I'm not Madz (sometimes)...

Ina's Wedding

2012-01-20T22:55:00.001+08:00

Ina's Wedding

Vacation's over, back to books...

2012-01-03T13:16:00.001+08:00

Bea's Wedding

2012-01-02T19:05:00.001+08:00

OMG, I was looking for photos and I just can't believe we looked like kids! Barkadings

2011-12-23T08:04:00.001+08:00

Archbishop Tagle's homily at his installation.

2011-12-18T12:16:00.001+08:00

Why I love Archbishop Tagle, addressing social concerns

I love...

2011-10-29T13:26:00.001+08:00

It's October! In other news, that's how my wall looks like... :)

2011-10-02T10:41:00.001+08:00

Studying requires lots of planning and inspiration!

It's CommLaw time, and Dean Sundiang autographed my book! Good Morning! :)

2011-09-28T09:59:00.001+08:00

"Best Wishes and more."

Addicted to nailpolish

2011-09-10T15:57:00.001+08:00

Shimmery Pink is Jen from Face Shop and I'm in Chinchilly from Essie! :)

Advanced Happy Birthday and Despedida for Mela!

2011-06-03T22:10:00.001+08:00

Cute Chapel in Alitagtag, Batangas

2011-05-29T13:25:00.001+08:00

Imagining the Past: A Trip to Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte

2011-04-15T10:34:00.000+08:00

It started on April 8, 2011, when we left Manila for Vigan, Ilocos Sur at 9:00 p.m. aboard the Florida bus going to Laoag City. We arrived at Bantay, Illocos Sur dawn of the next day, April 9, 2011 at 4:00 a.m. after only 6 hour. On April 10, 2011, we started the tour of Illocos Sur and on April 11, 2011, we went to Ilocos Norte. We left Ilocos Sur at 10:30 p.m. that day and finally coming home on April 12, 2011 at 5:30 a.m. after a very fulfilling trip to the North of the Philippines.

April 8, 2011
8:30 p.m. - Now on board bus on the way to Vigan! Terminal is in Lacson St. in Manila. Just left Daddy, tilted the couch seat and ready for sleep.
9:20 p.m. - NLEX; gave-up trying to sleep. I have Smashing Pumpkins (SP) to keep me company now.
"Tell me I'm the only one..." Forgot SP is kinda questioning the existence of God. Zero and Tonight Tonight are really good, I remember listening to them on cassette. Question: What are the chances that SP will put me to sleep? Zilch, I think. Anyways, I remember the good ole grunge days, smiling...

April 9, 2011
1:00 a.m. - Just passed by the Bayan/City of Aringay, La Union. Anyways, really given up trying to sleep and listening to Rubber Soul. Then I saw these great big Spanish-Filipino houses in Aringay and they blew me away. So beautiful, and these houses/buildings are by the high-way (Maharlika highway). I wish I was able to see them during the day. They had huge windows and balconies. I can just imagine the rich and indios entertaining on these great structures in the past. Very good.
4:30 a.m. - Bantay Stop-over in Bantay Ilocos Sur. We're 2 hours ahead of schedule since meeting time is at 6:00 a.m., so we waited at the Bantay Stopover/Marcia's delicacies until our sundo.I'm trying to sleep. Try. Try. Try. We paid P100 for a tricycle ride, we probably were scammed but what can we do? Atleast this place is open, Thank you Lord. Was able to sleep, yahoo!
7:00 a.m. - arrival at ALAD Park Bar & Resort
7:20 a.m. - good sleep in a bed - at last!
9:00 a.m. - breakfast of yummy Ilocano rice, Vigan longganisa and egg, with the famous sukang (vinegar) Ilocos (which the Ilocanos' paired with everything).
*In this trip, we had the yummy rice grown in Ilocos all the way - really a highlight and reason for my 5 lbs addition.
After our lunch of Honey chicken, Chop Suey and Ilocano rice, which we ate at our room, we (me and Mommy) prepared for the Wedding of Tita Vida and (now) Tito Vinzon.
I unsuccessfully tried to perfect putting on eyeliner.
My Mom looked great.
I became the last minute Commentator in place of Tita Maricel - a successful undertaking through the grace and guidance of God.
So grateful that I didn't have a migraine today.
Wedding was great - wonderful food at the reception.
"Two Words" originally sang by Lea Salonga was beautifully sang by Jamie.

April 10, 2011
Yummy breakfast at Jollibee in the Vigan Town/City Plaza overlooking the Cathedral.
Coffee!
After breakfast, we went for the Heritage Walk, and found ourselves in Bangkal still (Calle Bonifacio). I'm so thankful for our heroes.

Heritage Walk - Calle Crisologo
-Shopping
-a view of history again/imagined myself during the Spanish times walking along those old houses and cobble-stone pathways
-Some of the calesas, sound of them on the cobble-stone paths was lovely
-local colour

9:45 a.m. - Off to St. Paul's Cathedral for the mass. It was at 10:30 a.m. still so we had time to roam the plaza a little bit more.

10: 30 a.m. - Mass. We heard mass and became outsiders as the priest stayed true with the old/traditional ways of the mass (they knelt all the way from consecration to Our Father)
I long to see the Philippines in its true heritage and stay as it once was. During the mass, I imagined how the past Filipinos heard mass in such churches and went around the plaza after the mass to stroll . A glimpse of how we were in the past - I love!

Burnayan
We went to Burnayan and got charmed with how pots were made. I wanted 1 but I think the store was closed since it was a Sunday.

And then we went to Tita Vida's for lunch. Bagnet again + yummy rice + vegetables + maja blanca and caramian for dessert.Sabi nila yung kanin ani ng mga native ng Ilocos. (They said that the rice was harvested by the natives of Ilocos). Sarap! at organic pa daw siya - go go!
*only problem, the camera is low battery already.

After lunch, we went to the following venues:
1. Buluarte
2. Hidden Garden
3. Bantay Church & Bell Tower (Church of St. Augustine)

Buluarte
- did not go on the pony ride (else, poor ponies, esp. after that yummy lunch)
- did not watch the animal encounter show (I'm against animal imprisonment/zoos after working with Haribon)
- Chavit Singson has 4 poor big Tigers that should be out in the wild instead of roaming restlessly in their cages. Such majestic animals.
- went to the butterfly sanctuary - possibly the best part of Buluarte aside from the resident funny ostritches (one almost took the camera from Tito Quinn)

Hidden Garden
- yummy food: Original Ilocos empanada + halo-halo + okoy (this was esp. yummy with fresh tomatoes and shrimp hot off the pan) - great combination
- the myna bird nearby kept us entertained with his words like hello, takaw and sexy

Bantay Church and Bell Tower (St. Augustine Church)
Love! One of my favorite parts of this tour. This was where the original Panday was filmed (Mommy remembered the scenes filmed around it even - shows how popular Fernando Poe was since even my mom watched it)
I can't describe all the wonderful stuff about it because this was the part of the trip I was waiting for. But here goes...
- loved the Bell Tower, from afar it was beautifully preserved with its red bricks that matched the church on the ground.
- the church was also beautiful from the outside and inside.
- the combination of the tower and the church was beautiful
- Mommy donated a lot so somebody accompanied us up to the Bell Tower and told us how the bell had a hold because of the movie Panday.
- I didn't go to the very top of the tower where the bell was because I'm afraid of heights - but I loved the view of the Cordilleras through the window; was sorry to see a cemetery with the view though. I just waited and sat by the windows - lovely- until they came down.
- the Church of St. Augustine was lovely. I really loved it! it was simple yet empowering.

Dinner with the Ex-Mayor
We had dinner with the ex-mayor of Caoayan at his resort. I loved the fish - which was the only thing I ate and then went home at around 10:00 p.m. for the early trip to Bangui, Ilocos Norte the next day.

April 11, 2011
3:00 a.m. - woke-up to take a bath and fix-up for the trip to Bangui, Ilocos Norte.
5:00 a.m. - left the resort for Bangui
stop-over to gas up, and saw the gasoline convenience store so much like those hole in the wall stores in movies, so we took a picture.
7:45 a.m. - we arrived at the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte; took lots of photos. It's my first Lighthouse!
8:45 a.m. - we arrived at the Bangui Windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. They were beautiful but UFO-like. The structures reminded me of Star Wars, the Death Star mostly or those enemy troopers with the white suits.
We stayed there for about an hour taking photos mostly. The beach was also beautiful - the water goes straight to the South China Sea already and it was so blue. We bought windmill souvenirs and had merienda of tuna sandwiches and softdrinks (yum!). We left after about an hour and a half from Bangui.
10:30 a.m. - we left for Vigan again
1:00 p.m. - we arrived at the town proper/lunch and then stayed at the room at the resort
6:30 p.m. - we went to Tita Vida's for dinner
10:00 p.m. - we were at the Bantay Stop-over to wait for the bus
10:30 p.m. - the bus arrived and we were off to Manila

April 12, 2010
5:00 a.m. - we arrived in Manila
6:00 a.m. - we arrived home, super satisfied with this trip.

I fell in love with the Philippines again because of this trip.

This was not photo-shopped, proof that there's ETs in Bangui (haha, not really, shot from My Phone cellphone. No offense.)

2011-04-11T14:14:00.001+08:00

There's UFOs in Bangui!

Good Morning! :)

2011-04-11T06:17:00.001+08:00

Parang nasa Bangkal lang... :)

2011-04-10T10:07:00.001+08:00

Parang nasa Bangkal lang... :)

Teehee my dad was given a copy :)

2011-03-17T00:31:00.001+08:00

Teehee... My dad was given a copy :)

And we got good seats! Yes! :)

2011-02-19T17:36:00.001+08:00

And we got great seats! Yes! :)

Now waiting... @taylorswift13

Now waiting...

Happy Valentine's Day!!! All the love inthe world...

2011-02-14T15:04:00.001+08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!! All the love in the world...

My fave Beatles album :)

2011-02-05T17:15:00.001+08:00

Savoring it! Sarap!

2011-02-02T21:34:00.001+08:00

Nag-aaral kami sa lib, si jen kunot ulo sa ipod niya, looking for the perfect song to study to?

2011-01-26T15:54:00.001+08:00

Testing lang

2011-01-25T19:19:00.001+08:00

Aaahhhhh! Let's go!

2011-01-25T19:01:00.001+08:00

Bag of Beans, Tagaytay - sarap ng weather + coffee + pie + raisin bread :)

2011-01-02T17:44:00.001+08:00

with Danes, Rina and April

Cute snowmen donuts w/ licorace scarves by Krispy Kreme - yum!

2010-12-26T14:11:00.001+08:00

I'm in CSA, that 400 meters nearly killed me before :)

2010-12-21T15:05:00.001+08:00

Happy Birthday to Ms Anna Camille Palanca!

2010-12-12T00:23:00.001+08:00

Strawberry Cheesecake birthday cake :)

Kay cams c/o nikki

Cookie dough cheesecake and capuccino :)

2010-11-03T15:51:00.001+08:00

It's making up for a so-so day when I just want to lie in bed and sleep.

Stripes!

2010-10-09T16:34:00.001+08:00

Stripes Saturday! Di kami nag-usap nyan ah! (JP KJ!)

Ang mooncake, bow.

2010-09-28T13:24:00.001+08:00

Mooncake!

Last Send-Off for Baristas 2010

2010-09-26T06:03:00.001+08:00

Hail to the Chiefs! :)

Found the best method to read magazines, flags/tabs!

2010-09-12T00:27:00.001+08:00

So I'll mark the articles I like/ would read, so efficient!

07.05.2010

2010-07-05T11:36:00.001+08:00

I love my new study area in my room :)

Kumpulan sa tapat ng aircon sa library.

2010-04-06T17:36:00.001+08:00

This is Asha studying, notice how OC she is w/ her highlighter, bookstand, etc

2010-04-03T12:00:00.001+08:00

While this is me studying w/ a mess, lots of highlighters, glasses, notebook and books

I have low attention span! One highlighter color drives me crazy! :)

My mom for Noynoy :)

2010-03-13T21:12:00.001+08:00

Love this packaging by Team Manila, is Greenwich first to do this? Cool

2010-03-13T21:01:00.001+08:00

Laing Pasta at Goldilocks yum! Plus it's only P42!

2010-02-19T12:56:00.001+08:00

Perfect for Friday abstinence :) just take out little bits of pork though

happiness is be kind rewind on vcd :)

2010-02-08T21:15:00.001+08:00

finally found it!

Pagbibigay pugay sa mahal kong tatay :)

2010-01-09T20:07:00.001+08:00

A family w/ bucket meal here in KFC on Christmas Day :) aww....

2009-12-25T20:37:00.001+08:00

My dad and brother gave this to me for Christmas...

2009-12-25T09:13:00.001+08:00

Hmmm... Should I immortalize Rob Pattinson on my laptop?

Gradeschool Fave perfume: Tartine Et Chocolat

2009-12-24T10:56:00.001+08:00

I wanna buy a new bottle now :)

Dea, look! I'm spring cleaning and have all these junk.

2009-12-24T10:50:00.001+08:00

Internet and digital cams can really immortalize stuff... Love technology!

I'm to give gifts to kids now-gosh I'm old. Found this cuteness :)

2009-12-22T20:57:00.001+08:00

For Kuya Dodie's baby Mariel

Why I didn't want to leave the house this weekend...

2009-12-19T14:37:00.001+08:00

@caffeinatedgen here's a sample but I just borrowed the wig from a friend haha :) Cyndi Lauper?

2009-12-14T08:02:00.001+08:00

80's animal-themed Christmas party last night :)

Resurrecting My Blog

2009-12-08T12:54:00.002+08:00

It's my break from Law School and I'm resurrecting my blog! :) Come by from time to time; please subscribe to the feed if you have a Google Reader... kudos!

Suzu Kin's miso soup, yum!

2009-11-28T19:45:00.001+08:00

1st miso soup w/ tempura breading and tofu that I ate, yum! Suzu Kin Kamagong (my dad says other misos are fake haha)

with Danie, it's my goodbye, she's leaving for Singapore on Sunday, love!

2009-11-26T21:39:00.001+08:00

Spotted in a poster at the Makati Med lobby...hahaha

2009-11-20T18:13:00.001+08:00

It's Alex F.! Tin's beloved haha, how come you don't say impt info like this? Lol, ang pogi!

My Enneagram Type :)

2008-06-05T13:15:00.000+08:00

free enneagram test

I'm a Charlotte!

2008-06-02T17:02:00.001+08:00

You Are Most Like Charlotte!

You are the ultimate romantic idealist

You've been hurt before, but that hasn't caused you to give up on love.

If anything, your resolve to fall in love is stronger than ever.

And it's this feminine optimism that men find most appealing about you.

Romantic prediction: That guy you are seeing (or crushing on)?

Could be very serious - if you play your cards right!

Which Sex and the City Vixen Are You?

An Endearing Scene

2008-04-17T10:32:00.007+08:00

I took this picture with my camera phone at National Bookstore during the week of Valentine's. That's my brother with our kasambahay, Ate Lina, in the Valentine's gift section of the store. She is giving suggestions to Patrick on the Valentine's gift for his first girlfriend. A little background: Ate Lina has been with us since Patrick was a baby, that makes her our kasambahay for more than 20 years. Since we hired her when Patrick came, you can say that Patrick is her main "baby" or "alaga". So what makes this scene most endearing to me is because here is Ate Lina, who has remained single up to now mainly because of us (I guess), suggesting and pointing gifts to Patrick,her "baby". And these gifts are so cheesy to boot! This heart-warming scene really made me laugh. It brought me a lot of thoughts... First, that change is inevitable and growth is really something to look forward to. Second, the irony that here is my single "kasambahay" pointing out cheesy gifts for Valentine's to my brother. And lastly, that this is a very poignant moment because Ate Lina can be considered mine and Patrick's second mother. Special moments in life are in the simplest of things, this one is a great example of that.

Just Writing...About Fashion

2008-03-27T14:06:00.004+08:00

I just wanted to write something. No, I don't have anything to write. I guess I was just tired of drawing and wanted to rest for a while.

Yes, I'm drawing now. They are for my required homework at my Fashion Design classes at the Fashion Institute of the Philippines. It's a great feeling just looking at them-thinking that they're your "masterpieces" (I think it's only singular but still I want to emphasize the accomplishment). It's so good to look at your drawings which you painted with watercolors and the design concepts that you wanted to achieve. Eventhough the latter is not yet one of my strongest points. I've yet to truly translate into drawings those that I'm thinking or picturing in my mind. Hopefully, through practice I'll get there someday.

More on Fashion, there's going to be a fashion show of the Young Designers' Guild of the Philippines tommorrow and we're invited! I'm excited to see my first fashion show ever. I wonder when I'll get to, someday, have my own show, haha big dreams! Emphasis on the own show-haha. Oh well I hope I'll get some great ideas.

Taking these classes is really one of the best decisions I've ever made. With it, I got to see new things, accomplished a different skill (drawing!) that I never thought I'll deal with ever, pave a new path where I can go with my career, and ofcourse gain new friends. Although now, I really have to wonder where I am going with this. For now, it seems like I don't have the answers anytime soon.

So this is what I ended up writing... Really didn't know what I was going to end up until I wrote them. Oh yeah, with all that's been happening I've got a little motto for now. Live life, love it and don't forget to fight for what you want.

What's Normal about you and What's Not

2008-02-11T13:48:00.000+08:00

You Are Fairly Normal

You scored 40% normal on this quiz

Like most people you are normal in some ways...
But you aren't a completely normal person. You're a little weird too!

Why You Are Normal:

You would rather be an astronaut than a movie star

You would eat meat from a cloned animal

When you're in a car, you prefer to be the driver

You think glasses can make someone more attractive

You think fishnet stockings are trashy

Why You Aren't Normal:

You don't keep up with your horoscope

You find the Chicken Dance to be the more embarrassing dance

You prefer flat potato chips.

You know a little about many subjects

If given the choice, you would choose to have more time over more money

What's Normal About You... And What's Not?

Simbang Gabi

2007-12-17T11:11:00.000+08:00

The Simbang Gabi (Dawn Masses) in the Philippines started yesterday, which is a good start because it was a Sunday. I plan to complete the nine days of Simbang Gabi this year, partly because I have a lot to ask from God. Partly because it has become some sort of tradition. There are some years that I wasn't able to complete them, and some years that I did, up to Misa de Gallo. I even remember going to mass in my school uniform already so I won't be late for school that day. I usually go with my lola (whom I call Naning). She goes there early, maybe at least 30-45 minutes before it starts so that she can seat (imagine that-so early in the morning!). So I always go to where she sits and sit down beside her. I went to Simbang Gabi in those days even when I didn't ask God for anything. Just there because of tradition, it became a part of my celebration for Christmas-which is always a special time for me. And now, as I'm older, I'm asking God for something. Maybe I think He owes me, but that's not the right way to think. I just hope that He blesses me with an answer. And with extra strength and courage to do the things that would make me happy.

On a Book Binge

2007-12-17T11:01:00.000+08:00

Recently, whenever I'm in a mall or a shopping place, my mind makes a bee-line to the nearest book store. Power Books, National Bookstore, Fully Booked, you name it. And I've seen a lot of books that I want to read. Some of them:

Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia-Marquez
Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler
Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides
Kite Runner by Khalid Husseini
Dance Dance by a Japanese author (who I hear is good)

I looove just looking at these books, or any book for that matter, just looking at their covers, at the stories they may tell and that I may enjoy. Hopefully I'll get to read all of the above in my list. That is before my "break" from Law School is over (if I ever do go back--a lot of ifs). As I said in my profile at Shelfari, it seems like I entered a new heavenly state with books--it's like I'm a new explorer again and there are a lot of books to read.

Visit my site at shelfari for my book adventures! www.shelfari.com/madzmeris

Erap, make me a Fan

2007-11-09T10:37:00.000+08:00

I caught Erap being interviewed last night on ANC by Ricky Carandang and while listening to him trying hard to answer the questions in English, I realized that this person has so much power in his hands right now. How? Because now, he can do anything and a lot of Filipino people will listen and follow him. He's sorta a poltician but he's not really into the political system because it seems he has been avoiding it. It's as if he has been resurrected and given a new life. I can't help comparing him to Al Gore who lost in the the Presidential Race and went a new course of informing the people of the environmental crisis the earth is experiencing now. Erap can do this--support any cause, speak up on important issues, even issues which are small but have such importance. The country is never lacking in causes: hunger, human trafficking, housing, rampant criminality, etc. And the most monumental thing is people will listen. The limelight's on him now; all he has to do is stay out of politics. Few people are given such a chance, I hope he uses this. Come on Erap, make me your fan. (And I'll even watch your movies too!)

A Favorite Place

2007-11-05T12:51:00.000+08:00

Have you ever been to Bonifacio High Street? It has become some sort of a favorite place for me for a number of reasons. First, its aesthetics, the sculptures, well-groomed grass lawn and buildings are really beautiful and comforting in some way even though there's always a bustle of people around. Weird huh? But that's the second reason why I like it, the people-you see all sorts of families who are strolling around with their strollers or with their dogs, or both. And the families are usually large in number, so you see the culture that Filipino families really stick together-are happy when they are together. When you're at High Street, you see a lot of smiles, hear a lot of laughter and then there are those kids running around and playing with the sculptures (and the security guards don't even mind these). Third reason, the shops-the variety is interesting, coffee shops, places to eat, sports retail, beauty shops, hobby shops and the big bookstore that is Fully Booked. I love this four-story bookstore, it made me fall in love with books all over again (I guess this plus the advent of Shelfari.com). Seeing all those books with their lovely covers and loads of entirely different possibilities, it made me want to buy and read and finish one book everyday (haha). Of all my visits to High Street, the highlight is always the Fully Booked store.
There's always a hestitation however whenever I go here; let's face it--all the shops are luxury shops where the ordinary Filipino citizen can't even afford to buy or won't choose to buy because of the price. I have to say that going there for a cup of coffee, a bite to eat, or a book is a bit of luxury and I always have to mind my money. Can I go there someday without buying something or cashing out money? I think I haven't tried that out yet--hmm...maybe someday I will.

My Morning Ritual

2007-10-05T11:09:00.000+08:00

Every morning, after I arrive at the office, it's a small pleasure for me to read the newspaper and have a cup of hot chocolate. It's really a good ritual to start the day; enjoying the drink while keeping abreast of the latest happenings and news in the Philippines.

I sit at a comfortable chair-take a sip-and read again. It puts me in the mood, no matter how sad the news are. Then after reading the headlines, I finish with the lifestyle section and (ofcourse) the showbiz section. That's further reward after reading the "serious" stuff.

Hope I can still enjoy this if ever I go through with my plans.

"Suicidal" Lyrics

2007-09-04T12:44:00.000+08:00

"Beatiful Girls" by Sean Kingston

Damn all these beautiful girls
They only wanna do you dirt
They'll have you suicidal, suicidal
When they say it's over

[Chorus:]
You're way too beautiful girl
That's why it'll never work
You have me suicidal, suicidal
When you say it's over
Damn all these beautiful girls
They only wanna do you dirt
They'll have you suicidal, suicidal
When they say it's over

Suicide is a serious matter. That's why I was miffed when I heard this song with main chorus and catchy tune relaying that he was suicidal. At first I gave it a chance, maybe the lyrics were socially relevant and wanted to send out a good message. But no, clearly with the lyrics above the song is far from discouraging suicide. It says that he'll be suicidal over beautiful girls. It even warns the guys over girls which will have you suicidal. How can the song take this act very lightly. Considered that a lot of lyrics of songs this days will make one's eyebrow rise with lurid lyrics. But really we should not take suicide lightly. It's one's taking of his or her own life. Those who do the act are very confused and down that they believe that life is no longer worth living. And then you take it lightly as such? It's really sad. I believe the radio stations should ban this song from being played in the airwaves. Unfortunately because of its really catchy tune, it is now ruling the airwaves. However one has to stand up and say that songs like this should not be introduced or supported. Sometimes serious things should be taken seriously and things not morally or socially correct should not be supported.

Make a difference

2007-08-29T20:03:00.000+08:00

Everyone can make a difference. Sometimes, all it takes is one person to speak up for what is right and he or she can change what is wrong. It starts with one person willing, everybody is able.

One of my pamangkins who is Grade 3 in a public school was physically abused by her teacher. The teacher hurt her by pinching and knocking her head hard which caused my pamangkin to cry. She told her mom about it, and went on to file a complaint to the principal and Deped. Along this action, my tita went on to find out that not only my pamangkin was hurt but also other students. The teacher denied all about it. She said she has never hurt anybody. Unfortunately, the complaint went nowhere as there was denial by the teacher and due to the lack of proof, as they said, that the child was hurt. They said that there were no bruises (What?! does it have to go to that length?) and no other student spoke up. In the settlement of the case that the complaint was rendered null as to an agreement from my tito and tita, they even were forced to say sorry for the "abala". It's all so frustrating.

First of all I admire my pamangkin and my tita for standing up for what is right. As I said, all it takes is for one to speak up. I just wish this teacher will get kicked out of the school. Any person cannot resort to hurt a child! It's just a child, a person who can't really defend himself or herself. What's even more frustrating is the fact that these situation i believe is not an isolated one. I think it happens in a lot of schools and this should not be the case. It has to change. These teachers should be brought to the courts and upon finding that they are guilty, must be kicked out of the schools. Children should not be traumatized by teachers like these. They are our future and should live a good and happy life.

Attn: All, Nag-Leave of Absence ako in my Law studies

2007-08-29T19:40:00.000+08:00

Yes, nag-LOA nako sa Law... Reasons? Marami eh:
1. I don't think it's really my dream to become a lawyer. In order to study law, dapat you LOVE it kasi mahirap siya. I realized na kulang pa yung drive ko for it.
2. It's only a means to an end. Marami kasi akong gustong gawin na pwede naman kung wala akong law degree.
3. Mahirap talaga ang Law.
4. Marami akong gustong gawin and takaw talaga sa time ang pag-aaral ng Law. Sabi nga, "Law is a jealous mistress".
5. Masyado akong maraming iniisip na mahirap mag-concentrate sa studies.
Maybe after this year, I'll see if I'm going to continue it or not, but right now I'm really happy about my decision. :)

10 Things I Want to Do

2007-08-16T08:23:00.000+08:00

To be followed-up :)
Hi friends, I want to do some stuff. Please help me if you could :)
1. Stop littering on the streets.
2. Form or join a Filipino lit book club.
3. Inform people how important elections are.
4. Tell atleast 1 person everyday that he or she can matter a lot.
5. Get all my friends to stop smoking.
6. Know how all my friends are doing.
7. Get my family together (relatives).
8. Try to start a tutorial service at Bangkal Elementary.
9. Join parish activities.
10. Save money.

Amazing

2007-06-14T22:15:00.000+08:00

It's really amazing how your outlook in life can be changed by words that you read and thoughts that have been said. What's more is that these happened in a short period of time that I didn't really expect. I'm now more excited than ever to go back to law school and start reading those hard subjects. I'm looking forward to each day now. And I have a great relationship with God.

The only catch though is that I hope I can sustain this rush of giddiness or whatever. I know I can.

2007-06-09T16:40:00.001+08:00

Just a cute cartoon :) May touch kasi ng irony kaya i like.

2007-05-16T01:05:00.000+08:00

Taken at Harborview, Salubong for my 24th bday...hay 24 :)

2007-05-16T00:58:00.000+08:00

What can we give?
That you have not given
And what do we have
That's not already yours
All we possess are these lives we're living
That's what we give to you, Lord.

Time

2007-05-16T00:51:00.000+08:00

I need time.
More time to forgive and to forget.
The problem is I'm not in a hurry to do so...
Is it my problem or theirs?
Probably mine 'coz they don't know anything.
It's tiring carrying such a heavy heart.
Hard too.
I still need time.

Paano Manakit ng Kaibigan

2007-05-11T21:50:00.000+08:00

Kapag kinakausap ka niya, wag ka maging interesado sa pinag-sasabi niya. Wag kang mag-react, wala.
Kapag kailangan ka niya, wag mo puntahan o tulungan.
Kapag may ine-expect siya sayo, i-disappoint mo.
Kapag kinakawawa siya, kaawaan mo, nakakaawa naman eh; para umiyak.
Kapag tanungin ka kung may ginawa ba siyang mali, sabihin mo wala, kahit na pinagtatawanan niyo na siya.
Kapag magulo na isipan niya, guluhin niyo lalo.
Kapag nagalit siya sa inyo, iwanan niyo, sino ba siya?

Ay oo nga pala, bago niyo gawin lahat ng ito, gawin muna ang lahat para mahalin ka niya. Para mas-masakit.

Word for the day: Bellwether

2006-11-22T23:15:00.000+08:00

bell-weth-er
(noun) one that serves as a leader or as a leading indicator of future trends.

example from Braingle.com:
"The degree to which the paper is censored is political bellwether."

my example:
"The corporation has distributed a technological bellwether."

What Kind of Cookie Are You?

2006-04-18T14:33:00.000+08:00

You Are a Fortune Cookie

You're a rather normal person, except that you have extraordinary luck in life.
People want to be around you (even when they're a little sick of you), in hopes of being lucky too!

What Kind of Cookie Are You?

My Simpson Character

2006-03-06T12:20:00.000+08:00

You Are Barney

You could have been an intellectual leader...

Instead, your whole life is an homage to beer

You will be remembered for: your beautiful singing voice and your burps

Your life philosophy: "There's nothing like beer to give you that inflated sense of self-esteem."

The Simpsons Personality Test

New Blog!

2006-03-02T20:17:00.000+08:00

I just feel that blogger is a little bit too formal for just everyday thoughts so I made a new blog at livejournal. Go visit it please! http://madzarella.livejournal.com
thanks! :)

How evil are you?

2006-02-26T07:11:00.000+08:00

You Are 18% Evil

You are good. So good, that you make evil people squirm.
Just remember, you may need to turn to the dark side to get what you want!

How Evil Are You?

Things...

2006-02-23T15:47:00.000+08:00

There are some things that I want to do that I can't explain, even to myself.
Things that I don't know how to do.
Things that I don't know if I can do.
Am I being led into activities, or am I controlling my own world?
I believe the latter. I should believe the latter.
I have to live my life now, and I don't know where to start.
I have to write this down so that I can concretize it.
Whatever that means...
From now on I'm going to look forward to each new day.
Start the day right and end it right too.
God gave me a good life. I should enjoy it and be fulfilled for each new day.
It isn't hard. Just look at the people around you.

30 Things I Want to Do Before 40

2006-02-06T14:57:00.000+08:00

1. Become a lawyer.
2. Help at least 1 person everyday.
3. Watch the Summer Olympics in 2008 and 2012.
4. Go white-water rafting in the Northern Philippines.
5. Go Bungee Jumping.
6. Go and see Palawan and El Nido.
7. Go dive at Anilao, Batangas.
8. Throw a good party for my friends and family.
9. Be able to look good in a bikini.
10. Lose 5 poounds.
11. Lose weight and correct posture through Pilates.
12. Make myself matter to the Filipino people.
13. Read the Bible everyday.
14. Be of service to the Filipino.
15. Finish my scrapbook.
16. Finish 1 book every month.
17. Be good at technical writing (research).
18. Be a good story-teller.
19. Be a good listener.
20. Be able to dance well (swing, waltz, a little hip-hop).
21. Visit the Louvre.
22. Visit artshows and museums once a month.
23. Go visit New York and see the city that never sleeps.
24. Meet the President of the Philippines.
25. Save enough money for microdermabrasion and Pilates.
26. Visit all the beautiful spots in the Philippines.
27. Learn how to tell a joke.
28. Write one essay everyday.
29. Write a review for every movie that I watch.
30. Have a gameplan everyday.

Stereo-typing and Labels

2006-02-03T05:37:00.000+08:00

I don't like stereo-typing people and putting labels on them. For example, a group of rich people are called or labelled the elite just because they are dressed fabulously and speak english in a special kind of tone. Also, I don't like people who call this certain group of people "jologs", just because they act in a particular manner or they like this particular artist or band. Why? Because I think that stereo-typing and labelling do not account for a whole person's personality. For example, I like alternative music, but at the same time I like pop music and Aegis. I like dressing up in good clothes but I'm not really picky when it comes to commuting or where I eat. What does it make me then?
Stereo-typing and labelling also do not leave any room for change. A person can make a change from one direction to another. People are dynamic and change is always an option to be considered. So basically these are the reasons why I don't agree with stereo-typing and labelling people.

The Balance

2006-02-02T06:07:00.000+08:00

I realize that in order to live a good life, there has to be balance in everything. Everyone has to keep an open mind and let information influence your beliefs. There has to be a balance in the way you think, the way you approach people, and the way you live your everyday life.

What artists should paint your portrait?

2006-01-29T02:23:00.000+08:00

Who Should Paint You: M.C. Escher

Open and raw, you would let your true self show for your portrait.And even if your painting turned out a bit dark, it would be honest.

What Artist Should Paint Your Portrait?

Law or Public Administration?

2006-01-28T05:52:00.000+08:00

I really want to work in the government sector because I want to become a public servant someday. However, I also want to become a lawyer. I just don't know if I have enough skills to be one. A lawyer can work in the public sector. That's what I'm planning to do if ever I finish Law. There are really two options for me. To get a Law degree or an M.A. in Public Administration. I am privileged to even have these choices brought before me. I wonder what choice I will eventually take. So for the mean time I'm going to do three things. First, I'm going to apply for Public Ad. Second, I'm going to wait for the LAE results. And lastly, I'm going to apply for Law in San Beda.

I want to try Law for a year really though, to see if it's right for me i.e. if I have enough skills to be a lawyer. And I can't ignore the fact that my father wants me to enter law. But I know that the final decision is with me. I just hope I choose the right decisions. :)

Mga iniisip habang nag-cocommute

2006-01-27T05:44:00.000+08:00

- Ang dumi ng kalsada, palaging may nagtatapon o may dumudura. (Kaya ng Pinoy baguhin ito! Sige na please?) Itapon natin ang basura sa basurahan at wag nang dumura.
- Sana ang mga tao tumatawid lang sa pedestrian lane/tamang tawiran/
- Sana sa paglalakad, ang mga tao ay gumawi palagi sa kanan para walang banggaan ng mga tao ang maganap.
- Sana ang mga lola, lolo, at mga buntis ay bigyan ng upuan sa MRT para hindi sila mahirapan. Kasama narin dito na ibigay sa kanila ang masmalapit na upuan sa dyip.

Reminder

2006-01-25T05:42:00.000+08:00

Reminder to self: You're not perfect.

Feelings over Rationality

2006-01-25T05:21:00.000+08:00

What happened last night really was an enlightenment on my part. I realize that feelings shouldn't always dictate what you are going to do or the decisions you are going to make. Because if you do that, then you're going to regret some of the things you did because there's no reasoning behind them.

Anything rational is based on reason and practicality in anything we do.

Take for example this girl. She went off on a shopping spree and bought anything white: two white tops, a white bracelet, white shoes, etc. What was even more amazing was that she bought stuff which her feelings and her mind wanted her to buy. Nevermind that she already had the similar necklace or earrings at home. She just followed what was in her heart. The consequence? She used a lot of money which she regrets now. Anyway, I'm sure she is happy with some of her purchases.

That's not the end of the story. This girl would have made decisions that are not rational afterwards. She envisioned that she would go to her former workplace dressed all in white. This was to see her crush whom she just knew was the ultimate reason why she bought all these wonderfully white things. She didn't think about how late it will be or how tired she was. She just knew that she needed to do this. That she would go take a bath, fix up, and then wear the things she just bought. All of this for a guy.

Thankfully enough, she told her mom the real reason why she's going to her workplace. Her mom enlightened her and told her that he will be the one to come to her if he really likes her. So the wonderfully white plan of hers did not continue. Thankfully, she realized the errors of her ways with the help of her mom.

One glitch though, she felt like a moron.

Make rational decisions please.

Ego, schadenfreude and crab mentality

2006-01-25T05:11:00.000+08:00

I found this great explanation on crab mentality.
Written by: Saturnino P. Javier, M.D. in his column "Men over Forty"

Who does not have an ego? We should all have a healthy appreciation of our selves and our worth. That is but right—and appropriate. In fact, we should protect it. Part of the respect we owe ourselves is the need to be treated right and well. When we allow people to trample upon our name and our rights, that is not humility, but disrespect for ourselves.

The hitch occurs when people begin to have an exaggerated perception of themselves as they engage in the many variants of this false perception—e.g. megalomania, self-idolatry, chest-beating and self-flattery.

The obsession for one’s self-image and worth can breed ill ramifications—the local counterpart we all refer to as inggit (or envy), the pathologic and counterproductive crustacean-inspired malady called crab mentality, the high brow German ally schadenfreude.

Schadenfreude (a colleague, Dr. Gene Ramos, introduced the word to me over lunch during a convention of the Philippine College of Physicians) has a lot to do with ego. This German term describes how one’s success could easily ‘eat up’ another. When one gloats over another’s mistake and downfall, the condition is called schadenfreude. When one feels bad that someone does well, the ego is still operational because it is being pricked and hurt if someone does better or succeeds more.

Schadenfreude is closely related to inggit. When one feels that someone else’s success threatens his own, or feels that one’s achievement is a rebuke of his lesser accomplishment, schadenfreude is operational.

Personally, I feel this German counterpart is a more sinister brother of the Filipino’s inggit.
When the fabled movie king Fernando Poe Jr. felt that he alone could save the Philippines from its economic woes—without any experience, any background, any exposure or any high school diploma—he allowed his ego to take the better part of himself. Many political rejects and fading stars fed on his ego so he would take on the challenge. Sadly, he fell for it.

And he really fell—then faded into oblivion. (Am I gloating at his downfall? Is this schadenfreude? No, this is plain and simple patriotism.)

Inggit and schadenfreude may well be the driving force of another despicable trait called crab mentality—the phenomenon where in we feel a need to pull down upon someone on his way to success—very much like crabs dragging each other down.

Crabs we are when we cannot allow someone to emerge victorious. Crabs we are when we would not even allow our President to start anew and steer the political path of its debris, the economic milieu of its obstacles, the social volcano of its ashes. Crabs we are when we wish someone ill before he can even make a start. Rod Nepomuceno, in his column in another broadsheet, averred that this malady is “part greed, part envy, part covetousness.”

One may think that sour graping is much like this mentality. Sour graping is much too decent and tame compared to the viciousness of crab mentality. It comes from sore losers who need to rationalize their miscalculations and erroneous projections. The appellation is too kind for individuals who will do anything to trample upon someone who is geared for success and fame.

In the end, one must realize that at the core of all these perceptions is our appreciation of our own worth and purpose, our merits and values. When our own is adequately and appropriately tendered and nurtured, then the undesirable ramifications will have no reason to spring forth and foist destructive assaults on others. That we have to love ourselves is necessarily right. But whoever said we have to adulate ourselves? Whoever decreed we should sing hosanna and alleluia to ourselves?

Immersion

2006-01-22T18:20:00.000+08:00

Why am I taking an immersion in the poverty-stricken areas of the city? Basically, the idea came from Sister Monette-my aunt who is a nun. One of the conversations we had touched on the fact that I was too materialistic or even vain (which puts to mind the fabulous quote from the devil himself in "Devil's Advocate". Yes, I told her I was materialistic. There's no denying that I love shopping for clothes, accessories and knick-knacks. Who wouldn't love it when nowadays the malls offer so much and I have my father's handy credit card with me (but ofcourse I know my limits; kuripot din ako in some things). So she suggested that I immerse myself in a simple life. She suggested for me to live at my Tita Resy's house where I can be more familiar with that way of life.

Honestly, I really don't know what to expect. I have forever been given what I want by my parents. I was privileged to live in a great house with enough food to eat always and acquired very good education. What will happen when all or some the material things, which were always available to me are to be taken away.

On the socio-civic side of things, I have to do this in order to understand the "masa" better. To do this will let me understand why therewas so much anger from the them during Edsa 3. Yes, I acknowledge Edsa 3, it had the real sentiments of the poor. I believe that the poor went there with so much pain and anger. Even if they were being used by several politicians; the truth was they had legitimate concerns. And since they are the majority, they should be noticed. I'd like to see how they live. And I think I'll see that on Tuesday.

Steven Spielberg made a controversial film entitled "Munich" which shows how the Israeli government acted revenge uponthe terrorists who killed several of the Israeli olympians in Munich. What striked me in his conversation with TIME was that he really didn't want to impose any message in this film. What he wanted to do was to tell a story and the people should judge and form their own views and opinion on the film. He also remarked that this film should be able to show the similarities between the Jews and the Palestinians. I think that I would like the people to see the objective of my immersion like this. I hope that in some way, all the classes in the Philippines (A, B, C, D or E), would see that there are similarities in all of us that we can work on. Similarities that, as Filipinos, should unite us whoever we are and whatever class we are in. Because I believe that the Philippines and its citizens are capable of working together. And the balance of things should be granted to our country. We can stand up from pain and suffering. I believe it. I've witnessed it. I've felt it. It could be done. I hope the whole Philippines can share with me this triumph.

A New Day

2006-01-19T06:08:00.000+08:00

It's a brand new day world! I'm excited about my new job! Hope I don't dissapoint myself today and feel down. But I'm looking forward to this day. I'm optimistic, happy and gay! :)

Song: Elevation by U2 (woohhoooo)

Grow-Up

2006-01-19T03:00:00.000+08:00

I understand now that I need to grow-up a bit because not everything is going the way I want it to be. I can't have an excuse behind everything that I do. I have to change my bad habits or attitudes to be able to get along with people.
I really want to change and be able to talk to others with more ease. However, it's still hard.
What's really bothering me though is the image that I'm coming off as a
fake person.
Do I really do that?
Because I didn't or I don't realize that I'm being one.

Fort Santiago

2006-01-19T02:53:00.000+08:00

on the walls of Fort Santiago

I went on an unexpected tour of Fort Santiago today. I got to walk on the historic walls of Intramuros. Yup I did it before, but it's really great to get the vibe of history around me. The place is really well-maintained which is very good.

Dungeon @ Fort Santiago

2006-01-19T02:51:00.000+08:00

dungeon @ fort santiago

Hospicio De San Jose

2006-01-19T02:45:00.000+08:00

with Angie @ hospicio

Went for a visit at Hospicio De San Jose yesterday. I'm going to volunteer there for awhile. This pic is with a very sweet girl named Angie. She has no arms but I love her spirit. You can feel her happiness and it really brightened me up.

Multiply Site, etc.

2006-01-19T02:16:00.000+08:00

Hey guys! punta kayo please sa multiply site ko, its: http://madzarella.multiply.com .
And please add me sa friendster also! :)

2006-01-19T02:08:00.000+08:00

@ jerry's grill (blue wave)

Tourism! Tourism!

2006-01-18T18:46:00.000+08:00

It's nice to see that tourism in the Philippines is flourishing. For one, I have noticed more people of various nationalities in the mall. Also, when I went to an unexpected trip to Fort Santiago after lunch, I saw Koreans visiting the place. Healthy tourism is a good sign for our economy since it implies that their dollars are coming into the country. So hurray for us! :)
I hope this trend will continue.

Resignation blues

2006-01-16T18:29:00.000+08:00

I'm resigning from my job which I have only been in for 2 weeks. I feel really frustrated about it because it feels like I'm giving up a battle or a test.

When I realized that I had to resign, I felt really down. Especially since I felt that the foremost reason for it was because of my own doing. I had to resign because I wasn't listening to the product training at work. This was because my mind often wandered elsewhere. We had an exam awhile ago and I really had little idea on what the answers were to the questions in it. What more will happen if ever I do receive calls from customers coming from the floor?
However, I know that I really will have to resign some time because of the medication and theraphy I am undertaking. The doctor prescribed to me a regular schedule and not the nightyard shifts call center agents often have to adapt to.

I just wish I didn't have to give it up. I know that I still have a lot of things I can do and I appreciate this fact. I also appreciate that my family and my friends are supportive of this decision. I'm just really bummed because it's my first job.

Feeling Stupid

2006-01-16T18:23:00.000+08:00

Have you ever just burst out and then feel really stupid afterwards? I felt like this today. What's the matter is that sometimes I really don't know if what I'm thinking is correct. I kept on assuming without validating if what I think is true or not. The thing is am I becoming too narcissistic?

My Fave Idiomatic Expressions

2005-12-06T13:19:00.000+08:00

There appeared some idiomatic expression-questions in the LAE and then I found a handbook of common idioms at home...and I really liked some of them.
"Handle with kid gloves" - to treat very gently and carefully (I probably got wrong in this item)
"Foot in the door" - the first step into doing or getting something
"Fit to be tied" - very hard;used for emphasis (this one appeared!)
"Look a gift horse in the mouth" (Huh?) - to complain if a gift is not perfect
"Water under the bridge" - something that happened in the past that cannot be unchanged.

If your life was a movie...

2005-12-06T13:16:00.000+08:00

The Movie Of Your Life Is A Cult Classic

Quirky, offbeat, and even a little campy - your life appeals to a select few.
But if someone's obsessed with you, look out! Your fans are downright freaky.

Your best movie matches: Office Space, Showgirls, The Big Lebowski

If Your Life Was a Movie, What Genre Would It Be?

What Year Are You?

2005-12-01T11:39:00.000+08:00

You Belong in 1975

1975

If you scored...

1950 - 1959: You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a little innocent. See you at the drive in!

1960 - 1969: You are a free spirit with a huge heart. Love, peace, and happiness rule - oh, and drugs too.

1970 - 1979: Bold and brash, you take life by the horns. Whether you're partying or protesting, you give it your all!

1980 - 1989: Wild, over the top, and just a little bit cheesy. You're colorful at night - and successful during the day.

1990 - 1999: With you anything goes! You're grunge one day, ghetto fabulous the next. It's all good!

What Year Do You Belong In?