the comics.

I'm sure the news of Archie getting married to Ronnie drew mixed reactions, specially from the Betty-Archie fans, who probably has been outraged by the fact that the charming girl next door Betty has been ditched for the vixen and spoiled Ronnie.

Interestingly, relationships expert Marion Goertz says that our own choice for Archie's life's partner, more than we realize, says something about our character.

“People who vote for Veronica-Archie are the idealists, the people who say, ‘I'm voting for the glitz, the glamour, the high energy, the sexiness, the ideal [and] they might not even care so much that it'll only last five years,'” says the Toronto-based registered family, marriage and sex therapist.

Those who yearn to see Archie and Betty get hitched take a more realistic, traditional view, she says. They're more grounded, are thinking long term and have more of a sense of “for always and forever.”

The way the girlfriends each relate to Archie sheds a lot of light on their character. Betty allows Archie to push her aside, a sign she'd make a submissive wife, Ms. Goertz says.

“Veronica just kind of takes what she takes and doesn't give a whole lot in return, but there's a sense that she's the prize, the unattainable, the hard to reach. Archie's quite flattered by that."

Well, whatever the case maybe, I'm just happy that Archie ends up with Ronnie. But who knows, the publishers might offer another twist just like the last time (Remember Cheryl Blossom?)

Letting Go - an advice to a Friend...

2009-04-26T19:00:00.001-07:00

Falling in love for many people is a walk in the park. For many others, however, venturing into a relationship is like going to a battle. A relationship is put to test when one's true color comes into the picture, thereby tainting a rather happy frame of romance with hues of disdain and discomfort.

It is always good to salvage a relationship from the brink of extinction. When reality, however, dictates that no matter how much you wade in the waters of hope, you will imminently lose your her, you're left with two options "swim back to the shore or drown in misery". Those who choose to sink in grief are dead by now or boobbing up and down in the water of uncertainties. Those who choose to coast until they reach the shore are anchored on finding hope, finding life and finding love again.

The art of letting go is mathematically proportional to the art of self-preservation. Like all ethics and etiquettes, letting go and preserving one-self are crafts that can be mustered and mastered by people who want to get out of the crude and vicious cycle. These skills are summation of one's conscious conviction - albeit peppered and punctured with nerve wracking and heartwrenching feelings - to be happy and complete in one's silence and solitude.

Love makes the world go round, sure. I say, however, that loving yourself more by letting go of someone who loves you less (or doesn't love you at all) makes you a better person.

In the department of romance, many fall prey in their own emotional trap. They almost always blame themselves for the collapse of the relationship. You hear them say: "Probably i am not good enough", or "it is because i dont look good anymore". These are incantations of individuals who are emotionally battered; those who do not love themselves. Many times, they will fight tooth and nail just to win back a no-win situation. They become destructive of themselves, defeating the very essence of life, survival.

What they refuse to recognize is that many suffer from a broken heart because they don't want to move on. Why hold on to your love for someone who, come hell or high water, would not love you or will not fulfill her end of the bargain of loving you back. Why do you have to stick it out with someone who will choose either the devil or the deep blue sea but you. If someone you love has clearly pointed out that you're no more than friends, please be brave enough to win this defeating situation or you will die brokenhearted.

Letting go starts from the ultimate conviction that you love yourself more and you believe you dont deserve to be hurt. Happiness is a responsibility. We have options in life, and yes, the ultimate option is to remove that happiness from within us. When you finally discover that happiness is an inside job, then you will appreciate that there are more people who are worth loving and caring for.

Get up! So what if the person of your dreams doesn't love you? Life does not stop there.

Redeem yourself by letting go.

Camiguin Island Tour

2009-04-24T14:31:00.001-07:00

Here's a brief history of Camiguin.

The name Camiguin is derived from the native word "Kamagong," a tree of the Ebony family that thrives near Lake Mainit in the Province of Surigao del Norte. The original inhabitants of Camiguin were "Manobos" who migrated from Surigao. Thge old native language in Camiguin is called "Kinamiguin," which is similar to the dialect spoken in Surigao. Camiguin was part of the province of Misamis Oriental from 1946 to 1958. It became a sub-province in 1958 and finally in 1968, a full-pledged province with Mambajao as its provincial capital.

Camiguin is an island which has so many tourist attractions ranging from natural, historic and scientific to religious which are only minutes from each other. In the island you will find hot and cold springs, waterfalls, white sandy beaches, lagoons, white islets, breathtaking rain forests, a walkway to the top of an old volcano, ruins of an ancient church, coral reefs and many other interesting sights and landmarks.

Here are some of the places the guide was able to take us.

Katibawasan Falls
Five kilometers southeast of Mambajao at the foot of Mt. Timpoong. Waterfalls which measure about 250 feet high cascades to a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Ice cold water provides an ideal summer splash to bathers and picnickers. The falls tumble down into a green pool, ideal for a refreshing swim. Giant ferns decorate the surrounding land, carpeting for space with huge trees and dropping vines. It is an ideal place to cool off during hot and humid days. Katibawasan Falls is one of the treasured gifts nature has bestowed on the island of Camiguin.

Ardent Hot Springs
The resort is located six kilometers southwest of Mambajao in Esperanza, Tagdo, Mambajao and is the most popular of Camiguin's hot springs. The hot spa at the resort is a natural pool of about 40 deg C coming from the bowels of Mt. Hibok-Hibok. It has a four-tiered pool of varying depths and warmth. the hottest and shallowest is on top. There are cottages, a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and dormitory facilities provided for local and foreign tourists. The ideal time for swimming is early morning or late afternoon. Because of the hot temperature of its pools, the suggested length of bathing should not be more than 20 minutes. Dipping in its hot water is a best treatment for any therapeutic ailment since it contains sulphur, which is said to be a medicinal element that may cure some illnesses. Picnic huts, cook-out facilities and restrooms have been put up to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. The resort, with its lush vegetation, offers the serenity and restfulness of quiet and peaceful surroundings.

Sunken Cemetery

Lying 20 feet underwater in Barrio Bonbon, Catarman lies the sunken cemetery, the remains of a volcanic eruption. Coral encrusted tombstones can still be explored by snorkellers and scuba divers. A huge cross was installed in 1982 to mark the community cemetery which sunk during the 1871 volcanic eruption. The first major Spanish settlement established in 1679 was called Katagman or Katadman (now known as Catarman). This settlement grew and prospered to what is now Barangay Bonbon. On May 1, 1871, Mt. Vulcan Daan erupted and destroyed the town. A portion of the town sank beneath the sea. After the eruption, the settlement moved to where the Catarman town center is presently located. Today, all the remains of old Catarman are the ruins of the ancient Spanish church, a convent, a bell tower and the sunken cemetery.

Via Cruzes - Old Volcano Slope

It is where life-size statues depicting the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ - the 15 Stations of the Cross that dot a trail to Old Volcano's peak are found. At the last station is a sepulcher carefully carved and chiseled out of volcanic rocks. The pilgrims congregate here to pray during Lenten Season.

Sto. Nino Cold Spring

Four kilometers north uphill of Catarman proper with a pool measuring 25 m by 40 m and 1/2 meter deep of cold spring water sprouting from its sandy bottom. The area has stores, picnic huts, cook-out facilities and restrooms for picnickers. The water flows into smaller pools built for children who could not swim in the bigger eight-foot deep lagoon.

We were not able to visit the other spots since we are running out of time (Paras Super Cat Leaves Camiguin at 3:30PM) not to mention our vehicle had a flat tire...

We arrived at cagayan de Oro around 6PM, tired, but satisfied...

Camiguin Trip - Day 1

2009-04-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

After the rafting, now comes Camiguin. To give everyone a background, there are three ports operating in the province of Camiguin. The main port of entry is in Benoni, with minor ports at Balbagon and Guinsiliban. Balbagon Port links Cagayan de Oro and Cebu, Benoni Port links with Balingoan and Cagayan de Oro, and Guinsiliban Port which also has a roro landing facility links with Balingoan and Cagayan de Oro.

We traveled around an hour and a half to Balingoan Port, which is 84 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro. The ferryboat ride to Benoni port in the Municipality of Mahinog was almost an hour.

We arrived at Camiguin around 1PM, unfortunately Paras Resort was fully booked so we have to look elsewhere and found the Golden Sunset Beach Club.

The group decided to postpone the Tour around Camiguin for the next day since it was already 2PM and we won't be able to maximize it. After getting settled, we ordered lunch and went off to White Island.

White island, also known as Medan Island, is one of the most popular sites to visit in Camiguin. This small inhabited white sand bar, with picturesque Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Mt. Vulcan as its backdrop, is located two kilometers across from the beaches of Agohay and Yumbing. The island, with a shape that differs depending on the tide, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling. The best time to go there is at early morning or late in the afternoon.

Jc on EMO mode hahaha

Enjoying the Water

White Water Rafting - Day 2 of CDO Trip

2009-04-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

After the body aching experience from Airsoft, we have yet to embark on another... White Water Rafting, the reason why we came here to Cagayan de Oro on the first place.

So, at 8am in the morning we were already at the Great White Water Tours waiting for the service that will take us to the area.

Before riding the rapids, we had a briefing. Here's something I learned that I thought you guys might be interested in:

1. Strokes - there are three types of basic strokes during rafting, the forward stroke, wherein, you will just paddle forward, easy and relax, the full forward, where half of your paddle is in the water (hard paddling) and high five where you raise your paddle upward.

2. Survival tips - whenever the raft flips, don't panic, if you surface underneath the flipped raft, just carefully go down the water and out of the raft, once out, float on your back, with your feet forward, and just glide through the water. Again, key here is not to panic.

3. Paddle - hold the paddle at the T-grip, and be careful not to let it slip since it may cause injury to some of your friends aboard.

I forgot the rest, but trust me, just listen to the briefer, and you'll survive.

We opted to go with the advance course, where there are a total of 21 Rapids for rafting, with a total course length of 17 kilometers. After the briefing, off we go to the starting point.

By the way, the rafting experience won't be complete without the actual flip nor the instance that you will be falling off the raft. So, just always be prepared, since you'll really never know.

Snacks are served at the middle of the course. We were given the delicious pastel.

The end of the journey...

Back at the Great White Water Tours office, we were treated an eat all you can buffet. Wow, what a way to finish off...

Looking back, rafting in those waters is kinda like our navigating through our lives, we must always be relaxed and think clearly amidst the rapids and strong current life is throwing at us. If you fall, don't panic, relax and try to stay afloat, don't struggle... for someone is sure to pick you up and put you on the raft once again...

The white water rafting might be over now, but the memories and lessons we have gathered from this experience is truly both rewarding and enlightening. Surely, they will always be remembered...

Ready for another ride at the Rapids?

Cagayan de Oro Trip - Day 1

2009-04-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

And the day came... Seems like eternity but is here!

We arrived at the airport around 3AM, and wow, Cebu Pacific was on time. We left Manila at exactly 4:30am and arrived 20mins ahead of schedule.

Ate Rins and JC at CDO Airport:

Jinxes: I just really don't get it, hahaha first, Ecchi lost his bracelet, and then JC lost his cap, and me, I lost something really valuable - a bag that contains my digital camera, and wallet. What a way to start the trip hahaha...

All of us were surprised to know that we will be playing Airsoft on our first day, hahaha had Ecchi mentioned, I would've brought along my gears. Well, so much for that, we just dealt with whatever is offered at the site.

The game site was literally near the top of the mountain, took us around 20mins from the town proper.

This is Me

There were 11 of us playing, and we had about 5 rounds. Twas fun.

We ate our lunch at Mang Inasal, where we took advantage of their unlimited rice hahaha.

And then went home after, exhausted yet happy. Looking forward to our Water Rafting tomorrow, plus a visit to Shadewest's shop.

Of Shopping, Ice Cream, and Chinese Songs - New Discoveries

2009-04-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Notes from yesterday:

We went to Trinoma around 4pm to shop for our gears for the Cagayan de Oro - Camiguin Trip.

At this point, the three of us (yeah, sadly just the three of us since the other two backed out) are al excited about the upcoming trip. Yey!!! And Jc was like doing a mini countdown over his YM status haha...

Ok, so the shopping part, well, I learned something new from ate rins, that when looking for a good slipper, it should really "slip" or move along with your feet. Me and Jc were kinda confused, so she showed us what she meant - she took a slipper and flipped and folded it at the front. Well, I really can't describe how it was, probably I'll take a photo or a video next time.

Also, some guys actually do what most girls do, hop from shop to shop till you find something you'll like and eventually end up going back to the very first shop...

I rarely go to Trinoma because of its proximity (I live in Makati), but then I think I may frequent the place now because of Pinoy Sorbetes, taking my love for ice cream to a whole new level with their uniquely Filipino flavors. It's the first time I've encountered such flavors as "banana-q", "guinumis", chocnat, mango-kasuy (mango flavored ice cream with cashew nuts), Halo-halo, Mangga't suman, Tsoko pinipig, Kape't Gatas, Melon and Red Munggo. I wasn't able to try all of them, maybe indulge at one flavor each visit...

We ate dinner at Bigoli (who can resist the smell of their breadsticks, not to mention they're free), where Louie (rycesa) kept us entertained with his antics... We stayed there until around quarter past ten.

Out of impulse, we all suddenly agreed on crashing to a nearby videoke bar, unfortunately, Redbox is only up to 12mn and its already past 10pm, so we ended up in Music21-Timog. Talk about breaking from the habit of "Planning to make plans", well a little something like this could really be fun sometimes.

Its always amazing to realize that regardless of how much you know about a person, there's always something new to discover... Take for example these friends of mine... Yes, I'm aware that they speak and write Mandarin, but that they could sing chinese songs to the perfect accent and tune, well, that's a different story. Here's one:

And some of the pics before we went home:

Life is really a series of never ending discoveries...

Dreams...

2009-04-14T03:03:00.000-07:00

*An Interpretation of Icarus - this screenshot is from AION Online* Icarus, as my philo teacher suggested, is a symbol for a poet's own dreams and aspirations...

We often hear the phrase "Ok lang Mangarap" (its ok to dream) or " hanggang pangarap nalang" (only in my dreams), "Hindi naman Masamang Mangarap" (there's nothing wrong in dreaming) either sarcastically or prolly meant to inspire someone. Much has been said about dreams and dreaming...

A rather interesting question caught my attention at Plurk today. It goes a boy who stubbornly believed in his dreams VS. a boy who believed in the harsh reality! who do you think will win? Naturally, I would probably think that the one rooted in reality would win. Although I think its one of those questions that would determine if you're a risk taker or a safe player...

I would say I am a dreamer, and probably am not alone... All of us have dreams, from our childhood, and while we were growing up, although some may change during the course of time...

Whether old or young, our dreams teach us, inspire us, give us a sense of meaning to what might be meaningless otherwise. They also bring us back to that state of innocence, that wonder that we all have as children. Our survival depends on this, for there is nothing that exists in our world that did not begin in a dream... It's our ability to dream, to wonder, to take in those magical things of nature and the universe that shows how untainted we are...

It's alright to dream, and dream BIG, but we should never forget the term "REALITY CHECK"... Not to fly too close to the sun, else end up like Icarus...

I Hate Summer...

2009-04-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

It was summer when I first fell in love, a girl I met at a summer camp… And it was the following summer when we parted ways, my first heartbreak…

It was summer when I first learned how to drive, and twas also summer when I hit a tree, trying to avoid a cow that suddenly crossed the road, my first car accident…

It was also summer when I nearly lost my best friend, we were fighting over a girl, who in the end we realized, had just been toying us around… tsk…

It was summer when I had my first taste of the kiss of death, drowned while diving, I still am lucky to be revived, although two of my friends didn’t make it… *sigh*

It was summer when I lost my grandfather, albeit we’ve already expected it since he was way old, it still hurt, because I love him, and it hurts more to realize, he died during summer…

It was summer when I first discovered the joy of surfing, and suffered the bruises, cuts and accidents that came along with the sport… a scar remains until now…

It was summer when I broke my right scapula, went out on a half pipe trying to do rock and roll, found myself wrapped in bandages after, and unable to play the sports I love (tennis, basketball, baseball, volleyball) for quite sometime…

I hate the summer heat; it makes people irritable and irrational… Picked a fight at a bar in Timog, twas the first time I was handcuffed, and jailed, although only for an hour, but still, that experience sucks…

It’s funny how the temperature of summer affects us, the sizzle in the air and the warmth of the sun drives us crazy… Reminds us we are alive after all…

I don’t really hate summer, I just hate the memories the season brings, I hate how summer reminds me of those things… Memories that could’ve been forgotten, but still lingers because they come along with summer…

Although, I must admit, there’s something really magical about summer that never fails to amaze me…

Innocence

2009-04-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

Innocence:
as defined by Meriam-Webster
a: freedom from guilt or sin through being unacquainted with evil
b: freedom from legal guilt of a particular crime or offense
c: lack of worldly experience or sophistication

I wish I could go back to those carefree days, when nothing really matters... doing what you always wanted and never have to worry about assignments, project deadlines and final exams... Nor the stress of working your ass off for something you don't really love, but you have to just for the heck of finishing things...

I envy the eyes of a child - pure, innocent and untainted with all the darkness of the world. They never lie...

Somehow, when everything seems so unbearable, I always take refuge to the child within me, and try to see things, the way he would see them... Pure, untainted, bright and glittery...

I wish to be carefree again...

*The screenshot was from ZX Online, one of the MMORPGs i'm currently playing.

This is me...

2009-04-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

I'm starting out a new blog, yeah, finally hahaha...

So what is this all about? Hmmm, well, most likely I intend this one to be a collection of my daily thoughts, so I may not be able to easily forget them or look back and ponder what was i thinking that day...

Hopefully, I'd be able to write not only about my life as a gamer, but everything else that comes with it, the part of me that people don't get to see.

Everything is solely my opinion... I don't care whether you agree with or not, or if you think its right or wrong. I'm just saying my mind out loud...

im not an asshole - i just like being rude
i'm not a sinner - i just can’t do anything right
i'm not stupid - i just don’t get it
im not trying - i’ve already given up
i'm not a rebel - i just don’t take orders
i'm not worthless - i just don’t know my value
i'm not fucked up - i just make mistakes
i'm not picky - i just know what i want
i'm not immature - i'm just growing up
i'm not a quitter - i just stop and re-think
i'm not impulsive - i just act before i think
i'm not perfect - i don’t want to be
i'm not ignoring you - i just choose not to listen
i'm not pessimistic - i just don’t get my hopes up
i'm not impatient - i just don’t like to wait
i'm not tough - i just don’t take shit
i'm not opinionated - i just voice what i think
i'm not questioning - i just have my doubts
i’m not a liar – i’m honest
i'm not strong - i'm just vulnerable

This is me...