DAYO! Watchi it :)

Rating:	★★★★
Category:	Movies
Genre:	Animation

Different, Well made, Funny, Simple, Culture Related, Nationalism Involved, Pride of Pinoys - It is worth your money. Watch It! Support the Filipino Animators! :)

I could have given it a perfect 5 stars, but part of the script was just too "hardsell" of the sponsored product and I just don't like the idea of the Taglish (medyo malandi) speaking characters so much - although I do understand that most children nowadays just speak that way.

If there was a movie in the MMFF that I was most excited about it's BALER (which I haven't seen by the way). Kuya Dencio, who is part of Baler's production team has excited me with all his pictures and the fact that it's a Mark Meily already sold the idea of it to me. Dayo however I didn't hear much of. Sad. This movie wasn't really part of my "To Watch" movies of MMFF simply because I didn't even know that it was part of MMFF.

We started with the movie Dayo because we knew that the other movies will be a hit to most people and the idea of flocking the cinema with them just didn't excite us. Better to start with a movie that wasn't marketed that well, but seemed interesting enough. And a Filipino ANIMATED movie, how can you go wrong? It being an animated movie made me think that maybe, the movie house will still be full because of the holidays and the parents would bring their children to see movies. But it was such a sad sight to enter the movie house and see sooo many EMPTY seats. seriously?!

Dayo is very much a FILIPINO MOVIE. I love that the storyline is very simple for children to easily understand. Bubuy (the lead characted) needed to enter the kingdom of Elementalia where folklores like the Mananaggal, Tikbalang, Kapre, Tiyanaks, Syokoy, etc live to be able to save his grandparents who were eaten up by the Giant Balete Tree.

Bubuy's adventure circles around his quest to find the ingredients for the potion that will save his grandparents from the bondage of the balete tree. In his quest he meets friends, discovers things and other creatures and finds the "brave one" trapped in him. It's A WINNER STORYLINE for kids and kids at heart. I love how the usual "bad" aswangs and folklore creatures were not portrayed as their usual selves in the movie. To begin with, Bubuy's bestfriend in the movie is a young Manananggal. And the ANIMATION is No Bad at all. It was well made.

I only know of 3 Filipino animated movies - Isko, Urduja and this Dayo. I wasn't able to see Urduja but I have to say that there is just great improvement of animation from Isko which was in late 90's or was it early 2000?

Kudos to the popular stars who gave their voices for the characters, led by Nash Aguas as Bubuy, in Dayo. MichaelV and Pokwang were there for comic relief. :) Nova Villa and Noel Trinidad were lovely grandparents and lookout for Johnny Delgado too. :) And John Manzano was just so easy to spot right from the very start of the movie.

On the not so good side
*Ok, ok, they could have been more imaginative with the name of the underworld that ELEMENTALIA. But what can they do a lot of the better names have already been used by other shows and movies - Encantadia, Eteria, etc.
*Hardsell of a couple of sponsored products. Other product placements were really good and the flying around metro manila with all the billboards of the sponsors deserves a thumbs up for creativity - but a couple of products just had to get so much airtime, it ruined the movie. But it had to be done because I know they were paying well.

WATCH IT! :)

Pause . . . and Say a Prayer

I was planning to blog about something else when I logged on to Multiply tonight. But the recent news in Iligan has prompted me to write about something else, write about my dear Iligan - my most recent home.

2 bombs exploded today, midday in 2 of the groceries in a busy street in Iligan. I only went inside Unicity (one of the shopmarts) once or twice but Jerry's, the other shopmart, was a place Hannah (my british counterpart) and I went to a lot. And it's situated along our road home, whether by jeepney or when we just walk. It's so close to "home."

I guess the decision for the GX team that followed us to change communities was a good move, I can only imagine if they're in Iligan right now - only in their 1st week.

3 people are confirmed dead while about 48 are injured. All civilians.

President GMA apparently was scheduled to go there tomorrow so they are linking the bombing with her "arrival." But it still doesn't make sense; such violence will not make sense.

Twilight

Rating:	★★★
Category:	Movies
Genre:	Other

A good number of my friends who have read the book and watched the movie were very much disappointed with the movie. I wasn't quite shocked because I normally am disappointed with movies based on books anyway - so far the Lord of the Rings and Chronicles of Narnia are the only ones which haven't extremely disappointed me. Those who have not read the book enjoyed the movie but not to the point of overly praising it. Their reviews, and the others by movie critics, lessened my eagerness to catch the movie. An invitation from my cousin Bianca to see it (2nd time for her) nevertheless still brought excitement.

Warning to My cousins (and others) who LOVED The Movie, especially Sofie and Bianca, you might not like what I have to say. But I think my review is more objective because I don't find Robert Pattinson (ed cullen in the movie) that hot. hehehe.

It was OK. It wasn't grand, it wasn't great, the fight scenes weren't awesome but I wasn't majorly disappointed.

The book to begin with has always been more focused on the love story of Bella and Ed, the movie also stayed true to that. And that made it quite cheesy for me. I admit, there was chemistry/kilig factor between the actors, but the development of their attraction and love for each other was just way too fast, it was lacking some depth that would've made me fall in love as well. They could've added more of their love-hate relationship, or some more scenes that...I don't know, there was just something lacking there, I can't find better words just yet.

Fight scenes! They could've had more of those. It's a vampire movie afterall, you gotta have more suspense, more thrill with the fight scenes. It was a bit similar to "burn after reading," the exciting scenes weren't sustained. Too bad, I found the actor who played JAMES quite hot! ;) And JACOB is a cutie too. I can't wait to read New Moon, Bianca said it's more about JACOB.

I didn't like that the Ending had to be o so sappy and happy. The ending in the book was way better - it was intriguing and exciting. They could've done the same with the movie.

3Stars - glad I waited to watch it here in Davao. Because the price for one ticket in Manila is equal to 2 here in Davao. But I can understand the love of Robert Pattinson fans for this movie. He is quite dreamy, scary and very vampire like here. He was very effective as ED, but the actors who played EMMETT, JAMES and JACOB are more of my type. :)

It's Christmas!

Trust Coca-Cola and Araneta Center to be the first ones to declare Christmas! Giant Christmas Tree Lighting last Nov.7, 2008.

It wasn't as "bongga" and festive as last year, but the tree was nice. Compete with Coca-Cola Christmas Balls. Sadly though they're not that obvious from afar. But it didn't keep me for wanting to steal one ball. hmmm. Too bad Tet was there to stop me.

Collect all 5 Christmas colored Coke glasses by collecting 7 specially marked coca-cola caps. The glasses nice - very Christmas, very Coke! ;)

Cue PAROKYA ni EDGAR

Ok,fine. Let me take into consideration parokya ni edgar's message. Just for the time being, just for a while. Maybe it is applicable, just maybe. Akala nga daw eh!

akala ko dati walang mangyayari
akala din nila ngayon wala silang masabi
akala ng lahat mapapagod din ako
mabuti na lang matigas ang aking ulo

akala ko walang mapupuntahan
kahit na paghirapan ngunit mali na naman
kung di ko sinubukan sanay hindi ko na nalaman
edi na sayang lang
(Will it really be worth it? Really? Or will it be a waste of time and energy?)

wag kang matakot na baka magkamali
walang mapapala kung hindi ka magbakasakali
dahil lumilipas ang oras
baka ka maiwanan kung hindi mo susubukan
(This one will always be appropriate, I think.)

Ano ba? MGA KALAHOK not PARTICIPANTES

Can somebody Tell ABSCBN it's not PARTICIPANTES. ano ba?!

I need to let this out, because I am Soooo Annoyed! I'm annoyed at Ryan Agoncillo for saying the word about 5times in his interview this afternoon; at Mariel&Toni for repeating the same word about a couple of times; at Luis Manzano for using the word in the AVP; and for the teaser of Fear Factor that has been running for about 2 weeks now. It's sooo wrong.

Ang Tagalog ng PARTICIPANTS ay MGA KALAHOK (pwede na nga din Mga Kasali)  hindi participantes. It's not Rocket Science! Hindi siya MATALINHAGA o MALALIM o MAHIRAP na salita na walang wastong katumbas sa tagalog. Ang simple, simple bakit kailangang babuyin ang salita? Bakit?! Matatanggap ko sana kung di lang nya mahanap o maisip sa pagkakataon na yun kung ano ang tagalog ng participants, pero hindi eh. Sinadya siya at doon ako naiinis.

I'm not a linguist and I admit to speaking in Taglish every now and then. But I try to speak in the same language in one sentence. And I don't create "new" and "crazy" translations of words that actually have existing translations already. If you can't remember how it is said in Tagalog just say it in English, do not simply add an ES to it and pretend that it's actually the right word.


Honestly, there's a part of me that's actually looking forward to catching Pinoy Fear Factor. I've been watching Survivor (ok, ok, mainly for Paolo although he doesn't work very well as the host of survivor. I'm actually enjoying survivor, not as much as the first 2 American Survivors and the All Stars (because those that followed were quite predictable in a way). It's just sad that because it is everyday, they only play short episodes every night. And perhaps I'll end watching as soon as they vote out both VERN and KIKO. I loved that Vern won the last Immunity! I'd rather Paolo hosts something more like the old Extra Challenge format show) and I want to see which one would be a better franchise. But if I will be hearing Ryan say that word everyday or translate some other English word in that manner, I won't last 5 minutes watching that show!

AFN, PNP and Cenrtal 911

I’m feeling productive today, in terms of organizing and finally typing down details with community set up for GX Team 76 in Davao. I managed to make the calendar and the security details for the team. Also finalizing the CAD with Kythe. It made me recall about my crazy adventures/meetings in Davao last September when I was tasked to meet with PNP Davao, AFP and Central 911.

Before I even got the chance to meet the heads of those 3 offices, I needed to bring the formal letter from GX. Central 911 was easy because Jay already knew them from last year and had the head’s cellphone number. I just needed to arrange a meeting with him through a phone call and just brought the letter with me the same day of the meeting.

PNP was the first stop. I walked through the gate anticipating a thorough search as I was entering security premises. There’s something about the police that doesn’t scare me, perhaps because a number of my relatives worked for them; my 2 late uncles Manny&Bong Sonza served the PNP and my cousin Francis is now deployed somewhere in General Santos. 

There were no major security checks entering PNP. They just asked where I was going and asked for an ID. No bags checked, no need to double-check my identification, etc. How simple was that? What if I had a bomb in my bag and had plans to plant it the head’s office to kill him? Or if I had a gun? Tsktsk.

I headed to AFP to bring my letter and the mere entrance of the Task Force intimidated me. Something about the barbwired entrance and a military personnel in complete uniform with machine gun in his hands reading my letter before allowing me to enter made me so uncomfortable. But atleast the security was tighter so “good job.” Walking from the entrance to the main lobby, with about 20 pairs of military eyes on me, made me remember 2 incidents – 1 with the AFP of Iligan and the other with the Marines of Davao City. In Lanao del Norte, during our first visit to our community in Robocon where our fieldwork would be, almost the entire platoon wanted to escort Rebecca and me. They misunderstood the letter sent to them and thought we needed escort so there were about 20 ARMED MEN ready to walk with us. So we were like – “No! Thank you!” But because we didn’t want to offend them we agreed that for that day we’d allow 2 men to accompany us. It made us feel so unsafe having 2 guys with guns and extra ammunition walk with us in a community that the MILF once attacked (and attacked again last August 2008).

The marines of Davao was a different experience when we were invited by my bestfriend’s boyfriend to visit him in their ship because he was going to cook for us and take us to Vanishing Island across Davao City. Ella, Janille (it’s her BF) and I headed to their dock committing the mistake of dressing up quite ready for the beach. We were in shorts and tees, and had swimsuits under our shirts that as soon as we got out of the cab, we felt the GLARING STARES of about 20-30 men - the marines! Nakng! Ganun pala ang pakiramdam ng tingin na para kang KAKAININ ng BUHAY! Ilang buwan ba silang nasa dagat at di nakakita ng babae? Putik! Ella and I were cursing Janille on why we had to come. Kung gusto niyo yung tingin na pagpyepyestahan kayo, do that, but we weren’t very appreciative of it. May Kabastusan lang talaga sya and they weren’t exactly HOT MEN you know, basta..ay naku!

THE MEETINGS – I met with AFP Commander first, about a couple days after I brought the letter. I already noticed how cute the guy in the lobby was the first time I went but we never really conversed until the day of the meeting. He had this RICO YAN, CHRIS TIU look, but when he spoke! Dang! Military kung Military! Yung tono, “Yes Ma’am!” And ang Tigas ng Bisaya nya, promise, nakakaturn off yung military na tono pero nakakatuwa yung tigas ng bisaya.

The AFP Commander was not as threatening as I expected. He was actually very warm and had a firm handshake. His assurance of the security of Davao and the neighboring provinces made me feel safe. He just wanted to make sure the Volunteer Placements were not known leftist NGOs and that the volunteers arriving are not very radical. Ofcourse the AFP still fully supports the President so I had to reserve my opinions about the current state of governance. Despite the intimidating stares at the AFP HQ, my meeting with the commander felt more like a meeting with an Uncle who wanted to make sure you and your friends will be safe in your out of town trip. And I appreciated how he personally handed me his card and told me to text or call him anytime. Naks! Close na kami ni Commander!

PNP - I was a bit nervous. He didn’t have a picture on the wall so I thought he was going to be very old, very stiff and commander like. He was a bit young, maybe late 40’s and he made me feel so awkward the entire meeting. Have you ever been INTERROGATED by police? That’s how it felt, like a scene from CSI or 24 – one question after the other. And he even started with who was I, my background, my education, if I’m a LEFTIST? What the?! I’m not under investigation here, am I? It was so weird and the way he asked the question so quickly, you knew he wasn’t really listening? With regard to GX questions, it was obvious he didn’t read the letter because the letter would have answered most of his questions. Anyway, he had similar concerns about leftist orgs, etcetera and in the end handed me his card to for anything. Naks! Close na din ako sa PNP commander!

911 – was short and simple. He remembered Jay and GX and just thanked me for the FYI meeting. He just asked for general living areas of the volunteers so he can note it as an important area of responsibility in case of emergency. I just love our Central 911 emergency unit, the only one in the Philippines.

So I’m close to the AFP and PNP commanders and with the Central 911 of Davao. I feel so powerful! Like I can commit a crime and get away with it. Hehehe! Not in Tito Digong’s Balwarte, I don’t think so!

Big Brother's Advice

When you don't have a job, you tend to talk to people about why you don't have one;  how bored you are looking for one; how you're self esteem is at its lowest because you don't have one and can't seem to get an interview for one that you really like;  and what's stopping you from getting a job which you know you still like and will enjoy doing.

I do not have big brother by blood relation but I do have quite a lot among my friends. Most of my closest and most honest friends are older than I am, which I am positive (hopeful, hehehe) gives them more wisdom.

Here's an indirect advice and analysis of my current life from one of my favorite big brothers. In 5 lines (through YM), he has read me. tsktsktsk, sometimes I think people read me so easily. I should try to atleast be a bit mysterious or complicated.

1) I think you are caught between what you feel you should do and what you want to do...
2)and I think for you those two things are mutually exclusive
3)kaya ka nahihirapan...
4) I think the challenge for you is to find something you want to do and you feel you should be doing...
5)not an easy task, but I think that is very doable

(enter reflective music..hehehe)

Because I'm being Positive

Thank you Jordin Sparks, for the simple yet real lyrics and the easy to sing along harmony of this song of yours. One step at a time. Enjoy,cheers!

One Step at A Time

Hurry up and wait
So close, but so far away
Everything that you've always dreamed of
Close enough for you to taste
But you just can't touch

You wanna show the world, but no one knows your name yet
Wonder when and where and how you're gonna make it
You know you can if you get the chance
In your face as the door keeps slamming
Now you're feeling more and more frustrated
And you're getting all kind of impatient waiting

[Chorus:]
We live and we learn to take
One step at a time
There's no need to rush
It's like learning to fly
Or falling in love
It's gonna happen and it's
Supposed to happen that we
Find the reasons why
One step at a time

You believe and you doubt
You're confused, you got it all figured out
Everything that you always wished for
Could be yours, should be yours, would be yours
If they only knew

You wanna show the world, but no one knows your name yet
Wonder when and where and how you're gonna make it
You know you can if you get the chance
In your face as the door keeps slamming
Now you're feeling more and more frustrated
And you're getting all kind of impatient waiting

When you can't wait any longer
But there's no end in sight
when you need to find the strength
It's the faith that makes you stronger
The only way you get there
Is one step at a time

Grey's5,Alex&Izzie

Rating:	★★★★
Category:	Other

Warning, this is a bit cheesy! :)

Let it be known that from the very start I've always found Alex' character in the TV show to be hot. He's my ultimate "Maginoo Pero Medyo Bastos" kind of guy! Although I watch the show mainly for my childhood crush, Patrick Dempsey, Alex is an additional eye candy (so is McSteamy).

Blame it on being jobless but for the most part of my life right now, all I do is watch TV shows. I have the previous seasons of the shows I missed while I was away (Grey's Season4, Heroes2, Bones3,etc). I hurriedly watched Season4 of Grey's because Studio23 was going to air the latest season. I am such a loser, I was so excited for the first episode last night. :)

4stars is mainly for the TV show reviving the loveteam of Izzie and Alex. I mean seriously, what were they thinking pairing Izzie and George? It was so off, I was forwarding their supposedly "romantic" moments when I watched season4. It's similar to the time when they tried to pair Rachel and Joey at Friends- some things just don't mix.

So anyway, Loveeet! kilig di ba? I believe last night was the first time I was looking forward more for the scenes of Alex and Izzie than scenes with McDreamy in it. They are so meant to be together.

I'm glad Christina has a new lover in sight, she's a favorite character, same level as Dr.Bailey. And don't you just think Callie is getting prettier each season? Go girl!? I love it that she's a hot, voluptuous, smart woman. Wohoo!

I'm so looking forward to the next episodes, the romantic in me is just out. Cheers!

There comes a point

There comes a point in ones life when boredom just really sets in. And you don't even have the ability to get up and do something about it. You just stayed bored. 

Ah yes, it is definitely called - Katamaran.

So you get up and you do something about it. But somehow it still takes time, some time . . . a lot of time to be able to find something to really do, something that really matters.

One Big Fight! Mahal Kita Chris!

Go Ateneo! One Big Fight!

Pagod na pagod ako today, finally after 3 consecutive days of meetings here and there, my body felt tired. So I was feeling down when I got home at 4pm.

But thank you Chris, thank you Jai, thank you Nonoy, thank you Rabeh, thank you Ryan at Salamat Eric. hehehe :) Thank you lifting my sprits high. Ang saya magChampion!

2008 is my year, I said that before and I'm sharing it with the whole Ateneo community - 2008 is our year! One Big Fight! :) 

At kainis ka Chris, bakit ba ang pogi mo? Nakakainis tuloy na wala ako sa Manila ngayon, dahil gusto kitang masilayan sa Gesu. Haay. Mahal kita Chris, kung alam mo lang. Mahal na kita noon, kahit noong nakasuot ka ng nakakatawang maskara - gwapo ka pa din sa akin, at mas mahal kita ngayon. Kahit na nakakatawa kang magtagalog sa Ripley's Believe it or Not, gwapo ka pa din at magaling maglaro, at matalino ka pa. Haaay. Kainis! I heart you Chris! :)

The Day They Left

September 6, 2008

Probably, the saddest day for our team, GX Team71. The day our British teammates left and the reality of everyone separating ways was slapped to our face. Ouch!

GXing in Camiguin

Delayed pics I know. Didn't bring a cam with me to Mindanao - can't believe I .survived without a camera for 3months! whew! congratulate me. :)

This was during our midphase review in August at Bahay Bakasyunan in Camiguin

I miss not seeing these people everyday.

Off They Go and On With Our Lives

Hannah, Rebecca, Dee, Dom, Ferg, Catherine, Ruth, Becs and Tom left for the UK last Saturday afternoon. Victoria left earlier on Thursday morning.

Us Filipinos were left behind, sitting outside NAIA crying our hearts out. It was like a scene from a dramatic movie, but appropriately disturbed by Aili, Pat and Jay's crazy jokes. We laughed while waiting for their signal that we can leave and that they have all checked in. And then we cried again, like crazy people who laugh and cry without any prompts. We had quite a quiet dinner at Trinoma and felt like going home to cemetery once we got back to Phildrra in Katipunan. It was very quiet in the halls and the rooms were too clean, too few luggages and bags were lying around.

We amused ourselves yesterday at Enchanted Kingdom. Pat's Anchor's Away face was just hilarious, even Elbert who was totally scared of the ride the first time, just laughed his fear away. We tortured ourselves every now and then thinking of our british counterparts enjoying the rides with us, or how they'd react to certain events of the day. Ultimate torture when we rang them a little after lunch as they finally landed in Heathrow.  Once we got back to Phildrra we finally faced the reality of totally separating ways as those based in Manila finally left for home. Soon it was just Joseph, Aili, Pat and Jay left at the hostel. Shaie, Ajeet, MehAnne, Elbert, Tonette and I left.

Parting is never easy. Departure always has tears coupled with it. But that departure was also an inevitable truth. We knew it was coming and there was a part of us that was prepared for it. It didn't and doesn't make it less painful though, we still miss our teammates very much. I guess because there's also that major possibility, especially for our teammates who are not from our own country, that we won't see them ever again. Imagine from seeing them almost everyday, to not seeing them again? whew!

Application of all the things we have learned and moving on with our individual lives now follows. We will all be home soon... I just finished unpacking but some of my some stuff are still not neatly organised. I have to continue fixing my CV and continue asking friends for job openings. I need to have my picture taken so i can update my resume. I still need to get a decent sleep and the chance to just sit and watch DVD for all the shows I missed.

There are still 4 months left in 2008 and I continue to Seize the Day! :)

MOA-AD Reflection and Questions

Mindanao is not a war-zone. That's how I told Ajeet I want to start our letter to editor/s of newspapers and that's how I want to start this blog as well.

The entirety of Mindanao is not in war, there are isolated tensions but as a whole, Mindanao is generally peaceful and most, if not all, of the people directly affected by this conflict seek genuine and lasting peace.

Today were were fortunate to be given short talks regarding the MOA-AD by 2 members of the GRP panel. One of our teammates, Aili, was a staff at Balay Mindanaw and her office was kind enough to plan a whole morning for us discussing this major issue that seem to be the major cause of the recent conflict in the areas of Cotabato, Maguindanao and Lanao.

We started with a brief history of Mindanao and of the Moros who live here, which we already know a bit about from our Global Citizenship Days here in Phase II of our programme. Then we were given practical and basic explanation of the GRP-MILF peace process and talks, and of the content of the controversial MOA-AD.

I was deeply enlightened by the talks given by the 2 members of the panel. They gave vital information which we all needed to further understand all the recent events. Furthermore, they broke down some of the technical parts of the MOA to help us understand the story behind it and the future that awaits it. They enlightened us about the plebiscite that is to happen 12 months after the signing of the MOA and about the most controversial territorial contents of the MOA.

We didn't have enough time to go very much into details, but I have to say that some of their explanations have calmed me down and my major concerns about the BJE and made me reflect on GRP-MILF peace talks in a more rational manner; not in a very romantic way where I feel they might take away my territory or what have they done to the families in Linamon and the like. But because we did just have a short time to discuss the issue, there are still a lot of questions in my mind (some have already been asked by various politicials and opinion writers):

1) Why the Secrecy in the Content of the MOA? I can understand that because they were in the peace talks there are some things you just can't reveal in the public, but it seems like there was very poor consultation that was done? Even to LGU leaders there seem to be very poor consultation?

2) The timing is just questionable, I guess everything is when it is done during GMA's term and where there seem to be a looming idea of a possible Charter Change for the plans to prosper. Are we pushing for this to happen out of genuine concern for the safety of the affected provinces in Mindanao or is this but a disguise to find a "good" reason for charter change for people's term in office to last longer?

3) They are saying that they are going to do a different system of plebiscite this time, unlike the last time when they did it per municipality and ended up losing other baranggays that were for being part of the ARMM, they say they are going to look at it in a baranggay basis. What happens if only 1 baranggay among a municipality of 30 baranggays says Yes and in turn makes them a part of "BJE?" This baranggay becomes a "minority" of that municipality, makes it  geographically undesirable for the "central governance of "BJE." What are the implications in terms of governance  and administration in those baranggays? Technically isolated in their municipality, they again become marginalised which sort of defeats the whole purpose of being regonised?

4)What was the major technicality that the supreme court saw that advanced the TRO against the signing of the MOA. If they are saying it's the form of consultation, what does that say regarding the extensiveness on the research and surveys of GRP regarding what the other people of the ARMM or Mindanao-Sulu-Puerto Princesa genuinely want? How can proper consultation be done to those who are not so educated and who cannot understand all the politics that is involved in this?

5) Why is there major claim by MILF to include the IPs under their control in this agreement that they want signed? Who did they ask and what forms of consultation were done to even conclude that the IP would want to become one with them? They have their own claim, their own plans - where lies the Free Choice? Or how can an uneducated Lumad practice Choice Freely when he doesn't understand all the choices available?

6)Why was there a massive, emotional and warlike reaction from the rebels upon the TRO for the MOA-AD? Were they promised a specific deadline? I just question the genuineness of their desire to achieve peace in the land they are so keen to be recognised as their own, when they choose to take up arms and kill so many innocent people. There is just no JUSTICE in that for me.

I have to end this because I promised myself I'll only take a short break from doing my reports for GX and preparations for Debrief. And I shall end with my reflections right after the talks this morning, which I wrote down on my paper.

There can be no lasting peace if people involved do not leave their personal agenda behind... If  you seek peace you must be able to forget your personal needs and wants every now and then.  If you don't go beyond political claims; if you are not willing to compromise; if you don't desire development and change; if you don't know how to genuinely care about other people's concerns and needs; and if you don't care about losing innocent lives - you actually do not want peace. You just seek power and recognition, that's the truth - do not even hide it in the guise of peace, rehabilitation and reconciliation, it's just not that and no one will really believe you. I won't.

Aid to Recovery of Lanao

While my GX teammates and I are here in CDO, we are  working on helping recovery efforts in Iligan, Kolambugan, Linamon, Maigo and other parts of Lanao del Norte. We are trying to link with schools and other NGOs, and will also link with Phil. National Red Cross. But we are still finalising things.

I got this from Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan, for those who already want to send in their help but don't know how. We don't know if they, SLB, still needs more logistical help coz they seem organised but we'll link with XU.

---

Dear Friends in Christ,

 

Peace.

 

By now we are certain that you have heard of the ongoing conflict in Mindanao. Weeks earlier, what we thought to have been a solid path to peace has now become a spark that will surely re-open past wounds and hatred. A series of disturbing and tragic events unfold in Mindanao as a result of the amalgamated issues surrounding the stalled GRP-MILF MOA on Ancestral Domain.

 

The past week has seen the worst armed conflict in years as civilians have become the primary target of lawless groups. Sporadic fighting has been reported in Mindanao and sadly, the worst hit are the provinces of central and north-western Mindanao. As per reports that we have received today, August 20 (Wednesday), there are about 6,684 families in 18 evacuation centers from the province of Lanao del norte and Iligan City. The number continues to increase as civilians flee their homes to avoid being caught in the crossfire of the government forces and MILF troops.

 

As blame is being tossed around following the attacks by alleged members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters on villages in Lanao del Norte and Sarrangani, one sad fact remains – violence and hatred continue to take their toll on the lives of innocent civilians, Muslims, Lumads and Christians alike.

 

The Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, together with the Dioceses of Iligan and Marawi, has called for aid especially for the towns in Lanao that have been attacked and burned. 

 

In this light, we are appealing for any financial aid that you can extend to our brothers and sisters in Mindanao who are caught in this strife. They are in dire need of medicines, water and food supplies.

 

The funds received will be sent to the affected areas through the partnership of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, under the leadership of Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ, and the Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan).

 

Let us all be one with our brothers and sisters in Mindanao in their quest for genuine peace and development.

 

Thank you.

 

Sincerely,

SCHOLASTIC ISMAEL JOSE III V. CHAN-GONZAGA, SJ

Executive Director

Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan

 

 

*DONATION MECHANISM*

=========================

CASH/CHECK

Direct deposits may be made to:

SIMBAHANG LINGKOD NG BAYAN (Account Name/Payee)

Bank of the Philippine Islands (Loyola-Katipunan Branch)

Peso Checking Account Number                : 3081-1111-61

Dollar Savings Account Number                 : 3084-0420-12

Or channel to:

Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan

Loyola House of Studies

Ateneo de Manila University

Loyola Heights 1108, Quezon City

Contact Information:

Landline     : 426-6101 loc. 3440/3441

Telefax      : 426-5968

Mobile      : 0922-8600-752 (SUN-8600-SLB)

Email          : slb@admu.edu.ph

Look for    : Ms. Marj Tejada

 

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FOR GCASH TRANSACTION:

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2.      To register, just text the syntax:

REG_4 digit M-PIN/mother's maiden name/first name/last name/address and send to 2882

Example: REG 1234/Getino/Liwanag/Ferdinand/766 Metrica St. Sampaloc Manila

  and send to 2882

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To Donate: Just text the syntax

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Ex. DONATE 100 1234 SLB and send to 2882

An Evacuee, I am

By 1145AM, as soon as we reached Bulua of Cagayan de Oro City, I considered myself and the rest of our GX Team (71) as evacuees. And although I do not know exactly yet how I'm feeling, I do know it doesn't feel very nice and very peaceful.

Everything is still so surreal and everything seemed so fast.
Order of Events:
*From the bombings yesterday afternoon, when my host brother asked for my whereabouts and how Jologs to admit I was just coming out of a cinema watching A Very Special Love. (it must be noted though that John Lloyd is so handsome in that film, I am now a fan)
* To getting home as quickly as I can and hearing news on the radio with my host family. Then it rained, proper and strong rain.
* To welcoming 5 of other teammates in our host home
* To just taking things easy and just watching Bourne Ultimatum with them
* Up to the Iligan City wide Blackout, which made me think "Last year's team only had threats and they were pulled out, we've had bombings, we will definitely be pulled out"
* Had a light sleep as I could hear my British PS get up every 10 minutes, clearly worried and filled with anxiety.
* Waking up at around 6AM and instructed by British PS to get up and pack a week's worth of clothes as we are departing for Cagayan.
* Getting a call from Jay to accompany Victoria in collecting other teammates.
* Saying a quick goodbye to my Host Family, whom I don't know if I'll ever see again.

I've been in a similar situation when the pier was bombed 10 minutes after JVP Batch23's arrival in Davao City. But that was my home and there was nowhere to "evacuate." It's a different case this time around, as we are all not from Iligan. And it wasn't just an isolated bombing of one place - there were series of bombings and exchange of gunfire between the rebels and the military in the nearby town.

If there's a prevailing sadness, and worry, in me, it's for the people in my area/exact community in Robocon, Linamon, Lanao del Norte. They are, once again, caught in the middle of the crossfire. And we thought in our interviews and visits to them, that after the 2000 major armed conflict - they are finally healed and ready to start thinking about sustainable livelihood plans. That was our case study, we had concrete recommendations for them because they can finally stand up and think about the future. But with everything that is happening, they are back to square one.  For now, all I can hope for is that they all got down safely in the evacuation centers down in the valley.

I am an Evacuee; a helpless individual amidst a major peace crisis. I wish we had the option to stay and help. But that's not the protocol and that would kill my family. Also, I am not even close to what the evacuees we left behind in Iligan are going through now (Lanao del Norte) -  they, thousands of families who have been displaced; lost their homes, their livelihood, for a few even lost their loved ones. I, we are really safe and calm here in Cagayan. All we can do is think of those we left behind in Iligan - our host homes, our volunteer placements, our communities, our friends. And I guess that's what kills us, that we are not able to do anything else for them.

The Sunset was so "Beautiful" today - it was one for the postcards. Bright orange with a touch of pink and red and yellow. It was picture perfect, if my camera was with me. But if I follow the Lumad interpretation of the sunset, it was "Ugly, Dangerous and Scary." To them, the colors signify"War and Hunger" to come. I am with them in that interpretation, it has come.

Prayers for everyone caught in the middle of all this conflict here in Mindanao.

While in Iligan(Vol Learning)

This one is really for Jay but since I can't be bothered to write more updates, I figure this would also do as a recent post.

--- 

       Coming home to the Philippines became quite bitter sweet. To be honest, in our 2^nd month in London it felt like we’ve been in the UK for ages. I was so used to traveling that I know the routes and schedule of my buses and could confidently take the tube on my own. You know when you’re used to things already, you almost feel at home. And London has always been postcard like in its scenery and most of the time the weather was really cool, so it was such a nice place to live in.

            Soon enough we only had a week to go before flying back. I was most excited to head home. Not only to give my presents (pasalubongs) to my relatives, but also because it felt like I already did what I was supposed to do in Newham; it was really time to head home.

            It’s been a month since we got back and we’ve settled in Iligan well. It’s so small that I’ve also memorized what jeeps to take and where most shops are. Like most small cities in the country, the pace of life is slow – the days are longer and time moves slowly; it feels like I’ve been here for ages.

Two striking new thoughts are in my head the last couple of weeks: 1) Some people (Filipinos as well) are still so ignorant about Mindanao and the media doesn’t help curb that ignorance; not at all. It’s quite sad though because the people who work in the media know this, they just refuse to do something about it because “drama and exaggeration” sells; news then, most of the time, is no different from TV soap operas.  2) Our (Filipino) hospitality definitely sets us apart; it is kindness to the maximum level. But the same hospitality makes it easier for other people to take advantage of us. We should really know when to draw the line and be able to say NO. Perhaps along with teaching our children to practice hospitality to guests, we should also teach them a realistic and healthy sense of skepticism so they won’t be duped when they get old or won’t be taken advantage of.

In the light of working for Social Development, it’s even more clear to me how there are so many NGOs in the country right now and how similar their causes are. The battle for funding has become quite hard. In Iligan alone, there are a number of organizations who do similar things and I can imagine how in a few years time they will all have major difficulties in terms of sustainability. I understand even more why NGOs pay less to their staff – less than what the staff deserves in terms of their skills and bulk of tasks.

How easier things can be if we have the resources. I think a lot about that nowadays. I am not ignorant about the difficulty of running projects without resources as I was doing resource mobilization before GX, but I guess it’s more real again these days. Especially if I remember the fact that the £500 which my team mates can easily get (through asking donations or working part time)  will mean so much more to a farmer’s cooperative or to a school for Indigenous People.

In the last 3 GCDs, which included mine (with Dom and Elbert), I was reminded of how RICH Mindanao is. (I’ve always been proud to be a Mindanawon). Mindanao is rich in terms of natural resources and it is rich in its culture. The sense of resilience, respect and simplicity of life in the people of Mindanao is also very rich. I am most glad I was brought up here. Growing up in Davao taught me to find happiness in simple things and not be dependent on material possessions. Being based in Mindanao again, after about 5 years of being Manila based, is enriching my knowledge about its history and its people. I have to admit I never really gave history much importance in college.

Sadly though our GCDs have reopened my eyes in the harsh realities tha t Mindanao has faced in the past. My rich island had been bastardized so much – the insurgencies and war, the generalization of media, and the exploitation of its natural resources. Greed has been inflicted and there is also great threat in the rich culture that abound the island.

I am deeply worried but at the same time moved to do something about it.

Nasa Iligan Na

Nasa Iligan na kami.

For now, since yesterday - ako ay Tour Guide at Translator, kahit na di pa din ako nakakapunta talaga dito. Nakakapagod din i translate ang halos lahat ng bagay. whew!

At kailangan i extend ang pasensya, di lang kami ni Hannah ang nsa Host Home namin, may isa pang pares. At parang may bago din kaming counterpart, ganun ang dating.

 

Wicked! The Musical!

Rating:	★★★★★
Category:	Other

(This will be short, as I'm doing this inside the mac store in London, hahahaha)

Amazing!!!

I am filled with awe and I'm singing the songs in my head, wishing I brought my CD here of the soundtrack.

The lighting was so great, just like how I imagined it to be. And the main actresses were really good, Galinda and Elphaba did a good job. Fiyero wasn't so good (ang bilis nyang hiningal), and he wasn't that good looking. But still, the whole production was really great.

I am filled with happiness now that I've seen it. Pwede na, kahit walang stonehenge, my London trip is (sorta) complete.

Thanks for the pabaon from my sis Tet/TJ I was able to see it. Wish she was there to see it with me and mom too, and maybe dot - although they probably will sleep some parts - as always. hahaha.

Ang Saya ko!!!

Dear Jesuit Bros (and Fathers&XJ Brothers-hehehe)

Am I crazy to think that because I am finding it hard to pray, I am also finding it quite hard to relate how I live my life into "faith driven service." I think I am questioning my faith right now. I don't even know if that makes any sense, I shall try to explain it further in this letter. But before that, a little introduction on why I was moved to write to you.

Fr. Pat (Falguera, SJ/JVP Batch11) sent me a PM a couple of days ago telling me he is in London. I gave him my UK number and he also sent me a text message. He's been here all along and he tells me 2 weeks before I leave?!? Kainis!!! I've been to Central London about 3 times already and he's just there, near Regent's Park. I could have heard one of his masses or ranted to him about life's unexplainable circumstances. I could have talked to him about God and about faith in general and ranted some more about life in general but No, I wasn't able to - because he didn't tell me he was here in the first place. ugh! I am pressuring him to see me before I go. hehehe :) Thus I write to all you.

I was talking to Ate Norie about leaving soon and she asked if I learned something from the 3months here and if it made me a better person. I was able to easily answer her in those first 2 questions - an easy Yes. Her last question made me think, she asked - "mas napalapit ka ba sa Panginoon ng karanasan mo?" And I pause, and I question myself deeply and I am not sure of the answer.

Why am I not sure of the answer? That is quite weird. I asked Ate Norie, if I am able to learn something and if I am a better person, which automatically makes me a better person for others - doesn't it also mean that I have made myself closer to God? It's easy to rationalise, and it totally makes sense. But it doesn't satisfy the mind (and the heart) that seem to know much better or is demanding a better and deeper reflection.

I must admit that I didn't know it'll be this hard to Find God in All Things or to forget to find/see God in all things. I guess it's easy when you are surrounded by people who are as conscious as you are. But surrounded by people who not only question your religion but question God's existence doesn't help. And adjusting to a new culture, being far away from home, adjusting to the weather and thinking about work can be really distracting and makes it even more difficult for one to stop, and be in a place of prayer.

It's not that I don't pray, I still end my day with my prayer and appreciate life and all the beauty that I see as part of God's work. But my prayers have become routinary; and fast and a bit memorized. If I were God I'd feel a bit bad - i'm not spending much time with Him as I used to.

The last time I opened my bible, about a week ago, I was re introduced to Psalm25. :) I can only hope that my consciousness allows me to renew that spirit to converse with God and see Him in All Things. And going home, where things are more familiar takes out some of my excuses to forgetting to pray and commune with God.

P.S.

Fr.Pat - magkita tayo! I'll be in Central London tomorrow (june4) and on (june12). ilibre mo ako, hahaha, ang kapal ko. :)

Shio,SJ - I love your positive outlook in life. you are one of my inspirations to optimism right now. I better see you the weekend that I'm in Manila, nasa Abada lang ako. :)  

Eric Santillan - we should talk soon! i should really rant to you. you can also visit me in Abada on the 14th and 15th if you want, weekend naman yun. hahaha.

Can/Can't Wait to Be Home (see if you're tagged)

Just felt like listing some of the things on my mind. I invite friends who are also quite far away from home (phils/hometown) to answer it.

Here are my current lists, it might change in a few days time.

List 8 reasons why you can't wait to be home and 6 reasons why you can wait to be home. Tag as many people as you want. hahaha

So Taya - Ur Tagged -

Ate Tatit, Ate Maita, Ate Reg, Tristan, Ate Tsina, Allie, Ajeet, Joseph, Pat, Jay (Neil Ancheta), Ava, MehAnne, any of the Inumberables Sisters :) and whoever else is interested. :)

CAN'T WAIT TO BE HOME

1) To eat a good/full meal that is equivalent to less than £6! - preferrably Filipino or Japanese Buffet (saisaki!!)

2) I can phone home (mom, mama, papa, etc) and talk as long as I want to

3) Get a large strawberry milkshake and really enjoy it because I won't feel too cold after (and which I have demanded Loleng to pay for)

4) Watch a movie for way less than £5-7 - hopefully watch movie every week

5) Swim and chill in a whitesand beach - Camiguin! Camiguin!

6) Get unlimited MMS of Baby Aliq from Dodot or Mom (dapat atleast 3x a week!)

7) See and hug some of my old friends who will hopefully either visit me while im in Manila or in Iligan (you know who you are!)

8) Have as many Ice Cold Coke Light or Sarsi Lite!! - I still haven't found any sarsi lite here. And besides if meron, it'll probably cost 3times its cost back home. Sayang ang pera.

 

CAN WAIT TO GO HOME

1) I haven't seen Wicked or any Musical yet  (which I am demanding Jay to allow us to catch really soon - on a weekday because it is cheaper..Ajeet tulong sa pagconvince!)

2) I'm soooo going to miss the variety of Good Bread available here (bagels!!) - I Love Bread!!

3) I haven't been to Stonehenge yet (which Jay promised Shaie and I we'll go to - more like we coerced him to promising that he'd take us there, hahaha)

4) I haven't really had enough of the parks, especially the ones filled with flowers! (I'll miss the tulips and the daffodils)

5) I have only begun to be close to the kids and youth at E13 Mix Club and it would be nice to spend more time with them - (and yeah - I'm going to miss the pool table, the wii, PS3 and everything else that's in their youth club. hehehe)

6) Because I don't know how to fit in all my stuff flying back home because I bought too many things (mostly pasalubong). I'm so going to pay for excess baggage, I can see it already.

Si Dodot kasi (TAYA: ANJ, RENEE,MAY8,TRINA, TATIT,MEHANNE, JERRY,NORIE)

Rules of Engagement.

Remove one question from below, and add in your personal question, (I put an asterisk on mine ) make it a total of 20 questions, then tag eight (8) people in your list. List them out at the end of the post.

 

1. At what age do/did you wish to marry?

I can't remember,never been big on getting married.  Right now I don't really have plans of getting married. LOVE being SINGLE! 

 

2. What color do you like the most?

Right now - Red and Yellow (people say I light up when im wearing them)

 

 3. Have you ever shoplifted?

Yup. Sharpener from Alemars, i think ELLA Lorenzana dared me.

 

4. Where would you like to go to the most? right now?

Home, Philippines - and dine in a good, quite pricey restaurant. Which Tetet will Pay for.hahaha

 

5. When you encounter a sad moment, what do you do?

Watch a non thinking/funny movie. Or eat Ice Cream

 

6. If you win $1 million, what would you do?

Convert it to peso, give a couple of million each to my mom, dad and ates. Tapos bahala na. :)

 

7. What do you love the most about last year, 2007?

Baby Aliq coming into our family :)

 

8. List 3 good points of the person who tagged you.

Fashionable, Great Cook and Very Thoughtful to relatives

 

9. How do you cope with boredom?

Read A Good Book or Watch TV

 

10. Do you have any obsessions right now?

Have Your Say May project for my Volunteer Placement here in NewHam

 

11. What was the last three books you've read ?

The Summons (read it here in UK), Wicked and Love in the Time of Cholera

 

12. If you have one wish, what would you wish for?

World Peace (promise!)

 

13.Given a chance to join a reality show, which one would you join? 

Amazing Race!

 

14.What`s your favourite TV show ?

House - coz that's the only one i get to see here in UK

 

15.Would you go back in time if you were given the chance?

Nope. No regrets.

 

16. What do you look forward in 2008?

New Job after GXP, preferrably one that pays really well. :)

 

17. If you get to live someone else's life for a day, who's life would you want to live?

Ate Shawie's. :) (wala lang)

 

18. When you die, what is it you'd like to be remembered for?

That I was a Good Global Citizen :) (hahaha!)

 

19. Greatest dream?

Travel the whole world :)

 

*20. If you can live anywhere in the world other than in your home now, where would like it to be?

Madrid,Spain or Kensington, London :)

 

Ur Tagged

ANJ, RENEE,MAY8,TRINA, TATIT,MEHANNE, JERRY,NORIE