480 Days of Absence

How was I able to do that? I missed this journal so much. Not that I lost the passion since I joined thrice in a company blogging contest (and ahem, landed the TOP 10 Blogs thrice as well). I can only think of one reason - I was so engrossed with my job. Pero nakakauta din pala; kaya eto ngayon, kailangang magsulat.

For the past 480 days, here are some of the happenings I failed to write:

• Dad has been in and out of the hospital. And yes, it was very difficult for the family – emotionally, physically, financially, etc. For now, we’re all just clinging to the best weapons we as a family could summon – faith and trust in God. I just hope things will be well soon.




• I was financially tightened, and perhaps in the coming months I would still be. My wish though is that things fall in the right places soon… and yes, I’ve learned my mistakes the hard way.




• I gained new friends and lost a few as well. I used the maxim “People come and go” so much for the past 480 days.




• I matured (at least I think I did). Gone were the days when I make a big deal out of petty things. I always try to look at the bigger picture now.




• I realized that to be happy and contented in life requires a heavy kick in your ass. Ergo, you should kick other’s asses too.




• And lastly, I fell in love. Oo na, minahal ko yun. Nadala ako ng kalandian eh. Ganun talaga, tao lang ako. Kire. Eh kasi naman, kire din kaya siya! Leche!

The past 480 days was simply overwhelming, enough for me to ignore this diary. I just hope the next 480 days will not be as difficult, para hindi na muling amagin pa ang blogsite na ito.

Wazz Up?

One month has passed. I’m still in the process of accepting the change. It was never easy and it will surely take a while before I could really move on. My only consolation was that the people I’ve left were also in the process of coping, at least to my knowledge.

The past thirty-one days has been very challenging. I had to do a lot of unlearning, learning and relearning. Although I am not yet “officially” immersed to the jungle, I feel the urgent need to reload my survival instincts, perhaps even overload it. When before I was so much in control, I learned that the new assignment was far different ~ in size and in shape. I will have to plunge myself into the deep waters, and slowly afloat my way to the top. That I think will be the best strategy.

If there’s one thing though that made this life changing event so easy for me, that would have been my new teammates ~ really helpful and very accommodating angels! It’s good that they have given me a heads up as to what are the things I should be very watchful of, and the things I could just put in stride. Not that I should be complacent, but at least sort the priorities.

The question now is ~ Am I still into it? I honestly couldn’t answer. What’s within me is the drive that never ceased, but I still need the fueling. And fueling is not mine to take right now. I must not be asked as to whom; I’d rather keep my mouth shut =).

Nasaan na sila?

* Si Amanda na winner ng Season 2 ng Survivor Philippines? Sinasabi ko na nga ba at hindi sisikat ang babaeng ire. Buti pa si Justine Ferrer (my bet) at may regular show na, may indie movie pa. Buti din si Echo Caceres at kasama ni Justine sa movie. Si Jeff Gaitan at si Marvin Keiffer, buti na lang din at pasulpot-sulpot kahit pano sa mga shows ng GMA. Eh si Amanda Cooley (tama ba spelling?), asan na? At siyempre ang bestfriend niyang si Myka, asan na din?

* Si JC Tiuseco na winner naman ng Season 1? The last thing I read in the news eh ininterview si Maxene Magalona saying break na daw ang loveteam nila. Pwede pala yun, break na loveteam? Eh paano kung may show o movie kayo ule? Back to each other's arms ang drama? So si JLC at Bea, madalas magbreak at madalas din magkabalikan?

* Siyempre si Nene ng PBB Season 1. Buti na lang hindi ako nanuod nung time na yun ng PBB. Siyempre sina Bea Saw, Keanna Reeves, Ruben (forgot the surname)? Actually, madami pang alumni ng PBB ang nowhere to be found na ngayon. Nagpakasensational lang sila nun nasa loob sila ng bahay. Oh eh nasan na ba si Wendy Valdez? Kaya I have a feeling, ang MELASON ngayon lang yan. Up to a limited time lang. Hangga't may mga jologs silang fans, bibigyan yan ng ABS ng shows. Pagkakakitaan to the max. And pagkatapos, babush na ang chorvahan! Choks!

* Si Gerald Santos, Harry Santos, Brenan Espartinez ng Pinoy Pop Superstar? Dati nasa SOP sila (na wala na din ngayon). Si Gerald sabi ng pinsan ko minsan daw nagge-guest sa Walang Tulugan ni Kuya Germs. Hmmm... hindi kasi ako pwede sa sumpaang yan ng show ni Kuya Germs. Maaga akong natutulog pag Sabado hehehe.

* Si Jan Nieto? The last thing I know, may restaurant na sila nila Harry Santos at Gian Magdangal. Although I heard Jan will be in TV5 soon. Well, sana nga. (Although nasa FB ko yang si Jan).

* Si Bryan Termulo? Finishing his Nursing degree? Crush pa mandin siya ng friend kong si Ryan Salamat.

* Si Hero? Yun partner ng nawala na ding si Sandara Park? Ah oo nga, host din siya ng Walang Tulugan. Again, hindi po kasi ako nanunuod nun. Eh si Joseph Bitangcol?

* Si Ryza Cenon, Chynna Ortaleza at LJ Reyes? Hindi na kasi sila isinali sa Party Pilipinas hehehe...

* Si Mae Flores, Florie Mae, Jason Velasquez at Musica Cristobal? Mga tinalo ni Sarah Geronimo sa Search for a Star. Si Mark Bautista siyempre nasa GMA 7 na. Si Mau Marcelo nasa FB ko din at nasa Singapore ata.

Well, kung nasan man sila, eh di andun sila. :-) Di naman ako masyadong affected sa absentia nila.

Lindol!!!

Magnitude 6.1 or 6.2 whatever. One thing funny is that I am inside the rest room peeing. What if I am doing the more gross thing then the building collapsed (*knock on wood*)? It will be too shameful to imagine that my body will be retrieved sitting in a bowl with no pants nor undies... Oh my Golly!

Thank God we're all safe here in the office! Hope everyone else is!

How Far did my Early Idol Bets Go?

BOYS:

Casey James - Top 12
Aaron Kelly - Top 12
Lee Dewyze - Top 12
Michael Lynche - Top 12
Alex Lambert - Top 16. I felt sad when he got the boot last night. :-(
Tim Urban - Top 12

Hit Rate - 5/6

GIRLS:

Didi Benami - Top 12
Janell Wheeler - Top 24
Lacey Brown - Top 12
Haeley Vaughn - Top 20. I got annoyed of her when she did Miley Cyrus' The Climb. Good that she got the boot.
Katie Stevens - Top 12
Crystal Bowersox - Top 12

Hit Rate - 4/6

Not bad, actually...

Extra: My bet for the win: Crystal Bowersox. I initially predicted a boy would win again... but seeing Crystal perform week-by-week makes me think she's really the one to beat. Second Honors to Casey James. No need for me to name a Third Honor ~ really, what's the point? :-)

Telephone Bloopers

Ady: Hello, Good Morning po. S***** C******** Beach Resort po ito?
Employee: Yes, Sir.
Ady: Ah mag-inquire lang po sana ako kung may available pa po kayong room on April 17 good for 20 pax.
Employee: Ah Sir puwede po bang makuha yun pangalan ninyo?
Ady: Adrian Manay po
Employee: Po?
Ady: Adrian Manay po. A D R I A N
Employee: Sir E D R
Ady: Ah hindi po. A D R I A N po.
Employee: Ano po?
Ady: Alpha Delta Romeo India Alpha Nancy
Employee: Huh?
Ady: Ah pwede po bang makausap na lang yun Manager mo?
Employee (to his seatmate perhaps): Huy pare, eto ikaw na kumausap, hindi ko maintindihan ang haba kasi ng pangalan. Alpha Delta Romeo daw
Second Employee: Yes, Sir.
Ady: Yes, nagiinquire sana ako kung available pa kayo sa April 17, good for 20 pax.
Second Employee: Ah sir pwedeng makuha na lang ang contact number ninyo saka email address ninyo?
Ady: Ah okay. (Give ko yun office phone number).
Second Employee: Sir, yun email address ninyo po?
Ady: (gave my office email)
Second Employee: Sir, ano po spelling, E D R
Ady: Ah hindi po. Alpha Delta Romeo India Alpha Nancy *** @accenture.com po
Second Employee: Sir, Accentury po
Ady: Ay hindi po. A C C E N T U R E po
Second Employee: Ah okay po. Yun Accenture ninyo po ba, COME (?) o PH
Ady: Sir, COM po hindi po COME, hindi din po PH
Second Employee: Ah okay sige po. Email na lang po namin kayo
Ady: Wait, Reservation Officer po ba itong kausap ko?
Second Employee: Ay hindi po, trainee lang po kame. Pero wag po kayo mag-alala, kontrolado naman po namin lahat. Mabibigyan po namin kayo ng quotation.

(yeah right, kontrolado ninyo nga pero ang tenga ninyo, I doubt!)

Ady: Oh siya sige hintayin ko na lang yun email ninyo. By the way, pakisabihan yun una kong kausap, magsanay sumagot ng telepono ng mahasa ang kaniyang telephone skills.

(ANG MEAN KO! BOW!)

Hang On

When life has turned to its lowest circumstances,
Count on me.
When sorrows became horrendous,
Deem with me.
When successes turn into hatred,
Bear with me.
When triumphs are unfeasible,
Give your hands to me
I'll hold you tight.
When you became lost,
Look for me... I'll be your light.

You have made things easy for me to see,
You have turned my downs to ups.
You distorted my sorrows into bliss,
You made me a better person.

Now it's your turn...
Asking for help...
Longing for a soul to stand with...
Wanting an ear to snoop...
Craving for a heart to understand...
Searching for another soul to uplift yours...

When things became shaky, I am here.
When verve became tough, I assume.
When ecstasy subsides, I will carry you.

When you think you became worthless;
When you became senseless,
To be your refuge and strength,
To be your light and your guide,
To be your friend and cohort,
To these promises I have made,
HANG ON, my love... Hang On...

Tsk! Tsk!

So I failed! Thrice in a row!

Paul Jake Castillo ended up as a first runner up in PBB. Was I surprised? Not at all, actually. I knew from the start that this young businessman does not stand a chance against the millions (?) of fans of the eventual big winner. And like what I’ve mentioned in my last entry about PBB, I am to respect what has been proclaimed ~ I sure know that the verdict will no longer be reversed, period.

Rocco Nacino ended up last in the remaining three male survivors of Starstruck. The search was won by a less-talented but a more popular guy in terms of text and online voting. On the other hand, Diva Montelaba settled for the First Princess title, losing to a more marketable half-Filipina half-Moroccan contestant (this claim I am in agreement with). The proclamation of the Starstruck winners last Sunday affirmed that text votes was the major factor in determining this season’s winners, unlike the previous editions when “talent itself” was used as the real measure. This edition also made me less-reliant in the council’s capability to judge; for since the very beginning, we have opposing thoughts on the contestants ~ it was very obvious that they have their own favorites among the contestants. Of course I am not happy with the Final Judgment results, but who am I to whine? I am just a believer of the talents of Rocco and Diva. Well, I better not give up, for the real challenge can be won two-three years from now. Let’s see who among these five would have lasting careers by then.

I just hope though that with American Idol I have better playing cards! Casey James, Aaron Kelly, Didi Benami and Katie Stevens, please give your best shots!

My Early Idol Bets

American Idol is back and yes, my addiction follows.

I know this is too early but I already have my faves. Based on their stage presence (which I tend to put more weight on), their performances in their respective auditions and in their performances in Hollywood week, here's my list of American Idol Season 9's creme dela creme.

Let's start with the boys...

Casey James - a Top 5 material. Kara likes him a lot. And surely, his good looks will give him millions of text and phone votes.

Aaron Kelly - this 16-year old kid reminds me of David Archuleta. I won't be surprised if he will be in the Top 5.

Lee Dewyze - his good looks will push him through the Top 12, I bet.

Michael Lynche - oh the Daddy who was in Hollywood when wifey delivered their first child. I admire how this guy maintained his focus during the Hollywood week despite what could be the biggest emotional battle he's been going through.

Alex Lambert - is he related to my sentimental fave, Adam Lambert?

Tim Urban - he can easily join the Jonas Brothers with his hair, but can also give David Cook a run for his money.

And now the girls...

Didi Benami - being inspired by a departed bestfriend to continue her passion in singing is what made me like this girl. Plus her good looks. Plus her voice. And singing Kara DioGuardi's TERRIFIED won her much applause. It's too early to say, but I want this girl to win...

Janell Wheeler - Good looks - check. Great Singing Voice - check. And I heard she used to date one famous football star from Florida? While this association to a famous person could work to her advantage, I think Janell will be a shoo in to the Final 12 because she simply has the talent.

Lacey Brown - this second timer could really sing... and I hope victory is hers on this second try.

Haeley Vaughn - the countrygirl who rules the stage whenever she performs! I think this girl has it! And to me, she's far better than Fantasia Barrino. Do I smell a win for this girl? Well, not impossible.

Katie Stevens - Isn't she a sweetie?

Crystal Bowersox - this Mom was really a good singer. And her version of "Natural Woman" in Hollywood Week left me mesmerized and wanting for more...

What about you, who are your bets?

I had a bad dream...

Devil Dream Meaning. Psychological Meaning: The devil in your dream may personify your fear or repressed desires that have been buried in the underworld of the unconscious. In reality, the unconscious mind is not full of evil demons and satanic forces; it is your inner resource that gives energy and wisdom. Your own fear of the unknown prevents you from finding the wholeness and healing that the unconscious offers. Alternatively, the Devil may symbolize evil words and deeds that you or others have been displaying in waking life. What the devil fears most is light and love. Honesty and kindness may be the right form of conduct to overcome the perceived evils that trouble you.

Devil Dream Meaning. Mystical Meaning: The figure of Satan occurs in the Jewish Christian and Islamic traditions. Originally he was a god that represented fertility and the powers of Nature. Similarly the cloven footed god Pan of the ancient Greeks was a god of the abundance of nature. These ancient symbols of fertility are sometimes used by the unconscious to show the inauguration of a new phase of psychological growth.

From: http://www.dreamsleep.net/

_____________________________________________________

I can’t remember when I last had a nightmare, but my dream last night super frightened the bitch out of me. There was a woman who’s possessed by an evil spirit and her face was all black. The exorcist was really having a hard time pulling the evil spirit out of the woman’s body. I can’t remember what my participation in the said exercise was, but the last scene was the one I vividly remembered ~ the possessed woman stared on me, with her eyes wide open.

When I checked my cellphone’s clock it was only 1:32 AM. I had a hard time going back to sleep for when I start closing my eyes the nightmare seems to continue. I also was not brave enough to go out of my room to pee or to drink a glass of water, despite my wanting. Fortunately though after some 20 minutes and after uttering one Hail Mary, I fell asleep again and woke up when my phone alarmed that I should get ready for work.

Based on the above, my dream personified a fear or repressed desires. Hmmm, that was a big check. It also symbolizes evil words and deeds that I have been displaying in my waking life. It was again a big check.

But the biggest check ~ I don’t want another nightmare. While I cannot promise I’ll be as tamed as a sheep, my only want right now is to be peaceful. Dear Lord, please help me…

Someone gave me a Valentine present...

Oh di ba?

Wish ko lang, SOMEONE nga talaga ang nagbigay. That's a Maxicare Bear actually; they gave it as a Valentine present to their clients. I remember last year they give me 3 cakes ~ one in the morning, one during lunchtime and one in the afternoon ~ as if they're saying I LOVE YOU. I wonder ngayon bakit bear na lang ang gift nila.

But just the same, thank you pa din Maxicare. Thanks for remembering me this VDay.

Sana next VDay, SOMEONE na talaga ang magbibigay. Ang landi!

Oh My Jolina... Whahappened?

In my last entry I mentioned I am excited to see Jolina in the GMA 7' s upcoming show "Panday Kids" mainly because she'll be doing a different role.

I heard she's gonna launch a new image and that glued me to SOP last Sunday (yes, I've been missing this show lately since my Ate Regine is on an indefinite hiatus and since the show is not as exciting as before). I thought she will stage a rock-ista look as she may be influenced by her current beau (Rivermaya's Mark Escueta).

Only to be disappointed...

I know that an artist should constantly evolve; BUT I also think evolving is not synonymous to subjecting yourself to a ludicrous fashion crime. I know that Jolina has once been a fashion icon ~ we can no longer deny her colorful hair accessories were once a fad ~ but seeing her new look last Sunday in SOP and in Showbiz Central made me utter, "Oh my, is she sick?!".

While her contemporaries Claudine Barretto and Judy Ann Santos have catapulted themselves as fashion big-whos, to me, Jolina is now trailing the opposite side.

I bet you guys will agree...

From this...

(Ang TV Days)

To this...

(Gimik Days)

To this...

(Pinoy Idol Judging Stint)

To this...

(Newest Look - Lady Gaga inspired)

Tsk tsk Jolina! I wonder what Madam Auring would have to say...

I am looking forward to...

People who know me know that I am a great showbiz addict. If there will be exams on Mondays about the previous Sunday’s topics on the Buzz and Showbiz Central, I’ll surely pass it with flying colors. And being a showbiz buff that I am, I always make it a point to be aware of the upcoming movies, shows and stars. Having said that, I am listing down in this entry my most anticipated movies, TV shows and TV stars in the coming months. This is irregardless though of the TV network where these shows and stars will be shown and seen.

Habang May Buhay – Juday’s New Teleserye

I’ll confess now, I am a Juday fanatic. Although it’s been only lately that I liked her. She didn’t get my fancy as a kid in Ula, Ang Batang Gubat. I also got bored of her Mara story. I think she got me in Ysabella; perhaps because the show was really good, and her support cast were really great ~ Coney Reyes, Derek Ramsay, Ryan Agoncillo, etc. Now that she has a new nurse-serye (three years in the making, with 5-6 directors helming), I look forward in watching Nurse Jane’s struggles and victories.

Princess Snell aka Marjorie Corwith of Starstruck

This afternoon while watching Showbiz Central, I learned that Princess Snell of Starstruck once posed in FHM via the name of Marjorie Corwith. Blatantly, the avenger admitted that she did the pictorial two years ago and was very proud of it. Whoa! When she was still in the search I rooted for this girl, despite her attitude problem which is always mentioned by her co-survivors. I know she has great potentials; and knowing that she once had the courage to do something that not all teeners her age would try, must I say now, Move Over, Katrina Halili!

Diva Montelaba of Starstruck

This Starstruck girl from Cebu is my bet for the Female Survivor title. When she started it was very obvious that she was very insecure ~ because of her tanned skin tone, probinsiyana bearings, etc. ~ but as the challenges went on, Diva personified the name. Her confidence boosted, her brilliance showed and her enthusiasm to win strengthened. If she won’t win she better not worry; she surely have landed a spot in showbizlandia this early!

Rocco Nacino of Starstruck

First question: Is he from my hometown? I am seeing tarps campaigning for him and take note, these were posted side by side the tarps of the politicians running for local seats here in Calamba. I heard he is from Cagayan, Manila and Laguna; but I didn’t know that he is a Calambeño. If he is, all the more that I am voting for him. But more than the connection, I think this licensed nurse deserves the stardom ~ he wouldn’t be treated as the greatest competitor of his co-survivors for nothing!

Paul Jake Castillo of PBB

My previous entry was actually about PBB. You better read that one to know why this lad from Cebu is my bet.

Of All the Things - Regine-Aga Movie

Do I need to explain? Come on! All Regine fans like me are looking forward for a reunion movie with Aga. Their last movie together was like 6-7 years ago and they had separate and successful love partnerships already, but the chemistry is still there and is as exciting as their first tandem! For suckers of romance and love stories like me, prepare to fall in love again!

Miss You Like Crazy – Lloydie-Bea Movie

I first saw the trailer when I watched the Kimerald movie. Am I a fan I am not sure. But what’s certain is that, I always feel the cheesy feeling while watching their movies. These two (and their directors) really know how to win the hearts of their viewers. Star Cinema has another blockbuster in the can. Ohh by the way, I love their metaphor on Petronas Towers! So cheesssyy!

DIVA – Primetime Show of Regine Velasquez

Regine Velasquez = DIVA. DIVA = a show to watch for! Hello!!! I need not explain again!

Panday Kids

This show will take a ride in the box-office success of Panday of Bong Revilla on 2009’s Filmfest (disclaimer: I didn’t watch the movie!). Well, that’s a good move for GMA. And casting a new set of stars and presenting a new story are even greater efforts. It’s good to watch Jolina again ~ I am not her fan but seeing her doing a different role is a welcome change. And Marvin Agustin as Lizardo sounds spicy! I am hoping though that the show gets good ratings when it’s shown.

Encantadia New Saga

I’ll claim that Encantadia was one of the biggest shows GMA 7 had in the recent years (pwede ding the Philippine TV had in the recent years). The story of four fairy sisters hooked us all night by night with its twists, not to mention the commendable performances of all its cast. The show gave the most solid foundation to Dingdong Dantes’ status right now as a leading man. Iza Calzado became a household name because of her role as Amihan. Sunshine Dizon’s claim as the best actress of her league was proven by her outstanding performance as Pirena. Karylle as Alena was simply stunning, and thanks to this show her then real-life relationship with Dingdong was extended to TV (and we all know that they are no longer together now). Diana Zubiri was the perfect choice as Danaya ~ sexiness exuded, strength of a woman incarnated. I wonder who’s gonna take their roles in the next Encantadia Saga, but here are my recommendations: Pauleen Luna or Alessandra De Rossi (who went back to being Kapuso again) as Pirena, Carla Abellana as Amihan, Geoff Eigenmann as Ibarro, Frencheska Farr as Alena and Nadine Samonte as Danaya.

Now, what about you? What are you looking forward to?

Doubling Up in PBB

Again I’ll say that I’m a sucker for reality-based shows. I had entries before airing my thoughts on the winning of a certain candidate and of course, the losing of another. Perhaps because I myself want to join this kind of show, but that of course is another story.

The current season of Pinoy Big Brother will surely not pass without my critique-ing. After my sometimes boring and sometimes busy work day, the best way to cap the night is for me to watch this show ~ laughing in the sometimes corny antics of the housemates, relishing some of their life dramas and yes, dissecting all its twists to the bones (it’s either I keep my thoughts to myself or bombard my dear friend Yeth with my comments thru texts).

Rica Paras was my choice for the Big Winner title, but we all know it is no longer his/her game (here I go again with this pronoun confusion!). I admire his/her wit and strength in handling all the tasks. But now that he/she has been booted out, I will be putting my bets to Paul Jake Castillo, the rich kid from Cebu. His maturity, leadership and fair judgment in everything are simply impressive.

In my mind though, I’m afraid there will be a repeat of the Ejay Falcon versus Robi Domingo mêlée, knowing that there is a loveteam inside the house that gained a huge legion of followers already. It is known to us that the past two weeks when the MELASON alternately got nominated for eviction, both of them got the big chunk of the combined save and evict text votes. Fit Paul Jake with them, the former might lose; unless otherwise, the Castillos from Cebu would be willing to lose millions of their riches buying cell cards to vote for the kid ~ a step I don’t think they’ll do. First, Paul Jake does not need to win this because of the pot money; obviously that’s just a penny compared to his family’s riches. And second, it’s foolish to gamble in a game whose winner will be mostly decided by the people and producers behind the show.

Speaking of this loveteam, I honestly think the MELASON should be nominated this week for eviction. Their willingness to sacrifice the task to avoid hurting physically the ex-housemates is simply unreasonable. Bottom line is, you were a given a task. The other party was also given the task to make sure you won’t be able to fulfill yours. So that calls for a dog-eats-dog attitude, right? No compromise! Your friendship should be set aside. Come on! These are just tasks. Unless of course your definition of friendship is too shallow, forego the quarter of your pot money and then accept the mockery because of your impracticality (and foolishness, must I say!)

Here’s my game plan (and let’s insert the Survivor “alliance approach” hehehe), when one housemate leaves the house tonight, the following will be left: Mariel, Paul Jake, MELASON, plus the three safe ones from the current set of nominees. When the remaining seven housemates cast their votes tomorrow for the new set of nominees for eviction, the five housemates should concentrate on nominating the loveteam. That would give the loveteam at least five nominations and at most, ten nominations. On the other hand, the most number of nominations that the MELASON could toss to the other group is four if both of them would go for two people only (you do the Math!). If they would instead spread their votes to the five housemates, that would be better; surely, only the two of them will become nominees for next week’s eviction.

Why I am suggesting this? Let’s accept the fact that one or two slots in the Big Four are sure for the MELASON already, and a window to boot one of them out increases the chances of winning for the five other housemates since there will be three slots available for them to fight for ~ easy access to the Php 500,000 winnings of the Second Big Placer, right? (Assuming that one of the MELASON will be proclaimed Big Winner).

By the way, I’d like to make it clear that I am not totally against the MELASON. It’s just that this week I saw their lame sides. Should they win, I’ll be silent and sure to respect the opinion of the majority.

And of course, I wouldn’t finish this entry without naming my winners. If one of the MELASON would be out next week (which I think should really happen), this would be my winners' list: PAUL JAKE, one from the MELASON, KATH and then MARIEL. If the MELASON, by the votes of their fans would be kept intact, then this would be my order: PAUL JAKE, MELASON and KATH. I'll repeat, Paul Jake is my Big Winner but if ABS-CBN execs don't want him to win, then so be it! Wala naman akong magagawa, hindi naman ako ang kikita eh!

Hmmm, before GMA gets jealous, I will be writing another blog on the Starstruck search. But please, don’t boot Rocco Nacino and Diva Montelaba out yet or else, I’ll shred the blog’s draft.

Have a good day!

Confused...

I admit that my key to an efficient day is a planner. I had an initial doubt that I would get the 2010 Starbucks planner since nagtipid ako lately sa pagkakape but thanks to Dra. Joy who treated the whole Club T for coffee last Sunday she filled my sticker stub and presto, I got my much-coveted planner!

Here's the catch ~ when I arrived this morning in the office, the guard gave me my Christmas present from Maxicare ~ one boxed gift and a desk calendar. Since I already have a desk calendar courtesy of my Mom (Ninenok ko yun nasa bahay Mama! Peace!), I gave the Maxicare desk calendar to Grace instead. Now, time to open the boxed gift and oh my! I got the 2010 Maxicare Executive Planner.

Siyempre fan ako ng Starbucks planner so initially I thought kanino ko kaya ibibigay tong isa? While I was thinking, I flipped on the pages and hmmm, maganda pala si Maxicare planner. Tamang-tamang gamitin ng busy bee like me (echos!). So if I am to use this instead, pano naman itong Starbucks planner? To whom shall I pass it on? Kaso, baka magkatampuhan pa ang friendships kasi maraming nagpapatulong sa akin na kumpletuhin ang stub nila (kala kasi nila laklakero pa rin ako ng kape!). And yes, sayang ang freebies ni Starbucks noh!

So I've decided I'll use the Maxicare planner for my office-to-dos and the Starbucks planner for personal stuff ~ dates (ows!), gimmicks (ows ule!), and initial draft of blog entries. Wish ko lang eh magamit ko silang dalawa ng bunggang bungga!

Another Reality Show Fiasco?!?

I am a fan of reality shows, be it from the Kapuso or the Kapamilya station. And as expected, I always have my bets, placing my stakes even during the early parts of the competition. I also wrote before that I have a good passing rate in choosing who the winner will be; but just the same, I also have my lapses. What’s more interesting though is that I tend to over-analyze the results, which I always think was a valid scrutiny.

Here comes another…

Today’s booting-out of Sef Cadayona (of the Selecta Cornetto 20-pesos ad) was to me an unfair decision of the people behind Starstruck 5. I honestly feel that now is not yet the time for this multi-talented star-wanna-be to bid the show adieu. My thoughts…

• It was acceptable that Sef be in the Bottom 3 since the Kiss Flick between him and Rox (forgot her surname) was a bit off, but…
• The other actors in the Kiss Flicks deserve more boos. Nina Kodaka, Steven (surname forgotten as well), Sarah Labahti (did I spell it correctly?) and Ian Batherson were lame kissers and actors must I say.
• To me, Enzo Pineda was on the safe side. He did not falter but he also did not stood out in his kiss flick with Sarah.
• No doubt the good actors were Rocco Nacino, Pierro Vergara, Diva Montelaba and Princess Snell, that’s why they were chosen by no less than Gina Alajar to be paired with Aljur Abrenica and Kris Bernal for the Real-Kiss-Flick challenge.
• The kiss between Princess and Rocco was really the most passionate; thanks to the expertise of Princess (the flick was really showing how good she is as a kisser). No doubt it got the Viewer’s Choice Award for Best Kiss.
• Pierro and Diva’s kiss had the most “kilig” factor ~ parang pang high school.
• It was really clear that Rocco, Pierro, Diva and Princess were the real winners. I had to agree when Rocco and Diva were proclaimed Best Actor and Actress, respectively. Not a single doubt about their performances when paired with Kris and Aljur.
• But lo and behold, when the Bottom 3 was revealed, the trio was Princess, Rox and Sef!
• Now, we needed to ask ~ why was Princess there in the Bottom 3? She was chosen by Gina Alajar and was voted by the audience for the Best Kiss. These should have cemented her status on the safe side already (Starstruck’s scoring is 50% Challenge Score and 50% Text Votes, just an FYI). Confusing, right?
• If Princess was safe (which should really be the case), then who should be on the Bottom 3 instead? Nina or Steven who both lacked the energy during their kiss flick (watching them was like watching a non-rating Koreanovela romance)? Sarah whom Gina Alajar had difficulty directing? Enzo Pineda who has a fan-base already that can give him a solid 50% score on the text votes? OR Ian Batherson whose inclusion on the Bottom 3 again (would be his third time already) means an automatic expulsion from the search?
• Among the 5, my take would be Ian Batherson. I have nothing against the guy, but I felt he did not deliver a good acting in the kiss flick with Sarah. I also thought he has no solid fan-base to vote for him coz if that is the case then he wouldn’t be in the Bottom 3 twice in a row. Remember his “Ako na yata ang Pinakamagandang Lalake” Music Video? It was commended by its own director and I thought he was really good then, but he still landed a spot on the Bottom 3. That made me ask “Is he getting text votes?”
• Text votes wise, I think Nina, Steven, Sarah and Enzo have winning edge over Ian. It would be quite impractical for Starstruck 5 to vote out any of these four. More text votes, more income. Right?
• If it was then Ian in the Bottom 3, an automatic expulsion should have happened. Rox and Sef should have been safe.

Apologies if I again over-analyzed the results of tonight’s Starstruck 5 episode. But for the purpose of impartiality, sticking with the real scores and following the show’s rules, I guess we, the viewers have a BIG say on who should stay or go. After all, the show itself is airing what are the comments of each mentor to each survivor to each challenge, which also are indicative of who amongst them are safe and not. And more than anything else, it is our pennies that we spend for the millions of text votes were giving these star-wanna-bes.

I honestly think that the credibility of some reality shows here in the Philippines is getting questionable. But it was more disappointing to know that the pioneer of this kind of shows here in the Philippines have been tainted as well of this kind of dirty tactics. Calling people from Starstruck 5, prove me wrong!

Ooh by the way, Rocco Nacino is my sure winner. If he won’t win, then I wouldn’t know what to say anymore.

Mine was Generation X...

My dad, Ejay, I and my 5-year old nephew were all busy watching Starstruck 5 when all of a sudden the nephew jumped out of the sofa and said he wanted to stop watching and just go home (they live on the second floor of our two-storey abode). Today’s episode of Starstruck was the survivors’ Kiss Flick where they were challenged to do their first on-screen kiss. Our confused faces forced him to reason, “Kasi tumitigas ang t%*i ko eh.” (Because I’m having a turn on).

Oh my God! What’s happening to these kids’ generation? Now I understand why the alphabet is no longer enough to spell theirs. I never knew that kids his age can now be affected by simple and plain screen kissing!

Must I lend him the DVD copy of the American Pie movies I am now marathon-ing? Whatchathink readers?

A tactic not good...

Testing issues could derail Mayweather-Pacquiao

By Kevin Iole, Yahoo! Sports

Nearly every detail is finalized for Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao to fight on March 13 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas but one. That one detail, though, may kill the fight.

Negotiations are at an impasse over Pacquiao’s failure to agree to random Olympic-style drug testing, said Leonard Ellerbe, the CEO of Mayweather Promotions, on Tuesday.
Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach said his fighter is willing to comply with strict drug-testing standards, but Roach won’t allow.

Ellerbe said he would not let Mayweather enter the ring unless Pacquiao agreed to it.
Both sides agreed that the drug testing issue is the only hurdle preventing the fight from being finished. Earlier Tuesday, Golden Boy Promotions officially requested March 13 from the Nevada State Athletic Commission to host the show.

“As Floyd’s management, we are insistent that there be a level playing field,” Ellerbe said. “This is in the best interests of the fighters, the fans and the sport. If you want a level playing field, the best way to do it is to have Olympic-style, random drug testing administered by the premier agency in the world, the [United States Anti-Doping Agency].”

Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum said the demand is “absolutely crazy,” done simply to harass Pacquiao, who is squeamish about needles, and is proof that Mayweather doesn’t really want the fight.

Arum said the request has been an unsettled issue since the first day of negotiations last month.
“We’re not going to agree to have Manny give blood in training, because that’s stupid,” Arum said. “Every doctor in the world will tell you that is stupid. He’ll give his blood at the beginning of the year and he’s willing to be urine-tested 24/7, but blood doesn’t show [expletive] and he’s not going to do it.”

In a statement released by his publicist, Mayweather said he is willing to submit to the testing. There was never any suspicion that Pacquiao had ever taken banned substances until earlier this year, when Floyd Mayweather Sr. suggested he was on steroids.

Pacquiao has passed every urine test he’s been given in connection with boxing matches.
“I understand Pacquiao not liking having his blood taken, because frankly I don’t know anyone who really does,” Mayweather said in his statement. “But in a fight of this magnitude, I think it is our responsibility to subject ourselves to sportsmanship at the highest level. I have already agreed to the testing and it is a shame that he is not willing to do the same.
“It leaves me with great doubt as to the level of fairness I would be facing in the ring that night. I hope that this is either some miscommunication or that Manny will change his mind and step up and allow these tests, which were good enough for all these other great athletes, to be performed by USADA.”

Blood tests for illegal drugs and banned substances are not required by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which would have regulatory control of the bout if it is held in Las Vegas.
In Nevada, a fighter is required to submit to a blood test that screens for HIV and Hepatitis B and C, as well as other blood-borne diseases, as part of the requirement to gain a license.
A license in Nevada is good for one year. In Pacquiao’s case, he received his 2009 license shortly before he fought Ricky Hatton in May. He submitted his blood to the commission between April 5 and April 20, said Keith Kizer, the commission’s executive director.

Kizer said all fighters who fight in Nevada are subject to random urine tests as well as any other medical tests, such as an MRI or a CAT scan, that the commission deems necessary. Arum said Pacquiao is willing to submit to testing by an outside agency but won’t give his blood. Roach said it’s an issue because Mayweather’s side has been insisting Pacquiao give blood as close as 48 hours within the fight.

“We’ll accommodate their requests and do urine testing up the wazoo and we’ll agree to have them done by an outside agency,” Arum said. “Manny has nothing to hide. But he’s not going to give blood because that’s crazy. He’ll do it at the beginning and he’ll do it at the end. That’s how it is done. Ask some former Olympic boxers how many times they give blood.”
Ellerbe said having the testing administered by USADA would quell suspicions about the procedures or the result.

“This is no rooty toot organization,” said Ellerbe, who noted that such testing was accepted by elite athletes such as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Phelps and Lance Armstrong.
Roach scoffed at such talk and said it won’t matter to him if the fight is not held.
“I really don’t care, because Manny doesn’t need Floyd Mayweather,” Roach said. “The tests he’s requesting are not commission tests, they’re not boxing tests and this is not an Olympic sport. A urine test is just as qualified as a blood test. [Human growth hormone] is not detected by blood or urine.”

The World Anti-Doping Agency successfully used blood testing at the 2004 Olympics in Athens to test for HGH.

Soon...

I'll be signing in again... Hope you missed my writings!

But just the same, I can't promise to be good. I'll still be the biatch that I am!

My Noy or My Chiz?

Disclaimer: This one’s not a political campaign. These are just this writer’s thoughts.

When I was already decided not to vote come May 2010 Presidential Election for the simplest reason that I hated the early campaign ads (and must I say annoying ones) of the two President-Wanna-Bes, Noynoy Aquino declared his candidacy in Club Filipino during the 40th Day of his Mom’s Death. My initial thinking was that he was just forced by the clamor for him to run, especially that Mar Roxas (one of the two wanna-bes I wrote earlier; you know who the other one is) have sacrificed his bid for the country’s highest political seat.

In all honesty, I at first questioned his capability to govern this country ~ his being the son of two national heroes aren’t solid qualifications. Yet day-by-day, I am realizing that more than anyone else who have declared their wanting to be called the Chief Executive, Noynoy is the most noble. In the current political game when we just choose the lesser evil, I must say that the man from Ateneo is indeed the most qualified. His advocacies of liberal democracy and public accountability are winning platforms; the things this ailing nation really need especially now that we are faced with the many issues of corruption, human rights oppression and environmental turmoil.

I am not giving him kind words because I am a Kris Aquino fan. More than anything else, I believe that Noynoy has been living up to the legacy of his parents, and that his political advocacies are the extension of what his parents were not able to finish during their leadership stints.

With that I have decided that come May 2010, I’ll ink the name of the only son of Benigno Aquino and Corazon Cojuangco in my ballot.

But not until another political hero of mine joined the race.

I have always been a fan of Chiz Escudero. In his many interviews that I’ve watched, I simply admire how this UP alumnus gives concrete and direct answers to the many questions, both political and personal, tossed on him. His straightforward and brilliant lines of thoughts are what differentiate him from the many Senators who were just there boiling seats in the Senate. He may be too idealistic, but his zeal towards a good and better nation is simply catching ~ that even perhaps the greediest of men would be much willing to cooperate of attaining, given the opportunity of listening to this man’s impeccable wit.

Chiz was one of the pro-impeachment congressmen who were the prime movers of the impeachment proceedings against PGMA. His words on the questionable leadership of this president were simply astounding ~ "It is the truth that has lost. But the search for the truth does not end today. The president and her allies will always be haunted by questions.”

My brother who’s currently a freshie in a state university has a fondling tale as well about Chiz. In one of the forums he attended, Chiz confidently answered the question, “Why are you so in a hurry to run for the Presidency when you are only on your first term as a Senator?” The crowd applauded his answer, (not in verbatim, apologies) “Bakit hindi pa ngayon? Kung sa susunod pang mga eleksiyon, baka lamunin na din ako ng mabahong sistema ng politika. Ayoko pong maging trapo.” To which I totally agree. We’ve had good and impressive leaders before whose credibility are now questionable, simply because they have allied with their many corrupt predecessors.

Admittedly, I am now torn. Will I go for the heroes’ son or the man whose political rise was described as meteoric?

It could have been much easier for me if Chiz chose to run as Vice President; for I don’t have a choice yet for the next highest post in the Philippines (and perhaps I wouldn’t have a choice at all). All I know now is that I will no longer go back to my first decision of not voting. Now that I have decided to claim my right as a Filipino by voting who our next President will be, I must start to think deliberately. I still have more than half-a-year anyway.

Hmm, what about a toss of coin? Just kidding…

Return Entry on Survivor Philippines Palau

So, Marvin Keiffer has been voted out of Survivor Philippines Palau. How do I feel about it (my Bet for the First Runner Up ending up in the Top 10 instead)? Mixed emotions, of course!

I feel sad because I know that should he stayed a little longer, he will reap wins in the coming challenges. Frustrated because the young boy did not at all try to gain alliances which can strengthen his bid in the game. Betrayed because all 9 of the other castaways voted for him to be out, including his closest friends Echo, Suzuki and Jef.

I’d say I hate how the game is being played. I wouldn’t claim I am righteous to the bone, but it is totally a no-no for me on unfair means of battling and winning. I don’t like how dirty some tactics could be even if I know that is how Survivor is played. Well, taking from the root word of the show’s title simply meant enduring all the tasks and challenges, despite their very limited means and hows. I forgot that in this modern time when technology is already a way of life, survival of the fittest has not been Jurassic yet (and yes, greedy ones are sometimes getting more than what they really deserve!). But my advocacy on gaming remains the same ~ all aces must be played and it should be squarely, fairly and just. No betrayal included, no distrust added.

Who’s next, from my standpoint? Since their basis now in voting out their fellows is strength, then this should be the sequence: Mika, Shaun, Justine, Suzuki, Amanda, Echo, Tara, Charles and then Jef. Jef winning the game? Hell no! In my heart, only Echo or Justine should win. No one else!

By the way, I have to give my claps to Mika. And yes girl, you’re now gaining my abhorrence!

My Thoughts on Survivor Philippines Palau

Tomorrow, we will know who between Justine Ferrer and Cris Bolado will land the final slot in the much-awaited merge of the Survivor Philippines Palau. That is after the build-a-new-shelter-for-the-castaways challenge for the two of them. Well, I really hope it would be Justine. While I do not have anything against Cris, I think Justine deserves it because he/she has been proven his/her strength after beating the five other castaways in Isla Purgatoryo. (Apologies for the dual pronoun, you probably know as well how difficult it is to categorize Justine).

And since in the first season I had my prediction list, it is but fitting that I make one as well on the current castaways. Now while we are still waiting for the Top 10 to be announced, I already have my winners’ list. And here it goes…

My Top Ten is Tara. I guess you would all agree with me on this. Hello, who would be betting for this freak? Wait till tomorrow night comes. You’ll see how demonic this bitch could be. And if you’ll still stake for her to land either the Top 9 or Top 8 slots, then you too is out of your mind!

Ninth slot belongs to Charles. I am liking Charles the last few episodes of the game yet this is not enough for me to put him on a higher notch. He’s not that strong physically and more so, he does not have a strong alliance knowing that the merge will happen soon. He may have Mika now on his side, but I doubt if he still has his ex-Koror mates as allies.

Eighth slot is for Jeff. I know that her blossoming romance with fellow castaway Marvin will boost the show’s ratings, but her physical strength will weaken her chance in the game since the coming challenges will be played individually. And Jeff might be a burden to the tribe if she will stay longer.

Seventh slot is Amanda’s. She plays well. She has strength. She may have alliances. But I don’t see her lasting long in the competition. I feel like she’s on the verge of losing her focus and strength anytime soon, especially that the next challenges would require more stamina. I think there’s inconsistency in her performance.

Shaun will get the sixth slot. I like him as he reminds me of Season 1’s Kiko Rustia ~ righteous, kind, affectionate, protective, leader. But those traits are also his downfalls for these are making him play the game safely. He’s strong, I agree; but compared to the other castaways, Shaun’s vigor falls short of the others.

Mika is my Number 5. I like this girl’s very strong personality. She is a break-away from the typical girl castaway ~ she’s a real fighter, incomparably brave and enormously ferocious. But while she’s the strongest amongst the girls, I think a Top 5 finish is the best she could reach.

The Top 4 is Suzuki. He is the most likeable among the castaways. His joker personality, his friendly aura and his strength would be sufficient to advance him through the competition. I just think though that Zuki has a very weak alliance. He did not connect much to Amanda, Jeff and Shaun when these three joined the Koror tribe, and at this point I am seeing no improvement to this. And his coalition with Echo and Marvin isn’t glued firmly as well.

Justine deserves the Third Spot. Well, having beaten the first four cast-offs are sure proof that this transsexual possesses something in him/her worth our belief. (I didn’t include Vlad in the count since technically they did not really face each other in a challenge). I feel confident that Justine will win some individual challenges which will earn him/her the right to the immunity bracelet. He/She will surely show his/her friendly personality which could be a sure ticket to gain comrades to make him/her stay in the game. But knowing he/she won over the first five cast-offs can also be a make-or-break for him/her ~ he/she may be seen as a strong competitor who can also smell as a threat to the others.

Marvin is my First Runner-Up. This seventeen year old is the strongest amongst all the castaways. Marvin will surely win many immunities, the very same fate JC Tiuseco had in the tail end of the Season 1. I just hope though that Marvin tries to make stronger alliances coz as it is, he does not have much to cement his status as a real contender. He also smells like a threat to the other castaways, so he should learn how to make a little dirty tactics. I can blame it to the age as to how he’s not as manipulative as a real castaway should be, but I hope that he re-evaluates his strategies so he could stay longer.

Echo is my Sole Survivor. She has what it takes to be one ~ strong, friendly, smart, tactical and focused. She could last long as far as physicality is concerned. She could play fair but could sometimes be a little dirty. Part of her tactics is her nice and friendly personality ~ she’s really industrious and very responsible in doing her chores in the tribe. She’s much focused to win the game and no allergies can dampen her spirit. She has a Cinderella story to tell, enough to gain the affection of her fellow castaways. If she’ll be in the Top 2, Echo will win the votes of the other castaways primarily out of compassion and secondarily, out of her ability. If she’ll win, it will definitely change her and her family’s course of life; but if lady luck will not be on her side, I hope there could be some other fairy godmother who’ll grant her wish. GMA 7 and Sponsors, help this lady please!

I can’t say that I am a real Survivor fan for I am not fond of the original and foreign editions. But since I am a Kapuso by heart, I embraced the Survivor Philippines with much gusto and fascination. I may end up not guessing the right sequence of winners but no regrets coz I also wouldn’t win any reward or immunity if I do. But much better, my betting here will not make me lose even a single cent. Fair enough!

Thanks for reading!

The Storm That Was

"We all have sad stories to tell about the Typhoon Ondoy. This is not actually related to the recent typhoon that hit our nation, but my heart feels for the many families who lost their households and their loved ones. May God embrace us all in His Loving Hands."

While “Ondoy” was hitting the metropolis badly last weekend, I was in the hospital nursing my sick sister. She underwent appendectomy on Wednesday, September 23 which really caught all of us in the family very surprised.

The story goes like this…

Monday night, she was complaining of a bad stomachache. That was after she attended a company-required convention in The Heritage Hotel. Tuesday already saw her going to the hospital getting checked by our Lola’s doctor and was advised to take some medications. That very same night, she had difficulty sleeping because of the severe pain which prompted her to ask her friend (who lives with her and my Tita and Lola in our grandparent’s house) to bring her the soonest to the hospital. Off they went despite the unsafe wee hours of the morning; laboratories were done then lo and behold, the doctor confirmed it was appendicitis that’s giving her the stomach pains. Right there and then, we decided she’ll go for the operation. I had to cancel my attendance on a training while my younger brother took his day off from work.

It was really unfortunate for that very same moment, my Dad was confined in another hospital due to complications on his diabetes. It was my Mom who was tasked to nurse him. The original plan was NOT to tell Dad and Mom about my sister’s situation for we’re much concerned of his condition; his blood sugar and pressure has been very erratic since his confinement on Tuesday afternoon, September 22. But after Lola’s persuasion (and because of her drama antics), my Tita was forced to announce the bad news to my parents. Expectedly, Dad’s blood sugar and pressure went bad. Another cause of alarm! I immediately ordered my younger brother to check on Dad and Mom while I stayed in the hospital where my sister was undergoing operation. I instructed him to go since I know that during times like that, my Mom could have the tendency to miss her focus knowing that she herself is also sick. And so I was left with my Tita and my sister’s friend in her hospital room waiting for what appeared to be a tripled six hours! The many times I asked the nurses what’s taking the operation so long, I always get the same answer: “Nasa recovery room na po, pahintay na lang!”

Fortunately, the operation went well…

Thursday, I went to work. In as much as I wanted to take the day off, I simply couldn’t. We had on site a Senior Executive to give us business updates and we also had client visitors. As HR Lead, I had to attend a few meetings with this Senior Executive and present HR Updates on the client visitors. Yes, I went on duty for 24 hours. It’s good that we were given some time to take a nap in the office’s lounge area.

Friday, I went to the hospital where my Dad was confined to process his discharge (praise God!). And again, thanks to his HMO card we did not pay even a single cent on his bills. Immediately after sending Dad and Mom home, I rushed to the second hospital to check on my Sister. Gladly, she was already conscious! She only needed assistance when she’s moving, but was already wide awake. And yes, she was back on her snooty self! Such a freak!

Now, our next goal: for her to defecate so we could go out of the hospital. (We were told it will be the indication that her body systems were well and that the operation did not develop any complications). But the goal was such a heavy task ~ she simply can’t do it! We were even joking we can be volunteers.

Saturday, I woke up late because of the lulling winds and rains (and of course, I had to catch up on my lost sleep). I had no idea how bad the storm was because I was not able to catch the news for advisories. After my usual morning rituals, I readied myself and head to the hospital weathering the strong winds and the heavy rainfall. In the hospital I saw Mom, Dad and Tita taking charge of my brat sister. When I arrived, Tita and I asked Mom and Dad to go home so Dad could rest. A few more hours, my sister ordered my Tita to go home to look after my Lola who was left alone in the house since we’re already hearing some bad news that many areas were flooded already. From the windows of the hospital we could see the water level in the creek nearby slowly rising. Thanks God we were spared from the heavy downpour while inside the hospital; although of course it could be better if we’re at home sleeping sound with our family. Some little trade-offs of course!

We were patiently waiting for her attending physician the whole day but perhaps due to the bad weather, not even his shadow showed up. That was understandable. Good thing that Sister has not developed any complications and did not complain any pain. Late Sunday night when he showed up ~ I was half asleep when he checked my sister ~ and gladly, we heard the best news we’re longing to hear. She could go home. We waited the next morning for him to clean my sister’s wounds and for him to sign our discharge slip. I will no longer mention how much we paid for the hospital bill but it yes hit my and my brothers’ purses badly. No biggie in exchange to the wellness of a dear sister!

Right now, Sister is recuperating at my grandparent’s house. She will be on leave from work for two months and I heard she will have many pending tasks to finish. Good luck to her boss and the person who’ll take her responsibilities for a while. But moreover, good luck to my Tita and Lola they will need to bear with the supercilious attitude of my sister hehehe. I will be sending her some books and DVDs on Monday (my day off) for her to read and watch while on sick leave. That hopefully could help her go through the boredom of staying home doing nothing.

Now what did this whole experience taught me?

First, it only reinforces to me the cliché that the family is your number one refuge during the hard times. When all else fails, your family will remain your strongest shield in the many adversaries that will come along your way.

Second, those who were showing smiles while facing you does not really mean they’re your allies. Need not elaborate, this is self-explanatory.

Third, better be prepared. You better be ready in all emergencies ~ sickness, calamities, etc. Of course there could be no perfect game plan on cases like this, but best if you have your weapons handy at all times ~ money, money and money. I am not saying you should be greedy to focus all your attention in raising money; but yes, someone who saved for the worst will triumph the best!

Lastly, ordeals are way of life. They are there and unchangeable. But what’s good is the fact that no matter how difficult they may be, they could still be manageable. An open mind and an open heart are the sure tools. These two will lead you to the pot of gold!

So long folks! Till next time!

"In My Life"

I watched the movie event of the year yesterday and was happy with it. I wouldn’t say I was totally moved, but it at least exceeded my expectations. The plot was simple yet the characterizations were all superb! Ate Vi was still the actress we admired despite her age and her sagging cheeks. Luis Manzano got a passing grade for a first-timer. And yes, John Lloyd Cruz has cemented his status as the “Most Brilliant Actor of His Generation”. (Well, if we classify Piolo Pascual as JLC’s contemporary then Piolo is still the valedictorian for me; Lloydie is salutatorian with only a slight lose).

I wouldn’t be surprised if the movie would sweep awards come the next awards season. A Best Actress grand slam is not impossible for Ate Vi (though I want Sharon Cuneta, thru her Mano Po, to spoil Ate Vi’s winning streak), Best Supporting Actor or Best New Actor nominations for Luis is not too far from reach (and it’s again no surprise if he’ll grab one trophy), and of course, I’m giving a grand slam Best Actor win for John Lloyd Cruz. His portrayal of his gay character was simply natural ~ from his delivery of lines, facial expressions, movements and gestures. So are we to question his sexuality now? Definitely not! JLC is just one talented actor!

And of course, the much talked about confrontation scene between Ate Vi and John Lloyd was the winning part it made me grip my seat too tight! The scriptwriter was able to craft the best dialogue and put the best words as to how JLC would make Ate Vi realize her faults as a mother. It was also an enlightenment on the complexity of a gay relationship no matter how odd this may sound to many ~ the sacrifices made, the trust and loyalty bestowed and the unconditional love given. And of course, I was too surprised in JLC’s guts to slap Ate Vi in the face and drag her to sit. Oh come on! It’s no ordinary for a younger actor (or actress for that matter) to have the courage to smack a bigger and more mature star. That requires brilliance, and brilliant JLC was!

But in all honesty, I couldn’t see the movie as a would-be iconic and classic one. It was simply beautiful and that ends it. Its plot and its character may be forgotten. But at this time when only indies offer us the best and out-of-the-box movies that could reap awards here and abroad, it is comforting to know that Filipino directors, actors, scriptwriters and movie producers could still offer something as big as “In My Life”.

Ohh by the way, let’s all look forward to Sharon Cuneta’s Mano Po. And yes, now knocking on Ate Guy to stage a comeback.

Kung taga-GMA ako...

Okay, balik ako sa pagiging Kapuso matapos kong magpakaalibugha ng ilang buwan. Anong magagawa eh sa ayaw ko talaga sa isang nagrereyna-reynahan sa GMA. Buti na lang at hindi nag-rate ang huling show niya! Ewan ko na lang etong susunod. Basta ang sure, hindi pa din ako manunuod. Respeto ko kay Angel Locsin (ang aking peborit!), hindi ko masisikmurang panuorin ang kaniyang paglunok ng bato. Kahit pa nga ang babaeng ahas niya eh si Iwa Moto (na peborit din!). Ngayon kung di mo pa gets sinasabi ko, sus mio naman! Itanong mo kay Fulgoso ha? Pwede ding kay Karylle!

I heard na may mga foreign shows na naman na ire-remake ang GMA. Sa tradisyon ng Kim Sam Soon (at dahil sa rimarim eh hindi ko babanggitin yun naunang ni-remake ng GMA), ibabalik ng GMA ang ilang programang nagtala ng matataas na ratings. At dahil feel kong magpaka – executive ng GMA, eto mga suggestions ko:

Tamang ibalik ang Starstruck! Pero sana lang ang manalo eh yun may talent talaga. Yun bang tipong hindi lang sa tests ng jury papasa. Yun tipong kakayanin ang greatest challenge, sabi nga ni Joey De Leon ~ ang test of staying power.

At siyempre, sa August na babalik ang Survivor. Excited ako dito! At for sure, mapupuyat na naman ako! Okay lang na si Paolo Bediones pa din ang host ~ sa sobrang galing niya, wala nang pwede pa maghost ng show na yun!

Tama ding i-freeze na ang Pinoy Idol. Hindi pa kasi pwede sa Pinoy ang text voting lang ang determinant ng winner for a reality show! Hello! Nasan ba naman si Gretchen Espina. Huling panood ko ng SOP nun Linggo, mukha siyang pokpok na bakla dun sa production number nila ni Jennylyn Mercado (na isang nahirapan na ding pabanguhin ang pangalan niya matapos mabuntis!). At take note, Pinoy Idol siya di ba? Pero bakit nag-lip synch lang siya? Naknamputsa!

Tama ding nandiyan ang Are You the Next Big Star. Bakit? Siyempre naman, si Regine ang host eh! Pero question lang ~ sino ba ang stylist nila? Bakit mukhang kinakawawa ang mga babae? Ang papangit ng mga styling ng damit. Yun mga lalake ang mukhang ginagastusan ang packaging at styling. Well, ayoko na magsalita. Kasi din naman, mukha ding mas marketable ang mga lalaking contestants nila. Bets ko: Geoff Taylor sa lalake, Frenchessca (tama ba spelling?) Farr sa babae. Bakit? Sila ang mas madaling ibenta ~ may boses na, may looks pa!

May isang bubuwit na nagsabing bading daw si Alex Castro. Nun makita namin sila (Top 16) sa SOP, si Alex ang may okay na people skills ~ bati ng bati and asking the studio viewers for support sa kaniya at sa show. Bihasa kasi konsehal pala sa Bulacan.

Si Rosalinda eh talaga namang nakakabaliw! Pasado si Carla Abellana – bago pa lang, marunong nang umarte. Si Geoff Eigenman, pasado din. Pinakapasado – si Katrina Halili (clap! clap!). Ngayon pa lang inis na inis na ako kay Fedra! Effective talaga si Kat. At siya lang ang pwedeng mag-Fedra! OA nga lang ng konti si Sheryl Cruz as Valeria. Sabagay noon pa man, OA na umarte si Sheryl di ba? Si Roderick Paulate, si Sheena Halili eh maganda ding kasama sa show. Cute ang mga deliveries nila sa mga roles nila.

Ang Zorro? Hmmm, di ba nga hindi ako fan ni Richard? So pass ako dito!

Nakakaadik namang tunay ang Adik sa Iyo. Naku-cutean ako sa loveteam ni Jolina at Marvin (dati akong nasusuka sa kanila). Si Dennis Trillo eh magaling mag-ala eh. Hanggang doon na lang ha – hindi din niya kasi ako fan. Ayoko ng mahilig mag-deny ng babae (Carlene and then Cristine). At ang pinakawagi sa akin – si Jennica Garcia. Kim Sam Soon palang, tumbling na ako sa batang yan! Mapa-drama, comedy, pasok sa akin si Jennica! Kudos to GMA na siya ang inilagay sa show.

Ang pagpasok ni Uge sa Adik sa Iyo eh isang kaabang-abang. Susko! Uge + John Lapus = kabag sa kakatawa! Though si John Lapus medyo parang kulang ang comic acts sa Adik. Sana siya na lang yun sa role ni Iwa Moto tapos si Iwa Moto yun sa role ni John. Pero siyempre mas gusto ni John ang role niya ngayon, kasi madalas niya kaeksena ang crush niyang si Dennis Trillo.

Balikan natin si Jennica Garcia ha. Gusto kong siya ang gumawa ng Full House. I heard may choice na daw ang GMA kung sino, hindi pa lang nila nirereveal kung sino. Fingers crossed, si Jennica yun. Wala lang, feeling ko siya ang tama para sa role na yun. Pag siya ang naging bidang babae sa Full House, baka mahila niya ako para maging fan ni Richard Gutierrez.

Yun Jodi daw wala pang napipili ang GMA. Suggestions ko: Heart Evangelista o Jennylyn Mercado. Yun Eunice - pwede na dun si Cristine Reyes tutal di ba gusto niya bumalik sa Kapuso?

Balita ko ang original na dapat daw gagawin ng GMA eh Coffee Prince para kay Dennis at Jennica. Pero naisipan nilang gumawa ng original story hence Adik sa Iyo was conceptualized. Tama lang naman na move. Kasi kaaliw talaga ang Adik sa Iyo. Now, sino ngayon ang gagawa ng Coffee Prince kung ire-remake? Hmmm, selfish na kung selfish... si Jennica ule, siya lang ang naiisip ko. Yun bidang lalake, di na pwede si Dennis dun. Bakit? Kasi may Pauleen Luna na si Dennis. Di naman bagay kay Pauleen ang role ng bidang babae sa Coffee Prince. Though hindi malayong mag-invest ang GMA kay Dennis at Pauleen lalo na't sila na daw ngayon. Well, kung ganun nga , mag DRAMARAMA sa HAPON na lang sina Pauleen at Dennis. Tutal dun naman ang market ni Dennis, saka hilaw naman ata kung mag-primetime si Pauleen.

Kung si Jennica pa din magreremake ng Coffee Prince, sino babagay na ipartner sa kaniya? Hmmm, hindi na si Mart Escudero. Di na sila bagay. I think, pwede kay Jennica si JC De Vera. Wala lang, try lang. Feeling ko naman kakagatin din sila ng madlang people.

Now kung magsasabay ang Full House at Coffee Prince at isa lang ang gagawin ni Jennica, I would suggest na gawin niya ang Full House. Okay, aminado akong di ako fan ni Richard pero aamin na din akong kung ipapartner si Jennica kay Richard, mas lalong sisikat si Jennica.

Kung ganon, sino naman ang suggestion ko for Coffee Prince? Si JC De Vera ang bida di ba? Pwede na si Heart Evangelista din. Pwede din si Rhian Ramos (bring back the La Lola tagalized tandem... teka nakalimutan ko ito banggitin kanina ah!).

Eh pano kung magjo-Jodi nga si Heart at papartner kay Dingdong na Cholo sa Stairway to Heaven? Well, si Rhian Ramos na nga. Ewan, tingin ko hindi bagay kay Jennylyn Mercado yun role sa Coffee Prince. At siyempre, hindi din pwede si Yasmien Kurdi noh! Si Yasmien, mag DRAMARAMA na lang uli (yun eh kung bibigyan siya ng project ng GMA ule).

Teka, asan na si Sunshine Dizon at Izza Calzado? Wouldn't they fit in the Stairway to Heaven's Jodi role? Sagot ko: pwede. Kaso aminin na natin, hindi na sila appealing for primetime eh. Yun last show nila, hindi masyado nag-rate. Magagaling sila pero iba na kasi ang market ngayon eh. Siguro mag SRO na lang ule sila (yun once a week lang na drama series).

And speaking of marketability, nakakabiglang may market si Kris Bernal at Aljur Abrenica sa primetime. Minsan ko lang napapanuod yun show nila (pag Lunes ng early evening at gising ako o hindi nagpe-facebook). Balita ko may launching movie na sila. Well again, nabigla ako. Ewan, hindi din ako fan ni Kris eh. Sabi nga ng tita ko, kamukha daw ni Jessa Zaragosa at mukha daw monay (nasa lahi ata talaga namin ang pagiging mean). Si Aljur, if not for his resemblance to my youngest brother, hindi ko din papansinin si Aljur. Kasi nun Starstruck days nila, wala akong gusto sa kanilang lahat hehehe. Si Steff Prescott kasi ang bet ko.

Sino si Steff Prescott? Pwede ba siya sa mga shows na ire-remake? Hindi ang sagot ko. Hilaw pa si Steff. Bigyan na lang muna ng DRAMARAMA. Besides, nag-aaral ata ang bata.

Si Rich Asuncion? Well, matapos ang Bb. Pilipinas, nawalan ako ng gana sa kaniya. Hindi ko akalain na ganun pala ang intellect level ng lola (ayan, mean na naman ako!).

Balita ko si Glaiza De Castro daw eh igu-groom din? Pero hindi siya pwede sa mga ire-remake na shows. Pwede siya pero pang-supporting lang.

Si Sheena Halili magbida? Hindi pa din. Comic lang si Sheena pero I think hindi pa siya pwedeng magbida. For me, siya ang batang Eugene Domingo.

Si Chariss Solomon? Okay, after Sheena pwede na siya.

Si Jackie Rice? Sino yun?

Si Ryza Cenon? Ah yun Abril sa Rosalinda? Dapat ata maligayahan na tayo at siya ang naging Abril sa Rosalinda, enough exposure na yun!

Si Isabel Oli? Balita ko dapat nasa Narda din, nag-back out daw dahil sa maysakit ang tatay. May chikang ayaw lang daw makasama si Nadine Samonte at ang ex niyang si Paolo Contis. Tama lang naman, I think! Unahin ang ama. Besides, mas magandang wag na siya sumali sa Narda. Yoko nga kasi sa bida. Pero lilinawin ko, hindi din ako fan ni Isabel ha!

Parang nahahabaan na ko sa blog ko. Nag-feeling na naman ako! Eh hindi naman ako part ng casting crew ng GMA. Well, ang akin eh suggestions lang naman. Kung tutumpak ang mga suggestions ko sa pipiliin ng GMA for their upcoming shows, eh di salamat.

Oops, hirit lang. Hindi pa lubos na naaalis ang pagkaalibugha ko. Peborit ko pa din kasi si Angel Locsin eh. Saka magagaling kasi ang nasa-Tayong Dalawa. I would say na okay na din yun Tatlong Bida, pero ang pinakamagagaling dun eh yun support cast. Si Cherry Pie, si Agot, si Coco, si Gina Parreño, si Alessandra de Rossi at si Jodi Sta. Maria.

Eh ano naman masasabi ko sa Lovers in Paris? Sige ipromote na may ligawan sina Piolo at KC. Kailangan eh.

Oh siya, mahaba na talaga! Pagod na din ang mga kamay ko!