Showing posts with label Current Events. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Current Events. Show all posts
February 2, 2015
January 30, 2015
January 16, 2015
How I Came to Like Pope Francis
Although my mother wrote "Catholic" in one of my recent real estate forms with conviction, I simply am not. Although I conform to their way of prayer and going to church, I am doing so out of a desire to obey. I am a Born Again Christian, and though I believe Catholics are Christians, too, there are many aspects of the system that I can't adhere to.
One of them is the concept of a "Vicar of Christ" or a person who represents Jesus on earth. Jesus is not absent in the first place and doesn't need a proxy. If there's a "Vicar of Christ," it should be the Holy Spirit.
Since the concept is not in the Bible, I cannot subscribe to the idea in peace. The same goes for apostolic succession.
That doesn't mean I don't view Pope Francis as a godly Christian leader. In fact, in my eyes, he is that. I expect him to be that.
I was initially touched when I found out he wanted to visit the typhoon victims in Tacloban. Pope or not, I believe this is a good example to follow when it comes to loving the poor. But to be completely honest, I considered that it could be just another publicity stunt for popularity.
I guess I've been a doubting Thomas.
So yesterday, when he arrived in the country, despite my sister's excitement, I feigned nonchalance and continued doing my basic Pilates. Which is very hard, by the way. Oh the things you do for love.
And I digress. Anyway, so the Pope arrived and the crowds on TV were cheering. Almost every post on my social media feeds was about him. Then he finally stepped out of the plane and his cap was blown by the wind. I smiled and my tween sister couldn't stop laughing.
I must admit that he seems to radiate godliness when you look at him. I was touched when I saw him hugging the little boy. He must be genuine after all. Of course, my skeptical self quickly caught up and I thought maybe, again, this was just a popularity stunt.
Why did I keep accusing the Pope of this? It's because I judged him through the articles written about him. Articles that portray him as a Pope who was willing to compromise what is written in the Word to be popular. Which, in hindsight, could be incorrect. In my judgmental eyes, I was convinced that you couldn't just believe that a person is godly based on what you see.
Then the irony hit me like a ton of bricks.
I came to like the Pope not because of what he did and not because of what I read or heard or saw. It's because of what God clearly told me that afternoon.
My opinion was that "... you couldn't just believe that a person is godly based on what you see." How hypocritical of me. If I shouldn't like a person based on what I see, what made me think judging was any different? I shouldn't judge a person based on what I see because I cannot see his heart. Only God can. I need to be wary of declaring people as inauthentic in their faith just the same as I need to be wary of believing anything thrown at me.
In other words, I should be slow to judgment and criticism. Instead, I need to be more compassionate and believe in the goodwill of people - or believe in the presence of goodwill in the first place. Those were the words God spoke to me when I knee-deep in judging and criticizing.
Pope Francis had been an undeserving victim of my unfair prejudice. With that said, let me clarify that I look up to him as a Christian Church leader, nothing more and nothing less. But now I truly want to believe in his goodwill and godliness and that he doesn't have agenda other than bringing the Light of Christ to those who need it.
I only hope the people view him as a human leader, not as someone divine, certainly not God.
What are your thoughts on his visit?
Or by entering your email here:
One of them is the concept of a "Vicar of Christ" or a person who represents Jesus on earth. Jesus is not absent in the first place and doesn't need a proxy. If there's a "Vicar of Christ," it should be the Holy Spirit.
Source: http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org
Since the concept is not in the Bible, I cannot subscribe to the idea in peace. The same goes for apostolic succession.
That doesn't mean I don't view Pope Francis as a godly Christian leader. In fact, in my eyes, he is that. I expect him to be that.
I was initially touched when I found out he wanted to visit the typhoon victims in Tacloban. Pope or not, I believe this is a good example to follow when it comes to loving the poor. But to be completely honest, I considered that it could be just another publicity stunt for popularity.
I guess I've been a doubting Thomas.
So yesterday, when he arrived in the country, despite my sister's excitement, I feigned nonchalance and continued doing my basic Pilates. Which is very hard, by the way. Oh the things you do for love.
And I digress. Anyway, so the Pope arrived and the crowds on TV were cheering. Almost every post on my social media feeds was about him. Then he finally stepped out of the plane and his cap was blown by the wind. I smiled and my tween sister couldn't stop laughing.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
I must admit that he seems to radiate godliness when you look at him. I was touched when I saw him hugging the little boy. He must be genuine after all. Of course, my skeptical self quickly caught up and I thought maybe, again, this was just a popularity stunt.
Why did I keep accusing the Pope of this? It's because I judged him through the articles written about him. Articles that portray him as a Pope who was willing to compromise what is written in the Word to be popular. Which, in hindsight, could be incorrect. In my judgmental eyes, I was convinced that you couldn't just believe that a person is godly based on what you see.
Then the irony hit me like a ton of bricks.
I came to like the Pope not because of what he did and not because of what I read or heard or saw. It's because of what God clearly told me that afternoon.
My opinion was that "... you couldn't just believe that a person is godly based on what you see." How hypocritical of me. If I shouldn't like a person based on what I see, what made me think judging was any different? I shouldn't judge a person based on what I see because I cannot see his heart. Only God can. I need to be wary of declaring people as inauthentic in their faith just the same as I need to be wary of believing anything thrown at me.
In other words, I should be slow to judgment and criticism. Instead, I need to be more compassionate and believe in the goodwill of people - or believe in the presence of goodwill in the first place. Those were the words God spoke to me when I knee-deep in judging and criticizing.
Pope Francis had been an undeserving victim of my unfair prejudice. With that said, let me clarify that I look up to him as a Christian Church leader, nothing more and nothing less. But now I truly want to believe in his goodwill and godliness and that he doesn't have agenda other than bringing the Light of Christ to those who need it.
I only hope the people view him as a human leader, not as someone divine, certainly not God.
What are your thoughts on his visit?
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
December 9, 2014
Ruby
It seems like I always find myself writing about one typhoon per year.
2012, I wrote about Pablo. It was a very nerve-wracking moment for me because it hit Mindanao. I recall we had our share of storm here but the worst part of the experience was when I wasn't able to reach Job for, I think, 2 days. I was so afraid! It turns out they lost electricity and he just couldn't get his phone charged. He was also living in a different post of Surigao during that time and experienced going to an evacuation center because he was staying in a house near the coast (for work).
2013, there was Yolanda, a name that would forever live in infamy. I remember that we experienced stormy weather although it wasn't anywhere near what Visayas experienced. Until today, affected people still need help, and then another typhoon came along.
2014, we have Ruby. With an international name like Hagupit, one can't help but feel afraid. But God is good. First, I believe every province that is bound to be affected is prepared for the typhoon. Second, it had consistently weakened and lowered in level.
Job, who lives in Surigao (del Sur), the province that almost every storm inevitably hits first, told me they already packed their things and were ready to go to a little farm that they have, located in a higher area. However, nothing but sunny weather greeted them. The same happened here in Davao City. Not once did it rain and not once did the temperature even drop. Praise God!
Sadly, I can't say the same for Visayas. Unlike here, many properties have been damaged. It's heartbreaking to see houses built by recovering Yolanda survivors torn apart by another storm. There are still casualties, a few as reported but still casualties nonetheless. But I dare to say that the preparedness of provinces this year prevented what could have been a higher number.
The typhoon is currently in Luzon now and we're still praying that it wouldn't do so much damage. To friends in Metro Manila and Luzon, keep safe!
Now it is easy to say that if God can answer prayers and control the storms, why was Yolanda's case different? Why did thousands of people have to die in its wake?
Frankly, I don't know why. My limited understanding couldn't answer that; only God can. All I know is that he's sovereign and knows what he's doing. However, I can say that we learned so much from last year's tragedy and have come a long way in terms of understanding storms and preparing for them. For all its worth, I think this counts.
Or by entering your email here:
2012, I wrote about Pablo. It was a very nerve-wracking moment for me because it hit Mindanao. I recall we had our share of storm here but the worst part of the experience was when I wasn't able to reach Job for, I think, 2 days. I was so afraid! It turns out they lost electricity and he just couldn't get his phone charged. He was also living in a different post of Surigao during that time and experienced going to an evacuation center because he was staying in a house near the coast (for work).
2013, there was Yolanda, a name that would forever live in infamy. I remember that we experienced stormy weather although it wasn't anywhere near what Visayas experienced. Until today, affected people still need help, and then another typhoon came along.
2014, we have Ruby. With an international name like Hagupit, one can't help but feel afraid. But God is good. First, I believe every province that is bound to be affected is prepared for the typhoon. Second, it had consistently weakened and lowered in level.
Job, who lives in Surigao (del Sur), the province that almost every storm inevitably hits first, told me they already packed their things and were ready to go to a little farm that they have, located in a higher area. However, nothing but sunny weather greeted them. The same happened here in Davao City. Not once did it rain and not once did the temperature even drop. Praise God!
The typhoon is currently in Luzon now and we're still praying that it wouldn't do so much damage. To friends in Metro Manila and Luzon, keep safe!
Now it is easy to say that if God can answer prayers and control the storms, why was Yolanda's case different? Why did thousands of people have to die in its wake?
Frankly, I don't know why. My limited understanding couldn't answer that; only God can. All I know is that he's sovereign and knows what he's doing. However, I can say that we learned so much from last year's tragedy and have come a long way in terms of understanding storms and preparing for them. For all its worth, I think this counts.
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
September 24, 2014
My Friends are in Amazing Race, Duterte, and Other Stories
Image: http://www.tv5.com.ph/
During high school, I had two very close girlfriends: Zarah and Osang. Zarah and I were called "twins" because we looked alike daw (she's a lot prettier), while Osang and I were kindred spirits because we had a lot in common. We mostly grew apart, but I still consider them dear ones.
One thing I don't have in common with them, though, is that they are adventurous (while I'd rather stay home), so I really wasn't that surprised when I found out they got into the final teams competing in this year's Amazing Race:
Zarah and Osang, taken from Zarah's Facebook account
I don't watch a lot of TV, but I'll make sure I'll try to follow (follow talaga) Amazing Race. Woot! Go Zarah and Osang!
PS: They're the only team in the game not coming from Luzon! You can watch the trailer here.
2. Duterte for President
August 19, 2014
Persona Non Grata? Really?
So some of you might have already heard of the news about Ramon Bautista here in Davao. I wasn't there, but apparently, he made a remark about the people in Davao being like hipon. For the clueless, it's an expression used to refer to people who have great bodies but not-so-desirable faces.
It is a derogatory remark, for sure, and I must admit it's quite offending to call someone, much more a group of people, "hipon." But I wasn't there. I'm not even sure whether he was really referring to the people or to the actual seafood hehe. However, I do understand that the joke was not tactfully delivered and RB ended up looking just rude.
But let's give the poor guy a break. I know how he must feel because there had been several times in my life when a rude remark went out of my mouth, different from what I intended to say! My motive was innocent but I ended up offending a person. That's life. We're all people. We're not perfect. I'm sure RB didn't intend to offend Davaoenos that night because, hello, what good would come out of it? He just was not thinking.
And you know what? After reading that post, I no longer felt offended. In fact, I gained a new respect for the UP professor and comedian not only because of the repeat apology but also because he did not attempt to defend himself. He offered no explanation for his tactless "joke" but instead, just humbled himself and said sorry. Even when he already did say sorry. Even if he still got attacked and bullied. For me, that's courage.
I thought everything was going to be alright. However, just today, I read this news about Ramon Bautista being declared persona non grata in my city. Wait, what?! If you ask me, I think that's just unfair. He didn't commit a crime! Yes, what he did was rude and offensive, but that alone doesn't warrant a punishment as serious as not allowing a fellow Filipino enter a Philippine city. Even the mastermind of the Maguindanao massacre who infamously grinned like the Cheshire cat, before he was imprisoned, wasn't declared persona non grata!
But that's just me. I don't know anything about the law. I don't know anything about politics or how defending women's rightsare is supposed to work, at least according to them.
But I know compassion and forgiveness and grace and showing them to people who least deserve them. RB was certainly not faultless, but then again, neither are we. Neither are our leaders. However, we strive to continue to show compassion, forgiveness, and grace. In my heart as a Christian, as a mother, and as a woman, that's the mark of true leadership.
I hate to see my beloved city be known as a hardhearted city that can't forgive.
Or by entering your email here:
It is a derogatory remark, for sure, and I must admit it's quite offending to call someone, much more a group of people, "hipon." But I wasn't there. I'm not even sure whether he was really referring to the people or to the actual seafood hehe. However, I do understand that the joke was not tactfully delivered and RB ended up looking just rude.
But let's give the poor guy a break. I know how he must feel because there had been several times in my life when a rude remark went out of my mouth, different from what I intended to say! My motive was innocent but I ended up offending a person. That's life. We're all people. We're not perfect. I'm sure RB didn't intend to offend Davaoenos that night because, hello, what good would come out of it? He just was not thinking.
Image: inquirer.net
According to news, he already apologized to the crowd during that night. Apparently, it was not enough for people continued to lambast him. And then last night, I saw this on RB's Instagram:
I thought everything was going to be alright. However, just today, I read this news about Ramon Bautista being declared persona non grata in my city. Wait, what?! If you ask me, I think that's just unfair. He didn't commit a crime! Yes, what he did was rude and offensive, but that alone doesn't warrant a punishment as serious as not allowing a fellow Filipino enter a Philippine city. Even the mastermind of the Maguindanao massacre who infamously grinned like the Cheshire cat, before he was imprisoned, wasn't declared persona non grata!
But that's just me. I don't know anything about the law. I don't know anything about politics or how defending women's rights
But I know compassion and forgiveness and grace and showing them to people who least deserve them. RB was certainly not faultless, but then again, neither are we. Neither are our leaders. However, we strive to continue to show compassion, forgiveness, and grace. In my heart as a Christian, as a mother, and as a woman, that's the mark of true leadership.
I hate to see my beloved city be known as a hardhearted city that can't forgive.
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
August 15, 2014
Suicide Is Not Unforgivable
Image: ressurrection.wordpress.com
Robin Williams has been dead for days now, and most of you might have read dozens of news-related stories already, but I chose to write this one today because truth be told, I didn't know what to think... about suicide, in particular and in general.
It wasn't until last night that I was finally enlightened.
I was raised as a Catholic who believed in mortal sin or sin that cannot be forgiven. It includes murder, and since suicide is virtually a kind of murder, it is automatically unforgivable. At least that's what the "doctrines" say. I believed that one automatically went to hell when he commits suicide.
Well, that really bothered me because in high school, a friend of mine, a pretty girl who is a "rich kid" who got everything she wanted, took her life by hanging herself with a scarf inside her closet. She was only 16.
But the idea that suicide was unforgivable remained. I'm ashamed to say it now, but I looked with disdain at those who commit it. You can throw stones at me because I'll be honest: I condemned them. In my eyes, they just did not fight hard enough.
Fast forward to several years when I became a Born Again Christian. I got to have a clearer understanding of Jesus and the Good News. Despite my many sins, I am saved. Halleluiah! But I still wasn't so sure about those who commit suicide. Truth be told, I never really bothered.
News about Robin Williams came, and though I adored him, I still was pretty much convinced that suicide was unforgivable.
Until last night.
July 9, 2014
Priest vs. Single Mother: My Two Cents
It was yesterday when I saw the video showing a priest giving a sermon to a young, unwed mom in an angry and quite humiliating way. It was the lady's child's baptism.
You can see the video here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=792490147452349
I wanted to react right then and there. This is because aside from being a single mom myself, I also experienced a "milder" form of bullying from a Catholic church worker during my son's baptism, too. Never mind the fact that I'm not Catholic in the first place. It's a long story.
But I chose to give my 2 cents a day after (which is today) to prevent myself from reacting from indignation.
As a single mom, too, I can strongly sympathize with the lady. That doesn't mean I admire what she did.
November 12, 2013
Top 5 #YolandaPH Scene-Stealers We Can Do Without
It is no secret that the entire nation is under a state of calamity. There's no better time to stay strong as a people and be our brothers' keeper. For the unaffected among us, there's no better time to praise God for the roof above our heads, the clean shirt on our backs, and the food on our tables.
However, aside from the calamity itself, some issues (and issue-makers) are causing even the most patient among us more stress. These stress-inducers are like vampires sucking the remaining of our spirit. Well, maybe I'm being overdramatic, but these are the reasons why I grimace each time I scroll down my feeds or watch the evening news. I listed what, for me, are the worst stress-inducers -- from merely irritating to really blood-boiling -- in this tragic time:
5. Humble-braggarts
Humble braggarts are those who are skilled in carefully bragging without sounding like a braggart. Yes, that's a science and an art. For example: I just woke up, didn't take a bath, and dragged my bed-head to the coffee shop, and the barista is still hitting on me. Unbelievable!
These are the people on your news feed who will casually mention on Twitter that they are on the way to the grocery to buy relief goods. These are the ones who will take a photo of said relief goods and post it on Instagram. These are the ones who will announce the act of goodwill over Facebook. Hashtag YolandaPH. And don't even get started with the artistas!
Well, news flash: You don't have to proclaim it to the whole world. Your left hand should not know what your right hand does.
4. Self-righteous ranters
Ah, the humble braggarts are a breath of fresh air compared to these rancid ranters. He's your friend who will make agitated statements (and status messages) on how people should not only hashtag (YolandaPH) but actually help. You know? The actual tulong? The funny thing here is that the self-righteous ranter thinks he's the only one actually doing something when he's not. Which is, of course, not true.
He is the one who would make nasty comments on a celebrity's account because the celebrity is not posting anything disaster-related.
Newsflash: Just because someone hasn't been posting his donations for the world to see doesn't mean he didn't help at all. Oh wait. I sound like a self-righteous ranter, don't I?
3. Blasphemous haters
However, aside from the calamity itself, some issues (and issue-makers) are causing even the most patient among us more stress. These stress-inducers are like vampires sucking the remaining of our spirit. Well, maybe I'm being overdramatic, but these are the reasons why I grimace each time I scroll down my feeds or watch the evening news. I listed what, for me, are the worst stress-inducers -- from merely irritating to really blood-boiling -- in this tragic time:
 |
| Photo: thewatchoutblog.wordpress.com |
Humble braggarts are those who are skilled in carefully bragging without sounding like a braggart. Yes, that's a science and an art. For example: I just woke up, didn't take a bath, and dragged my bed-head to the coffee shop, and the barista is still hitting on me. Unbelievable!
These are the people on your news feed who will casually mention on Twitter that they are on the way to the grocery to buy relief goods. These are the ones who will take a photo of said relief goods and post it on Instagram. These are the ones who will announce the act of goodwill over Facebook. Hashtag YolandaPH. And don't even get started with the artistas!
Well, news flash: You don't have to proclaim it to the whole world. Your left hand should not know what your right hand does.
4. Self-righteous ranters
Ah, the humble braggarts are a breath of fresh air compared to these rancid ranters. He's your friend who will make agitated statements (and status messages) on how people should not only hashtag (YolandaPH) but actually help. You know? The actual tulong? The funny thing here is that the self-righteous ranter thinks he's the only one actually doing something when he's not. Which is, of course, not true.
He is the one who would make nasty comments on a celebrity's account because the celebrity is not posting anything disaster-related.
Newsflash: Just because someone hasn't been posting his donations for the world to see doesn't mean he didn't help at all. Oh wait. I sound like a self-righteous ranter, don't I?
3. Blasphemous haters
November 9, 2013
Hitting the Storm's Eye
I haven't seen news updates about Yolanda because our cable signal has been out since last night. It only came back around 8:30 this morning, and there weren't any relevant news programs to see. I didn't know that Yolanda is now considered the world's most powerful storm.
You see, my mother left last night for a business trip in Baguio and Manila. To tell you the truth, we didn't feel the storm here in Davao City because it was sunny here. Also, their flight wasn't cancelled, so I thought Yolanda was not as harmful as she was projected.
Because of that, I honestly thought the super-typhoon just breezed (pun not intended) its way through the country without casualties, so imagine my shock when I read this article. I felt especially down when I read that one of the casualties was a 2-year old baby from Zamboanga City who got struck with lightning. Heartwrenching.
However, this photo has been circulating around my social media feeds:
The moment I read this comment, I was deeply touched. Why? Because it's true! This typhoon is certainly stronger than the other typhoons/hurricanes, but somehow, I know we'll get through it. I know this comment, no matter how heartfelt it is, won't bring back the lost lives. However, I am happy because strength and resilience is becoming a symbol of the Filipino character.
Or by entering your email here:
You see, my mother left last night for a business trip in Baguio and Manila. To tell you the truth, we didn't feel the storm here in Davao City because it was sunny here. Also, their flight wasn't cancelled, so I thought Yolanda was not as harmful as she was projected.
Because of that, I honestly thought the super-typhoon just breezed (pun not intended) its way through the country without casualties, so imagine my shock when I read this article. I felt especially down when I read that one of the casualties was a 2-year old baby from Zamboanga City who got struck with lightning. Heartwrenching.
However, this photo has been circulating around my social media feeds:
 |
| Photo: http://peepread.com/ |
Filipinos must be one of the most misunderstood people, don't you think? That's why I have a huge feeling that this commenter must (a) be a Filipino, (b), have Filipino blood, or (c), lived with Filipinos. It's so nice to hear something positive about our people for a change. No matter what the reason is, his comment hit the bull's eye. Maybe even the storm's eye.
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
November 7, 2013
Monster Typhoon
I can clearly remember last year when Typhoon Pablo ravaged its way through Mindanao. That time, I wasn't able to contact Job for days because of the disruptive signal. That time, I was worrying, praying day and night that all of my loved ones would be safe.
This time, another super-typhoon is in the country: Yolanda. Today, Job's work has been cancelled because of the heavy rains. Thankfully, the weather is still fairly fine where I am. Job reported that earlier at dawn, super lakas na daw ng ulan. It weakened slightly this morning, but it is expected to gain strength again.
What is bad is that Yolanda is headed toward Visayas and will likely cause damages in Bohol, which has been very recently damaged by a strong earthquake. Even worse, there is a possibility that Yolanda might be even stronger than Pablo. Oh no. No no no.
Lord God, have mercy on this nation.
Or by entering your email here:
This time, another super-typhoon is in the country: Yolanda. Today, Job's work has been cancelled because of the heavy rains. Thankfully, the weather is still fairly fine where I am. Job reported that earlier at dawn, super lakas na daw ng ulan. It weakened slightly this morning, but it is expected to gain strength again.
What is bad is that Yolanda is headed toward Visayas and will likely cause damages in Bohol, which has been very recently damaged by a strong earthquake. Even worse, there is a possibility that Yolanda might be even stronger than Pablo. Oh no. No no no.
 |
| Photo: instagram.com/reginevalcasid |
Matthew 18:19-20 (NIV)
19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Lord God, have mercy on this nation.
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
July 11, 2013
Kidnapped businesswoman rescued in Davao City; 2 suspects killed, 1 nabbed
Two kidnappers got killed in a shootout just this afternoon by police authorities in attempt to rescue a kidnapped Chinese businesswoman.
Sally Chua, a businesswoman, was kidnapped in Quezon City by 14 kidnappers. She was forced to withdraw P15 million (unverified) from the bank. It was learned that Chua was abducted in Metro Manila and that the kidnappers traveled all the way to Davao City with their victim to do the withdrawal of the ransom money here (CNN).
Davaoenos are now celebrating and congratulating the police force, outgoing DCPO Director Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, Mayor Duterte, and VMayor Paolo Duterte for a job well done.
Moments earlier, I was so busy working and listing something (you'll soon know about this!) that I didn't notice the many updates my Facebook feed has been receiving. Because I don't know the full story, I'll just show you snippets of the news updates and reactions:
Here's the link to the video of the shootout: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=141050622760291
What can I say about this? Like many, I am proud of the city's local government and police force. We feel safe here in all aspects: health-wise (Smoking ban, Liquor ban, Firecracker ban) and security-wise. For the second aspect, we have the police authorities to thank for. I have always been a Duterte-supporter, too. Despite the stories about him, I respect him and I am proud to be under his governance.
As for now, I am waiting for further updates. Meanwhile, I am "enjoying" the feeling of being in the middle of an action movie. I do hope everyone remains safe - though I'm not so sure about the kidnappers.
PS: Sorry for the newspaper-ish blog post. It's been awhile since I've worked for the newspaper and I think that's a rather poorly written title and article!
Or by entering your email here:
Sally Chua, a businesswoman, was kidnapped in Quezon City by 14 kidnappers. She was forced to withdraw P15 million (unverified) from the bank. It was learned that Chua was abducted in Metro Manila and that the kidnappers traveled all the way to Davao City with their victim to do the withdrawal of the ransom money here (CNN).
She apparently chose the payoff to be done Davao City because "she was confident they would be caught here" (InterAksyon).
Davaoenos are now celebrating and congratulating the police force, outgoing DCPO Director Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, Mayor Duterte, and VMayor Paolo Duterte for a job well done.
Moments earlier, I was so busy working and listing something (you'll soon know about this!) that I didn't notice the many updates my Facebook feed has been receiving. Because I don't know the full story, I'll just show you snippets of the news updates and reactions:
"Kung gusto ninyo mangamatay, anhi mo ug DAVAO" - Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte (heard on the radio)
Duterte, who rushed to the scene, had only one thing to say. “I only have one statement. I told the criminals not to f— it here in Davao,” he said. (Newsdesk)
VM Paolo Duterte: "Gusto unta namo na madakpan tong mga nakatas, pero kung musukol sila andam atong mga kapulisan na patyon sila. Sa mga kriminal diri sa atong nasud, kung gusto ninyo mamatay adto mo diri sa Davao." [Gusto sana naming mahuli ang mga nakatakas, pero kung lalaban sila, handa ang kapulisang patayin sila. Sa mga kriminal dito sa bansa, kung gusto ninyong mamatay, pumunta kayo sa Davao.] (Source unverified)
 |
| Photo: Samantha Maquiling Jubelag |
What can I say about this? Like many, I am proud of the city's local government and police force. We feel safe here in all aspects: health-wise (Smoking ban, Liquor ban, Firecracker ban) and security-wise. For the second aspect, we have the police authorities to thank for. I have always been a Duterte-supporter, too. Despite the stories about him, I respect him and I am proud to be under his governance.
As for now, I am waiting for further updates. Meanwhile, I am "enjoying" the feeling of being in the middle of an action movie. I do hope everyone remains safe - though I'm not so sure about the kidnappers.
PS: Sorry for the newspaper-ish blog post. It's been awhile since I've worked for the newspaper and I think that's a rather poorly written title and article!
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
May 14, 2013
Up Dharma Down in Davao!
Davao City is becoming more and more exciting by the hour! When I was young, Davao as a sleepy, old town. Now, new and exciting establishments keep on sprouting. I swear, I must have slept through my pregnancy and early motherhood - I can't keep up already!
Speaking of exciting places to see, another has recently opened. Tienda del Mercado, located at Acacia St., Juna Subdivision (which is near Ateneo de Davao High School), is apparently the biggest food bazaar in the city. Cool, huh?
I've heard of Tienda del Mercado a month ago, and while I got a few invites already, I'm still not able to go there mainly because 1) it is far from where I live and 2) I have a clingy baby. I'm missing out on so much, no? :-(
Now, here's another reason why I (and you, too!) should pay it a visit. On May 25, UP DHARMA DOWN will be having a concert there along with Sleepwalk Circus (a band from Manila) and Davao's own SkyMarines. Tickets are sold at only P350 with one free beer.
To cap off this post, here's a personal invitation from my college roommate, Lara:
To know more about Tienda del Mercado, you can visit their Facebook page and their website.
Or by entering your email here:
Speaking of exciting places to see, another has recently opened. Tienda del Mercado, located at Acacia St., Juna Subdivision (which is near Ateneo de Davao High School), is apparently the biggest food bazaar in the city. Cool, huh?
I've heard of Tienda del Mercado a month ago, and while I got a few invites already, I'm still not able to go there mainly because 1) it is far from where I live and 2) I have a clingy baby. I'm missing out on so much, no? :-(
Now, here's another reason why I (and you, too!) should pay it a visit. On May 25, UP DHARMA DOWN will be having a concert there along with Sleepwalk Circus (a band from Manila) and Davao's own SkyMarines. Tickets are sold at only P350 with one free beer.
To cap off this post, here's a personal invitation from my college roommate, Lara:
Come join us for a unique concert experience. Dine comfortably as bands serenade you and the people closest to you. For inquiries you may contact me at 09326026523 or you may visit Tienda del Mercado from Fridays- Sundays (open at 4pm onwards).See you there! :-)
To know more about Tienda del Mercado, you can visit their Facebook page and their website.
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
May 13, 2013
Elections 2013
I originally planned to just go to the voting precinct in the afternoon so that I can still work in the morning. However, when Y and I went downstairs kanina at 6, the parents were already prepared to go. Sayang naman kung hindi na ako sumabay, diba? So I hurriedly dressed up (yes, walang ligo-ligo) and prepared Y's breakfast. Off we went!
 |
| Unflattering? I agree!!! :D |
 |
| Of course, this was taken after I finished voting, so marami nang tao. |
 |
| Laxa, Number 105 sa listahan. Vote for me! |
 |
| Hahahaha nakakahiya. In Bisaya, kaulaw!!! |
But to be fair, ang galing ng organization ng school. Instead of letting the people pile up (like what happened in 2010!), they were better prepared now and reserved classrooms as waiting areas. Doon kami nakapila, while comfortably seated. In the cluster of my precinct, the poll watchers were also vigilant in telling the people what to do, which minimizes mga singitan sa pila. The fact that one of the poll watchers was cute didn't hurt. #ssshh
 |
| And in fairness to the votes, all were disciplined in falling in line. Kudos! |
On a lighter note, in our precinct, lining up might not be a breeze, but it sure was a hassle-free process. And what's an election-related post without a photo of my short, stubby fingers? One of which is proudly and indelibly ink-stained? :D
Funny story: We went to the school with our neighbor and family friend, Tita Nanette, who is actually Jack Enrile's sister-in-law. On our way to the school, she kept campaigning for Enrile and gesturing "oks na oks na" to other neighbors we met on the way.
Um, okay, Tita Nanette is a dear family friend, but I'm still not voting for him.
I voted for the following Senatorial candidates: TC, RH, DG, EH, SA, RM, and EV. #guesswho
However, sadly, my boyfriend, J, is not able to vote because his registration status was deactivated. Bakit?
PS: My dad is a stroke survivor. He suffered stroke back in 2006, and while he is fully well now, he could not use his right (dominant) hand anymore. But he still practiced his right to vote. What's your excuse?
Kaya please vote, people! Every vote counts! Have fun sweating and making light-hearted banters with strangers in polling precincts today! :D
UPDATE: Chuvaness, or Cecile Zamora Van Straten, is apparently also a disenfranchised voter even when she voted in the last two elections - http://chuvaness.com/13499/fail/failure-to-vote-a-first-time-for-me/. I just remembered that J did vote in 2007, but he had the same registration status as Ms. Cecile's. This means J should not be disenfranchised! And CVS is right. Why would someone be disqualified just because he wasn't able to vote in the last two elections?
COMELEC BAKIT?
COMELEC BAKIT?
_________________________________________________________________
Do you like this post? Never miss out again when you click on the cute bunny below:
Or by entering your email here:
December 9, 2012
On Pacman's Fight and Christianity
As a boxing non-fanatic, I wasn't really affected by the event. I had a few laughs though, reading the status messages of my peers in Facebook. I even posted a couple of funny (?) ones. Hehe.
But I wasn't amused when the words "God," "Christian," and "religion" began to be tossed around in the web. He was doing very well until he changed "religions."
First and foremost, at the risk of sounding as if I knew him personally, Pacman did not change religions. He doesn't even have religion now! I believe he found God and developed a personal relation with him.
Second, being godly did not cause him to "lose." No, on the contrary, I believe God wanted Pacman to win his battle by losing that game. I believe God is preparing him for a greater victory - maybe not in boxing. Who knows? God knows.
Third, perhaps it's a lesson. That money isn't everything. Fame, too!
See, God did not promise us that we'll never lose our fights. God did not say we'll win all the time. But the promise is that whether we win or lose, God is with us. And that knowledge is what keeps us strong, and maybe that's what kept Pacman's goofy smile. :-)
At the end of the day, isn't God's grace and promise the ultimate, guaranteed victory?
December 6, 2012
Pablo's Devastation
The other day, I said this:
Pablo has already left our part of Mindanao, and is expected to leave the Philippine area of responsibility by Friday. But this doesn't mean the storm is over. In fact, for many of our brothers and sisters in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley Province, the storm has just begun.
When Pablo hit ground, Mindanao LGUs were praised because of the preparedness; there were 0 casualties in day 1. Unfortunately, Pablo has a mean streak - almost like that friend who kisses you and stabs you when you turn your back. We were tuned in to the news yesterday, since Y was sick and I didn't work, and as of yesterday, the death toll was around 200. This was already devastating, but the numbers continue to rise. According to Rappler.com, as of this morning, there are already 325, and that doesn't even include the vast number of the missing. This, my friends, is devastation:
According to various reports and updates, a lot of baranggays in Davao Oriental and ComVal are almost "erased" from the map; what used to be lively communities and even tourist destinations are now wastelands and ghost towns. My heart aches when I see the children in the news, covered in mud and shivering from the cold. But those are the lucky ones. Many are still under the mud and are still fighting for dear life.
I feel so shallow - and heartless - for complaining about our power outage and intermittent internet connection. In reality, I am very, very lucky. I'm thankful we didn't feel the damage here in Davao City. I'm thankful J only had to spend one night in evacuation and has finally gone home to his family earlier. I'm thankful our yaya's family is safe in Capalong, Davao Oriental - even though we heard their small banana plantation is a total wreck.
Friends, if you have a heart, please, please, please send donations to ABS-CBN, GMA, the military, private organizations - whatever, here's a list! People in evacuation centers are badly in need of food, water, clothes, blankets, slippers, cash. I'm sure you have something to give.
On a final note, I'm not in the mood to read the updates I usually get from the blogs I usually follow. It's as if nothing's happening. I know your lives should not stop because of the calamity, and I'm not asking for your life to stop. But please, when Ondoy hit the worst of Luzon, people from Mindanao worked together to help you. That's true. Now, people in Mindanao are dying. When will you help? It's good that your heart goes out to the devastated, but when will you actually go out and help?
If there's anywhere you don't want to be stuck in during a typhoon, it's coastal Surigao.I couldn't be more wrong. Well, Surigao del Sur is already in a state of calamity, but thank God there are no casualties. But I was wrong. If there's one place (or two) you wouldn't want to be in when Pablo struck, it's Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley.
Pablo has already left our part of Mindanao, and is expected to leave the Philippine area of responsibility by Friday. But this doesn't mean the storm is over. In fact, for many of our brothers and sisters in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley Province, the storm has just begun.
When Pablo hit ground, Mindanao LGUs were praised because of the preparedness; there were 0 casualties in day 1. Unfortunately, Pablo has a mean streak - almost like that friend who kisses you and stabs you when you turn your back. We were tuned in to the news yesterday, since Y was sick and I didn't work, and as of yesterday, the death toll was around 200. This was already devastating, but the numbers continue to rise. According to Rappler.com, as of this morning, there are already 325, and that doesn't even include the vast number of the missing. This, my friends, is devastation:
 |
| Photo from Rappler.com |
 |
| Photo from Rappler.com |
I feel so shallow - and heartless - for complaining about our power outage and intermittent internet connection. In reality, I am very, very lucky. I'm thankful we didn't feel the damage here in Davao City. I'm thankful J only had to spend one night in evacuation and has finally gone home to his family earlier. I'm thankful our yaya's family is safe in Capalong, Davao Oriental - even though we heard their small banana plantation is a total wreck.
Friends, if you have a heart, please, please, please send donations to ABS-CBN, GMA, the military, private organizations - whatever, here's a list! People in evacuation centers are badly in need of food, water, clothes, blankets, slippers, cash. I'm sure you have something to give.
On a final note, I'm not in the mood to read the updates I usually get from the blogs I usually follow. It's as if nothing's happening. I know your lives should not stop because of the calamity, and I'm not asking for your life to stop. But please, when Ondoy hit the worst of Luzon, people from Mindanao worked together to help you. That's true. Now, people in Mindanao are dying. When will you help? It's good that your heart goes out to the devastated, but when will you actually go out and help?
December 3, 2012
Typhoon Pablo
Typhoon Pablo is already in the Philippine area of responsibility as of yesterday. It is supposed to be a really strong typhoon, a super-typhoon in fact, and would be stronger than last year's Sendong - which devastated a lot of brothers and sisters in CDO.
As of now, various provinces in Visayas and Mindanao are already under signals 1-3. We, in Davao, are already experiencing strong winds (which I can feel from the window beside me while typing). But I'm not worried for myself; we live in a secure place that is not flood-prone and far from the sea. What I'm worried about is J, who is in Surigao, as well as his family. Heck, his boarding house is situated right beside the sea.
Surigao is already under Signal No. 3. I can't help but be worried, but I pray that everyone will be fine. I'm worried especially for J, but I really pray that everyone will be spared from the storm's wrath.
 |
| Photo from National Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council's Page |
There is nothing we can do but pray and be prepared. Here's another photo detailing what we should prepare before the storm sets in.
 |
| Photo from MinLand Foundation's Page |
I already told J to prepare these things. Actually, I was begging him to go home to his family where he would be safer and, at least, be farther from the sea. He told me last night that he can't go home yet as they still have work to do. I'm really hoping the company would suspend work and allow all of them to go home safely.
To everyone reading this, especially those from Visayas and Mindanao, please be safe.
November 23, 2012
Zip-front Dresses
Ever since I gave birth, I developed the penchant for dresses. I don't know why, but suddenly, I can't leave the house without wearing a dress - and it has to be a girly dress. If you knew me pre-pregnancy, you would know that I'm the type of girl who's okay with shirts and jeans. If I wanted to be dressy, I would slip on a long top and leggings. That's it! But now, it has to be a dress.
Now, dresses aren't exactly the easiest thing to wear when breastfeeding. When I'm with Y, I can only confidently wear a dress when I know there'd be a breastfeeding area (like SM). Imagine pulling everything up when Y wants to breastfeed? I do wear shorts underneath, but the sight is still indecent.
Enter this front-zip dress that I got in Cebu. When we were walking around SM, I spotted Meg, a boutique which I'm pretty sure is not in Davao. I wasn't really planning on buying something, but I found this cute, retro-style dress in a color I love: gray! And what sealed the deal was the front-zip. Here are some photos (albeit unflattering) of me wearing it:
I'm no fashion blogger; I know. I'm sorry I ambushed you with photos showcasing my thunder thighs and arms. Sorry! Hahaha. The point is that I should have made this discovery months ago. I should have stocked up with front-zip dresses for breastfeeding (and looking cute, too!). Good thing I never bought any breastfeeding dresses.
So to all mommies (and future mommies) out there, you don't need to spend thousands on breastfeeding dresses or clothes. All you need to do is be creative and look for possible alternatives, like front-zip dresses!
The Meg dress above originally sells for P999. It was on sale that day, and I got it for only ... secret! Let's just say that if the dress came in more colors, I would have bought one of each. :D
Now, dresses aren't exactly the easiest thing to wear when breastfeeding. When I'm with Y, I can only confidently wear a dress when I know there'd be a breastfeeding area (like SM). Imagine pulling everything up when Y wants to breastfeed? I do wear shorts underneath, but the sight is still indecent.
Enter this front-zip dress that I got in Cebu. When we were walking around SM, I spotted Meg, a boutique which I'm pretty sure is not in Davao. I wasn't really planning on buying something, but I found this cute, retro-style dress in a color I love: gray! And what sealed the deal was the front-zip. Here are some photos (albeit unflattering) of me wearing it:
 |
| At the airport: The dress is ideal for trips where you use a seatbelt because you don't have to pull anything up. Just cover yourself and zip the dress open. |
 |
| Blurred photo in the hotel room, posing for a full view of the dress. Can you see the front zipper? |
 |
| And at the lobby, waiting for our sundo. Wala lang. |
So to all mommies (and future mommies) out there, you don't need to spend thousands on breastfeeding dresses or clothes. All you need to do is be creative and look for possible alternatives, like front-zip dresses!
The Meg dress above originally sells for P999. It was on sale that day, and I got it for only ... secret! Let's just say that if the dress came in more colors, I would have bought one of each. :D
November 15, 2012
Thoughts on #Amalayer
Yes, that's a hashtag on my post title. I don't know why, but hashtags seem to be taking over the world now: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram.
I digress.
Alright, so I assume you must be familiar with the #Amalayer issue. If not, please come out of that rock and soak up some chismis. Or better yet, watch some news. Anyway, it's about this irate girl - Paula Salvosa - who yelled at lady guard in the LRT and made a scene. I know it's been two days since it has happened, but #amalayer (which is derived from I'm a liar) is still trending on Twitter, which led me to really think about it.
My two cents:
I'm glad I was raised by a family who doesn't have scandalous tendencies. I experienced public humiliation many times (trust me), but I never had the urge to retaliate. Although I'm prone to running some pretty gruesome scenes in my head when I get home.
I'm also glad I was raised thinking that the world does not owe my anything. I work hard and nothing was ever handed to me on a silver platter just because I wished for it. My parents never spoiled me, and early on, I learned that if I wanted anything, I should work for it. Well, we all should work hard to get what we deserve - but still that doesn't mean we deserve to be treated like royalty.
Finally, if I were in the same situation as Salvosa, I'm sure I wouldn't have done the same thing. Why? Even though I write using English, I can't - for the life of me - speak well. If someone treated me badly, I would simply write to the management to save me from public speaking. So there. :D
Here's the video:
I digress.
Alright, so I assume you must be familiar with the #Amalayer issue. If not, please come out of that rock and soak up some chismis. Or better yet, watch some news. Anyway, it's about this irate girl - Paula Salvosa - who yelled at lady guard in the LRT and made a scene. I know it's been two days since it has happened, but #amalayer (which is derived from I'm a liar) is still trending on Twitter, which led me to really think about it.
My two cents:
I'm glad I was raised by a family who doesn't have scandalous tendencies. I experienced public humiliation many times (trust me), but I never had the urge to retaliate. Although I'm prone to running some pretty gruesome scenes in my head when I get home.
I'm also glad I was raised thinking that the world does not owe my anything. I work hard and nothing was ever handed to me on a silver platter just because I wished for it. My parents never spoiled me, and early on, I learned that if I wanted anything, I should work for it. Well, we all should work hard to get what we deserve - but still that doesn't mean we deserve to be treated like royalty.
Finally, if I were in the same situation as Salvosa, I'm sure I wouldn't have done the same thing. Why? Even though I write using English, I can't - for the life of me - speak well. If someone treated me badly, I would simply write to the management to save me from public speaking. So there. :D
Here's the video:
October 22, 2012
Victoria on ANTM Cycle 19
This is a late post, but as I mentioned in an earlier post, I was too busy looking for a decent template. Better late than never!
Victoria Henley is weird. Victoria cries to her mom over the phone. Victoria didn't want to have a makeover. But I like Victoria, especially in this epic moment:
Now, I'm rooting for her. Victoria's weird, but she's smart and, well, adorably weird!
 |
| Image taken from Google |
Kiara eventually shows up to reiterate her request to shut up after midnight, and Darian responds that she'll stay up as late as she wants. She walks off to her room, and Kiara follows her. Darian thinks that Kiara is fake for not giving the message herself. Kiara says that she didn't feel the need to come all the way upstairs to tell Darian to shut up, and Darian says that if she were a real bitch she would have. Kiara is SO OFFENDED by the accusation that she's not a real bitch. Darian wonders why Kiara is totally up in her face, and the answer is to prove that she's a real bitch. After a whole lot of fingers in faces, Kiara leaves while making sure that everybody knows she's a real-ass bitch. Kristin, still secretly the best, just stands on one of the beds, bouncing and laughing. After Kiara leaves, several of the girls do a real-ass bitch impression, and it's kind of awesome. Victoria's is, of course, the best. She analyzes the whole situation as such, "That's not an argument. I mean, I'm a real bitch? What is that supposed to accomplish?"
http://www.televisionwithoutpity.com/show/americas-next-top-model/the-girl-who-wants-out-1-a.php?page=6I can't find a video of it no matter how hard I try. Okay, I didn't try. But I just loved her the moment she said that. She sounded almost exactly like me. It's like my old but trusted mantra: Great minds think alike.
Now, I'm rooting for her. Victoria's weird, but she's smart and, well, adorably weird!
Subscribe to:
Posts
(
Atom
)
