Year End Blog: What Happened in 2008

There are many things that happened in 2008, none of which I was thankful for. This has been one of the worst years for me. What's so special about 2008? Nothing. Pffffftttt...

Ok so maybe a couple. I mean, I did graduate..., other than that, nada.

I failed, I got deferred, I almost got DL'ed (Effin' ALMOST), I failed (an Effin' point), I failed (yet again), someone left, someone else left, someone left but only just recently did I realize she's not coming back, someone died, someone else died, somebody got sick, I got sick, I got sick again, I got Chicken Pox, I still have pockmarks on my chest and abs, I'm still not succeeding in having them removed, someone crashed and burned, I almost crashed and burned, people around me fought, some people never made up, I surreptitiously loathed someone (which rarely happens) for some time, I tried really hard but never succeeded, I did some sacrifices (some paid off) but still didn't succeed, some people broke up, some people will never be together, the recession, I got broke, we got broke, and many more.

So from these experiences in 2008, I came up with three resolutions for 2009.

MY TOP 3 RESOLUTIONS FOR 2009

1. Trying is the First Step Towards Failure

• This is from Homer Simpson. Why waste precious time and energy to something that isn't fruitful? Without trying I'd be sure I'll never get frustrated about anything. So people, save yourself from further frustration and exhaustion, stop trying. You'll never succeed anyway so why bother?

2. Always Leave Room for Skepticism

• Never trust everything and don't be too positive about anything. Be doubtful of things that are yet to be proven.

3. Believing is Just a Hunch for People Who Can't Manage Their Own Lives

• If you're holding on to something that isn't there, don't. It isn't there for a reason. It's not meant for you, leave it.

Enough negativity, I just had to get that out of my system. Here are the good stuff.

There are many things that happened in 2008, and I'm happy about everything. This has been a great year for me, a lot of firsts and a lot of stills and some has beens but nevertheless, my life has never been more wonderful all year round.

So what happened in 2008?

In January, we had a very successful For the Kids 2008. After months of preparation and exhaustion, we successfully held the mini-olympics for the special kids and the kids were really happy, and so were the Ate's and Kuya's.

All of these while I was doing my thesis. So they kind of got mad at me for having exerted too much effort on FTK and I admit, yeah, I did exert more effort on it than my thesis. But I have my way of paying them back. So moving on.

February, we held our blood donation. I was less active this time because of my thesis but nonetheless still gave out my support to the team, not necessarily by blood (I'm underwieght hellooo).

We had our university week which I didn't enjoy too much having secluded myself for days within the walls of Velasco and STRC. Friday that week, nagtatago na ako. Haha. What a shame. But whatever, I was tired and it was a culmination activity for the UWeek. I just had to be there. We spent the night in Soty's house in Alabang and in the morning we did a run. It was a Fun Walk/Fun Run event for the benfefit of 'what charity again?'. And right after I went back to STRC, it was Saturday, to work on you-know-what.

Our thesis still wasn't completed and it was fast approaching the end of the term. But I wasn't worried. I wanted to graduate (like who doesn't) but I'm not the kind of person who's going to stress himself out to do something or rush something. If a job is not feasible, it's not feasible. If it can't be done in three months, it just can't. A lot of things to consider here, the most important of which are resources.

Around March I was an activist. I'm not really a rally-going person but around this time, lots of them were going on. There was a candlelighting event at the Senate, the inafamous Interfaith Rally in Makati where we walked hard and long and then the one in Liwasang Bonifacio.

Also there were late night coffee house meetings, Beanhoppers, Figaro and Starbucks. There were parties and videoke nights.

I also got to spend some time with my highschool buddies during summer (their summer, everyone else's summer but not lasalle's) for a reunion-like event. It was only then that we got to see each other again after a long time.

Come end of term we had our salusalo to conclude all activities for that school year. It was a fun event, there were games, food, talks, a sort of general assembly and a program the highlight of which was Gladys. So maybe siya lang naaalala ko. Which means her performance at that time, whatever it was, was greatly entertaining.

Naalala ko pa na it was a pot luck salusalo and we had to bring our own food to share with the rest of the group and I had none, Osang and I had none and that we went outside to find something to buy. We ended up with drinks and ice.

Next day was our trip to Batangas. A weekend to spend by the coast to relax and unwind after that nerve-wracking term. Photos, photos, sun bathing, more photos, food, and more photos.

Summertime. Summertime once more and it only means one thing, Summer Immersion Program. I only joined one this year because it was one heck of an immersion. Sumilao, Bukidnon. Farthest place I've ever gone to in an immersion. Mindanao much? Anyway, a lot of things happened here, lots of firsts and everything was so worth it.

Of course there was LPEP, and teambuilding, my cousin visited me, or rather us, actually it was more like my mom, just my mom. People are intimidated by me, I don't know why.There was one time someone called my mom to pay her a visit and the moment she found out I was home she backed out. What's up with that?

Then many things hapened here, birthdays, farewell dinners, baptism, chicken pox, we finished our thesis (YEY!). I'm getting tired and it's almost new year So I'm rushing. Gotta finish this before midnight or it would no longer be a year end blog now would it?

Graduation. Finally. This is what I've been waiting for. At long last I finished college. Yipeee!!!
Days before graduation I was having some kind of depression because that march would symbolize a new beginning for me. A drastic change in my life. It finalizes my being a student and opens doors to the world of unemployment. But I'm over it now. I was over it the next day actually.

Bum days.

Graduation Treat. We just had to. For years I've been part of COSCA and they became like my family in DLSU. Being part of it made me become the me that I am now and I am thankful for it. For everything that they did. For all that happened during my years in college. They made college a lot more fun for me.

More bum days.

Ice Skating. Weee. Ang saya nito. First time ko mag-skate. Haha. And now I'm kind of getting addicted. I want to do it again. And again. And again. I even want to buy myself a pair of inline skates. The rentables are disgusting. As in like grossly disgusting and disgustingly gross.

The night sky smiled upon us. Text messages, instant messages and even emails spread like virus to inform everyone about this. Even the media got involved. What's funny is that, the next night it was sulking, it was sad.

Skateboarding event, longboarding event, I'm no skater boy but I enjoyed both. christmas dinner, thanks everyone for this and MUGNANIMOUS!!! Whoohoo! Then comes the holiday season. A few days ago we had our annual post-Christmas activity where we had an improptu amazing race-like exchange gift. Good times. Good times.

I really enjoyed this year despite all the bad things that happened. It's not like all luck has been drained from me, I'm still not the most unfortunate person ini the world, I'm not in the poorhouse yet and I still have something to drink and eat. I have friends and family and acquaintances I get to see. All my basic needs are well taken cared off. It's just that some misfortunes have come my way this year, but that doesn't mean I have to stop trying and believing.

"Great things are done by a series of small things brought together."
-- Vincent Van Gogh

what? no pictures?
saka na. helloo bagong taon kaya.

Have You Heard The News "Bugbugan Sa Golf Course"?

I just heard the news earlier this evening sa TV Patrol and I was like ok, until I saw this blog my friend Kim linked on Facebook. Then I was all WTF?

Here's the link. Click Here.

vicissitude-decidido wrote on Friday, December 26, 2008

At around 1:30 PM today, at Valley Golf and Country Club, Antipolo City, Mayor Nasser Pangandaman, Jr., Mayor of Masiu City, Lanao del Sur, his father, Secretary Nasser Pangandaman of the Department of Agrarian Reform, and company, beat my defenseless 56-year-old dad and my 14-year-old brother to a pulp because of some stupid misunderstanding on the golf course.

Those politicians really have some nerve doing those things just because they are in power. Grrr. Now I saw this earlier on TV and they were like apologizing (sort of). And they were shown playing golf with Mikey Arroyo (I was pretty sure it was him on TV) so, go figure.

And hello? Hitting a 14 year-old? COME ON!!!

We leave. We walk to the clubhouse to file a complaint. My brother asks for a doctor. My dad could barely walk. Their group comes to the clubhouse, sees my brother. Once again my brother pleads, says sorry, and is crying. He was CRYING, for crissakes. But no. The relentless mayor still punches him in the face, and then sees my dad and goes after my dad again. Him and his friend pull my dad to the ground, pulls at his feet, and steps on him like he's dirt. I run to him and try to hold him back, holding him back by his shirt, while this other guy and this girl tries to stop me. She tells me to just stop it. I scream in her face "they're beating my father up and you want me to stop?!" I pull at his shirt--I don't let go. All I can see was my dad being trampled on. I didn't even see my brother getting beat up.

He still didn't have enough? He had to beat them up some more? What kind of sick person would do that? oohhh wait... HIM!!!

I am pretty sure the Secretary of DAR did not take part in the fight, but he just watched all this happen. He watched two of his sons, as we figured out, the other guy was his son, too, beat up my father and my 14-year-old brother. He didn't do anything to stop it. And this person is what now? A cabinet member. A politician.

So he didn't wanna get involve. Like as if. With him being there while all of it was happening, he'll be involved. If only I had enough time to blog today, I'd write about this some more. I'm still having problems with the hissing noises my PC creates.

So instead of writing in detail, I'll just post more links.

ABS-CBNNEWS.COM

GMANEWS.TV

I read the comments and came upon this. I haven't read everything about it yet. Like I said, I don't have enough time to blog and surf.

myepinoy said...

The senior Pangandaman was recently appointed as peace negotiator...

So this is what peace means to this guy.

December 27, 2008 5:23 AM

Spread It!

What's the Ideal CPU Temperature?

I'm running a Speedfan Diagnostics and discovered that my CPU Temp is 67 - 69C. It's kind of too hot right?

Here are the details:
Fan: 4762 RPM
CPU Temp: 67-69C
Internal Temp: 48C ave
Remote Temp: 48C ave
HD Temp: 43C ave

I'm having a really annoying problem with my PC. I'm just a little too fed up with the spinning noises inside. And I'm a little worried that devices inside are starting to fail.

And what's that cleaner thing called again? The spray thing that cleans the inside of your PC and melts away all the dust?

2008 Metro Manila Film Festival

Christmas day has come and gone but the season is yet to be over. And once we've hit the 25th day of December, theaters are being flooded by Filipino movies as well as moviegoers. Once again, we celebrate the Metro Manila Film Festival, now on its 34th year.

Metro Manila Film Festival is an annual movie awards much like Hollywood's Oscars which recognizes the best efforts of local artists and movie makers. Different awards are given to different movie categories like Best Cinematography, Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Picture and many more, and this year, eight (8) wonderfully crafted movies are vying for the trophy.

Here are the 8 official entries for MMFF 2008.

Ang Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat
(Star Cinema)

Directed by: Wenn Deramas
Written by: Mel Mendoza-Del Rosario
Cast: Ai-Ai delas Alas, Eugene Domingo, Cherry Pie Picache, Shaina Magdayao, John Prats, Carlo Aquino, Alwyn Uytingco, DJ Durano, Serena Dalrymple, Jiro Manio, Yuki Kadooka, Roldan Aquino, Jaymee Joaquin, Bianca Calma, Janel Calma and Ms. Gloria Diaz

Ang Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat is the sequel to the story of the 2003 movie"Ang Tanging Ina" which won Ai-Ai De Las Alas the Best Actress trophy that year and "Ang Cute ng Ina Mo".

Ina (Delas Alas) is elected to be the new president of the Philippines. She plays mother of her 12 children and of the whole country since she will be declared as the next President of the Philippines: "'Yung mga bata nagsilakihan na, iba na ang problema namin. At isang major change, ako na ang presidente ng Republika ng Pilipinas. Dito sa ATINL ay tatakbong presidente ng Pilipinas at magiging presidente ng Pilipinas si Ai-Ai.".

Baler : Love is Worth Fighting For
(Viva Films and Bida Productions)

Directed by: Mark Meily
Story and Screenplay by: Roy Iglesias
Cast: Anne Curtis, Jericho Rosales, Michael de Mesa, Joel Torre, Rio Locsin, Ryan Eigenmann, Carlo Aquino, Leo Martinez, Baron Geisler, Bernard Palanca, Mark Bautista, Jao Mapa, DJ Durano, Nikki Bacolod, Alvin Anson, Allen Dizon, Andrew Schimmer, Mikel Campos, PJ Valerio, Arvee Quizon and Mr. Phillip Salvador

Baler is an epic love story which revolves around the story of The Seige of Baler during the Spanish occupation.

Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia
(Cutting Edge Productions)

Directed by Robert Quilao
Scriptwriters: Artemion Abad, Jr. and Eric Cabahug
Cast (Voices): Nash Aguas, Katrina 'Hopia' Legaspi, Michael V., Pokwang, Nova Villa, Noel Trinidad, Johnny Delgado, Peque Gallaga, Gabe Mercado, John Manalo, Igi Boy Flores, Carl John Barrameda, Pocholo Gonzales and Laurice Guillen

Dayo is an animated film about an 11-year old boy Buboy (Nash) and his adventures as he saves his grandparents who have been abducted and brought to Elementalia, a magical and mysterious land where mythical creatures exist.

Desperadas 2 : All They Need is More Love
(Regal Entertainment, Inc.)

Directed by: Joel Lamangan
Story and Screenplay by: Roy Iglesias
Cast: Ruffa Guttierrez, Rufa Mae Quinto, Iza Calzado, Marian Rivera, Nova Villa, Wendell Ramos, Jay R, TJ Trinidad, Will Devaughn, Christian Vazquez, Carlo Guevarra, Niña Jose, Dion Ignacio, Alex Castro, Paolo Avelino, Sofia Baars, Joy Viado and Mr. Ogie Alcasid

Desperadas 2 is the sequel to last year's movie Desperadas. Featured are the orginal cast of the film Marian, Iza, Rufa Mae and Ruffa.

Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After
(OctoArts Films, M-Zet Production and APT)

Directed by: Tony Y. Reyes
Written by Bibeth Orteza
Cast: Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, Mely Tagasa, Keempee de Leon, Pauleen Luna, Gian Sotto, Oyo Boy Sotto, Jose Manalo, Francine Prieto, Krista Ranillo, Richie D'Horsie, Bibeth Orteza, Carlene Aguilar, Wally Bayola, Jackie Woo and Ryan Agoncillo

This movie is about the return of the Escalera Brothers - the famous comedic trio of the 80's and early 90's Tito, Vic and Joey - 20 years after from the demise (lack of better terms) of their 80's sitcom "Iskul Bukol".

Magkaibigan
(Maverick Films)

Written and Directed by: Jose Javier Reyes
Cast: Jinggoy Estrada, Christopher De Leon, Dawn Zulueta, Maricel Laxa, Bobby Andrews, AJ Perez, Empress Shuck, Ryan Julio, Justine Plummer and Tirso Cruz III

Magkaibigan is a movie dedicated to the late Rudy Fernandez and stars Jinggoy Estrada, last year's Best Actor winner.

One Night Only
(OctoArts and Canary Films)

Written and Directed by: Jose Javier Reyes
Cast: Katrina Halili, Jennylyn Mercado, Valerie Concepcion, Alessandra De Rossi, Diana Zubiri, Ricky Davao, Paolo Contis, Jon Avila, Joross Gamboa, Ogie Diaz, Chokoleit, Jason Gainza, Tessie Villarama, Bentong, Empoy and Ms. Manilyn Reynes

Is a sexy romantic comedy, the second movie entry of director Joey Reyes.

Shake, Rattle & Roll X
(Regal Entertainment, Inc.)

Directed by: Topel Lee and Mike Tuviera
Scriptwriters: Ellen Estrada (Emergency), Cheryl Narvasa (Class Picture), Penny Daza-Tuviera (Nieves)
Cast: (Emergency) JC De Vera, Roxanne Guinoo, Wendell Ramos, Janus Del Prado, Denise Laurel, John Lapus, Eri Neeman, Diane Medina, Regine Angeles, Jamilla Obispo, Cris Daluz and Mylene Dizon;
Cast: (Class Picture) Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Erich Gonzales, Charles Christianson, Steff Prescott, Niña Jose, Prince Stefan, IC Mendoza, Eda Nolan, Andrea Torres, Sheena Halili, Valeen Montenegro and Ms. Jean Garcia
Cast: (Nieves) Marian Rivera, Jojit Lorenzo, Luis Alandy, Desiree Del Valle, Marco Alcaraz, Jennica Garcia, Iwa Moto, Robert 'Buboy' Villar, Chariz Solomon, Mike 'Pecto' Nacua, Mart Escudero, BJ Forbes, James Blanco and Diana Zubiri

This is the 10th installment of the classic horros series "Shake, Rattle & Roll" which started in 1984. It is a 3-segment movie (much like the earlier installments) which shows 3 different horror stories independent of each other. The firs segment is called "Emergency", the next one "Class Picture" and the last one is called "Nieves".

The 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival runs from December 25, 2008 to January 3, 2009.

Sources:
Internet Movie Database, Wikifilipinas, MyKiRu IsYuSeRo, Wikipedia

Prince William and His Royal Weapon

Click here to see his royal weapon

I'm linking another post. Check it out. Another cool article from none other than my good friend Christian Ash. Miss you too!!! LOL. I dunno where you're getting all these news, but KEEP IT UP!!!

Happy Holidays!!!!!

My Christmas Wishlist

I know it's a little too late to publish this list but then the items here are next to impossible so I'm not really hoping. Haha. I just wanna show you guys all of these great items that I so want (but not necessarily need). So here it goes:

Ferrari Macbook Pro

I just love the red Macbook. I saw one a few weeks ago and I just fell in love with it, I can't get over this little red device.

Canon EOS Digital SLR Camera

Actually, any DSLR is fine by me, but I just find Canon cameras really appealing so there. It doesn't matter which EOS, those are the only one available today anyway (at least on their website) so yeah. Any EOS is good.

Nokia 5800 Xpress Music Phone

5800 is much like an iPhone (also very much different) but I never really like iPhone that much, though it offers lots of cool features, I'm still not buying. 5800 has been featured in the "Womanizer" music video of Britney Spears and having been addicted to that video last month, I kind of wanted that same phone Brandon Stoughton (he's the guy from the "Womanizer" video) was holding.

Livescribe Pulse Smartpen

This one I saw on "Attack of the Show" the other night. It's a nifty little gadget. It's a pen and it can store data. How you may ask? It has sensor on its tip and everytime time you write something, it stores it. So not only do you get a hardcopy of your handwriting, you get a softcopy as well without having to scan your notes. It also has an audio recorder so you can record lectures if you don't feel like writing. Isn't it great? Speciall for lazy boys like me. Haha.

This device also come with a notebook with little graphics at the bottom which acts like a button for the pen. So everytime you write your notes, you can use the pen's features like, language translation etc. Isn't it great?

USBCell AA Batteries

These are standard AA batteries. What made it so cool is that it's USB rechargeable. The cap can be snapped off to reveal a port and snapped back on for use. Coolness!!!

Bedol Water-Powered Clock

I don't really need another clock at home but I kind of got curious as to how this one works. I mean, hello? It's water-powered. Its makers say that adding a little lemon helps to keep it running smoothly and that its water supply should be replenished from time to time. Hmmm...

Kyo Kara Mao: Yuri Key Ring

I'm not really sure why this is here. But one thing's for sure, I like Kyo Kara Mao and I want action figures, dolls, key rings or any other toys related to this addicting Anime. And I heard there were original Bandai toys as well which I bet are really cute.

Starbucks Sign

Haha. I want this for a nightlight. It's not for sale, you kind of have to steal it, or if you know someone who owns a Starbucks Cafe, ask for it, or just have it made. But no matter how the acquisition is done, I want a Starbucks store sign.

PedoBike

Again I dunno why this is here, I just kind of find this toy cute. This peculiar-looking vehicle is a cross between a scooter and a bicycle. So it must be fun. Haha. Also if not this one, I could ask for a skateboard, or a longboard, or a surfboard or even a snowboard (even though there's no snow here), if not, maybe a roller blades or inline skates. Any of these items will do fine. I just want a new hobby. Haha.

And finally...

Alpha Romeo 8C Spider

See now how these items are next to impossible? It's because of this. Like as if...


MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

Now for MY REAL CHRISTMAS WISHLIST!!!

I wish for these people. I miss them so much. People I have come to know, people I have grown to care. Some of them have left for greener pastures, some of them have left for good. Some of them may never return, but some of them hopefully will. But I'm really hoping wherever they are, that their Christmas wishes be fullfilled.

Cheesy as it may seem, but I really care about people and I wish them all the best, this holiday season. Some of them may hear me, some of them may not, nonetheless I want them to know, that their memories are intact.

Here it goes:

My Dad
He passed away last year and I still miss him. Who wouldn't? We've never gotten real close as father and son but he's been nothing but a great father to me and I owe him all that.

My Grandma
She went to the province a few months ago to spend the holiday season there. She'll still come back to live with us next year but then I kind of missed our Christmas last year. Haha. My mom was away last year and only me and my grandma spent Christmas together. So yeah, I miss that.

My Childhood Yaya
Haha. Ok so maybe you're thinking so what? I kind of missed my childhood days, and she was always there taking care of me (aside from my mom) and now I don't even know where she is or what happened to her.

My Classmates
Spending Christmas party at school has always been one of the highlights at Holy Child Academy and I miss those occasions and the people that goes with it, my highschool and gradeschool classmates.

Ate Ems
She left about six months ago to work in an Italian Restaurant in Kuwait. I've known her since I joined COSCA.and the COMDEV people (she and the volunteers, myself included) always went out after Christmas day to do whatever activity we could do for fun. This year, she won't be able to join us and the group would be so incomplete (not that we've been complete before but this year...) because...

Danica
A few months after Ate Ems left for Kuwait, Danica left for Canada. We were in Harlequin Theater Guild together and both joined COSCA after I left HTG so I've known her since the day I became active in extra-curricular activities at school. Haha. Like Ate Ems, she won't be here for that post-Christmas activities we do.

and finally...

RJ
He passed away earlier this year. Very shocking. He was a new volunteer and we've known him only since September (at least I did) and then 5 months later he's gone. We had just finished wrapping up all those post-FTK activities to prepare for the next big event, the Lasallian Blood Drive and then it happened.

I could still remember last year's Christmas party and the after-party at Mon's. He was bartending for all of us. It a such a fun night. Now the new batch wouldn't even have the chance to meet and greet this wonderful person. Their Christmas party happened the other night.

So I guess that's it. My Christmas Wishlist.

I wish everyone all the happiness this holiday season!

Happy Christmas (War is Over) - McFly

...

Soda, Cocktail and Beer

I had a long evening last night, it started out early and ended up late. who would've thought?

The night started with bountiful servings of yum-yums of different kinds. Crab, pork, asian noodles, stir fry, some chicken, calamares rings (idk what they ordered exaclty) and some other stuff I'm not familiar with. Forgive me for not doing a comprehensive research on our food, the only valuable information I could gather is that, it was good. I was full after that hearty meal. At least I thought I was.

Moving on. The volunteers prepared a sort of program hosted by Gladys and Elaine and I must say, this Christmas party-ish Christmas Dinner was better than last year with the venue and the program and all. It's just sad and I'm wondering why they didn't exchange gifts. Recession? haha. I hate to think so. What on earth am I saying? Christmas isn't about presents or gifts or parties or any of that posh things fortunate people do. It's about... Ok. Let's just leave it here. Let the preachers do the preaching.

There were videoke performances where Sherwin, Peter and Lean sang to the tune of "Barbie Girl" while Miggy, Raffy and Olok sang to the tune of "Baby Boy". There were games and other fun stuff. Pictures, pictures and more pictures. After that we left. That's how it ended.

Check out my album Christmas Dinner for more pictures.

So where's the beer?

Angel and I can't seem to find a place to hang out after the dinner. There's Fort, Greenbelt and MOA. And no people to go out with. Sandy was in Embassy partying with her friends.Andrea was texting us, or was it us who were texting her? We were texting to find a place to go. We ended up in MOA. Tee-freaking-hee!

While waiting, we played Stacker in Timezone. Weeeh!!! I enjoyed it . Haha. Simple pleasures people, simple pleasures. Loved it. I almost hit the jackpot but missed by one freakin block. Like DAYUM!!! We tried more but I was already shaking. Never thought it would excite me that much. Haha. We settled for a minor prize and guess what? We got two. Yipee. Two squishy squeezeballs, exaclty what I needed to release the tension.

While waiting still, we saw the rest of the vols headed our way, then came Andrea. We walked the length of the E Block on the strip facing the bay to find a nice place for Andrea to eat and ended up at Grams Diner Sizzles. My first time here.

It was a really nice place. The interiors were cool. Had a lot of pictures taken. Most of the table were taken out for the smokers + drinkers so the rest of the diner was left to us as though we had it reserved. Coolness. They also have this grafitti wall where you can post the most random things you can think of. And the artwork above it was just great. It was wonderful. Andrea finally got her dinner, she was starving.They serve THE BEST SERVINGS of beer. Beer tower, mugnanimous, buckets, and so on.

HOMEGAAWWDD!!!
Mugnanimous is the greatest thing ever. Andrea, Angel and I wanted an order of the Beer Tower but they ran out of towers. soooo sad. But Mugnanimous... it's... it's... (hyperventilating) it's like THE BEST THING that happened to mankind. Haha. Three huge mugs of beer, and I mean HUUUGE!, some finger food and a glass of MOJITOS for moi - was all we needed to last us the night. Sobrang saya.

Grams Diner Sizzles is located at the ground floor of the SM Mall of Asia near Cafe Breton, beside LaMesa Grill where my 21st birthday was held.

You may also want to visit their Multiply site and add Grams Diner as a contact here on Multiply, or check out their website at www.gramsdiner.com and sign-up for their mailing list to receive their latest news, updates, promos and freebies.

Check out my album Mugnanimous!!! for more pictures.

Richest Cities in Southeast Asia

Check this link out!

Guys, check it out. Metro Manila is number one? Siyempre parang ayaw ko pero gusto ko maniwala. Mixed feelings of hope and doubt. Parang "sana... talaga?" or is it the other way around?

Haha. Sabog pa ako while blogging. Wala pang cohesive thought.

Remembering My Highschool Physics Project

ATTENTION HIGHSCHOOL PEEPS!!! LISTEN AND LISTEN WELL!!! Hahahaha.

Remember our senior year in high school during the science fair? We had an exhibit at the GP Hall where projects from different science classes were being showcased. Well last night, I was watching "Attack of the Show" on Maxx (with one week delay here in the Philippines) and I was kind of surprised, and a bit overjoyed, (haha, sobrang natuwa lang) because suddenly they featured a segment with video and everything on "How-To-Make-A-Homemade-Hovercraft".

I was all "WOW" because I could still remember the time we, our group in highschool, were constructing this same homemade hovercraft at Daryl's house (Attention Joseph Daryl Locsin!!! hehe) using the same materials and the same concept for our Physics Project. But instead of using a leaf blower, we used a high-powered vacuum cleaner set in reverse. Ms. Evelyn Bamba was amazed by the project while Sir Jaime Ong was not as much thrilled (but then mahilig siya mang-asar, haha) and we were so happy because we got perfect grade. Remember people? Golden highs chool days. Haha.

During the exhibit, we allowed students to have a go at the hovercraft to try it out for themselves and feel the lightness and smoothness of the ride and the fun it brings. AND. And... I could still picture this scene in front of me, our very own school director, her academic higness herself, Mrs. Susan Abbot riding the hovercraft. Hahaha. That was fun. We were all scared shit because we had no insurance (hahaha) and we didn't know what to do if she fell off the platform. Sheeesh. But at least she enjoyed it... a lot.

For all those who are wondering what on Earth I'm blogging about, here's a video from youtube demonstrating the construction and operation of this homemade hovercraft. Enjoy.

Video Credit: bileaman

How To Make A Homemade Hovercraft

Things you need:

plywood (not less than 1m l/w)
garbage plastic / plastic sheets
rolls of duct tape
electric drill and screws
a high-power vacuum cleaner or leaf blower
electric jigsaw or cutter

Instructions:

cut the plywood into a circular disk around 1m in diameter
cut a hole through the disk around 2 inches in diameter 1 foot from the center of the disk using either a jigsaw or a cutter/drill combination.
drill holes on one side of the disk (near the hole) to attach the cleaner or blower in place.

cut several sheets of plastic several inches wider than the disk.
(to be continued...)

A Little Too Not Over You

I was in the car kanina on my way home listening to some music from the radio and then this song came. I wasn't really paying any attention to the music as I was so tired but then the voice... his voice sounded too familiar. New song, new single, same smooth voice.

David Archuleta - A Little Too Not Over You



Written by: David Archuleta, Mathew Gerrard, Mike Krompass, Robbie Nevil

I just find it amazing that earlier this year, he became the 1st runner up to DC in this year's AI, then a few months later, he released his first single digitally called "Crush" which soared to number two at Billboard Hot 100 behind Rihanna then the official music video of his first single was released.

David Archuleta - Crush



Written by: Jess Cates, Dave Hodges, Emanuel Kiriakou

Last month his self-titled debut album was launched and now he released his second single "A Little Too Not Over You" together with another music video. Not my kind of music but still relatively good in contrast to those trashy music they play these days. I mean wow. Where did DC go? What happened to the winner? Did he release any new album or single? He did, but I barely even noticed it.

Iraqi Reporter Throws Shoes at Bush

OMG. Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn movie "Four Christmases" rakes in $13.3 million in the box-office!!!

Haha. Yun daw yung napansin. Anyway, an Iraqi reporter throws not one, but two shoes to President Bush during his farewell trip to Iraq. Siyempre naman kumusta diba, batuhin daw si Bush ng sapatos

Maliwanag Ang Pasko sa Meralco

A few days ago, Andrea informed us about an upcoming event. Yesterday, the event pushed through. Yesterday afternoon, the 1st Philippine Gravity Games 2008: Longboard Edition was held at the Meralco Compound along Ortigas Avenue in Pasig City. It was another extreme sports events involving lots of falls and crashes and a little bit of blood.

It was another exciting weekend for me. Just last week we watched as skaters from Volcom do their moves on the ramp at Bonifacio Global City and now this, a Longboard Competition. There were two competition held that day, a Freestyle Competition, where participants do their own tricks using the longboard, and the Racing Competions, where, obviously, participants race through the steep tracks of the compound.

In the Freestyle event, many participants did their tricks and stunts on the longboard some with much grace and smoothness to their movements, some did a lot of stunts, twists and jumps (I don't know what they're called exactly) and others weren't too successful in doing so but still kudos for trying. I have caught pictures during the competition until my battery died. I even had a video of one or three of the skaters. This one is probably the best video I've captured but not necessarily the best skater IMO. There were others at that time who better executed their moves and had me so enthralled that I forgot to catch them on video. Hahaha.

In the Racing event, hearts stopped, or at least some of them. I mean wow. Before it started, there was this young man exiting the race track with blood all over his face and body. He fell while on his board on the track warming up for the competition. He had a broken errr..face? I don't know exactly what was broken, I'm not the one to pry, but I heard he broke one of his tooth. Too bad for him. He had to be taken out of the event and to the nearest hospital.

During the race, many racers stumbled/clashes upon each other. Some were ran down by other players, others simply fell off their boards and some rolled off miserably on the ground after falling off or worse, glided on the ground face first. It was an exciting event with unintended and obviously shocking, incidents (or accidents, whichever you prefer).

To see all pictures from the 1st Gravity Games 2008: Longboard Edition Click Here.

We didn't wait around to finish the competition as it was taking too long with all the heats and rounds and sets, at one point I really thought they were in heat 24 already, hahaha, and it was getting late, kind of, so we left. but before we did, we had a little photo-op with Meralco's little Christmas Garden.

Bright Christmas Artwork/Sculptures (by I don't know who's the artist) made up of nothing but copper wires of various thickness and color were fronting the Meralco Compound. On the right side stood the Nativitiy Scene and huge men which looks as though they came straight from Moriones (or was it Maskara?) festival, on the left side there was a mini-community-like scene complete with mock-up huts, church, tank towers, electric posts and a three-car Meralco Tram famous during the pre-world war, in the middle there was a patio and little bridges connecting both sides and above, the brightly-lit Meralco building shines.

The Tram ride was exciting and disturbing. If this was the way Trams run during its time, it was obvious why they had to be removed, aside from the fact that they were severely destroyed during the war.

To see all pictures from the Meralco Christmas Scene Click Here.

After that, we had dinner at Chaikofi at the Galleria. I ordered "Sate Ayam", while Andrea had "Sate Babe" and Tina had "Chai Beef Rice" and an order of some Frappe. I didn't really enjoy my dinner that much but the conversation have been really pleasant and fun. The night ended just right. I had a great time.

My Chaotic Trip to the South

I hate the south. Chaos. Disaster. Mayhem.

The other day I got a call from Ark-One Ltd., the Philippine representative for Agilent Systems Technologies, asking me to take an exam for their cadetship program so yesterday I went to their office in Alabang (ang layo sobra).

I was scheduled for a 1pm appointment, I left home around 11am. Too late, I know, knowing that it would take me around two hours to get there (my travel time from house to Lasalle is between 1.5 to 2.5 hours), but anyway, I was hoping there would be no people in the MRT and there would be no traffic. So much for hoping, but at least the stations weren't too crowded at that time.

Segue:
MRT is selling AXS cards sa mga stations nila. It's a reloadable prepaid card you can use to tap on (anong tawag dun sa may umiikot na gate?) to enter the platform. Ang galing lang kasi na-miss ko na yung pagtap ng ID ko sa Lasalle, haha. It costs Php50 with a Php35 load included, a Nestle Kitkat desing and a free Kitkat. I don't know though if it's still available today.

Back to my story:
I went down Ayala Station and then took the bus from there to Alabang. My God, what an ugly place (sorry southerners). I mean, at least on the Metropolis and the pamilihang bayan part. Grabe the mayhem I swear! There were people everywhere walking different directions (if there was any direction even to where they're going), then there were jeepneys (lot's of them) and buses everywhere. ok, so maybe you're saying, "Ganun naman talaga sa lahat ng lugar sa Manila", whatever! Hindi katulad ng nasaksihan ko kahapon. All the jeeps and buses were like going nowhere. Sobrang gulo. The intersections were crowded, people crossing the streets, vehicles speeding tapos iilag yung mga tumatawid then there are excavations, constructions, deconstructions (demolitions), maraming tubig sa daan na parang isang malaking kanal sa dami. (napakagulo). It's like a near-death experience walking those streets.

Not exactly what I was saying but it will do. Just add more people and make it darker and dirtier and smaller.

Tapos, the overpass pa was like hell above the street under the skyway. It was dark, tapos may nagwe-welding (under construction apparently, pero it was already in use) sa gilid, tapos maraming wire. You know those futuristic movies that turned out to be a disaster... Like yung sa Meet the Robinsons or yung sa City of Ember - parang ganun.

Sa Metropolis, walang taxi. I hate that place (yung labas), parang palengke pero hindi. At least in the markets, there are things to buy, and there is a bit of order left, you know where to walk, you know where to buy, you know where the stalls are (tipong ganun) but that place... that place was like the capital of chaos.

On the other side naman, there was this "South Staion", parang mall and it leads to the entrance of Filinvest, this place was a bit calm, but just the same, lots of people, lots of vehicles.

Now, why was I able to explore the place? Simple. I was looking for a cab. Ayoko na maligaw and waste time going to where I was going. But no. No cabs to be seen. The lady from Ark-One told me to ride a jeep going to Acacia Road but then I couldn't find one (or maybe I just didn't know) I walked my way down to Wilcon Builders hoping to find a cab (a very long walk from where I started) but I had to, it just felt safer... not to mention empty. It's like a wide open grassland with a Wilcon in the middle. (nasa Manila pa ba ako?). What a lonesome place.

And from across Wilcon you'll see Filinvest City (or park) at kumusta naman yun, from where I was standing, you would totally see the contrast of the place. Filinvest looks realy upscale and orderly and posh, its outskirts look really dirty, shabby, tacky and cheap and did I mention, chaotic? WTF?

I was running late. And I mean really late. It was 30 minutes past one already and I'm still lost in that unfamiliar place. I asked the guard for directions, he had me ride a jeep. The lady told me to tell the driver to drop me at Acacia Road in front of Unioil. I found Acacia Road and Madrigal Business Park but no Unioil. Still, no cabs to be found.

The lady from Ark-One told me to walk behind Unioil and look for the green building. It was the only green building there. And that's what I did. I walked my way down Acacia Road looking for the gas station with much less hope because, 1: The place seemed unlikely to have a gas station nearby and 2: I was seeing a lot of green.

The place was just overflowing with green things. Grass, shrubs, trees, windows, glass panels and so on. Suddenly, I wasn't sure if I should be looking for the green building because lots of buildings there have green features. I was screwed. I found another jeep going from Brgy. Alabang to Alabang and I thought, maybe it's like Alabang Ikot (you know like UP Ikot?) and went to the Town Center hoping that maybe there I could find a cab.

Not exaclty what I was expecting to see. It was my first time in ATC and it wasn't exactly what I imagined it to be. It was too Robinson's looking with gardens and still no cab. I had to find one soon and I did, only it wasn't a legit cab service and it costs Php120 a ride. WTF?

I just find it weird that in my almost two hours there in that city, I didn't find any cabs available, maybe one or two but they were occupied.

I found Park Trade Centre, went to the office, the exam and the interview went on... I left. Madrigal Business Park was a really nice place, lots of trees, very calm, peaceful and cool. I just had to find the Unioil she told me the other day. Ok naman. I spent almost my entire money on fares and whatnots, I still haven't eaten lunch yet, I was so hungry and I got late for almost two hours finding the place and looking for significant landmarks specially Unioil all the while thinking it was the gas station only to see it was a building. It was the "Unioil Center" and the sign just looks soooo big anyone would soooo notice it (I'm writing sarcastically here).

I mean HELLOOOOO!!! Galing na ako dito kanina. Gumastos ako ng 120 for nothing? And mind you, that Unioil building was also green. And their building, that Park Trade Center, it's green alright, but partly blue. I mean come on!!! Are you kidding me? And yeah, it was behind Unioil, but it was barely noticeable. WTF?

I had to take pictures, here:

See?

Parang... diba? How would one see the Unioil Center sign ehh, nahaharangan ng mga decors not to mention the veeerryy noticeable green building. Uggh.

So after that I left Madrigal and went back to Metropolis to witness, yet again, the never ending chaos in that place. I rode the bus down to Magallanes, took the train to North Avenue, an fx and a trike back home. In my entire journey, I couldn't help but think, there have been a lot of wrong things in that area. Odd things, awkward, misplaced objects and structures that shouldn't have been there. Take this one for example:

See the condo under construction? It can be seen along South Superhighway. Now behind it, a huge factory with its towering flue gas stacks (industrial chimneys). Who would want to live in a place with a factory next door, belching toxic gases 24/7? WTF!

See what I mean? Wrong. Misplaced. Disorderly.

Chaotic.

50 Reasons People Have Sex

clipped from www.cbs.com Lily's 50 Reasons People Have Sex Straight from Lily's Napkin There are many great lists out there, from People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive to VH1's Top 100 '80s Songs to George W. Bush's short list of criminals he'd like to pardon before Barack Obama takes over. Well, the last one is probably not that great: We're just assuming that O.J. Simpson is on the list right above Sideshow Bob and Michael Vick, which would make it the greatest list ever...or not. Either way, what really tops the list of The Best Lists Ever Made is from our very own Lily Aldrin: The 50 Reasons People Have Sex list. We managed to find the napkin she wrote this list on inside a trash can near MacLaren's, and it was well worth the cuts from syringes, dog poop stains, and the grossness of Barney's expired condoms. Check it:

Haha. Natuwa lang ako nang makit ko to sa Facebook. Hinanap ko yung source and here it is.

"Your condoms are about to expire" - I like this.

Kelan pa nagka-facebox sa multiply?

Siyempre delayed kung delayed ako. Haha.
Akala ko sa Facebook lang pwede mag-tag ng mukha.
Dito din pala. Haha. Wala lang.

Kids Don't Like Puppets

That kid really have some issues with the puppet. Kumusta naman yun.

Na-feature lang sa Attack of the Show sa Maxx.

Watch the video here.

I'm Bored

I'm bored again. haha. Wala na naman magawa. Masakit pa rin mata kakabasa ng kung anu-ano. Celebrating a 'Mary thing' has been uneventful. (iMac Con)

Anyway, I'll just share a quote na lang.

"I want the dead lovers of the world to hear our laughter and grow sad.

I want a breath of our passion to stir their dust into consciousness,

to wake their ashes into pain"

- Dorian Gray

My Ferris Wheel Frustration

Hahaha. Ok natatawa lang ako. I was watching "Kalye" on ABS-CBN, a special features/documentary show (parang Correspondents) featuring anything street related, hence the name, and today they featured "Perya".

Ang sad lang kasi never pa ako nagkaroon ng "perya experience" kahit almost every fiesta during may childhood may perya sa lugar namin. I was not allowed kasi nga hindi daw safe. Though there were rented rides during foundation days in high school, they weren't exactly the "perya experience". We had "Caterpillar" and "Octopus" (or was it "Flying Elephant"?) pero that was it.

Me having no "perya experience" is not the saddest thing when I saw the show. Ang pinaka-nakakalungkot lang sa lahat, at sobrang natatawa ako, hanggang ngayon, kasi sobrang LOSER ng dating AS IN MAJOR! --- NEVER PA AKO NAKASAKAY NG FERRIS WHEEL!!!

DIBA??? Ang lungkot. Parang HELLOOOO???!!! May Enchanted, may Star City, may Boom na Boom and last year may carnival sa MOA but never... never pa akong nakasakay ng Ferris Wheel ever. Tipong, nasakyan ko na lahat ng rides, sulit kung sulit ang ride-all-you-can sakin, pero yun, na sobrang common sa lahat ng carnival at amusement parks at tipong trademark na sya ng mga carnivals together with the carousel, hindi pa ako nakakasakay.

Dati ko pa gusto sumakay pero until now, for some unknown reason, di ko rin ma-gets, hindi ko magawa. Parang yung Cerelac, dati ko pa gusto tikman pero di ko magawa, haha, lagi ko nalilimutan bumili. But thanks to Leah, I finally did, I'm so happy. Haha. THANKS LEAH!!!. Anyway, back to topic. As in sheeeet. So people listen. Nananawagan ako. Huhuhu. LOL. Kailangan bago matapos ang taon, makasakay na ako ng Ferris Wheel.

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"I adore simple pleasures. They are the last refuge of the complex."
- Lord Henry Wotton

PHOTO CREDIT: www.nomadicmatt.com

Mary Grace, Serendra, Christmas Musical at High Street

Gutom na gutom na ako!!!

We left the Volcom event because we were so hungry. I was hungry and there was no energy left for me to talk. I was silent the entire trip to Serendra. We had dinner at Mary Grace. not the cheapest place to dine but did we have any other choice? And besides, I was too darn hungry to care. I just want to eat.

Angel and I had a Pasta Amatriciana? with Italian Meatballs while Sandy had Seafood Pasta. Mmmm mmm. Foooood. I ate my pasta like it was my last meal, or maybe not, while Angel ranted about the spiciness of her dish. We had the same dish but mine wasn't that spicy. We sampled each other's meals only to find out she was right. Man was it too hot.

Nonetheless, the food was great. So was the place and the ambiance. "Parang Papemelrotti na may pagkain" I told Sandy and to my surprise, it was written on a paper on her table. Haha.

After having that hearty meal, I was full. We paid the bill, went out and walked around High Street. There was a choral group on one side singing Christmas carols and from a distance we saw some flashing lights. Curious, we went and see.

There was a Christmas musical going. It was nice. I don't know what it was but it was such a nice play. The set design and costumes were really nice and such an eye candy. See the photos below.



The play ended with a bang. See the finale here.



After that we were just so tired, we went back to 28th Street to see Andrea again. After her event, we were all too tired to go anywhere. We all went home.

Volcom Skateboard Tour

A skateboarding tour at 28th Street cor. Rizal Road, Bonifacio Global City featuring Volcom skaters Brandon Westgate, David Gravette, Chima Ferguson and Chris Pfanner.

After shopping and eating lunch at the World Trade Center, Angel, Sandy and I decided to go to Makati. At first, Angel wanted to see the Twilight OST Launch Party at the G3 Tent where Urbandub and two other bands I'm not familiar with would perform, but after seeing that no one was coming (at first, I think?) by 3++pm we decided to go to Andrea's event near High Street.

The Volcom Balut Salute Skateboard Tour 2008. We took a cab to Bonifacio Global City and found the event without so much trouble. We were late. Wow, the place was packed with people. Skaters from all walks of life (I think? Caucassians, Asians, locals, other crowds) and skateboarding enthusiasts came and there were media people, event organizers, bouncers and many more. The main area of the event was barricaded leaving the rest of the audience outside.

We want in of course. We want to see what was happening without the trouble of (how do you say pakikipagsiksikan and/or pakikipag-gitgitan in English?). Thankfully we saw Andrea and she let us in and gave us vip passes.

This was my first time to see a skateboarding event. Seeing Grind and Extreme Days on video, I have always wondered what it was like. Thoug I'm not a big fan of skateboarding, I've always wanted to skate and surf. Man, the event was full of action. At least for the skaters. They skated, they jumped, twisted, they slipped and fell, among other things. Some managed to regain balance and control, others made it all the way down, others were successful in doing their routine, others were just miserable. Me, I was just enjoying the show.

They gave away free stuff like stickers and shirts. Decks/boards were also being given away where a skateboarding competition was held. There was also an autograph signing sessions and some photo ops. We were wondering why people were so into it, specially the signing session and we thought "Maybe they're like really famous people in the skateboarding world we didn't know and we were missing all of it because we don't even know them", so we decided to have our memorabilias signed as well. It was great.

We were just so hungry after seeing all of it and we had to leave for a while because we just can't sit there and wait for the free food. We were just starving, or at least I was. I wasn't even talking to conserve my remaining energy. I was THAT hungry.

When we came back, we found out they gave away another round of freebies. We missed it. Oh well, I was just tired.

To comment and see the entire photoset Click Here.