Celebrating the reason for the season.

One downside of Facebook is it gives people a platform to criticize, to vent, and to rant even on every mundane thing imaginable albeit at the expense of other people. Scrolling through our FB wall would give us a variety of posts and shout outs that will elicit varied reactions. There are cute lines that will make us smile, quotes from famous people and Bible verses which can inspire us, observations that we can agree or disagree and there are those offensive rants that are best to be ignored. Of course, there are people who would use the social networking site to brag about their new gadgets, new house or new partner. And how can I forget those people who are obviously out to get their 10 seconds of fame? They will do everything just to get the public’s attention.

What I cannot stomach is when people act as if they have the monopoly of intelligence and the rest of the world are full of idiots. Believe me, I struggled very hard last night to control my emotions and resist the temptation to reply to a post from a college acquaintance who unintentionally (I hope) caught my ire. Now I know why it is a big no-no to discuss religion or religious beliefs in social platforms. It may be a simple statement for someone expressing his/her sentiments against a certain belief but it can be very offensive to other people who chose to subscribe to that dogma.

To further illustrate, this college acquaintance posted a video of a TV personality discussing the origin of Christmas. It was an old theory that Jesus was not really born on December 25 unlike what Catholics and some Christians choose to believe. This was based on the details stated in the Bible that there were shepherds and sheep out on the night when Jesus was born which they say is not very likely to happen on a winter or in December for that matter. The TV personality also said that December 25 was associated before with the pagan festival. Emperor Constantine was mentioned in the report that, if I can recall it right, is responsible for the integration of Pagan festivities with Christian tradition. I used to subscribe to this idea when I was in my rebellious days. But then I choose to worship the reason than the occasion.

Going back to the post from this college acquaintance, she started defining pagan and then she commented that she didn’t see brain in the last part when the TV personality reported that the date of the celebration is not actually the date of Jesus’ birth but then at the end he still encourages the people to celebrate Christmas on the same date.

First, I would be more surprised if the TV personality starts maligning the belief of the majority of the Philippine population. It will be sheer stupidity to shoot the belief of 80 or 90% of the population who celebrate Christmas. That is totally nonsense. Echoing the belief of the majority is a safer stance especially when you are in broadcast media competing for viewership. Second, what the TV personality reported is possibly from one scholarly source but is not bedrock truth. There are other sources that are claiming that the December 25 date of the nativity is valid.

At the end of the day, I believe that what is important is the reason for the season, not the date. Unfortunately, we are more intent on worshiping the occasion than the reason. The reason for the celebration is the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ who came into the world and died to save us from our sins.



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Independence or Incompetence?

Chief Justice Renato Corona’s speech yesterday which in many words can be translated to declaring war against President Benigno Aquino is inevitable. It was a defensive stance of someone who was caught off-guard. He doesn't have anywhere else to go but fight. Unfortunately, it is pathetic. Not because he read the entire speech in the vernacular. If he was up against someone who has a questionable character like the two former presidents then the effect may have been different. He may have gained sympathy from the public and he may have chosen a bigger venue to launch his attack against the President. Unfortunately for him, the latest surveys showed that the President is enjoying more than 70% trust rating with Corona one of the least trusted officials. Even the text poll from TV Patrol the other day showed that about 80% of the respondents are in favor of the decision of the House of Representatives to impeach the Chief Justice.

The chief justice even had the nerve to criticize the President when he himself is failing miserably at his job. If he is doing a great job then I’m sure he will not be in this mess. What has happened to the Supreme Court? Why are the people seeing the Supreme Court in a bad light and how do you explain the low trust rating of the Chief Justice?

The act was desperate and I can see that the Chief Justice is trying to drag the institution that he swore to defend into his own mess. The impeachment case is not against the Supreme Court but against the Chief Justice. It is not like someone is trying to control the Supreme Court and destroy its independence. It is the incompetence and partiality of certain justices inside this institution that is under attack. Had they shown competence and fairness in the cases that they have handled then I don’t think that we will have this problem. The impression that I am getting is that the Supreme Court is running counter to the Aquino administration. How can this administration affect its reforms and policies if there will be legal impediments along the way and if they keep on losing legal battles with other parties? Yes, they can say that they are independent but is this helping the country? Absolutely not! In fact, I think this is only helping the critics and the people who don’t want this administration to succeed.

If the Chief Justice is really thinking the best interest of the country, then he should do what former Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez did and resign. He should spare the country from another impeachment trial and let us all move on. I would rather watch teleseryes on TV than to watch the drama of politicians and lawyers on another impeachment trial. Their acting suck!




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The Corona Impeachment

The headline on major newspapers and broadsheets in the Philippines yesterday and today is the impeachment of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona. Based on reports, he was already impeached by the Lower House yesterday with about 188 solons signing the Articles of Impeachment almost double of the required votes needed to transmit the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate. On TV yesterday night was interviews of various personalities from opposing camps who are out to get the sympathy of the public. Some say that the process was railroaded on Congress that some congressmen didn’t even read the complaint and just immediately signed in favor of the impeachment. In one speech from Chief Justice Corona, he said that he will defend the Supreme Court and its independence, that or something to that effect.

My two cents on the issue, this is democracy at work. In the first place, the impeachment process is provided for in the constitution to do what they call as check-and-balance between the three co-equal branches of the government. With the heating word war between the Executive and the Judiciary, it is almost expected that the Legislative branch will come into play. That is what they are there for, to break the status quo. It is not the Church that should mediate between opposing branches of government. It is the job of the legislature. It is just unfortunate for CJ Corona that he is the subject of the impeachment procedure. But it could also be the President.

The insinuations that the procedure was railroaded, is a non-issue. Ultimately, these congressmen will decide about this complaint one way or the other. Why prolong the agony? The framers of the constitution should have provided safety nets so this law will not be abused. These congressmen were supposed to be the voice of their constituents and they should be accountable if they fail to represent the interest of the people.

It’s ironic that lawyers and even constitutionalists who helped frame the constitution seemed surprised on how fast things are going. They should know that this is a political exercise; Congress is not a court of law. These solons are politicians and they are expected to act as one. Should we expect them to scrutinize the details of the complaint and conduct a thorough investigation? At the end of the day, it will be a numbers game, the majority rules in a democracy.

If there’s anything that we can learn from this experience, it is the fact that no one is indispensable in the government. Presidents or Supreme Court Justices can be impeached. But more than the impeachment is the people’s perception. If the people think that you are guilty then there’s nowhere else to go but down. You may get away with the impeachment case, just like what happened to former President Erap, but you cannot escape the wrath of the people if they are not satisfied with the outcome of these processes. In the end, this is a government of the people, by the people and for the people. That is what democracy is all about.


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Sykes Asia's Year-End Party on TV Patrol

The officially recognized pioneer call center in the Philippines, Sykes Asia Inc. celebrated its Year-end party with a bang last Saturday, December 10, 2011 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. The party dubbed as Masque De Grand, Mardi Gras 2011 was reportedly attended by some 7,000 call center employees.



You can watch the video from the link below:

Logan reports on 7,000 call center agents partying | ABS-CBN News | Latest Philippine Headlines, Breaking News, Video, Analysis, Features

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MYX Daily Top 10 - December 5, 2011 Featuring "I won't Last a Day Without You" by Sarah Geronimo (video and lyrics)

Kamikazee's "Halik" captured the number 1 spot on today's MYX Daily Top 10. Erstwhile number 1 "One Hit Combo" by Parokya Ni Edgar secured the second spot while "What Makes You Beautiful" by One Direction remains on the third spot.

"All That's Left" by Christian Bautista dropped from number 1 to number 4 while "The Boys" by Girls' Generation is on the 5th spot.


MYX Daily Top 10 - December 5, 2011 (Monday)

1. Halik - Kamikazee
2. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
3. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction
4. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
5. The Boys - Girls' Generation
6. Superman - Super Junior
7. I Won't Last A Day Without You - Sarah Geronimo
8. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
9. It will Rain - Bruno Mars
10. Habang Buhay - BBS feat. Kean Cipriano


Today's featured video is Sarah Geronimo's version of "I won't Last a Day Without You." After 4 days in the chart, it jumped to number 7 on today's MYX Daily Top 10. The song is from the movie "Won't Last a Day Without You" which is currently showing in local cinemas and is reportedly a Box Office hit.




I Won't Last A Day Without You Lyrics

Day after day I must face a world of strangers
Where I don't belong, I'm not that strong
It's nice to know that there's someone I can turn to
Who will always care, you're always there

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you

So many times when the city seems to be without a friendly face
A lonely place
It's nice to know that you'll be there if I need you
And you'll always smile, it's all worthwhile

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you

Touch me and I end up singing
Troubles seem to up and disappear
You touch me with the love you're bringing
I can't really lose when you're near ... when you're near my love

If all my friends have forgotten half their promises
They're not unkind, just hard to find
One look at you and I know that I could learn to live
Without the rest, I found the best

When there's no getting over that rainbow
When my smallest of dreams won't come true
I can take all the madness the world has to give
But I won't last a day without you
Without You
Won't last a day without you...


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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 28, 2011 Featuring "It Will Rain" by Bruno Mars (video and lyrics)

"All That's Left" by Christian Bautista is back on the number 1 spot dislodging Parokya Ni Edgar's "One Hit Combo" on the MYX Daily Top 10. "One Hit Combo" dropped to number 3 while another local act Kamikazee's "Halik" secured the second spot.

"Neverland" by UKISS is back at the top 10 at number 8 while two other videos entered the countdown for the first time. "The One That Got Away" by Katy Perry and "It Will Rain" by Bruno Mars grabbed the 9th and 10th spots respectively.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 28, 2011 (Monday)

1. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
2. Halik - Kamikazee
3. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
4. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction
5. Mistletoe - Justin Bieber
6. Questions - Bamboo
7. The Boys - Girls' Generation
8. Neverland - UKISS
9. The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
10.It will Rain - Bruno Mars


Today's featured video is "It Will Rain" by Bruno Mars. The song is the lead single from the "Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1" soundtrack.




It Will Rain lyrics

If you ever leave me baby,
Leave some morphine at my door
‘Cause it would take a whole lot of medication
To realize what we used to have,
We don’t have it anymore.

There’s no religion that could save me
No matter how long my knees are on the floor
So keep in mind all the sacrifices I’m makin’
Will keep you by my side
Will keep you from walkin’ out the door.

[Chorus]
Cause there’ll be no sunlight
If I lose you, baby
There’ll be no clear skies
If I lose you, baby
Just like the clouds
My eyes will do the same, if you walk away
Everyday it will rain, rain, rain...

I’ll never be your mother’s favorite
Your daddy can’t even look me in the eye
Oooh if I was in their shoes, I’d be doing the same thing
Sayin there goes my little girl
Walkin’ with that troublesome guy

But they’re just afraid of something they can’t understand
Oooh well little darlin’ watch me change their minds
Yeah for you I’ll try I’ll try I’ll try I’ll try
I’ll pick up these broken pieces ’til I’m bleeding
If that’ll make you mine

[Chorus]
Cause there’ll be no sunlight
If I lose you, baby
There’ll be no clear skies
If I lose you, baby
Just like the clouds
My eyes will do the same if you walk away
Everyday it will rain, rain, rain...

[Bridge]
Don’t just say, goodbye
Don’t just say, goodbye
I’ll pick up these broken pieces ’til I’m bleeding
If that’ll make it right

[Chorus]
Cause there’ll be no sunlight
If I lose you, baby
There’ll be no clear skies
If I lose you, baby
Just like the clouds
My eyes will do the same if you walk away
Everyday it will rain, rain, rain...


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Giving thanks

This is still Thanksgiving week in the US (I just learned that Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on October in Canada.)

Typically, it is being celebrated with friends and lots of food and football. Well, that’s the fun part. However, if we will take this holiday seriously, we’ll know that it’s all about thankfulness. It’s the time of the year when we celebrate and give thanks for all the blessings that we’ve been receiving.

If you will ask me, giving thanks should not only be an annual event. It should be done every day. I bet it will make our lives better and it will put our minds into the right perspective. Perhaps, we can allot a couple of minutes of our time everyday to slow down and give thanks for all the blessings that we have received. This is even a good opportunity to regenerate and recharge our energy. But another advantage is it will slow things down so we can focus on the most important things in our lives.

Let’s make it a habit to think all the things that we should be thankful for and take some time to have gratitude for everything and everyone that we have in our lives.


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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 24, 2011 Featuring "Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber (video and lyrics)

Parokya Ni Edgar's "One Hit Combo" is now dominating the MYX Daily Top 10 maintaining its hold at the number 1 spot. "The Boys" by Girls' Generation is now at number 2 from yesterday's number 3 and "All That's Left" by Christian Bautista dropped a notch to number 3.

"Halik" by local band Kamikazee jumped to number 4 from number 7 while "Questions" by Bamboo stays at number 5.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 24, 2011 (Thursday)

1. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
2. The Boys - Girls' Generation
3. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
4. Halik - Kamikazee
5. Questions - Bamboo
6. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction
7. Mistletoe - Justin Bieber
8. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
9. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
10. Louder – Charice


Today's featured video is "Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber. The song is the official first single from his debut Christmas album entitled "Under the Mistletoe." The video now has over 53 million views on YouTube:




Mistletoe lyrics

It’s the most beautiful time of the year
Lights fill the streets spreading so much cheer
I should be playing in the winter snow
But I'mma be under the mistletoe

I don’t want to miss out on the holiday
But I can’t stop staring at your face
I should be playing in the winter snow
But I’mma be under the mistletoe

With you, shawty with you
With you, shawty with you
With you under the mistletoe

Everyone's gathering around the fire
Chestnuts roasting like a hot July
I should be chillin' with my folks, I know
But I’mma be under the mistletoe

Word on the street santa's coming tonight,
Reindeer's flying in the sky so high
I should be making a list I know
But I’mma be under the mistletoe

With you, shawty with you
With you, shawty with you
With you under the mistletoe

With you, shawty with you
With you, shawty with you
With you under the mistletoe

Eh, love, the wise men followed the star
The way I follow my heart
And it led me to a miracle

Eh love, don't you buy me nothing
I am feeling one thing, your lips on my lips
That's a very, merry Christmas

It’s the most beautiful time of the year
Lights fill the streets spreading so much cheer
I should be playing in the winter snow
But I'mma be under the mistletoe

I don’t want to miss out on the holiday
But I can’t stop staring at your face
I should be playing in the winter snow
But I’mma be under the mistletoe

With you, shawty with you
With you, shawty with you
With you under the mistletoe

With you, shawty with you
With you, shawty with you
Shawty with you, under the mistletoe

Kiss me underneath the mistletoe
Show me baby that you love me so-oh-oh
Oh, oh ,ohhh
Kiss me underneath the mistletoe,
Show me baby that you love me so-oh-oh
Oh, oh ,ohhh



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A new blog: Blog Blagan

As if my hands were not yet full with two English blogs, I recently started a Filipino blog on a different platform. Yup, this is my second attempt to blog in the vernacular and my first attempt to use Wordpress as the platform. (Don’t ask me which is the better platform. It’s too early for that.)

I started the blog called ”Blog Blagan” barely two weeks ago and it now has 9 posts! The name doesn’t have a direct translation but it is a play on the words “blog” for web log and “blag” which is the sound created when something was dropped. Anyway, I should say that it is a more personal blog about my thoughts on mundane things, which can turn out to be serious or funny. Consider it to be the expression of the wild side of me.

If you can understand Filipino or Tagalog and you have time to waste, feel free to visit ”Blog Blagan.” If you have good words to say about the new blog, please let me know. If you don’t like what you see or read, then forget about it, lols. Kidding aside, constructive criticisms are always welcome on all of my blogs.

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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 22, 2011 Featuring Questions by Bamboo (video and lyrics)

After spending twelve days in the chart, Christian Bautista's "All That's Left" took the number one spot on the MYX Daily Top 10 from yesterday's number one, "The Boys" by Girls Generation. Parokya Ni Edgar's "One Hit Combo" took the second spot while Girls Generation settled for the 3rd spot.

"Ako Na Lang" by Zia Quizon stays at number 4 while "What Makes You Beautiful" jumped to number 5 from yesterday's number 8 place. "Neverland" by UKISS entered the top 10.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 22, 2011 (Tuesday)

1. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
2. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
3. The Boys - Girls' Generation
4. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
5. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction
6. Mistletoe - Justin Bieber
7. Questions - Bamboo
8. Halik - Kamikazee
9. Louder – Charice
10. Neverland - Ukiss


Today's featured video is "Questions" by Bamboo. The song is from his solo album entitled "No water, No Moon."




Questions lyrics

It's a lonely road out there we're all just waiting
For these answers that may never come our way
So we hold on to each other
Hoping to find what's missing
A million more questions by the end of the day

So we've been getting all this inside information
Are you as confused as me or it's all driving you insane
I throw some money at the problem
Lose your inhibitions go talk to someone
It's a million more questions by the end of the day

It's who we are
It's who we are
It's who we are
It's who we are

We try to get a way out, pray for shade
Follow what will we find
Return to sacred ground or the mem'ry of one strange
Is it a new day?
Bored? Sounds all too familiar
A Good excuse for change in pace
Go forth be a happy clone
Questions at the end of the day

It's who we are
It's who we are
It's who we are
It's who we are

Running in circles
In this once in a lifetime
I got this
One last chance
To ditch this borderline life
My place in this world
Last day I draw breath
I'm about to collide
With myself
With myself
With myself

It'll all get better all we need is time
Drag yourself out of bed
Waiting for that change in season
Praying for a line
Living in a rainbow
Or drowning in the gray
You've filled in all the blanks
It ain't all that bad
Questions by the end of the day



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Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited: Update 11/19/2011

Unlimited twists and surprises marked last night’s episode of the Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited. The fate of the 3G’s and Power Strangers, the results of their weekly tasks and a glimpse of the new PBB house were among the highlights of this Saturday’s edition.

After 1 week in the Big Brother house, the fate of the “3G’s” and the “Power Strangers” were revealed last night. Of the 3 Power Strangers, only Reg earned the right to be declared as an official housemate after the other two failed in their task of hiding their faces to the other housemates.

Meanwhile, the 3G’s were successful in urging the male housemates to choose them over the other female UnliNight housemates. The majority of the male housemates voted to let go of Wendy, Diane and Joya in favor of the 3G’s. However, Big Brother announced that not all of the male housemates voted for the 3G’s to stay. Since this is the case, Big Brother declared that only 1 of the 3G’s will earn the right to become an official housemate. And the other female housemates will decide who among the 3G’s will stay.

Another big surprise that was revealed last night was when a new house was shown. The three UnliNight housemates that were voted out of “Looban” were transferred to a beautiful and elegant house, much like the other PBB houses in previous seasons. The three ladies were overjoyed when they saw the house. A sumptuous meal was also prepared for the three ladies who can’t help but to think of the other housemates that they left at the Looban.

As for their weekly tasks, the UnliDay housemates failed in the Tower of Card task. Their task was to build a tower of cards as high as the tallest among the group which is Seichi. Earlier, Seichi was tasked and succeeded to act and dress as a baby in exchange of a platform where they will put the tower of cards. However, even with the platform and a change of strategy, the UnliDay housemates failed in their task as the cards crumbled in the last minute.

Just before the show ends, Seichi and Jaz were called into the confession room and Kuya announced that they will need to leave the house and they are now officially UnliNight housemates. Obviously, the two housemates were surprised. Will they be transferred to the new house? Or will they be returned to the “Looban.” Who among the 3G’s will be chosen as an official housemate? All of these plus the first nomination will be revealed tomorrow night.



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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 18, 2011 Featuring "Halik" by Kamikazee (video and lyrics)

After placing second yesterday, Korean girl group Girls' Generation is back on top of the MYX Daily Top 10 with their song "The Boys" while yesterday's number 1, Zia Quizon's "Ako Na Lang" dropped on the 4th spot. Parokya Ni Edgar's "One Hit Combo" took the second spot while Christian Bautista's "All That's Left" jumped to number 3.

From yesterday's number 8, Justin Bieber's "Mistletoe" jumped to number 5 while Charice's "Louder" also advances one notch to clinch the 6th spot.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 18, 2011 (Monday)

1. The Boys - Girls' Generation
2. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
3. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
4. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
5. Mistletoe - Justin Bieber
6. Louder – Charice
7. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
8. Halik - Kamikazee
9. Questions - Bamboo
10. What Makes You Beautiful - One Direction


Today's featured video is "Halik" by Kamikazee. The song is from the band's Studio album entitled "Romantico."





Halik lyrics

Kumupas na
Lambing sa yong mga mata
Nagtataka kung bakit yakap mo'y 'di na nadarama
May mali ba akong nagawa? Tila nag-iba ang mga kilos mo at salita
Bakit kaya?
Parang hindi ka na masaya

Ika'y biglang natauhan
Umalis kaagad ng hindi nagpapaalam
Ang sabi ko hindi kita mamimiss
Hanggang kelan ito matitiis

Ika'y biglang natauhan
Umalis kaagad ng wala man lang paalam
Pag nawala doon lang mamimiss
Hanggang kelan ito matitiis

Alam ko na
Magaling lang ako sa umpisa
Umasa ka pa saakin
Mga pangakong nauwi lang sa wala
Nasayang lang ang iyong pagtitiyaga
Wala ka nga pala
At puro lang ako salita
Kaya pala
Pag-gising ko wala ka na

Ika'y biglang natauhan
Umalis kaagad ng hindi nagpapaalam
Ang sabi ko hindi kita mamimiss
Hanggang kelan ito matitiis

Ika'y biglang natauhan
Umalis kaagad ng wala man lang paalam
Pag nawala doon lang mamimiss
Hanggang kelan ito matitiis

Ika'y biglang natauhan
Umalis kaagad ng hindi nagpapaalam
Ang sabi ko hindi kita mamimiss
Hanggang kelan ito matitiis

Ngayon ko lang natutunan
Nasubukang mabuhay ng para bang may kulang
Pag nawala doon lang mamimiss
Paalam sa halik mong matamis




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Blogging Again

November proves to be a good month for me. Well, every month should be depending on how you chose to look at it. But this month has proven to be my most productive month so far. We’re already halfway through the month and I have managed to keep this blog active again.

As if this is not enough, I have started another blog in Filipino. I’m on a roll! If you're thinking that I'm now blogging full time. No, I still have my day job. Nothing has changed, actually, except for the ease on my work load. Suffice it to say that I now have enough time to write posts for my blogs. I am still trying to find time to do blog hopping and some other online activities to promote my blog but I hope that it will come in time.

I’m still thankful that even after months of absence in the blogosphere, I still see hundreds of visitors dropping by, visiting my blog. This serves as my motivation to continue blogging. I want them to see new updates when they visit this blog.

A few friends and readers called my attention about an issue that they have encountered when they tried to visit this blog. They said that a message is coming up that this blog or at least a component of this blog is suspected to be infected by malware. I looked at the message and the link points to the blog of the person who designed my custom template. I tried to visit her blogs hoping that I could leave a comment but all her blogs are coming up with the same warning: that the blogs are reported to be virus attack pages. I still plan to notify her of the error with her blogs in case she is still active. But I have decided to do a major makeover on this blog. I’m still looking for a suitable template but none has caught my fancy yet. I’ll keep looking though. It would really be sad to say goodbye to this template that I have kept for almost two years.

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Pacquiao-Marquez III

Three days after the overrated boxing match of Filipino pride and Pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao and the Mexican boxer Juan Manuel Marquez, people are still talking passionately about it. Funny how most people suddenly have become boxing analysts dishing out their own version of what really happened in the fight and who among the two protagonists deserve the victory.

New arguments are being presented including the alleged cheating tactic of one of the boxers who they said deliberately stepped on the foot of the other boxer a couple of times to gain advantage. I don’t think that this is a deliberate attempt on the part of the boxer and experts say that this cannot be avoided when two fighters with different fighting stance (Pacquiao is a southpaw and Marquez is an orthodox fighter) are facing each other.

Honestly, all of these are now water under the bridge and are only good to kill time. The bout has been fought and judged. And no matter what we do or say, the judges’ decision is all that matters. It may not be a convincing win for some, but a victory nevertheless and the victor has been declared.

Just like what I said on my new Filipino blog, let’s just wait for the time when boxing matches are decided via text votes or online polls so we can have our say on who will be declared as the winner. Until then, let’s move on and focus on the most important tasks ahead. We have far more pressing issues to discuss that will directly affect our lives.


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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 14, 2011 Featuring "All That's Left" by Christian Bautista (video and lyrics)

Korean girl group Girls' Generation is still on top of the MYX Daily Top 10 with their song "The Boys" while Parokya Ni Edgar's "One Hit Combo" has overtaken Zia Quizon's "Ako Na Lang" on the second spot. "Ako Na Lang" settled for the 3rd place.

Last Friday's number 7, Christian Bautista's "All That's Left" jumped to number 4 while "Louder" by Charice dropped another notch to the number 5 spot. Sam Concepcion's "Forever Young" is still holding on to the 6th spot.

Three new videos entered today's countdown with Justin Bieber's "Mistletoe" leading the pack who took the 8th spot. Two local acts Bamboo's "Questions" and "Halik" by Kamikazee grabbed the 9th and 10th place respectively.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 14, 2011 (Monday)

1. The Boys - Girls' Generation
2. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
3. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
4. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
5. Louder – Charice
6. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
7. Someone Like You - Adele
8. Mistletoe - Justin Bieber
9. Questions - Bamboo
10. Halik - Kamikazee


Today's featured video is “All That's Left” by Christian Bautista. The song is the first single of Christian's first international album entitled "Outbound" via Universal Records.






"All That's Left" lyrics

All that's left, all that's left
All that's left of me
All that's left, all that's left
All that's left of me

You know I'm not alright
Cause all that I've been through
Has left me cold inside
And feelin' like a fool
But even when I don't say a word
Somehow you understand

Cause I've been hurt before
And healin' takes so long
Trust shattered on the floor
Pretending to be strong
But girl you picked up the pieces
And showed me just how you belong
So I must sing this song

You're the best thing that has ever happened to me
Thought I'd locked my heart but you found the key
You bring out the best in whatever's left of me
All that's left of me

All that's left, all that's left
All that's left of me

I'd given up the fight
My heart would never mend
I couldn't see the light
Or find the tunnel's end
Thought I would never feel it again
And then I met you
You made me realize
What loving's all about
Building each other's lives
Casting aside all doubt
So I take this leap of faith
Cause I can't imagine life without you

You're the best thing that has ever happened to me
Thought I'd locked my heart but you found the key
And when it's all done, holding you in my arms
Feels just how it should be

Your eyes take me off to a special space
With you everything seems to fall into place
You bring out the best in whatever's left of me
All that's left of me... left of me
You bring out the best in whatever's left of me

You're the best thing that has ever happened to me
Thought I'd locked my heart but you found the key
And when it's all done, holding you in my arms
Feels just how it should be

Your eyes take me off to a special space
With you everything seems to fall into place
You bring out the best in whatever's left of me
All that's left of me...
All that's left of me...

All that's left
All that's left
All that's left of me




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Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited: Update

True to its promise, Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited continues to entertain viewers with its unlimited twists and surprises. Last night marked the announcement of the results of the housemates’ weekly tasks and week-long tasks. Big Brother has also cooked a new twist as the show revealed the “3G’s” and the “Power Strangers” which will enter the UnliNight and UnliDay houses respectively.

The weekly task of the UnliDay housemates involves origami or the Japanese art of paper folding and their task is to memorize all the paper designs so that when Kuya picks any of them randomly, they will be able to do the chosen design. They even got plus 2 points as they successfully completed the noodle slurping task. In the end, they got 17 out of the 20 designs and Big Brother announced that they won the weekly task and they will receive 100% of their weekly budget.

Meanwhile, the UnliNight housemates were equally successful as they completed their week-long task which is to perform pole dancing and to be able to stay on top of the pole for 2 minutes. Tol had difficulty staying on the pole but he was able to complete the task anyway. As a result, they will enjoy unlimited water supply for next week! Their weekly task was also successful. Thanks to Casey’s efforts. She was able to complete the fake ritual with her recruits without the other housemates noticing what was going on. Since Big Brother announced that they won the weekly task, they will have ample supply of food for next week.

One of the highlights of last night’s episode is the introduction of the “3G’s” and the “Power Strangers” who are out to enter the two houses. The 6 were taken from the 30 reserved housemates which were shown during the opening of the show. Their identities were not yet revealed although audiences were given a glimpse of their backgrounds. The 3G’s were presented in silhouette while the Power Strangers were in masks. The “3G's” will enter the “Looban” and mingle with the UnliNight Housemates while the "Power Strangers" will join the UnliDay housemates.

Because of his decision not to pursue with his task, Slater Young was given an automatic nomination by Big Brother. He was made to read the PBB rule book where it clearly states that all housemates should participate and follow all the tasks given by Big Brother and failure to comply would mean consequences or punishments. Aside from the automatic nomination, Slater was also tasked to help the “3G's” on their task of convincing the other male housemates that they should stay inside the house. If the “3G's” are successful, he will also choose a female housemate which will need to leave the “Looban.”

The 3G's were introduced as:
- Pretty Miss Perfect ng Nueva Ecija
- Sexy Single Mommy ng Pampanga
- Independent Woman ng Sampaloc

The Power Strangers:
- Astiging Kenkoy ng Paranaque
- Pilyong Rakitero ng QC
- Poging Petics ng La Union

Will they be successful with these tasks? Will they go along well with the official housemates?



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PPUR is one of the provisional New 7 Wonders of Nature!

The New 7 Wonders Foundation in Zurich, Switzerland has announced the first count of the global vote to elect the New7Wonders of Nature. The good news is that the Puerto Princesa Underground River has achieved its provisional New 7 Wonders of Nature status.

The results of the voting which ended at 11:11 yesterday will still be checked, validated and verified before the announcement of the final list in early 2012. Organizers warned that there may yet be changes between the provisional winners and the final list.

Other participants which were included in the provisional New7Wonders of Nature are South Korea's Jeju Island, Indonesia's Komodo Island, the Amazon rainforest, Vietnam’s Halong Bay, Argentina’s Iguazu Falls and South Africa’s Table Mountain.

Bernard Weber, Founder-President of New7Wonders, said: “I would like to thank the many champions, citizens, voluntary organisations, public bodies and governments that have helped promote the New7Wonders of Nature campaign over the past four years, starting with over 440 locations from over 220 countries and all the way to the 28 Finalist candidates from whom the New7Wonders of Nature have been chosen.”

I am hoping that the inclusion of our very own Puerto Princesa Underground River will help boost Tourism in the country. But more than that, I hope that the authorities will also work on strengthening policies to preserve the beauty of the underground river and the ecosystem around it. We should all be concerned with the protection of our country’s natural resources.



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11/11/11 a lucky day?

Many people are marrying today and some are starting their business ventures. This is because they believe that today is an unusually lucky day! An array of number 1 digits at 11 minutes past the 11th hour on 11/11/11 is a phenomenon that only happens once every 100 years.

It certainly is eye-catching but for some, it’s nothing more than an unusually repetitive sequence of numbers. But this day is a lucky day for numerologists who regard the number 11 as a powerful number. If 11 is good, what more if you have 3 of them in a row?

They said that today is a good time to start a business or any moneymaking ventures or relationships since the number 1 signifies a beginning.

Well, I respect the opinion of these experts but I still maintain that every day is a lucky day. Every day is a gift from God, every day is a blessing. And I don’t think that He will create a bad day for all of us. We should all be thankful for every day in our lives and we should strive to make the most of it… no matter what the number says.




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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 11, 2011 Featuring "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" by Sponge Cola (video and lyrics)

Korean girl group Girls' Generation is currently dominating the MYX Daily Top 10 with their song "The Boys." Zia Quizon's "Ako Na Lang" is still hot at the second spot while Parokya Ni Edgar has entered the top 3 from yesterday's number 4 with their song "One Hit Combo."

"Louder" by Charice dropped one notch to number 4 while Sam Concepcion's "Forever Young" and "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" by Sponge Cola are on the 5th and 6th spots respectively.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 11, 2011 (Friday)

1. The Boys - Girls' Generation
2. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
3. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
4. Louder – Charice
5. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
6. Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay - Sponge Cola
7. All That's Left - Christian Bautista
8. A-cha - Super Junior
9. Someone Like You - Adele
10. Criminal - Britney Spears


Today's featured video is “Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay” by Pinoy band Sponge Cola. The song was taken from the band's album “Araw Oras Tagpuan.






Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay lyrics

Verse

Hawakan mo ang aking kamay at tayong dalawa'y
Maghahasik ng kaligayahan
Bitawan mong unang salita
Ako ay handa ng tumapak sa lupa

Tapos na ang paghihintay nandito ka na
Oras ay naiinip magdahandahan
Sinasamsam bawat gunita
Na para bang tayo'y di na tatanda

Ligaya mo'y nasa huli
Sambitla ng 'yong mga labi

Chorus

Parang isang panaginip
Ang muling mapagbigyan
Na tayo'y muling magkasama
Ang dati ay baliwala

Interlude

Verse

Nagkita rin ang ating landas wala nang iba
Akong hinihiling kundi ika'y pagmasdan
Mundo ko ay iyong niyanig
Oh anong ligayang ika'y sumama sa akin

Nais ko nang humimbing
Sa saliw ng iyong tinig

Chorus

Parang isang panaginip
Ang muling mapagbigyan
Na tayo'y muling magkasama
Ang dati ay baliwala

Panatag na'ng kalooban ko
At ika'y kapiling ko na
Oh kay tagal kitang hinintay (2x)

Interlude

Ligaya mo'y nasa huli
Sambitla ng 'yong mga labi

Chorus

Parang isang panaginip
Ang muling mapagbigyan
Tayo'y muling magkasama
Ang dati ay baliwala
Ang dati ay baliwala

Parang isang panaginip
Ang muling mapagbigyan
Tayo'y muling magkasama
Ang dati ay baliwala

Panatag na'ng kalooban ko
At ika'y kapiling ko na
Oh kay tagal kitang hinintay (2x)



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Lakas Banda, Lakas Pinas: Ako Ang Simula The Concert

In support of our Filipino athletes’ quest for medals in the 2011 Southeast Asian Games, the TV show “Ako ang Simula” is staging a free concert this Friday, November 11, 2011 at the UST Open Grounds. Dubbed as “Lakas Banda, Lakas Pinas: Ako Ang Simula The Concert” the show will showcase some of the most popular bands in the country like KAMIKAZEE, THE DAWN, ROCKSTEDDY, ITCHYWORMS, IMAGO, BARBIE ALMABIS andPILIPINAS GOT TALENT Grandfinalists KHALIL and EL GAMMA PENUMBRA and other popular bands!

Visit and like the Ako Ang Simula Fan Page for more information on the admission requirements. The concert gate opens at 4 p.m.



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Support Puerto Princesa Underground River to be one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature!

As I write this post, we only have exactly 1 day and 1 hour left to vote for our country’s entry to the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park. I urged all Filipinos worldwide to continue supporting PPUR by casting your votes before the contest ends at 11:11 a.m. on Friday, November 11.

SUPPORT PPUR TO BE ONE OF THE NEW 7 WONDERS OF NATURE!
Vote Online- Visit http://www.new7wonders.com
or text PPUR/ send to 2861 (Smart,Globe and Sun subscribers)

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan. It features a limestone mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. passable underground river that winds through a cave. It also includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and quite a few large chambers. This underground river is reputed to be the longest in the world. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels can be found on the beach near the cave.

Watch the 7 minute video of PPUR below:





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My Twitter Account was Hacked.

I had one of the biggest surprises in my recent life when I tried to open my Twitter account last Friday. I had a hard time logging in which is expected since it’s been months since the last time that I opened my account. But what left me dumbfounded was when I saw the tweets coming from my account. There were tweets about products and services that I don’t recognize and worse, there were tweets about sexy or nude videos! This is totally insane! Not to mention that this is embarrassing to those who are following me!

Anyway, after the initial panic, I was able to fix the issue by following a few steps from the Twitter Help Page. So if you are experiencing issues with your Twitter account or if you think that your account has been compromised, you can follow the steps below.

I was able to reset my password by clicking the Forgot Password link and entering my mobile number. Below is a screenshot of the tweets that were sent from my account that I don't know anything about!




The following are signs that your account has been compromised:

• Noticed unexpected Tweets by your account.
• Seen unintended direct messages sent from your account.
• Observed other account behaviors you didn't make or approve (like following, unfollowing, or blocking).
• Received a notification from Twitter stating that, "You recently changed the email address associated with your Twitter account" (even though you haven't changed your email address).

If you noticed any of the above signs, the Twitter support page advises you to follow the steps below:

1. Change your password
Change your password immediately from the Passwords Tab in your Account Settings. Make sure that you select a strong password that you haven't used before. If you are unable log in to your account, please see this troubleshooting page.

2. Revoke connections
While logged in, visit the Applications tab in Account Settings. Revoke access for any third-party application that you don't recognize.

3. Update your new password in your trusted third-party applications
If a trusted external application or widget uses your Twitter password, make sure to update your password in the application. Otherwise, you may be temporarily locked out of your account due to failed login attempts.

If you're still experiencing issues, you can file a Support request for further assistance.

The Twitter Support page also advises you to take the following precautions if your account has been compromised:

• Delete any unwanted Tweets that were posted while your account was compromised.
• Scan your computers for viruses and malware, especially if unauthorized account behaviors continue to be posted after you've changed the password.
• Install security patches for your operating system and applications
• Always use a strong, new password you don't use elsewhere and would be difficult to guess.
• Visit the Safe Tweeting page for more information on avoiding hacks and Phishing.

Source: Twitter Support

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An extraordinary lesson from Jessica Cox.

Still on the words “I can’t.” Have you ever stop to think about the things that you cannot do if you don’t have your arms? I’m sure you can come up with a long list of activities that need both arms to accomplish. Driving, surfing and dancing are some of the activities that will need hands and foot coordination.

So what will you do if you don’t have arms? Will you just accept your fate and blame it all to God? Will you turn to self-pity and feel miserable all your life?

Apparently, these are not all the options available. If you haven’t heard of Filipino-American Jessica Cox then it’s time for you to meet this extraordinary person! She was born without arms and yet she did not let this disability stop her from reaching her dreams. She became the world’s first licensed armless pilot!

She truly exemplifies the Filipinos' perseverance in the face of hardship and the ability to rise above adversities. Jessica is in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the first armless pilot in the world. Early this year, she offered her medal to Pope Benedict XVI when she met the Pope in the Vatican.

Aside from being a licensed pilot, Jessica also drives her car and is a certified scuba diver. She also learned to surf while she was in Hawaii. She also enjoys gymnastics and swimming, and holds a double black belt in Taekwondo.

She is now an accomplished motivational speaker and has traveled across the US telling her story.

Jessica was born in Tucson, Arizona but her mother hails from Samar.

She said that “with desire, persistence and fearlessness, we can do anything.”

So next time you feel that all the odds are against you and you feel like saying “I can’t do this” or “I can’t do that,” think of Jessica Cox and realize how lucky you are that you have all your arms and other body parts and all the God-given talents working for you. We all have our own challenges but we are also given the choice whether we let it stand in the way or look at it as an opportunity to succeed. The choice is ours.

I just found out that Jessica Cox has a number of videos on YouTube. Below is one of her inspiring videos when she was featured on Inside Edition:



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Celebrating Eid’l Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)

Today, November 7, 2011, Monday, is a national holiday for the entire Philippines in observance of Eid’l Adha (Feast of Sacrifice), as per Proclamation No. 276.

The celebration commemorates and pays tribute to Abraham (Ibrahim among Muslims) and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael, as an act of obedience to God. Based on the Qu’ran, Allah replaced Ishmael with a ram just before Abraham was to sacrifice his son, thus sparing his life. The religious holiday is being observed by the Muslim community around the world.

Muslims celebrate the feast with joy. They dress in their finest garments and slaughter animals such as goat, sheep and cow that they can share with family, relatives and friends or with the poor, to symbolize the sacrifice made by Abraham in obedience to Allah and as an act of generosity. Children also get toys and food from older people.

One thing is for sure, I will be compensated with an additional 100% for the work that I have rendered today. That’s the price for working on a national holiday.

We join the entire nation in greeting our Muslim brothers and sisters on their celebration of Eid’l Adha. “Eid Murbarak!” or holiday blessings! Assalamu Alaikum! (Peace in the name of God!)

Photo Source: http://barquera.wordpress.com/

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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 7, 2011 Featuring "Forever Young" by Sam Concepcion (lyrics and video)

Although it settled for the second spot last Friday, Zia Quizon's "Ako Na Lang" reclaims the number one spot today as it dislodge "Louder" by Filipina international singer Charice from the top spot on the MYX Daily Top 10.

Meanwhile, "The Boys" by Girls Generation jumped from number 7 last Friday to the third spot while "One Hit Combo" by Parokya Ni Edgar climbed two more notches at number four.

"Delivery Boys" by Somedaydream dropped out of the top 10 while Christian Bautista's "All That's Left" entered the countdown claiming the 10th spot.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 7, 2011 (Monday)

1. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
2. Louder – Charice
3. The Boys - Girls' Generation
4. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
5. Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay - Sponge Cola
6. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
7. Criminal - Britney Spears
8. A-cha - Super Junior
9. Someone Like You - Adele
10. All That's Left - Christian Bautista


Today's featured video is Sam Concepcion‘s “Forever Young” which is a revival of the 1984 hit by Alphaville. The song was taken from his new CD which is also titled “Forever Young”.




"Forever Young"
Sam Concepcion


Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever and ever
Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever, forever young

Do you feel the time goes by too fast
You can say the world is going crazy
We’re taking in too much too soon
So afraid we’ll lose a second of the moment

Have you taken some time to let it chill
Make your mind rest and breathe in easy
Let’s go back to the old hangout
It’s the only place where we felt it so real

We tried to grow fast and prove who we are
The headlights are on but the road is hazy
Today’s the day won’t happen again
If we go back on to recall

Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever and ever
Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever, forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young

When we were little kids it wasn’t long ago
We were playing and running having a sand in a face.
Life wasn’t perfect but we felt alive.
If you have a bad time
We were there to back you up.

Is it true you said that you have forgotten
How to laugh and talk all about nothing
We made our separate ways
But that’s over now
It’s now to go back where we used to hang out

We tried to go fast and get what we want
Turn the head lights when the road is hazy
Today’s the day we will make it all back to the place where we feel all so young and happy

Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever and ever
Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever, forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young
Forever, fo fo forever young

It doesn’t matter where you are
It doesn’t matter where you wanna go
We’re goin back to the place where we all feel forever Young.
Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever and ever
Forever young, I wanna be forever young
Do you really want to live forever
Forever, forever young
It doesn’t matter where you are
It doesn’t matter where you wanna go
We’re goin back to the place where we all feel forever Young



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The word "can't"

If there is a word that we should remove from our vocabulary in order for us to succeed, it is the word “Can’t.” This word has become very powerful that it has been shattering dreams and poisoning ideas since it came into being. It has been hindering people from reaching their dreams and aspirations. It has been an easy excuse for the indolent and half-hearted people so as not to work harder and aim for greater heights.

Many brilliant ideas have been killed because of this awful word and countless people have been denied of their successes because they unfortunately used or heard this word.

“I can’t!” These are just two words and yet the debilitating effect on us is so powerful that it can stop us right on track. If we believe in these words, then we’re immobilized, unable to continue even if success is just within reach. What we do is we focus on our limitations and shortcomings or worse we create an excuse for not doing our best or exerting more effort.

Obviously, it is counterproductive to have the words “can’t” or “I can’t” on our vocabulary. If we have faith in ourselves and our God-given talents then nothing should stop us from reaching our dreams.

If you feel like saying “I can’t,” why not utter these words from Philippians 4:13 instead: “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” And believe in those words.

Here is an inspiring poem by a great poet about the word "can't" which he described as the worst word that's written or spoken:


Can't
Edgar Guest - 1916 - A Heap o' Livin'

Can't is the worst word that's written or spoken;
Doing more harm here than slander and lies;
On it is many a strong spirit broken,
And with it many a good purpose dies.
It springs from the lips of the thoughtless each morning
And robs us of courage we need through the day;
It rings in our ears like a timely sent warning
And laughs when we falter and fall by the way.

Can't is the father of feeble endeavor,
The parent of terror and halfhearted work;
It weakens the efforts of artisans clever,
And makes of the toiler an indolent shirk.
It poisons the soul of the man with a vision,
It stifles in infancy many a plan;
It greets honest toiling with open derision
And mocks at the hopes and the dreams of a man.

Can't is a word none should speak without blushing;
To utter it should be a symbol of shame;
Ambition and courage it daily is crushing;
It blights a man's purpose and shortens his aim.
Despise it with all of your hatred of error;
Refuse it the lodgement it seeks in your brain;
Arm against it as a creature of terror,
And all that you dream of you someday shall gain.

Can't is the word that is foe to ambition
An enemy ambushed to shatter your will;
Its prey is forever the man with a mission
And bows but to courage and patience and skill.
Hate it, with hatred that's deep and undying,
For once it is welcomed 'twill break any man;
Whatever the goal you are seeking, keep trying
And answer this demon by saying: "I can."

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Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited: List of new housemates

More housemates were introduced and we had a glimpse of the new house in last night’s edition of Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited dubbed as “Unligayang Pamasko” which was held in front of the most popular house in the Philippines.

As part of the unlimited twists and surprises that the show promises its audience. More surprises were revealed in the show. Six housemates were made to leave the house after they failed in the weekly task while only one of the 13 housemates voted for the reserved housemate Carlo to stay in the house. It was only Roy who voted for Carlo to leave the house after he failed to accomplish his impossible tasks. After it was announced that Carlo has been made an official housemate, Big Brother gave Carlo his first task: it was to randomly choose 6 boxes which represents 6 housemates that will leave the house. They were Pamu, Kevin, Paco, Kim, Jaz and Seichang.

However, it turns out that the 6 housemates will only transfer to another house. Yes, PBB has a second house which is a lot better and more comfortable than the first house. Big Brother announced that they are not evicted and they will only be transferred to another house.

Fourteen more housemates were introduced:

Jericho Redrico – Hunky Cabalen ng Pampanga
Diane Aquino – Seksi Bossing ng QC
Anatoly Chua – Driver Sweet Lover ng Davao
Casey Austria – Uragon na DJ ng Legazpi
Wendy Tabusalla – Bida Rampadora ng Muntinlupa
Joya Genzola – Bini-brainy ng Negros Occidental
Eting Busarang – Sekyulele ng Cebu
Jessica Connelly – Pinay Snow White ng Taguig
Lordwin Claveria – Maabilidaddy ng Quezon
Lyn Elimanco – House maid of Honor ng Surigao
Erika Arlante – Loving Nanayuki ng Bacolod
Unad Hernandez – Maginoong Barako ng Batangas
Steph Enage – Benta Babe ng Leyte
Mark Luz – Model Lover Boy ng QC

One big surprise is the addition of another housemate that was not presented to the audience. He is Naprey Almario, the strong wheeled teacher who has a physical disability.


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Nicholas Sparks in Manila

I missed it!

American novelist Nicholas Sparks, who wrote the best-selling novels “The Notebook," “Message in a Bottle," and “A Walk to Remember," visited the Philippines for a book-signing tour. The event that was hosted by Powerbooks and National Books Store was held last October 27-28.

I was a big fan of the novelist so when I saw the billboards of the author from various malls in Metro Manila, I was determined to grab the chance to finally meet him in person. However, there were unforeseen circumstances that happened before the scheduled event that made me change my plans.

Anyway, I just hope that he will be back in the Philippines some other time. In the meantime, I will just be contented reading his books and watching his interviews. Yes, the best-selling author will also sit face-to-face with the King of Talk Boy Abunda in this Saturday’s edition of “The Bottomline with Boy Abunda.”

With 90 million books sold worldwide, don’t miss the revelations of the man behind the novels turned hit movies. Catch “The Bottomline with Boy Abunda,” this Saturday night, 11:30pm, after “Banana Split” on ABS-CBN.

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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 4, 2011 Featuring "One Hit Combo" by Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9

Yesterday at number 4, "Louder" by Pinay international singing sensation Charice jumped a few more notches to claim the top spot on the MYX Daily Top 10. Charice is in the news nowadays because of the tragic death of her father who was stabbed to death in San Pedro, Laguna last Monday.

Zia Quizon's “Ako Na Lang” settled for the number 2 spot while Sam Concepcion's "Forever Young" is holding on to the number 3 spot.

The biggest gainer in the countdown is "One Hit Combo" by local band Parokya Ni Edgar featuring Gloc-9. It jumped 4 notches from yesterday's number 10 to claim the 6th place. Another gainer is Britney Spear's "Criminal" which jumped from yesterday's number 7 and landed in the 4th spot.

Sam Milby's "Hindi Kita Iiwan" dropped out of the top 10 while Adele's "Someone Like You" entered the countdown claiming the 10th spot.

MYX Daily Top 10 - November 4, 2011 (Friday)

1. Louder – Charice
2. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
3. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
4. Criminal - Britney Spears
5. Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay - Sponge Cola
6. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9
7. The Boys - Girls' Generation
8. A-cha - Super Junior
9. Delivery Boys – Somedaydream
10. Someone Like You - Adele


The featured video today is "One Hit Combo" by popular band Parokya Ni Edgar with ace rapper Gloc-9. This is the third single from their album "Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers."




"One Hit Combo"
Parokya ni Edgar

Chorus:
Nandito na naman kami
Nagkakantahan sa isang tabi
Katulad ng dati pagkatapos ng klase
Lagi kang merong katabing nagsasabing
Wag kang magkakamali
Palampasin ang sandali
Kailangan palagi positibo parati
Dapat maniwala ka na merong mangyayare

(Chito)
Oras na para gumawa ng panibagong
Orasyon na pwedeng kantahin ng mga gago
Tara samahan nyo ko na muling maglibang
Para sa mga katulad mong nag-aalangan
Teka lng di naman kailangan magmadali
Dapat lang siguro na wag kang magpapahuli
Sapagkat ang oras natin ay may katapusan
Kailangan mong gamitin sa makabuluhan
Pasok

(Gloc)
Teka muna teka muna teka muna teka
Katatapos ko lang isulat ang mga letra
Hampasin ang tambol at kaskasin ang gitara
Kasama ko ulit pinaka malupit na banda
Pero ngayon ay babaguhin na ang tema
Ito'y awit na sasaludo sa mga nauna
Musikero gitarero tambulerong magaling
Kahit kanino itapat san man labanan angat paren

Chorus:
Nandito nanaman kami
Nagkakantahan sa isang tabi
Katulad ng dati pagkatapos ng klase
Lagi kang merong katabing nagsasabing
Wag kang magkakamali
Palampasin ang sandali
Kailangan palagi positibo parati
Dapat maniwala ka na merong mangyayari

(Chito)
Nagsimula kami ng mga '93
Mga batang di magpapigil sa pagpursigi
Mga batang di maawat ng mga hadlang
Sapagkat sila'y nakatingin sa pupuntahan
Namulat sa Heads at kay Sir Magalona
Alam ko sa loob ko na nagsisimula na
Sila ang nagsupply at naglagay ng gasolina
Si kiko kay gloc at ang E.heads sa parokya

(Gloc 9)
Ibang klase ang pinoy
Pag dumating na sa tugtugan
Nagyuyugyugan siguradong hindi ka magtutulugtulugan
Pag narinig mo ang bagong gawa ni chito at ni gloc
Kung ika'y samin sumasangayon ay pumalakpak
Nang malakas itaas ang kamay sumigaw
Para sa tatlong bituin at isang araw
Mga bata rin kami at katulad ng iba
Tagahanga rin kmi ng mga kanta nila
Nice

Chorus:
Nandito nanaman kami
Nagkakantahan sa isang tabi
Katulad ng dati pagkatapos ng klase
Lagi kang merong katabing nagsasabing
Wag kang magkakamali
Palampasin ang sandali
Kailangan palagi positibo parati
Dapat maniwala ka na merong mangyayari

(Gloc)
Ang gusto lamang naming sabihin
Pangarap ay laging habulin
Kahit na kinakapos ang hininga mo'y pigilin
Initin natin ang kalan para tubig kumulo
Kailangan timbain ang poso para balde mapuno
Wag kang magpapabola sa iba hindi 'to madali
Kung merong gusto pare wag kang magmadali
Tatama ka rin kahit medyo puro mali
Ipunin lahat ng piraso kahit na hatihati
Kasi isa lang ang tatandaan
Walang nakaharang na di kayang lampasan
Para di ka mahuli kailangan mong paspasan
Lagi mo pataliminin ikaskas sa hasaan
Ang kutsilyo, martilyo kailangan para palubugin lagi yang pako
Ikutin ang antenna kung tv ay malabo
Huwag kang matakot na tumaya ng pati pato
Kanta na

Chorus:
Nandito nanaman kami
Nagkakantahan sa isang tabi
Katulad ng dati pagkatapos ng klase
Lagi kang merong katabing nagsasabing
Wag kang magkakamali
Palampasin ang sandali
Kailangan palagi positibo parati
Dapat maniwala ka na merong mangyayari



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Thank God it’s Friday!

TGIF!

Friday has become my favorite day of the week. And since today is Friday I am naturally in a lighter mood. Friday is the last day of our work week and it is during this day when I don’t have to endure so much unnecessary stress and pressure from work.

Somehow, I have come to associate Fridays with fun. It is during Fridays when we usually go out and have fun with friends and colleagues. Perhaps this is because Saturdays and Sundays are my rest days so it is okay to stay out late since there will be no need to wake up early in the morning.

If you are like me who dreaded Mondays (the first day of work) then perhaps you will understand how I appreciate the ease and relief that I felt during Fridays.

When I was still active with my blogging activities and with my BloggingForFun group, we used to have an activity we called Fun Friday when all members write about a particular topic or theme. It was indeed a fun activity that induces our creativity and writing abilities. I missed those days…

Of course, some people tend to regard Friday as an unlucky day. Some would never go out of their houses and I know people who would postpone their activities during Friday the 13th. Our family has our own share of superstitions. I grew up on a family who doesn’t even allow children to take a bath or clip our fingernails, not even play during Good Fridays because of the assumption that Jesus died on this day and no one is there to protect us. But these are all superstitious beliefs. I really don’t believe that God will create an unlucky day for us.

Well, everyday can be a good or a bad day depending on how you want to live it. I believe that every day is a gift from God so we should make that most of it. We should not waste our time wallowing in fear. We should instead use every day to reach for our dreams and aspiration and to fulfill God's plan for us.




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MYX Daily Top 10 - November 3, 2011 Featuring "Ako Na Lang" by Zia Quizon

Zia Quizon is still dominating the countdown with “Ako Na Lang” which has enjoyed the top spot for 7 consecutive days. On the second spot is “Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay” by local band Sponge Cola which has managed to climb a notch higher from yesterday’s countdown.

Sam Concepcion’s “Forever Young” dropped to the third spot while "Louder" by Charice is holding on to the fourth place.


MYX DAILY TOP 10 - November 3, 2011 (Thursday)

1. Ako Na Lang - Zia Quizon
2. Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay - Sponge Cola
3. Forever Young - Sam Concepcion
4. Louder – Charice
5. A-cha - Super Junior
6. Hindi Kita Iiwan - Sam Milby
7. Criminal - Britney Spears
8. Delivery Boys – Somedaydream
9. The Boys - Girls' Generation
10. One Hit Combo - Parokya Ni Edgar feat. Gloc-9


The featured video today is "Ako Na Lang" by Zia Quizon. The song is part of her self-titled mini-CD album under Polyeast Records. The daughter of the Comedy King Dolphy and OPM’s Divine Diva ZsaZsa Padilla showcases her uplifting blend of soul, pop, jazz and R&B.




"Ako Na Lang"
by: Zia Quizon

Naghahanap pa ng maaaya
Pagkat sadyang wala kang magawa
Nagsasayang ng bawat oras sa wala (hala)

Nasearch mo nang lahat sa internet
Naubos na ang load sa kakatext
Naghihintay ka lang na may makukulit ulit

What are you waiting for
Call my number, knock on my door
Nandito lang ako
How I wish you'll let me know

Kung sinu-sino pang tinatawagan mo, nandito lang naman ako
At kung saan-saan ka pa naghahanap, nandito lang naman ako
Kung sinu-sino pa ang tinatawagan mo, nandito lang naman ako
Kung saan-saan ka pa naghahanap, nandito lang naman ako

Ako na lang sana
Tayo na lang dal'wa
Sana nalaman mo pala
Ako na lang sana

Ako na lang kung pwede lang, I wish
Ako na lang ako nalang, I guess
Ako na lang ang paborito mong mamiss, Oh yes

'Di ko babasagin ang 'yong trip
Whatever man ang gusto mong gimmick
Sabay sa jamming at kaduet mo sa gig, astig

What are you waiting for
Call my number, knock on my door
Nandito lang ako
How I wish you'll let me know

Kung sinu-sino pang tinatawagan mo, nandito lang naman ako
At kung saan-saan ka pa naghahanap, nandito lang naman ako
Kung sinu-sino pa ang tinatawagan mo, nandito lang naman ako
Kung saan-saan ka pa naghahanap, nandito lang naman ako

Ako na lang sana
Ako na lang sana
Ako na lang sana
Ako na lang sana
Sana ako nalang hmmmmmmm


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Inequality even in death

Death is inevitable. No matter how rich or poor we are, our death is certain. The only question is when. It doesn’t matter how we have amassed wealth in our lifetime, there will come a time that we will leave all these worldly possessions behind.

It’s just sad that even in death; people are still categorized according to their social status. The difference between people who have died rich and those who have died poor is glaring even in the cemeteries. Rich people are laid to rest on wide mausoleum while the poor are buried in cramped apartment type gravesites.


We know that this is a fact of life and it is not the rich people’s problem if they can afford large mausoleums for the final resting place of their loved ones. However, it doesn’t look good when you put this sad truth in writing. Last Sunday, Donna and I went to the Manila South Cemetery to visit her father’s gravesite. We noticed a new section in the cemetery that is dedicated to poor people. A marker was placed conspicuously with the words that to me look offensive. It says “Libingan ng Maralita.” Obviously, this section is dedicated to people who cannot afford to pay for costly grave lots. Why the need for name-calling? Why do we need to emphasize that this is the final resting place of people who may have lived poor and died poor?


Ironically, the place is just a few hundred meters away from the grave of a former Philippine president and some of the biggest gravesites in this cemetery. This to me is a glaring proof of the widening gap of the rich and the poor in this country. Whoever thought of putting up this section may have good intentions but they could have thought of a better name for the marker.



I strongly believe that every Filipino has the right to be buried with dignity.


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All Saints' Day 2011

All Saints' Day is considered as one of the most significant holidays by many Filipinos, probably next to Christmas and Holy Week. Celebrated on the 1st of November, “Undas” or “Todos Los Santos” in the vernacular, has become more of a family reunion to commemorate the dead.

It is the time of the year when tombs are cleaned and painted, candles lit and flowers are offered and families flock to cemeteries to spend the day or night with their departed loved ones.

Donna and I decided to visit her father's tomb in the Manila South Cemetery earlier than usual so we went last Saturday. It was not surprising that there are already hundreds of people in the cemetery. Some went early to clean and paint the graves of their dearly departed. There are various stalls selling all kinds of foods and stuffs.

I haven’t seen so many deaths in my age. I have been to funerals of my grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins, distant relatives and friends but never within my immediate family; which is something that I am thankful for. Although, I understand that death is a fact of life. We have to thank and relish every minute that we spend with our loved ones.



The last couple of days has afforded me the chance not just to remember the dead but to celebrate life and it also prompted me to reflect on what it means to live in this world. The truth is no one will live forever. The time will come when our friends and loved ones will remember us during All Soul’s Day or they will visit us in our tombs.

Although we avoid thinking about it, the fact that we know our time will come should teach us how to fully live our lives. Recognizing that we have limited time in this world, we should strive harder to care more for this world and for the people around us. We should start managing our lives and try to live a happy and meaningful life.


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