Tales from the Dragon's Lair

Breastfeeding: How and Why I Made the Choice + Some Tips

2012-02-13T08:47:00.000-08:00


March 27, 2011; Medical City

My decision to breastfeed was actually brought on by numerous literature and studies saying that "breast milk is still best for babies." As early as my high school days, I already made the decision to breast feed when I have babies of my own.

The benefits are numerous. At its most basic, it is the most natural sustenance a mother can give to her baby. It contains antibiotics that protects baby from infection and the onslaught of various sickness. Psychologically, it also strengthens the bond between mother and child and increases the baby's self-esteem.

So, when my first son, Nico was born, despite the fact that he was born through c-section, I did everything I could to ensure that Nico gets my milk although I know he had been fed formula milk already because he had to be incubated and my milk just was not flowing.

But, I did not give up. The doctor said, I just had to pump my breast regularly even though there was no milk flowing. I could not visit my son for breast feeding in the first three days because he had respiratory issues that the pedia said was normal. Nico was a big baby -- but he was in an incubator. I continued to regularly pump my breast.

When I was allowed to go home on the fifth day after Nico's birth, I continued my routine, and it was at home, in the middle of the night, when milk started to trickle to the milk bottle. On our first visit, on Nico's 6th day, I was able to give Nico at least 2 ounces of breast milk.

I continued with my breast pump routine, until I was able to regularly provide milk for Nico which was also getting better everyday. We were able to bring him home on the 10th day.

I fed Nico every three hours following the routine of a baby book I read. And as advised by the nurses in the Nursery, I fed him 15 minutes per breast.

However, after his second month, I started to store the extra milk that I had in the freezer. This enabled me to keep a regular feeding routine for Nico, measuring and regulating the amount of milk that he took. It became easy for me to come to work from time to time. But, it was only on the 6th month that I was able to go back to my regular work routine. Until that time, I continued pumping milk regularly and storing it.

There was even a time when I had to attend a conference in Cebu and I continued with my routine, going to my hotel room in the middle of the day to pump milk and storing it in the mini-bar's freezer. I bought a thermal bag just so I could hand carry the frozen breast milk. I had to explain to the airport inspectors what it was so they could allow me to bring it. I stored it in disposable ziplock bags that were made especially to store milk.

When Rocky came, I did not waver in my choice of breastfeeding him. On Day 2 after his birth, I was already at the Nursery breast feeding him. I did not have to go through the difficult time of regularly pumping nothing. My milk flowed immediately after a few seconds of Rocky's latching.

To me, breastfeeding is a no-brainer choice. I believe its for everyone who wants the best for her baby. If there is anything I want to share to others who want to breastfeed their child it will be the following:

1. Everything starts with a conscious decision to breastfeed your baby. With that decision, one should start to research and read the literature. I know it is natural for a mom to feed her baby, but the literature, the testimonies will make you become more open to the experience and make you realize that there are difficulties that can be overcome.

2. It is not required but truly a wonderful bonus if your husband is supportive of your desire to breast feed. During the first few attempts of pumping out milk and nothing was coming out, it was my husband who accompanied me in those frustrating moments. It had to be him because it was only with him that I was comfortable showing my mammary glands. I don't think I would have been comfortable even with my own mother. He also was up with me in those late nights and early mornings when I had to pump milk and my baby was still in the Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). He continued to give me support even with Rocky, my second baby.

3. Don't give up. The first few attempts will frustrate you, specially if you are a first time mom. Just don't give up. Take moringa capsules to stimulate your milk glands if needed. Drink a lot of milk and eat a lot of soupy food. My favorite was "tinola" (local chicken soup). Help yourself to produce the milk that you need.

4. Breast feeding is practical. I have to admit that the reason why I breastfed Rocky longer than Nico (Rocky breastfed until his 7th month, Nico only up to 4 months), was the high cost of infant formula. At around Rocky's fifth month, Mon and I decided to mix feed Rocky in preparation to feeding him soft food for his 6th month. Mon was in charge of buying the formula. Once, I had to buy it because the milk was about to run out and he was still at work, I was so shocked that a can of powdered formula was P1,200 - P1,600. This was just preposterous. We did not spend much for formula because when Rocky turned 6 months, he preferred soft food. So between baby food and my breast milk, there was little room for the formula milk. Stage 2 baby formula though is a lot cheaper than newborn infant formula. So, now we are feeding him soft baby foods with Stage 2 formula (Nan Two).

5. Breastfeeding also is a major way to lose weight after giving birth. I was 73 kilos the week I gave birth to Rocky. Two weeks after that, when I went to my OB for my regular check up, I was only 63 kilos. 10 kilos lost in the first week alone which I attribute to breastfeeding. Now, I am only 60 kilos. Rocky is now on his 10th month.

6. Finally, it truly helps if you have faith in God and you pray a lot. I did pray a lot during the frustrating times when milk would not come. I truly believed and trusted that this miracle of sustenance will be provided for me and my sons. So, I never doubted that I will have milk for my boys.

So, to all of you who are still choosing between breast milk and formula for your baby, choose breast milk. It is good for your baby and also good for you.

Gifts

2011-08-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

It has been seven months since I last posted. Time for an update.

The last time i posted, I was very pregnant. Last March, I gave birth to a healthy baby boy we named Ramon Felix. We call him Rocky -- yes, after the Sylvester Stallone character. Fortunately, everything went on as planned and the birth did not have any hitches. Thanks to my UNEP Family's prayers. It truly helped a lot. Plus, I had an altar of St. Therese and Our Lady of Mount Carmel in my hospital room. My faith made me confident in what I was going to go through.

Now, Rocky is on his fourth month and doing very well.

I still breastfeed him and I still expect to do so until he's 6 months old. My adventure into breastfeeding will be the subject of another post.

Since my baby's birth I have taken my scrapbooking more seriously. I have started investing in classes, tools, papers and embellishments. I enjoy the creative process. I love the feeling of a finished layout. See some of my works here,

Going back to work after two months of leave when I was going to give birth was a blessing. I was just veging out and needed the structure of work. Now, I'm back to my hectic schedule.

Of course I am thankful for the simple celebration of my 35th birthday last June which coincided with our first day of Retreat at Caritas Mariae Retreat House, Naga City. We had a mass and the celebration was very simple.

I am truly thankful for another year over and another year added to my age. Fortunately -- my UNEP Family failed to put my age on the cake. I would not have minded if it was there. Age is just a number.

Connected to this birthday -- although a month has passed -- is a nice surprise. I have been wanting to buy a Kindle for months now, but have been postponing it as Amazon does not ship to the Philippines. Last June, my cousin Nicole arrived from the States with a Kindle. I saw how convenient it was and being a voracious bookworm, it was a very convenient gadget and provided access to books that were otherwise difficult to find here in the province. So, when another cousin went to the States, I gave her my debit card with the intention of asking her to buy me a Kindle.

But my Aunt is more generous than my debit card -- she bought the Kindle and gave it to me as a gift for my birthday -- a month after. That was a wonderful surprise. She also bought me the Targus Leather Case that I can set it up with the Kindle standing up (see picture below). I loooooove my Kindle.

Yup, I still have the protective film on the front -- so Pinoy!!! It will stay until it falls off or until I get to buy a more appropriate protective film for the screen -- although honestly -- it doesn't need one, I just want to take care of my things.

So many gifts to thank for, Baby Rocky, a budding hero -- eldest son Nico (this needs a separate post), a supportive husband, a talent rediscovered, a meaningful birthday, a generous Aunt, all these and more -- and truly I am grateful. Admittedly, life has not been very good lately, but I am glad for little things that make God's presence felt in my life.

Thankful always,

Peachy :-)

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-05T09:09:00.000-08:00


Ramon with Nico at Pines View Hotel

Another year over and another year has just begun, so the song says.

And... as much as things change the more they stay the same. As we look forward and deal with a lot of things that has not changed through the years, we continue to hope that maybe this year is a better year than last year.

Personally, I have so many things to be thankful for and look forward to this year. I am pregnant again. And again, its a boy. We have been hoping for a girl but I think a boy is a blessing just the same. The practical in me is thankful that at least I don't have to buy a new set of everything for the newcomer if it would be a girl. Since he's a boy, he can use Nico's things, hand me downs. I am very excited to see him, Mon even has a name for him already. This time baby boy will share his first name. He's arriving in April.

I am also looking forward to a better year in my career. Why not? I have already set my priorities and
UNEP has been reaping many awards left and right with the grace of God. I also have a new job as Dean of the UNEP College of Law. We will work on our blessings and ensure that we add to our blessings.

The greatest blessing though is that after last year, our family has gotten closer. The adversities we experience together made us all better persons. And, I am not talking only of my immediate family, but also the entire clan. Somehow,we learned how to deal with each other and find our place in the sun but still with the same love and affection for each other and even better understanding of each other.

2011 is going to be a great year, I just know it in my heart. Here's to a great new year to everyone!

Travelling Light

2010-06-29T23:27:00.000-07:00

At around the second week of June, I got word that I am supposed to leave for the United States to attend the 1st International Grand Alumni Homecoming of UNEP/MMC Graduatates in Chicago at around the last week of July.

It has been around six years when I last had a MAJOR international travel. That was to an International Law Conference in Berlin which included a trip to Weisbaden to visit a friend in which she was able to squeeze in a weekend motorcoach tour to Paris. My 2007 trip to KL, Malaysia does not count because it was only for a few days to attend another conference, the Rotary Zone Institute and I did not need a visa for the trip.

My first concern whenever I decide to take such trips, whether local or international, is what to bring. In 2004, when I went to Germany, I had a large "maleta" (luggage), that was as high as my waist, a carry-on luggage that was actually an overnight bag and of course, my larger than usual handbag. It was crazy and difficult to travel especially at the last part of my Germany tour. I had to take the ICE (or TGV - I don't remember now), from Berlin to Weisbaden alone. I was struggling with my big maleta that a co-passenger joked that he hoped there were no dead bodies inside coz it was so heavy even for him (he helped me after seeing me struggle).

The thing is, I thought my luggage was already streamlined. In 2004, I surfed the net for tips and ideas on how to travel light and yet, was still lugging around about 70 lbs of luggage.

Now, I am travelling solo again, international. So, I started surfing the net again for new ideas. I had good reason to do so, because my packing list is now longer than when I started to adopt it in 2004 from the website onebag.com. It is nice to know that the old classics are still up and running. http://www.travelite.org/ is still up along with http://www.onebag.com/ and the Universal Packing List (http://upl.codeq.info/).

The advice I get from these websites are truly a great help specially for me because I travel a lot locally. I maintain a toiltetry bag which I replenish every month and keep several no-wrinkle clothes. Here are some of my advice to add to the plethora of knowledge on the matter:

1. If you travel a lot, it is wise to maintain an overnight bag with the basics: a toiletry bag, a first-aid kit, a t-shirt, pants, slippers (flip-flops), underwear (1 bra, 3 panties). I also include basic ladies accessories in my bag like a string of faux pearl necklace and earrings (people don't care if its real or not). If I have no time to pack, I just take the bag and go. If I need to wear something fancy or dressy and I was not able to pack something of that caliber, I just buy when I reach my destination.

2. When I travel, I always check in my maleta (luggage or overnight bag) and have with me my carry-on. My carry on always have one pair of underwear, a t-shirt and a boxer shorts. This saved me when my connecting flight from Berlin to Amsterdam was late and I had to be booked by my airline in a hotel overnight to catch the next flight to Manila. The airline only gave me (and the rest of the group who was delayed) a 7 Euro gift check for toiletries. It was a fortunate that I brought an extra shirt so I would be fresh for next day's flight. I forgot, we were also given a phone card that we can use to call home for five minutes only. I used it to call my Dad that I was going to be delayed.

3. Always follow the rules. It is difficult to talk to people to beg them to make you an exception. If they say you have to be at the airport 3 hours before departure, do so. Its alright to wait, as long as you are waiting at the boarding gate and not in a taxi stuck in traffic somewhere and your plane will leave in 30 minutes. This is universal. Even in the Philippines, when the gate is closed, it remains closed. There is so much hassle. So, just follow the rules to make your trip stress free. One time, I had to shell out more than the amount I paid for my ticket just to get on the next flight that I missed due to traffic.

4. Always bring basic medicine like paracetamol, immodium, etc... You will never know when you will need it. I alwasy do bring home remedy stuff.

Thats my take on travelling light. He who travels light, is a happy traveller.

1st UNEP International Alumni Homecoming in Chicago, Illinois, USA

2010-06-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

The University of Northeastern Philippines will be having its 1st International Grand Alumnni Homecoming at the Sheraton Gateway Suites in Chicago O'Hare on July 30, 31 and August 1, 2010.

For Reservations, please call (847) 699-6300. You can also visit their personalized website at http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/UNEPCN.

This event was organized under the initiative of the UNEP International College of Nursing Alumni Association.

Please contact the following for further details:
LUZ AND DANNY DELA ROSA (630) 863-7904; danluz1955@hotmail.com

EUNICE AND REMU DE LEON, JR. (630) 378-5301; rdeleon327@hotmail.com

SHIRLEY AND JOE MADAYAG (630) 985-7583; smadayag@comcast.net

MARILYN AND CARY DELAS LLAGAS (510) 352-4152; m_delasllagas@sbcglobal.net

YOLLY AND VIC MAGISTRADO (718) 881-3159; vicandyolly@aol.com

EDEN AND ED REGALA (818) 845-1381; edenregala06@aol.com

The Homecoming features the following events:

1. UNEP College of Nursing Pre-Class Reunion 2011

2. UNEP Fund Raising for the University Alumni Hall

3. UNEP College of Nursing Fund Raising for on-going scholarship grants

4. 16th Wedding Anniversary Celebration for Former Dean of College of Nursing Dr. Ofelia Cruz Pascual and Atty. Patrick Pascual

5. Friday Night Welcome Party

6. Saturday, Grand Dinner and Ball/ Lotter Ticket Drawings

First Prize: (2) Free Round Trip Tickets from US-Manila

Second Prize: (2) Free Round Trip Tickets from Hong Kong-Manila

Third Prize: (2) Free Round Trip Tickets from any city in the US

Five Consolation Prizes: $100.00 for each winning ticket

7. Cash Bonanza:

Sell 5 booklets of raffle tickets you will receive a $50.00 incentive.

Sell 10 booklets of raffle tickets you will receive a $100.00 incentive.

8. Recognition awards for Outstanding UNEP Alumni

9. Sunday, Thanksgiving Mass/Free Grand Outdoor Picnic

ALL GRADUATES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTHEASTERN PHILIPPINES, MABINI MEMORIAL COLLEGES, MABINI MEMORIAL SCHOOL FROM KINDER, ELEMENTARY, HIGHSCHOOL, COLLEGE AND POST-GRADUATES ARE INVITED TO JOIN US.

Great News!

2010-06-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

Today I received great news.

Last Saturday, I took the Ateneo Graduate School of Business Entrance Examination.

About a year and a half ago, I had been contemplating on taking up graduate studies, but could not decide what program to take (MAEd or MBA or Master of Laws), or where I would take it (UP, Ateneo or La Salle or even abroad).

This contemplation came about when CHED and PACU-COA started to crackdown on schools which allows non-masteral graduates to teach college courses. Although my Ll.B. is considered as a post-graduate degree for purposes of teaching college, still I felt that if I want to start cracking down on my non-masteral graduate faculty I have to walk the talk and take up post-graduate studies myself.

This brought me to Ateneo-Rockwell last Saturday. I was not all together prepared. I read some books, reviewed a little on my math using some GMAT and GRE Reviewers that I had with me for the last three years. So, although I was not really nervous, I felt that I needed more time to study if I wanted to pass the exams. As usual, what I lacked in preparation I submitted to the Lord and prayed for guidance and wisdom.

I started checking the website for the results since Monday. Luckily this morning, when I checked, it said "Congratulations!", and that I have been accepted for the program I applied for.

I immediately felt so thankful and so relieved that I passed the exams. I was already contemplating on my next move if I don't get in. But then, it seems I am destined to be an atenean after decades of trying avoid sectarian schools after my U.P. undergrad education.

Right now, I am looking forward to going back to school and sharpening both my theoretical and experiential learnings.

Wish me luck in this next chapter of my journey.

For those who are interested to take the journey with me this is the link to the Ateneo Graduate School of Business Ateneo Graduate School of Business.

BAR EXAM SEASON

2010-06-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

The University of Northeastern Philippines - College of Law have just received a packet of documents from the Office of the Bar Confidant, Supreme Court of the Philippines. For me, this is the start of the Bar Exam Season.

I was the one who received it considering that I am now the Acting Dean of the UNEP-College of Law. Its former Dean for decades now, Dean Mariano Baranda has already retired upon reaching the obligatory age and decided to enjoy the rest of his fruitful years.

The packet includes the Requirements for the Bar Examinations for New Applicants and Guidelines for the 2010 Bar Examinations. It also includes statistical data on the passing percentages of ALL law schools in the Philippines.

The National Passing Percentage for the 2009 Bar Examinations was 24.58%. Out of 5,903 takers, only 1,451 passed. It is interesting to note that 68,78% or 998 of the passers were first takers, while only 453 passers or 31.22% were repeaters. This is despite the fact that out of the 5,903 takers, 3,005 or 50.91% were repeaters, almost half of the takers.

I think this is a warning to repeaters. Only 15% of the repeaters passed. I am not saying that they have to give up their dream of becoming lawyers, especially that I am a one-take passer. That would be too arrogant of me. What I am saying is that, repeaters should assess themselves before they embark on this strenuous journey of taking the bar again.

Questions on how I passed the bar hound me everytime I meet law students who are really interested to pass. I always tell them that the matter of passing is always different for each person. The key is to KNOW YOURSELF.

Recently, my husband's fraternity brother passed the bar on his third take. I asked him how did he do it this time. He said he really made time and prepared for it even more than he did the last time. He resigned from his job, asked his siblings to support him in this endeavor. He even lived in a dorm inside the campus of the law school where he took his refresher to get all his efforts focused on his bar review.

He arrived at his plan upon honestly assessing himself and accepting his weaknesses. In the previous exams, he was working while he reviewed. He also spent more time drinking and cavorting with his brods and airsoft friends than studying. You see, this guy is quite intelligent and felt he had been studying the law for more than five years and thought he can wing it. But, if you do not give time to preparing for the exams, it won't give you time also.

As we start another season of preparation and study for the Bar Exams 2010, I pray that all who endeavor to hurdle this exam do so without much pain and obstacles. Good luck to you all!

A New Day

2010-06-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of my birth month.

It has been hot in the dragon's lair -- too hot even for a dragon -- literally and figuratively. But what makes a person like me prevail is my faith in God, my faith in myself and my faith in my intentions.

Due to my recent endeavors I had set aside a lot of career concerns and right now, I have so many things in my mind, what if things, where to go from here things, moving on things -- generally what to do with my life things.

When I decided to move here in the province, I had so much hope. After seven years, I feel tired and just completely burned out. I really need a boost.

The only thing that drives me now is my little boy Nico, and my supportive husband Ramon. I only have to look at my little boy and like coffee, I am spurred to action. What action? Whatever needs to be done.

But, I do not work like this. I need a plan. I used to be so confident about my skills of having Plan Bs. Failure never really faves me. I have always seen it as a phase. "This too shall pass", ika nga sa movie na My Best Friend's Wedding.

But now it seems I am stuck in a rut.

I have to bounce back. Like Roo -- bounce, bounce, bounce.

Right now, my most major contemplation is going back to school. I am planning of taking my MBA in ADMU. I hope it works. I still need to pass the entrance exam etc... etc... But, it is something to look forward to and something that I really need for my career.

Been planning this for years now but I never really got around to doing it. Maybe this time, I can work on it and be successful.

I have also many things to work on, the BFHE Conference where I am the Conference Director and the preparation of our programs in the University which is up for accreditation. So, all is not lost. I hope things work out better for me.

What is important is to keep the faith and not lose hope. As our country embarks on a new chapter, we hope to become a better nation and become better people.

INQUIRER Politics

2010-02-02T18:38:00.000-08:00

INQUIRER Politics

A New Advocacy

2010-01-17T07:37:00.000-08:00

These past few days, I have been very busy working on an easy to understand module for voter's education aimed at voters 45 and up. I have been scouring the net for available material for this newfound advocacy. But, despite the tons of information I got, the best video I got was in English. The one in filipino is a segment in a t.v. program, but it's not comprehensive enough and might even confuse the voter. The one which I got from the COMELEC website includes portions for the BEI. The viewer/voter often asks me "Ma'am, kailangan pa pala kaming mag-pindot ng pin bago makaboto?" and "Ma'am saan po nakukuha ang pin?" after I show them the video.

So, I totally dropped the video. I show them the Quick Guide Video from YouTube instead and just explain what is happening in the video in Bicol dialect because the video is again in English.

Anyway, today, I came up with a one-page guide which I distributed in a voter's ed seminar I conducted in Goa, Cam. Sur. It's in Filipino but I will have it translated in Bicolano later. Some people advice to make it into a comics. We'll see. Please post your comments and suggestions.

PARAAN NG PAGBOTO

A. MGA IMPORTANTENG IMPORMASYONG DAPAT TANDAAN:

a. ANG BOTOHAN AY SA MAY 10, 2010, LUNES

b. ANG ORAS NG BOTOHAN AY 7:00AM HANGGANG 6:00PM

c. MAGHANDA SA MAHABANG PILA. ANG BAWAT MAKINA AY NAKAKATANGGAP NG HANGGANG 1,000 NA BOTANTE KAYA’T MAHALAGA NA PUMUNTA SA BOTOHAN NA NAKAKAIN NA NG ALMUSAL O PANANGHALIAN.

B. MGA DAPAT ALAMIN BAGO MAGBOTOHAN

a. SAANG POLLING CENTER KAYO BOBOTO?

b. ANO ANG PRESINTO NA IYONG KINABIBILANGAN?

c. SINO ANG INYONG IBOBOTO PARA MAKAGAWA NA KAYO NG LISTAHAN.

C. MGA DAPAT DALHIN BAGO MAGBOTO

a. ISANG I.D. NA MAGPAPATUNAY NA KAYO NGA ANG TAONG NASA LISTAHAN.

b. SAMPLE BALLOT OR LISTAHAN NG MGA KANDIDATONG INYONG IBOBOTO

D. ANG PROSESO NG PAGBOTO

a. PUMUNTA SA POLLING CENTER O PRESINTO NA INYONG KINABIBILANGAN

b. LAPITAN ANG BOARD OF ELECTION INSPECTORS (BEI) PARA IPAKITA ANG INYONG I.D. AT SUMUNOD SA MGA INUUTOS NG BEI

c. TANGGAPIN ANG BALOTA NA IBIBIGAY NG BEI

d. BUMOTO

i. ITIMAN ANG BILOG NA HUGIS ITLOG KATABI NG PANGALAN NG KANDIDATONG INYONG IBOBOTO

ii. HUWAG SUMOBRA NG BOTO SA HINIHINGI NG POSISYON. KUNG SOBRA ITO, HINDI MABIBILANG ANG INYONG BOTO SA POSISYON NA SOBRA ANG BOTO NINYO.

iii. HUWAG SULATAN O MAGLAGAY NG ANO MANG MARKA SA BALOTA

iv. TANDAAN NA ANG BALOTA AY BACK-TO-BACK.

v. TANDAAN NA HINDI NA MAAARING HUMINGI NG PANIBAGONG BALOTA KUNG KAYO AY MAGKAMALI KAYA'T DAPAT SIGURADUHING MAAYOS ANG PAGBOTO SA BALOTA.

e. PAGKATAPOS BUMOTO, PUMUNTA SA COUNTING MACHINE AT ISALANG NG DAHAN-DAHAN ANG BALOTA

f. SIGURADUHIN NA UMAKYAT NG ISANG NUMERO ANG NUMERO NA MAKIKITA SA MAKINA

g. MAKAKAKITA NG MGA SALITANG “THANK YOU FOR VOTING” KUNG TAPOS NA ANG MAKINA SA PAGTANGGAP NG IYONG BALOTA.

h. BUMALIK SA BEI UPANG MAGPALAGAY NG INDELIBLE INK O TINTA SA DALIRI.

(ANG DOKUMENTONG ITO AY ISANG PROYEKTO NG UNIVERSITY OF NORTHEASTERN PHILIPPINES-COMMITTEE ON RESPONSIBLE VOTING)

Weekend Change

2009-11-09T06:53:00.000-08:00

When I started this blog, I promised myself I won’t be using it in politics. Rather, I wanted it to be as far from this aspect of my life as I can. Maybe, I just wanted to prove to myself that I can live a life away from the mob so to speak, in my own little world. But what I am about to share now is so big, I really cannot help but blog about it.

As a lot of those who check out my blog know, my father is running for Governor of the Province of Camarines Sur, yes – against that wakeboardin’ dude – self-proclaimed John Lloyd Cruz look-alike (its really making me retch as I write this…) – L-Ray Villafuerte.

Admittedly, it is an uphill climb for my Dad, our family and our supporters. I had so many doubts when my Dad started exploring this path after the end of his three year term as Congressman started looming in the horizon. There were so many objections and oppositions from within and without, especially since his major supporter in this endeavour was someone the family does not trust.

I prayed and prayed because things are just so confusing. I wanted God to do his work and clear out the dust and show us the truth and what we are supposed to do.

As expected, with much faith, the answer came in the last three days of last week. The major supporter finally shed his chameleon clothes and showed his true self. Blood is thicker than water after all. People indeed can change their minds according to what is convenient to them. Principles can be compromised despite of all the people that will be affected.

Our family braced for the expected. It was my Dad’s birthday last Saturday and despite preparing for a thousand people, we were afraid that the people we were expecting to arrive might not come. But God is good – coz they did, amazingly despite coming from far away places. They pledged their support for my Dad. It was a good feeling seeing all these people come and tell my Dad “Sir, walang iwanan!”

Nakakataba ng puso and my heart is only so full of gratitude. At this point, if we lose, the fact that the people of Camarines Sur has seen how wily this political family is, and their supporters have also felt how little this family think of them, we have already served our purpose.

Now, we are still with the administration, as my Dad had been since 2001. He is supporting Gibo Teodoro and it will stay that way. Clear, clean, transparent. No more, no less. That is who my Dad is. That is how our family is.

PRISAA or First PRISA

2009-10-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

Today is a great surprise!

I attended a meeting of the Bicol Foundation on Higher Education (BFHE) this afternoon. We hosted the meeting again of this organization of higher education institutions in the Bicol Region. Being a quarterly meeting of the organization it was attended by the officers and board of directors only.

Our agenda list was long. The BFHE is the Regional Association on Higher Education Institutions of the RAHEI of the Bicol Region and being such, we discussed how we will go about with the CHED directed Academic and Cultural Competitions related to the CHED National Games. In a nutshell, if SCUAA, LCUAA, and PRISAA is now going to join together for the CHED National Games (unified!), the RAHEIs and the NAHEIs are in charge of the academic and cultural competition portion of the games.

The discussion regarding Bicol Region's participation was quite long so I will not bore anyone reading this with the details, but something really blew me away.

Apparently, the PRISAA national organization has transformed itself into a party-list organization calling itself First PRISA. I don't know how this happened. A lot of things are still fuzzy. But suffice it to say, that whatever is happening, the guys behind First PRISA are using the PRISAA organization to build a network of members throughout the country. Remember that it is part of COMELEC accreditation requirements that a party-list organization have nationwide membership and representation to be classified as such.

Although it seems clear that PRISAA is a different entity from First PRISA, there is no doubt that the people they have listed as their regional representatives are the same regional presidents of the local PRISAA. This is weird and crazy especially for us PRISAA member schools who were never informed of this development.

Honestly, as a President of a University, and a paying member of PRISAA, I cannot help but think about the possibility of First PRISA using PRISAA funds to further their cause without the consent of its general membership.

Right now, we -- along with several other member schools -- are thinking of withdrawing our membership from PRISAA, lest we be used for the political interest of others without our knowledge or consent.

Actually, what I really feel so bad about is how this exhibits how the PRISAA National Officers see their members. They see us as minions rather than equals or partners to attain the goals of PRISAA.

I will blog some more about this as soon as I get more information. But, still this thing stinks like after-flood garbage in Marikina.

Hopeful

2009-07-31T03:24:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was informed that Col. Tomasito Clet, the COP of Iriga City for several years now was transferred to Naga City.

I felt mixed emotions. I felt really sad that Col. Clet left our beloved Iriga. He really made such great difference in our City with his team up with our Mayor Madel A. Gazmen. Crime in Iriga is almost zero and during Col. Clet's tenure he was able to make important and substantial drug busts that paralyzed, if not completely eradicated the proliferation of drugs in our City.

In a way, I also feel HOPEFUL, because at last Naga City will have a Chief of Police that is known for his integrity and being an action man. He is a man of results, and is very humble. I think he came to Naga just in time.

You see, about a month ago, there was an attempted break-in and robbery at my store in General Luna Street, just a stone's throw away from the Naga City Police Headquarters.

We had break-ins before, but they just got a cd player worth about P3,000.00 and about P1,000.00 in cash. It was in 2006. My stay-in tinderas reported to me that sometimes, they would hear someone attempting to break-in the store but since my husband installed three door locks those who attempted to do so -- with my tinderas in the store were not successful.

Fast forward to about a month ago... my husband was woken up at about 3:00AM by a call from our Store Manager. She told him that someone tried to break in the store. The small door (service entrance) of the store was destroyed save for a lock at the top of the door that kept it to the doorjamb. Apparently, the man attempting to break-in used a crowbar to destroy the door.

What was really scary was the fact that I have two tinderas who sleep in the store. One tindera was in shock and just stayed in a corner. My other tindera got a knife and attempted to hit the hand of the robber everytime it tries to hold the door and push it. In fact, my tindera claims that he was able to hit the man's hand several times and was sure that it must have left a wound. So what does this mean? The man knows there are people inside the store yet he insisted to break-in. I was sure that if he was successful, he will kill my tinderas.

It was a good thing that my store manager was just living in a boarding house near the store. My tinderas called her up at the start when they heard that someone was trying to knockdown the door. My store manager immediately dropped by the station before proceeding to the store. When the police and my manager arrived the roober was nowhere to be found. Apparently, he left when a police mobile left the station just before the police and my manager arrived at the store.

I am just so disappointed that Naga City, which has been lauded by several award giving bodies for good governance and being the best... a world-class city, cannot even solve the criminality proliferating in the urban center. That whole lane of laundry shops, ukay-ukay stores, beauty salons along general luna st., near Barlin St., very, very near --- literally a stones throw away from the Naga City Police Headquarters have been plagued by robbers, thieves, holdapers and other criminals for years now. Aside from our store, the Tad's Laundry Shop was also broken in last month, for the second time ha! Even the Menasec Drugstore which is within the compound of the police station was robbed. I mean... is this world-class? Utang na loob naman!

Last SONA, the economist Solita Monsod said of GMA's speech, that it is true that the economy of the Philippines is doing good but it is regrettable that the Filipino poor does not feel the benefits of this good economy.

Like Naga, it might be true that Jessie Robredo is the best Mayor the City of Naga will ever have with great governance policies, but it is regrettable that a simple problem like peace and order cannot be solved.

I dream of a day when I can once again walk the streets of Naga without being afraid that my bag or my celphone will be snatched away from me or no longer see elementary school age kids sniffing rugby at the Barlin Statue, right in front of the Naga City Police Station. I am always HOPEFUL.

A New Project

2009-07-18T22:46:00.001-07:00

My Dad and Mom has a house in Bonifacio Village, Quezon City. My parents allowed me and my family to live in the house whenever we are in Manila.

Recently, when we got back the house from unscrupulous caretakers -- this one deserves another post -- my husband and I decided that we cannot continue to use the house without making the necessary maintenance repairs. Our previous caretakers left the house damaged, not to mentioned robbed. We had to fix the electricals and the plumbing. The roof was leaking and the gutters busted.

But as we started planning our repairs, we thought, why not start a small business with it. Since we have always been sending students to Manila for their OJT and they had to pay exhorbitant fees for their accomodations, why not fix the house to accomodate about 15 to 20 people and have our students stay in the house for a cheaper fee. My husband liked the idea so we immediately told my Dad who was very supportive of the project.

Now, we are well on the way of the repairs. We have transformed the lanai at the back portion of the house into a big hall that can have 5 bunk beds. The two rooms we have we have also repaired. I am really excited but I know it is still a long way to having the house accept its first guests.

Aside from the OJT students, we can also have the house for rent for families who are staying in Manila to fetch a balikbayan relative or for families who are in Manila to attend an event like a wedding or a birthday.

I just hope I am on the right track. Keep your fingers crossed. I will keep you all posted.

PS: The rates are P500.00 per person per night. It includes breakfast and one set of toiletries. Kabayan charges similar fees but without toiletries and no towel. We will start hopefully by September. For interested parties please just comment on this post and leave your email. I will contact you.

An Opinion Article purporting to be a straight News Article

2009-06-30T22:48:00.000-07:00

I just got hold of the June 25, 2009 edition of the Bicol Mail yesterday and I was surprised to read an article entitled "BACS to shun military parade" on its first page which I believe is full of malicious statements that does not sit very well with me.

I am a graduate in Mass Comm in UP Diliman major in Journalism. I am not trying to be an expert since I have not practiced my journalism profession for about 13 years now, but I think the article has violated basic tenets of ethical journalism.

I will discuss each violation academically.

First, the article's author is not mentioned. It is quite basic in journalism that straight news should always be accompanied by the article's writer. The reason for this is that the public is informed as to who is writing the article. It is a straight news article, printed on the front page of the newspaper. In national broadsheets, even opinion articles have the name of the writer printed below the title of the article, sometimes after the article. It is also notable that all the articles in the front page has writers to attribute the article to.

Second, the article is full of opinionated comments by the unknown writer. It starts,

"Whether ignorant of or trying to grab the spotlight out of the on-going dialogue between the Archdiocese of Caceres and the city government of Naga, Fr. Joel Tabora, S.J., president of both the Ateneo de Naga University and the Bicol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS) last June 19 issued a statement..." (italics and emphasis mine)

Right at the start of the article conclusions are already drawn from the facts when a straight news article should only contain the facts. Conclusions and opinions should be made by the reader. It is the responsibility of the straight news writer or reporter to only report facts and let the public be the judge in the issues being presented. This article seems to be full of bias right at the very start of the story practically conditioning the reader to think ill of Fr. Joel Tabora.

Third, the article also features a comment made by an alleged ROTC Commandant. Well, that is all right and anonimity of the one making the statement is also allowed. However, it is followed by a paragraph that states:

"Conspicuously not represented in the Tabora statement is the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary which is a BACS member and has its own military training as part of the curriculum."

What does this mean? That the ROTC Commandant is from the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary? Or that the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary is against the BACS statement not being conspicuously represented? Or is it just that, a statement that the HRMS is not represented in the BACS statement?

Finally, the last paragraph in the article says:

"Meanwhile, a paragraph in the Tabora statement elicited both jeers and laughter from those who got hold of the copy. A paragraph in the Tabora statement says: "In the same meeting, the BACS schools expressed strong disapproval to rumored plans to maintain a beauty pageant within the nine days of the Novena (underscoring ours)," to which a keen observeer quipped: " Ini talaga si Fr. Tabora, mahilig magtubod sa tsismis!" (This Fr. Tabora is fond of believing rumors. - translation mine)

I can't believe Bicol Mail which I have always thought to be unbiased and a bastion of truth could come out with such an article. I hope the editorial board of Bicol Mail can do something about this. I also hope that young journalism students should also learn from this.

To read the full news article go to - http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2009/june25/xshun.html

To read the full BACS statement go to - http://www.adnu.edu.ph/NewsAndEvents/06232009b.asp

for FR. Joel's June 27 statement, follow-up to the original BACS statement go to -
http://www.naga.gov.ph/forum/index.php?topic=4048.new

TURNING 33

2009-06-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

This post was written last June 21, 2009.

Tomorrow, June 22, 2009, I will be turning 33 years old.

I had always dreaded this age.

I was always told that great men and women die at 33 years old.
Alexander the Great died at 33 after conquering the world.
Jesus Christ died at 33 after preaching the Gospel.

I am 33.

I am not afraid of death. I think I am prepared for it.

What I am afraid of is dying when I have not accomplished anything yet.

A long stay in Manila made me think about my life and I decided to make an inventory of everything that I have done in my 33 years of living, but that was difficult.

How can I define my achievements as my own?

I decided instead to just take stock of what I have learned in my 33 years of life.

1. In whatever you do, always ask for God’s guidance. I have never achieved anything without approval from above. Everything I have, I asked first from God through prayers. Sometimes I am confident, sometimes not… but what is important is that as you pray you also work for the fulfilment of your requests.

2. In everything you do, there is no substitute for great preparation. May it be as simple as brushing your teeth or as difficult as taking the Bar Exams for Lawyers. It always pays to have prepared for anything you do. Remember what they said about luck… luck is nothing but the meeting of good preparation with great opportunity.

3. It is always important to have a vision. Having a vision will enable you to be grounded and focused on your daily tasks and makes you do it properly and excellently. People who have no vision and therefore no focus tend to be more “kalat” in their thinking. I am not an organized person. But, in my few accomplishments in life, I have learned that having a vision of your end goal is a big key to success. And I do mean vision, imagine yourself in the ideal situation that you want.

For example, when I took the Bar, I imagined myself during the first Sunday of the Bar. I do not want to be nervous, so I knew I had to study well. I did not want small irritants like health concerns to bug me so I prepared my Backpack for D-Day to include every conceivable solution for any mishap (vomiting, headache, tummy ache, hunger, period, etc…) That is why I had such a big backpack on the day of the exam, as if I was going to climb Mt. Everest.

The same thing happened when I got pregnant. I played the day that I will give birth, a thousand times in my mind thinking about what I need, who I need to call, what to do, etc… I was able to give birth with the least of worries. I was previously so afraid to give birth, but thinking about it in my mind helped to psyche myself for the Big Day.

4. Always, always be humble. It pays to remember that you are but an actor in this play called life. Do not assume that the world revolves around you. It is wrong… wrong… wrong… Even if it seems true or you feel that it is true. Don’t believe it. People around you have lives of their own, families of their own, their own dreams to fulfil. You are not the messiah. Even if you helped every person in the world, it does not make them less of a person than you are that enables you to control them. They are people in their own right.

5. Be grateful. It always helps to thank people who helped you in your everyday life. If you are grateful, you also become humble. However, if you helped people, don’t expect them to give back. If they do, then thank them, if not, just let it go. They have no responsibility to give back especially if the help they received was voluntary. Just let it go. It is okay for other people to be ungrateful, as long as it is not you. Kaya kung hindi naman bukal sa loob mong tumulong, huwag ka na tumulong, sasama lang ang loob mo kung di man lang nagpasalamat ang tinulungan mo. If you want to help, just help.

6. Respect other people. When you respect other people, you become more emphathetic, more humane and become more caring and compassionate. When you respect them, they will respect you also. I do not only mean respecting your parents, or your boss. I mean respecting their things, privacy, their space, especially their lives. If you respect other people, they will leave you alone. Remember, respect is the key to tolerance and tolerance begets peace.

7. When you arrive at problems, always think… is this really my problem or someone elses? If it is someone else’s, you are not compelled to solve it. Sometimes, people have the tendency to displace their problems and limitations on other people and it becomes our own. It burdens us and makes us less of who we are. I am an eldest daughter. I went through life always thinking about my brothers, my family and all their concerns. So Filipino! But, then, I realized, are my concern about them really “my concerns” or am I just treating my whole family like a baby and making them dependent upon me? I realized, I had to start teaching my siblings to decide on their own and not make them so dependent on me. I realized I had to teach them to solve their own problems. In Filipino: “Huwag mo problemahin ang hindi mo naman problema.”

8. The last one that I always practice daily without fail is: if it doesn’t kill you, just let it slide. As we go along our daily lives, people will hurt us and make us feel lesser than who we are. Other people react to these irritants, but for me, as long as it does not create damage that will kill me, my family or my reputation, I just let it go. If it is constructive, I welcome it, but if purely designed to destroy my work and my reputation, I just let it be. I am confident in my work. I let it speak for me. If some people would decide to malign me, then go ahead. My next successful work will speak for me. This gives me peace of mind and allows me to focus on my work and being in the service of my fellowmen. I will always remember a saying I once read somewhere, “if people speak ill of you, then live in a manner that no one will believe them.”

So far, that’s it. Eight important lessons. Actually, I would suggest you also listen to “Sunscreen” by Baz Luhrmann. When my husband and I first heard it during the late 90s and early 2000s, we tried to follow every advice. It was really a treasure. I hope you do listen to it. Just google it.

In about 36 minutes, I will turn 33 years old. Happy. Contented. Living the life I wanted. And I only have God to thank for this meaningful life.

Thank you.

OF DEVOTION AND PARADES

2009-06-27T19:49:00.001-07:00

OF DEVOTION AND PARADES
By: Atty. Remelisa G. Alfelor-Moraleda
University President
University of Northeastern Philippines
Iriga City

Last June 22, 2009, which was incidentally my birthday, the Bicol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS) came out with a statement saying that, after reflecting on the issue, they decided that all their member-institutions will no longer participate in this year’s Penafrancia Fiesta Military Parade Competition.

I have to say that this did not surprise me at all. I have been getting varied reactions from most of these Catholic schools regarding the said Competition in the past years and I believe that it is about time that they came out with a statement that reverberated to every corner of the Bicol Region, and commenced the debate raging now about the separation of the church and the state.

The University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP) already arrived at the same decision way back academic year 2007-2008. We don’t have to elaborate on the circumstances on why or how we were able to reach this decision. However, in this article, I will instead outline on how a school, sectarian or otherwise, may be able to discern their position on this matter.

Our University has joined this event for many years already since the 1980s. In fact, our contingent has always been one of the most awaited features of the Parade. Observers, devotees and guests from everywhere in the Bicol Region lauded our participation, whether we brought home the bacon or not. And why not? The University has always given its all in providing the best performance in this competition.

For years, we have always participated with a passion of a Manny Pacquiao training for his next boxing bout. We had always taken this competition seriously. Getting the best trainors, reasonably spending as much as we can, confident that our preparation is enough to come out with a performance that is worthy of our reputation.

However, as in any endeavor, one comes to a point where one re-examines why we participate in an event that seems to have already paled in meaning. We carefully deliberated on our reasons why we should participate and tested it against our reasons why we should not.

Regrettably, we arrived at a decision that announced to us that there is no relevant purpose anymore in continuing to participate in this event.

How did we arrive at this conclusion?

1. The first argument that is always used by the organizers of this event is that the Penafrancia Military Parade Competition is an expression of our devotion to Our Lady of Penafrancia. We can not argue with this statement. An expression of devotion is relative to the person who is expressing that devotion. It is subjective and is not capable of an objective examination. However, is it not a better expression to participate instead in the Translacion which is a truly religious activity? This is the time allotted by the Church to focus on the devotion to Ina and the start of her 9-day Novena. Ina is the star of this show and as a University that encourages such a devotion, this is a better way to drive the point rather than let them participate in a Military Parade and off-tangently hope that they drop by the Church also on their own.

The University has already done this in the past several years. We have organized our students to participate in the Translacion with great success. After the activity, we encourage their teachers to discuss their experience in class and truly this has been a more effective way than attending the Military Parade, which to our mind just grazes the target of providing avenues of expression of our devotion to Ina.

2. There is also the argument that the Penafrancia Military Parade is an effective medium to market and promote our school. Actually, we have anchored our involvement in the competition in this argument, every year, to justify our participation. We have studied this as part of drafting the marketing plan for our school, however, we found out that it is more cost effective to do our marketing more directly through ads in tri-media. We have implemented this and true to our study, statistics show that advertising in tri-media is more effective than participating in this event. Definitely, this argument does not hold water.

3. It has also been argued that the Penafrancia Military Parade Competition promotes inter-school camaraderie. To be honest about it, there is no inter-school camaraderie that happens among student-participants. The students are trained to be focused on the competition and do not have time to interact with student-participants of other schools. Besides, this is more effectively fulfilled by other activities such as participation in the PRISAA, Tertiary and Secondary Schools Press Conference Competition and other academic and related activities, not in the Penafrancia Military Parade.

4. It has also been argued that the Military Parade Competition instills discipline and meaning to military training. Well, to be frank about it, the discipline that they say this competition instills is supposed to be already innate in the participating school and just expressed in the competition. If a school contigent does not have discipline in their school, it will always show in their performance in the competition. Again, this argument does not hold water.

On our part, we have also several reasons that point out a stronger argument against not joining the competition.

1. Participation in the competition is getting more expensive every year. For our participation in the 2006 competition alone, we had to spend around more than P400,000.00, almost half a million for trainors, uniforms, make-up, allowances, transportation on the day itself, meals and other incidental expenses. For the uniforms alone, we had to spend more than P100,000.00 for the band alone. It should be noted that majorettes and band members are scholars of the school and therefore cannot afford to buy their uniforms on their own. The University spends for it. This does not include the revenues that are lost in scholarship programs for the band and majorettes. This also runs into the hundreds of thousands.

For the ROTC and CAT participants, we also have to spend for their meals and transportation on the day itself. The parents only shell out for the uniforms of their participant-children. Some parents save money by borrowing uniforms or renting it from others at a much lesser fee than providing their children with new ones. They also have to give their children allowances to defray expenses that they may incur while in Naga. The competition therefore also means more expenses for parents who are already burdened by the high cost of quality education.

Truly, participation in the parade has become impractical for us in the University of Northeastern Philippines, for our students and for our parents. Of course, as an institution, we can still afford it, but should we continue to spend onerously for an event, the objective of which can already be fulfilled effectively by other activities at a lesser cost?

2. Preparation for the competition has been physically draining for our students and our school. When we were still participating, preparation starts in May when we start drafting our operational plans for the year. Training starts in July. Student-participants train every day in the afternoons after class, increasing to a frantic crescendo as the competition draws near. Our majorettes and band members miss classes in the last two weeks before the parade as we let them focus on the competition. Therefore, they had to work harder than their classmates when they get back to their classes after the competition. Is this sacrifice worth it? We are compromising the academic performance of these students in order to perform our best in the competition. Is this fair?

3. There is also a problem of coming up with the right number of students to participate in the military competition. After the passage of the NSTP law which makes military training voluntary for students, there is a patent decrease of students choosing military training for their NSTP requirement. We had to make military training a requirement for our Criminology program as part of their curriculum to be assured of the numbers needed to come up with a contingent for the parade competition. This should also be addressed by the organizers of the event, something which until now, they have ignored.

4. Lastly, although admittedly we have no proof or evidence of this argument, we still want to express that we have great doubts in the carrying out of the rules of the competition. Through the years, although there seems to be great effort in addressing the concerns of the schools in terms of having a fair and just competition, still the issues prevail and continue to hound the organizers of the event. Our school cannot continue to subject itself to a competition whose organizers are suffering from a reputation of bias and lack of integrity. I regret having to say this, but this is the view of most of the school authorities in the University and we cannot discount this. Of course, I acknowledge that this is a subjective opinion, but like in any democratic country, we expect that our opinion also be respected. This is why we have declared and maintained that unless and until there is a revamp in the organizers of the event, we will continue to forego participation in the Penafrancia Military Parade Competition.

These being our sentiments, our institution proposes therefore the following recommendations:

1. On the issue of economic factors, we suggest that the LGU also defray some expenses of the participant schools by giving a mobilization fund that can somehow ease the burden of the participant schools. For example, maybe covering the transportation expenses or the meals of the participants would be a great help. It is should be noted that some schools ask the parents to defray the cost of transportation and meals. In our case, our school spends for it. We can take the case of the City of Legazpi which gives a token assistance of P10,000.00 to at least defray the cost of transportation everytime we are invited for a competition in their city. I hope the City of Naga considers this recommendation and follow the example of the City of Legazpi.

2. On the issue of the dwindling numbers of students participating in the ROTC program, the organizers can decrease the number of required warm bodies to come up with a contingent. I really do not know how they will do this, but maybe they can also promote the ROTC program in the schools.

3. On the issue of the integrity of the organizers, it is also necessary for the City to evaluate the performance of the organization carrying out this event. Is there a need for change? I also urge the City to conduct a consultation participated in by the schools to get their opinion regarding this issue.

Having said all these, we would like it to be clear that our school is not against military parade competitions. In fact, we have been conducting military parade competitions for several decades already during our Activation Day celebrations. However, we are one with the Bicol Association of Catholic Schools in saying that the military parade should not be conducted within the 9-day Novena to Our Lady of Penafrancia. We should focus more on Ina and on our faith and not in endeavours that actually has even the capability of eroding our faith to Ina.

We would also like to clarify that our school is not calling for a complete boycott of this competition by other schools, but rather a call to re-evaluate our purpose for participating in this event. I just hope that this article be able to aid the schools in reaching a decision that is just for all concerned.

With that, I still say, Happy Penafrancia Fiesta to all of us and may we just continue to respect each other’s opinion as what is expected in a free and democratic country.

Passing the Real Estate Broker's Exams

2009-06-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday morning, I was surprised when my mobile phone was inundated by texts from several people congratulating me on passing the Licensure Examn for Real Estate Brokers which I took last May 31, 2009 at the University ng Makati, JP Rizal, Makati City.

I couln't believe my great fortune. I had been on this quest since the late 1990s, taking the exam... I think twice on the prodding of my mother who has always been my booster in taking all sorts of exams for all sorts of reasons.

Previously, I did not pass it. The simple reason being that I did not study or prepare for it before thinking that attending the seminar is enough. Well... after my experience with taking the Bar Exams to which I passed on the first try, I have come to this exam more prepared and more studious than before.

My recent journey towards this goal has been prodded by the fact that allegedly, this year is the last year that the exams will be managed by the DTI. Next year, it will be the PRC which will manage the examinations leading to maybe requiring a Bachelor's Degree for this exam. I had two reasons for taking it: one, is that this being the last year of DTI and therefore perceived to be more easier to take and if ever this becomes a regular Bachelor's Degree program, I can easily open the course in our school. Second, is for my Mom. My Mom had always wanted to make me take the exam. It really is not clear to me why but she has always encouraged me to take this exam right after college and even the Exam for Insurance Brokers. Maybe when we have the celebratory dinner, I would be able to get a better grasp of her reasons. Professional reasons is a bonus but certainly is only on the background.

Preparing for the exams was quite difficult. During the seminar-review I was always late. I missed important topics. During the study period of about three weeks, I was very busy being the start of the school year. However, I decided to dedicate the last week before the exams to diligent study.

As I have done during my Bar Exams, I played the day of the exams in my mind taking note of what I might need. Although this time, I was more confident and thus did not do the overkill that I was famous for. Therefore, I did not lug around about 20 kilos of stuff as I did during the bar. Besides this is just a four-hour exam on one Sunday. I don't have to be that prolific.

What I was worried about though, being the Secretary of the seminar-review class I was tasked to arrange the transportation and accomodations of my classmate. I was also able to do this, but I did not want to be bothered that much during my stay in Manila so I brought along Manay Nilda Brila, my executive secretary to help me. She was our punong abala in Manila. Anything that the group needed she provided. I would not have such a worry free exam prep if not for Manay Nilda.

I would also make mention of the wonderful people of Kabayan Hotel Pasay. They are the most positive people in the world. They never say no on any of our request. Only if it is truly unreasonable that they do. When you are surrounded by such positive people, your mind clears up to accomodate more information which is maybe why I passed this exam.

Truly, it is an experience to remember. I will be blogging some more on this in the coming days. For now, again... thank you to all who congratulated me. All for the greater glory of God!

Bicol Autonomy

2009-03-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

Dr. Jose Abueva at the 2nd Bicol Forum at the USI Auditorium, March 26, 2009

Two days ago, I attended the Forum on Bicol Autonomy organized by Commodore Dante Jimenez of the Mariners Polytechnic Colleges and VACC fame. I was drawn into attendance by my own curiousity and I did not want to pass up seeing Dr. Jose Abueva again.

I was only supposed to attend as an observer... a "miron". However, I found myself suddenly elevated to become a reactor to the resource speakers representing the Academe.

My take on it is quite simple. I am all for Bicol Autonomy, in the same manner that I am for the parliamentary form of government and I am for Federalism. I feel that it is great that we are starting to talk about it and discussing it in forums.

However, before we even start talking about autonomy I think it should be clear what the proposals are. It is important to answer the 5 Ws and more importantly the 1 H first.

As I have pointed out -- are the Bicolanos prepared for this?

It seems a long way to go for this to reach mainstream advocacy, well, at least the first step was made towards this long journey to autonomy.

PAWD CONVENTION 2009

2009-02-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

Direct Gaudencio Asanza, Director Benjamin Epres and Me

I have just arrived yesterday morning. I went to Cebu last week to attend the Philippine Association of Water District's (PAWD) Annual Convention at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino Lahug. Being the Iriga City Water District (ICWD) chairperson of the board, I have to attend to represent ICWD making me miss the Tinagba Festival completely. I had to content myself with text messages and calls from my people in Iriga.

It was a successful convention having been attended by at least 800 delegates. I appreciated the parallel session with directors from other water districts and the chance to meet suppliers and see new innovative products all geared towards effecient and effective water supply services.

However, Waterfront was not very good in their services. The food was completely another story. The lines were long on the buffet tables despite the fact that there were I think four buffet stations to serve us. The refill did not come promptly making us all the more hungry. There was one lunch time that all I got was one viand and some rice. I did not wait for the refill of the other viands anymore considering that the line was really long. No more soup, no more desert, just that one pork viand and some rice. I pity our muslim delegates. I hope they were able to get better fare.

The accomodation system was however very efficient. The check-in was in a different place than the front desk so making a line at the reception desk was prevented. It was also very quick. In five minutes, I was given my key to the room. The room was clean and orderly and had the all important mini-ref for my breast milk.

All in all, I would rate the convention a 7. The food really brought everything down. Well, you really cannot please all of us.

DELIVERY

2009-01-11T00:18:00.000-08:00

I had always been wondering why they call it a DELIVERY. I wish it was easy as that. I think it had to do with the stork thing -- that babies are delivered by storks. Well... at least my particular stork was one of the best storks ever.

I believe my story starts when I went to my Doctor November 17, 2008. She told me "mid-line ka na Peach. You will be giving birth already in a week." In a week? I thought... he's coming early. I was supposed to give birth first week of December. I thought... hmmm... no more afternoon walks at the mall then lest I suddenly give birth in the middle of Megamall.

Then, fast forward to the early evening of November 18, 2008. I felt unusually tired that day. I felt some cramps that similar to menstrual cramps. I just ignored it as Braxton-Hicks. I had worse abdominal cramps and aches when I had diarrhea the week before so I did not think much of it. I just slept but earlier than usual.

At around 1:00 AM, I woke up feeling the need to urinate. That was when I saw that my membrane had ruptured already. I called Manay Rachel -- our Mayordoma -- "I think its time already." She immediately prepared herself. I also knocked on the door of my parents room and woke them up too. My Dad immediately told my Mom to accompany me but I told him that I would be fine with Manay Rachel. It was me, Manay Rachel and my personal assistant Jen. We then proceeded to Medical City.

I was worried. My husband was still in Bicol. I called him up but he seemed disoriented having woken him up from sleep. Manay Rachel called him up and he left Iriga at 6AM.

However, my fears started to disappear. I looooove Medical City. They were so efficient. Everyone knew what they were doing and I truly felt so confident. My fears were more personal and did not have to do with the hospital or their staff. When I informed the emergency room person that I was going to give birth, he immediately called the person at the Maternity and in about 5 minutes I was wheeled to the Pre-Labor Room where I was interviewed and cleaned. At around 4 AM I was wheeled to the Labor Room where the epidural was attached to my back.

The Labor Room was quite nice. They had classical music piped in -- maybe to calm the mothers waiting for delivery. There was also a photomural on the wall -- which surprisingly was the same as the mural in our dining room. I was half-expecting Cho, our cook, to come in and bring nilagang baka. It was quite funny and truly calmed me more.

At the onset I was already prepared for a normal delivery. Although I did not take birthing classes, I read up on normal childbirth so I knew what to expect. However, I did not really plan on an epidural. I wanted it to be a natural birth sans pain relievers etc... However, I think it was the standard procedure in Medical City so I just played along. It is just fortunate that my birth was so textbook. No glitches at all. I prayed for a textbook birth because I wanted to recognize my time when it comes and it did, blood first, water at the hospital... etc... I was coming along pretty well also, my cervix was dilating on time also.

However, my baby's head would not descend according to the time that was expected. At around 11AM I was already 8cm but the baby is still not going down. The resident doctors and the nurses were concerned because the baby's heartrate was slowing down during contractions. At around 2PM in the afternoon, Dra. Abat, my OB-Gyne decided to ask me if I agree to a ceasarian section because the baby was starting to get distressed. I immediately agreed. I did not want to stress out the baby unnecessarily.

So at around 2:30 PM I was wheeled to the delivery room and the baby was out by 3:15 PM. Baby Nico's cry was not very loud, but maybe its just because I have been used to the loud screams of my brothers when they were growing up so it seemed weak to me. I was quite worried but the Doctors assured me that the baby was big.

The funny thing was, the Anesthesiologist said "Naku, misis, ang laki ng baby nyo. Parang maglalakad na." I really wanted to laugh but they were still closing up my uterus. They reasured me that the baby looked healthy. Truly, his APGAR score was 9.9.

When he was brought to me, I thought, he did not look at all the same as his picture in the 3D ultrasound. His face was all red and seemed "maga". He looked all scrunched up. But I felt relieved that he looked healthy.

Then at around 5PM, I think, I was wheeled to the Recovery Room to be there for about two hours. I was wheeled out at around 8PM. The first person I saw was of my husband's. I wanted to talk to him for great lengths but I was told not to talk, laugh or take anything to eat yet for fear of gas pains. I felt relieved. It is over.

My baby Nico has been delivered. Another chapter of our life starts.

2008-12-15T01:07:00.000-08:00

Baby Bliss!

2008-12-14T07:47:00.000-08:00

First picture together at the Delivery Room -- right after c section.

After my first breastfeeding session. Nursery at the Medical City.

Nico after my second breastfeeding session at the Neo-natal ICU (NICU) The Medical City, Pasig City.

Tonight is not so different from every night I've had at home since November 30, 2008, Baby Nico's first night here at our home in Quezon City. Endless nappy changes, breastfeeding sessions and sleepless nights -- it seems this won't change.

At first, it was quite easy. I was a late sleeper and I thought I could handle the sleeplessness that a new baby brings. Well, on the third night, I was sooo happy my husband was eager to help me out and take turns taking care of the baby during the night. I really needed some sleep.

Well, now I'd like to believe that I have adjusted well to my baby's rythm. I sleep when he sleeps coz when he's awake he needs to feed a lot.

Nico is really a delight and despite the adjustment and sometimes the dread that I feel that he might cramp my lifestyle when I get back to Bicol, I think everything will be worth it. A blessing is a blessing is a blessing.

Eraserheads Pa Rin!

2008-09-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

After posting my semi-rant on my failure to watch the Eheads concert last Saturday, I cold not help but post my thoughts on what happened, now that Ely is in the hospital recovering from his 4th angioplasty surgery, and the 15-song 1st set that the band delivered.

I still feel bad that I was not there last Saturday. My brother was telling me that the crowd situation was not all that bad. I could have just stayed daw in the vicinity in the comforts of my car and still enjoy that concert. But, of course, I would only be able to hear them, not watch them.

My college friends were also able to watch. They have posted their pictures in our egroups and it brought a smile to my face seeing them together and enjoying the concert. But, of course, they all look more like yuppies from Makati and Ortigas rather than college students in UP. So much has changed.

On TV, there were even some bisdaks (guys from the visayas) who flew in just to watch the concert. Kakainggit talaga! Hmp!

Right now, rather than pray for a reunion concert part 2, I am praying for ely buendia's safe recovery. Before anything else, kahit sabi ng marami mayabang siya, there would not be a reunion concert without Eraserheads front man, Ely Buendia. I remember watching an Eraserheads gig right after Ely left and he was replaced with that girl from Fatal Posporos, (sorry, I forgot her name -- too tamad to look it up in google :-) it just did not have the same magic. It felt different. So, I know it has to be all four of them or its not Eraserheads at all.

But, I guess, if I was there, I would not be disappointed at all even if they just played 15 songs. Actually sanay ako na matipid sila sa kanta. I remember attending numerous Eraserhead concerts where the front acts had more stage-time than the Eraserheads. They would usually just be on stage for an hour singing about, yes, 15 songs. So, although it would be really disappointing knowing that I could have heard 15 more songs, I think I would have understood.

As Ligaya is playing on the background, I hope and pray that they decide to come together again and make us go back to that innocence that we once had as youths. For now, I'll indulge myself in listening to their songs and sipping white coffee mocha (salamat Aben -- hehehe.)

Eraserheads

2008-09-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

(I was going to post this last August 29. But, as luck would have it, my wifi at home is going bonkers again. I am posting this anyway just to get some thoughts out there.)

It is the 29th of August. Friday. I really feel a little depressed.

Tomorrow is the 30th of August. Saturday. I would rather be somewhere else but here. And, this is one of those moments in life where you feel your age, your responsibilities, your maturities…

Tomorrow is the Eraserheads Reunion Concert.

My husband said, “I don’t care. It doesn’t bother me. I was never the banda-banda type.” I felt sadder.

Excitement Raises
My brother once told me, I think about a month ago, that the Eraserheads are going to have a reunion concert. Honestly, I did not think much of it because I thought “imposible”. This rumor has been on the mill for a long time now and it has never come to fruition. What could be different now?

Apparently, it seems, some people felt that this was such a good idea that they were paid, reportedly, a couple of million pesos each just to have that reunion concert. Anyway, what followed was a roller coaster ride of excitement and disappointment as Philip Morris, the initial promoters and sponsors of the concert took the heat from anti-smoking lobbyists which later ended in finally having them drop this event like a hot potato.

In the midst of all these, I have been planning on how I can go about going to Manila to watch the concert. I knew I was going to have some issues about this since I am pregnant and my husband has been very paranoid about letting me travel. So, as news of the concert went from “tuloy” to “di-tuloy” and to “tuloy” again, so with my plans of going to Manila for the end of August weekend.

Finally Pushing Trough
Last Wednesday, I learned that the concert is finally pushing through from TV news. I was soooo glad. The thing is, I knew I had to finalize my plans. I told my husband, but his reply to me is that quote I mentioned above. I felt sick. It seems I really won’t have a chance.

Then, I surfed the net for details. The ticket prices did not bother me.(di naman ako mayabang -- medyo desperate lang manood -- hehehe) What hit me though is the fact that the concert is going to be at The Fort in Taguig. It was going to be standing room only, whether you choose the VIP area or the back area.

That just won’t work. I am 25 weeks pregnant and I can’t stand for long periods of time. Of course, I can bring my own seat or something, or make the concert into some kind of picnic by putting a blanket and bring food, but I am nervous of the crowds. I thought, I just cannot go to that kind of risk. It’s my first baby… you know the drill…

Eraserheads and Me
A lot of people do not understand my relationship with the Eraserheads. I was still a journalism student in UP Diliman, when these four simple, matter-of-fact, down-to-earth guys started singing gigs in UP, Mayrics and Club Dredd. I love their songs. It seemed to articulate all my feelings as a student, a young adult and as a person looking for my place in a bigger world. Their songs were part of the soundtrack that encapsulated that part of my life.

My college barkada was also forged somehow by our love for Eraserheads. Somehow, Eheads was something common among our generation. I am expecting that most of them would be watching or be in the vicinity anyway to at least be part of this momentous event. It is once in a lifetime. We do not know when it will happen again.

I still have all their tapes. I did not have a cd player then. Besides, I could not afford it yet at that time. I still play their tapes until now, especially during blue days. It always calms me and makes me feel that everything would be okay.

What I loved most about Eheads, is that they were never pretentious. They sang about their experiences and talks about it like it is – funny, insightful, emotional, personal. They never pretended to be anything else, although some would say that fame somehow changed them and led them to eventually mature and go their own way. I say, that the change would be inevitable because as they sang and explored their experiences, they grew up and found out that they can be better artists if they go their own way – maybe, finding that their Eheads experience is too stifling and does not encourage them to fly.

I can relate to that. It is true that we do have our own groups or barkadas in college, but as we mature, we find other groups that make us grow and encourage us to fly. Our college friends are still there and we do come back and see them once in a while but more that anything to touch base and make sure that we stay in touch with our purity or at least be reminded of it.

I have always felt that Eraserheads are activists, but unlike the civil society kind, they raved and ranted about the experience of the youth rather than rant about the government. They talked about the self and its relationship with other individuals, barkadas, family but not so much about a bigger society. They are activists because they articulated much of the angst and experiences of the youth which otherwise would not have been heard. They were the mouthpiece of a generation that felt that the way they can be of service to society is to first find peace with themselves and make sense of their confusing experiences.

SO…
Eraserheads always had a philosophical significance in my life. More than just being a band that made me feel better and forget it all, they made me feel that I am not alone in my experiences as a young adult. So I do feel bad about not being able to watch the concert. It is like a case of “water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink”, coz, I can watch if I truly want to but I have to consider many things before going.

I also have so many realizations that hit me, the significance of which has changed my view of myself. The most significant of my realizations is that I am indeed an adult. I can no longer say that, yes, I am pregnant, but after this I will be out there again having fun the same way I did when I was not yet pregnant. Drinking beer, smoking, jamming with my “banda” friends. This makes me wonder, will I still be able to jam and sing those three songs on stage, ala avril lavigne or more like nanette inventor (hehehe) as my brother used to tease me with? I don't know. I do know that I have to somehow prepare myself to say goodbye to that lifestyle. I have to think about this little life inside of me rather than think of myself all the time.

I should stop thinking that I would be back in circulation after giving birth. Yes, I may still do it, but little baby will have to take priority. I really can’t believe it. I have changed and frankly, I don’t mind.

Now, all said… do I still feel bad not watching the Eraserheads concert? Well, yes, but I can bear it because the reasons that I am not going is worth it.

Bagyo na naman?

2008-08-25T23:02:00.000-07:00

There's a typhoon that is now near Catanduanes. Cat'nes is now Signal No. 1 (the last time I checked -- last night! LOL). Camarines Sur is also Signal No. 1 from the last advisory.

You know that it means for Iriga. I need not enumerate.As the ceo of unep, I am once again on red alert. I am monitoring this typhoon -- Lawin -- it might be one of those days again. We have to move all the stuff which could be flood-damaged on the second floor of the admin building. We need to secure all things that could be wind-damaged. Oh well, the UNEP Gym again -- how about it? I just pray that what had happened in Milenyo and Reming will not happen anymore to our Gym.

I am monitoring the typhoon on Mike Padua's typhoon2000.com. Not that I don't believe Pag-Asa, but I rather like the blow-by-blow reporting of Mike Padua. It lessens the anxiety as we brace our selves on what is to come. A natural distaster is a natural disaster. There is no way around it except to prepare, prepare, prepare. That's all. I have been disaster prepared since I was a child. My grandma who lived through the WWII made sure we got those survival kits ready in our rooms always. We always have a bag ready with a couple of changer of clothes, flashlights, some basic medicines, batteries and a transistor radio. I still maintain this habit. It keeps me sane and secure thinking that I am prepared.

In UNEP we have already organized the Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) through the efforts of our Criminology Dean Donald Narra and Mr. Joseph Florendo. So far so good. We just need several drills to make sure that what the students learned in the CERT can be translated into real life. I have also read the cover story in Time Magazine about Disaster Preparedness and I can't forget about that Morgan Stanley Security Director who made sure that all Morgan Stanley employees were aware of what to do during disasters. During the twin tower bombing in New York, It helped save more than 2000 employees in that company all becuase he made sure they were prepared.

I am so inspired by this story that I want all my employees and students in this University to be aware of what best to do in a disaster to save themselves. Typhoons are just the start of it. We have landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions to contend with. Our place is far from safe. Our University sits at the foot of Mt. Iriga (ASOG) and is at the heart of the Central Business District and is described as "Kababaan" or the part of the lowest point in the City. Jesus... we have so much preparing to do where this is concerned. I am just glad that there are people in the University who are also in the same frame of mind as I am. I am sure, some people are thinking that I must be going bonkers for being so worried about disasters when the prevailing attitude is just to deal with it when it comes.

Well, as I end this entry, all I can say is I'd rather be Noah (and be laughed at) than be part of the thousands who were drowned during the deluge.

Pregnancy Boredom

2008-08-09T20:31:00.000-07:00

I am now on my 22nd week of pregnancy. The little life inside of me seems quite restless. It seems to be doing somersaults inside. It is not painful at all but truly uncomfortable.

Bored. That's me right now. Bored to death! I want to go out but my husband is not allowing me to leave even a few kilometers outside the city limits. I am not allowed to drive even. The only distance I am allowed to drive is from our house to UNEP which is about a kilometer or two.

He's not usually that strict or worried about me, but the pregnancy is making him really paranoid. Its our first baby so he is quite picky about my situation.

Anyway, I am whiling away my time watching tv, surfing the net and doing my paperwork for the University. I will be taking up scrapbooking again once I received the kits I ordered online. My life sounds pathetic. But gladly, I am so optimistic for me to be depressed. I always take the good with the bad and usually I always see the positive in all of the situations I am in. It makes me feel better and helps me to cope. But man... I am sooo.... bored!

But not to worry, as I have said, I am glad for all this time to take stock and learn more about my pregnancy and taking care of babies. I just hope this boredom slides.

Surprised!

2008-08-09T20:23:00.000-07:00

You Are a Good Student of Men

You're pretty good at knowing what men are thinking

But you're not dead on 100% of the time

Let your guy off the hook sometimes... because you may be reading him all wrong!

How Well Do You Understand Men?

Fire Fear 2

2008-05-26T23:16:00.000-07:00

Last May 02, 2006, I posted in this blog a fire that happened in the Administration Building of UNEP. This year, we had another fire in the family.

Last May 18, 2008, a Sunday, at about 12 o'clock noon, our ancestral home located inside the UNEP campus was gutted once again. Once again because this is the 2nd time that the house had been gutted by fire. The whole family of my Uncle Awel lives in the house except for my cousin Wella and her family who already has their own house near that old one.

The fire started in the kitchen because allegedly a fire used for cooking burst up into a large flame that fired up a live wire where the light of the kitchen was attached. The flame from the cooking stove lighted up the wire where fire travelled on the ceiling and engulfed the whole house. It was a good thing that the firemen arrived promptly. Well, they should since they are practically just about a block away from the house.

The good thing though is that my Grandmother's house which was just beside that gutted house was saved. Also, my cousin M-M's room was saved with everything in tact. They all live now at Jun and Wella's house. I heard that my cousin Nonokoy and his family has already moved out from Jun and Wella's to move in next door in their house which is almost done now. Uncle Awel lives with them now.

I really do not know what to make of it. I just hope all of us learn something from this even once again.

Back Home

2008-05-25T00:16:00.000-07:00

I just arrived from Manila for a much needed sanity break. I have been staying at home in iriga for weeks now and i really felt crazy just watching tv.

Actually the real reason i went to Manila was to be interviewed for my us visa which by the way I received today. I got a 10 year multiple entry visa. I couldn't believe it. I was expecting a month but maybe Rotary once again weaved its magic.

My baby's healthy. My cousin Dra. Regala-Gimenez checked it out and she gave me and the baby a clean bill of health and so with Kuya Jojo. I really feel better now that Ate Chomby saw me with her trusty ultrasound in Bambang.

I also got to check out the facilities of Medical City in Ortigas. It was all state of the art but the rooms were small. I did like the Presidential and the Executive Suite. But, I don't know. It is too expensive.

I checked out St. Lukes too but I havent seen their rooms. I surmise and expect that St. Lukes will have bigger rooms. I might be back in Manila by September. In that time, I expect to be more informed about this matter.

Please continue to pray for me and my baby.

The Stork Finally Visited

2008-05-06T21:05:00.000-07:00

It was the 17th of April when we found out we were pregnant. It was after a disappointing day of having a little bleeding when I finally gave in and got a pregnancy test kit to find out.

I was supposed to get my period last April 6. When I did not get it, I decided to wait until the 15th before jumping to conclusions. We already waited two years and finding out if I am pregnant can wait for 9 more days. The 15th arrived and I bought the kit. But still did not want to find out. I was afraid to be disappointed.

The next day though, after taking a bath in the morning I had what appeared to be bleeding. I just kept mum. Didn't tell Mon about it, went to work and just had a normal working day. But... I was worried.

The next day, I decided to do the pregnancy test. I might be miscarriaging and not know it! It was positive. I had mixed emotions upon seeing the double red lines on that test kit. I was so happy yet I was afraid that I might have blown it with the bleeding and all.

I called up my cousin Ate Tshombee immediately. She advised me to see an OB before jumping to conclusions. And so I did.

After a long time waiting in the Doctor's waiting area, I was finally called. I was number 15 on the list and I killed the time reading about Britney and Lindsay Lohan in People Magazine.

The doctor was very kind and approachable. She did an ultrasound and she said I am now on my 6th week. My EDC is December 13, 2008. There is a heartbeat already. 118 heartbeats per minute. Tao na! I was so pleased. The doctor also gave me some shots to keep the baby.

Upon going home, I immediately looked for my feng shui calendar and found out I am going to have a baby boy. Of course, that still remains to be seen.

Now I am on my 8th week and although I am still on bed rest, I am doing fine.

Moving Out

2008-02-02T01:02:00.000-08:00

What occupies me nowadays is moving out from my Parent's house in Iriga to a house my hubby and I bought in Naga. Since we decided at the start of the year to finally think about our future and move to a place of our own, our little project has occupied all my free time. From surfing the net for inspiration, to flipping through tons of magazine pages, I still cannot make up my mind on how I can furnish the place.

There is also the thing of making my family accept that we are really going to have a place of our own. None of my cousins has done this in the Philippines. As is the tradition, we usually stay with our parents. Not really to save (well that's part of it too..) but because of our attachment to our families. I was telling my friend the other day how strange it is that here in the province everyone seems to be surprised if one decides to move out from your parents. "Why are you moving out?" people immediately ask as if there is one controversial issue that made you leave your parents.

I am already 31 years old, my husband is 34. I don't know, but I really think real life should start for us now. We should start living our way through life, doing our own marketing, paying our own bills and making our own decisions. Although of course my Dad does not mind that we live with them. The extra mouths to feed was never an issue. He does not approve of us moving out. But we did it anyway. He just treats the issue with indifference now. I also think we can focus more on ourselves as a unit, a family.

Well, as my inspiration is going nowadays, I'm thinking Ikea... Using locally available furniture. I think its clean and simple.

We are scheduled to move in on February 6, before Chinese New Year.

Post Election Blues

2007-05-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

It has been almost 10 days after the election.

dad won, overwhelmingly...

uncle won, top notcher...

cousin won, overwhelmingly...

cousin won, topnotcher too...

hard work... sun scorched skin...

campaign trail blaze... gone...

endless counting nights... gone...

Sipping iced tea... smoking a cigarette...

doing nothing but waiting...

a blog here... a blog there...

offends... pained words thrown like bombs...

a sorry here... an apology there...

all's well that ends well...

family is family...

love is love...

only time heals so...

be patient...

The New RC Iriga Multiply Site

2007-03-21T03:44:00.000-07:00

Being the incoming president of the Rotary Club of Iriga, or in rotary speak the PE (President Elect), is no joke. It is already tiring and I have not yet even started my rotary year. I will be attending the PE Training Seminar or PETS though on March 23 and 24 at the Dalampasigan Resort in Quezon. This covers the whole Rotary District 3820.

Anyway, I have just launched RC Iriga's Multiply Site. Visit us on the net at http://rciriga.multiply.com. Just drop by and say hello.

kisses

2007-02-09T23:02:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaWD7UMs898

Of the Military Parade Fiasco

2006-09-20T21:37:00.000-07:00

We have already sent our formal letter of complaint to the "powers that be" in Naga City. I hope that is the end of it. I really do not want to hurt anyone but I believe our thoughts should be heard. Here is a copy of the letter we have sent to Naga City. Just read on...

18 September 2006

HON. ATTY. MILES RAQUID ARROYO
City Councilor and Over-All Chairman
Military Street Parade Competition
Naga City

THRU: MR. VICENTE S. AVILA
Project Director and Chairman
Secretariat and Rules and Regulations

Dear Madam,

Greetings of Peace and Prosperity!

First, we would like to extend our warm congratulations for a very successful Regional Penafrancia Fiesta Military Street Parade Competition. Through our hard work, our school was able to garner awards for our participating contingents, specifically: 1st Place for our WATC Unit, Second Place for our Sponsors, 5th Place for our ROTC Unit, 2nd Place for Most Disciplined ROTC Unit, and 4th Place for our University Band. We are truly grateful for this opportunity to show the whole Bicolandia what the University of Northeastern Philippines is capable of as an educational institution and molder of values.

At the onset, we would like you to know that we honor and believe in the integrity of the competition and we have no intention to besmirch the reputation of the most prestigious Military Parade Competition in the whole Bicol Region. However, it is with great regret that we write to you this letter to express our vehement protest over what transpired during the Military Parade last 15 September 2006 on the occasion of Naga City’s celebration of the 2006 Penafrancia Festivities. It is of great surprise to our Institution to find out that after the hard work and effort of our University Majorettes, we were not rated as a competing participant in your prestigious competition.

We would like to start our narration of facts by stating why we did not participate in the Category 1 Level of the Competition despite the entry of our Commandant as such. Our institution’s CAT Unit has always been categorized under Category 2. Annually, except last year, we have always submitted our entry under Category 2. Through our Commandant, we have expressed our desire to be included under Category 2. However, our request was verbally denied by Mr. Vicente Avila, telling us that the Order of Parade and the Invitations has already been sent out and the entry can no longer be changed. On this reason, we have decided not to participate in the Category 1 Level and instead concentrate our efforts in the Category 3 Level.

On the day of the Military Parade, our school representatives on stage were already at the Plaza Quezon Grand Stand by around 6:30 in the morning. The undersigned was able to arrive at around 7:00 AM. The parade has not even started yet when the undersigned was asked by Mr. Carlo Oliva, Jr. if we will participate in Category 1. He told the undersigned that they are currently checking and counter-checking the attendance of the participants in the competition. The undersigned expressly mentioned that our school will participate only in Category 3 and that we are truly not going to participate in Category 1. The undersigned believes Mr. Oliva immediately informed those on the field of this information through radio and Mr. Benny Decena, the official emcee, who was just beside him.

Later on, during the course of the parade, another young man in a yellow chaleco approached the undersigned and confirmed the information which she already relayed to Mr. Oliva. The undersigned confirmed the information and thought no more of the incident.

Much later, after the announcement of the winners, our school representatives felt the need to inquire as to the performance of our University Majorettes. Our school did not win. We admit that it came as a surprise to us, but the main reason why we inquired is for us to assess the veracity of our loss and in the process maybe improve ourselves by knowing our weaknesses.

With great surprise, we learned that the judges never gave us any grade. We were not rated. On further inquiry, we were told that the judges did not give us a score because we were not present in the supposedly “FIRST PASS” of our University Majorettes and University Band in Category 1. It truly perplexed us because our University Band, under the same circumstances, whose “FIRST PASS” was under Category 3, was given a rating and in fact won 4th place. We cannot attribute this to anything but to the negligence of the event organizers.

We cannot hide the fact that this had truly upset us. We came all the way from Iriga City. Our school spent hundreds of thousands of pesos to show our best performance in the competition. Our University Majorettes practiced day and night just to master their steps. There is so much commitment and dedication, not to mention sacrifice, just to give their best, yet all has come to naught due to the negligence of the organizing committee.

We would just like it to be clear that we are not belittling the efforts of other schools. We are sure that all participating schools had also sacrificed in the same manner, though maybe in varying degrees, and it is due to this fact that we believe that the organizers should exercise more prudence and justice in carrying out their functions.

To us, this competition, contrary to what Mr. Vicente Avila told us, is not the winning of a mere trophy or medal. It is the prestige and honor that this competition will bring to the University if we win. The organizers should realize that the participating schools spend, even without any cash reward associated with the competition, because they understand the exposure, honor and prestige that this competition entails.

Truly, it is pitiful that no less than the Project Director of this event thinks so lowly of his own competition. For us, this is THE COMPETITION for our ROTC, WATC, Sponsors, Band and Majorettes. We aim for this because it is a manifestation of the values of discipline, hard work, commitment and unity and we believe that winning this competition confirms that as an Institution we have indeed succeeded in imparting these values to our students.

We have always told our students that it is not important if we win, what is important is that they give their best to perform well in the competition. It would not have mattered to us if we lost fair and square, but we were not even rated so how could we have truly lost? It would have been a different story if we saw in the score sheets that we had low scores but fact is, and the undersigned has personally seen it, that the spaces for the scores were left blank.

Our Institution is not new to losing. For several years, we make ourselves contented with what has been awarded to us despite rumors of rigging in the competition. We just do our best to make sure that we play fair and square. We do not employ professional dancers to perform as majorettes. We do not employ professional musicians to perform as part of our Band. All the members of our contingent are bonafide students of our school.

We do not ask much, but an acknowledgement of the negligence of the organizers of the Military Parade. I believe that we deserve no less considering the hard work of our majorettes and the honor of our school. We are duty bound to exercise our right to voice out our protest and this is why we have decided to inform you of our complaint.

On our part, we believe that we have informed the organizing committee properly. This is even boldly confirmed by two facts: first, that our University Band was scored as it should have been and second, we were not announced as a contingent in the Category 1 Level. The announcer on stage immediately called on Participant No. 65 after Participant No. 63 in Category 1, which means that they are aware that we are not participating in Category 1. Clearly, our University Band was rated, but our University Majorettes were not. To our mind, what happened is a result of the negligence of the organizers, something that is truly surprising considering the number of people with radios, cellphones and other communication equipment on the site.

Furthermore, granting that we were suddenly classified as a non-competing participant, still we should have been rated for it is stated in the Guidelines, Paragraph No. 11 “NON COMPETING UNIT will also be rated for record and reference purposes only by the committee & judges”.

What we ask is more prudence and forethought, a recognition that this is a serious competition that should not be treated lightly. The organizers should not toy with the efforts of the participating schools because the schools participate with all their fervor, investing time, resources and people. We truly cannot understand how this could happen after all the years that the organizers were conducting this event. The undersigned has been watching this annual competition since she was in Grade School and the organizers are still the same people who are in charge of carrying out the event. We cannot understand how despite of all those years of experience, this unfair and unjust act can happen.

We have decided that as an institution, we shall honor your decision but this does not prevent us from making our thoughts on the matter heard by the general public. We believe, that like us, they deserve an explanation and a threshing out of all the issues that has cropped up in this competition.

The undersigned has always emphasized that it is not the trophies and medals that makes us winners but our hard work, dedication and commitment to do our best and play fair and square under all circumstances. We still believe in the competition, for in fact, we are once again starting to plan our participation in next year’s competition, but if these issues will not be discussed and once again swept under the rug, we are sorry to inform you that we will no longer participate in a competition that is riddled with doubt and dishonesty.

We believe that our participation in the competition have vested us with a right to be rated and this right has been violated by the negligence of the organizers. It is on this right that we anchor our protest. We also believe that this right should be upheld by a thorough investigation into what has transpired and that the persons responsible are sanctioned accordingly.

Furthermore, we call for an analysis and evaluation of the rules, regulation and guidelines governing the competition. We call for a more transparent and professional conduct of the event. We call for a threshing out of all the issues that has been swept under the rug throughout the years that this competition was conducted. We demand integrity, honesty and justice. We want change and we believe that as a participant in this prestigious competition we deserve no less.

With much gratitude, we look forward to a favorable resolution of the issues our school has raised here. Furthermore, we look forward to a better, much improved event next year.

Sincerely yours,

ATTY. REMELISA G. ALFELOR
University President

Copy Furnished:

HON. JESSE M. ROBREDO
Mayor, Naga City

HON. GERRY BORDADO
Vice-Mayor, Naga City

HON. MILES RAQUID-ARROYO
Councilor and Over-all Chairman
Regional Military Street Parade Competition

MR. VICENTE AVILA
Project Director
Regional Military Street Parade Competition

Peachy in Davao

2006-08-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm on a trip right now here in Davao to attend the AAHSPI Convention here at the Grand Men Seng Hotel. It's my first day here at its been great so far.

It is sooo difficult to go back to old standards after staying at the Makati Shangrila Hotel. In fairness though, Grand Men Seng is good enough. Maybe three stars out of five. I will give a more detailed review when I go back to Bicol. I am trying out their wifi service though, which is how I am posting this entry through. For this alone I think they're okay. Although a little expensive at P120 per hour, pwede na rin considering how cheap things are here in Davao City. Would you believe a P99 Lunch Buffet at Kuya Eds? Grabe talaga! I only had to pop P275.00 for my and Mr. Janolan's lunch. May bottomless iced tea na yon ha. Grabe talaga! When the waiter asked me what drink I would order I asked him how much is the softdrinks, he said P35.

Eh yong bottomless iced tea? P36 po. He answered. AS IF P1.00 MATTERED! Of course nag bottomless na ako. But of course for the P99 it was not Kamay Kainan or Dads. It was a 6 dish buffet with a salad/kilaw/inihaw station and choice out of three variants of gelatin. But an eat-all-you-can is still an eat-all-you-can. Okay na din! Not bad!

Well, my one hour might be over na so I'll just post some more tomorrow. Tah-tah!

Latest...

2006-08-03T18:09:00.001-07:00

Its been sometime since I last posted. Been really busy but fulfilling. So many things had happened already.

Last week, we were all having a big high with the announcement of a big win by the UNEP Chorale in the recently concluded World Choir Games in Xiamen, China. The whole university was there when the whole chorale arrived. We prepared breakfast for them but we really could not resist a parade in the Iriga City commercial area just to show that Iriga through UNEP is really world class. So we did, sans the bureacratic permit, we paraded and all people big and small, of all genders, races and ages cheered them on. I was on the coaster accompanying the walking chorale. Hehe... Well, it was almost noon and ... you know...

They also did an instant courtesy call to the Mayor in the middle of Highway 1. Hahaha.... in the middle of the street amidst the traffic, ignoring the blaring tricycle horns and shouts from the disgruntled motorists. Aba, once in a lifetime lang ito. I do not even know when we could afford to send them abroad again.

The important thing is they brought something home and just to show the world that this little place in Bicol that we call home has talents that can conquer the world. Hah!

That same day, in the evening, the UNEP College Department also had their Induction and Acquaintance Party. Bon-Bon (Mr. Norberto Alfelor - the USG Moderator) decided to get me as this year's Guest Speaker. Declining at first, I thought, it would be a great opportunity to bond with the students. To sweeten the deal, Bon-Bon even invited my favorite local band (second to Tanikala that is) Legalize Cannabis.

Now, I really had a problem about this. I told Bon-Bon to just use the name Legalize because I cannot deal with questions on why I allowed such a band with such a name in this University. I may even be asked, am I of the same frame of mind and advocacy as the name of the band suggests? Well, no. Sorry, I really just like their music. I mean, just because some people like Marilyn Manson's music does not make them cross-dressing punkistas di ba. I know of some people who loved Iron Maiden (in my college days) but were quite decent people making straight unos and becoming University Scholars (in U.P. Diliman). I think one of them is a Medical Doctor now.

Going back, I had so much fun. I forgot I am the President of the University. I was stompin like crazy with the kids. I was so amazed with the students. Wala pang nainom yon ha, nag mo-mosh na! Oh well, I don't know. But with the high level of security imposed (gate pass for students to avoid gate crashers and super frisking of students before they enter the University Gate) I don't think any student was able to get in alcoholic beverages. But of course, they could always have smuggled it in with their food boxes. Well, if ever they did it still must have been of such small quantities that it still would not give the same effect as I saw on the students that night. Oh I don't know. Who cares anyway, its done.

But the best thing is, the students had fun. I regretted nga that we had to cut the mini concert short by declaring lights on at 1:00 am. The students had classes the next day and we did not want them to go home wasted. If it was only up to me, I would have let them stay till the sun started to rise in the morning. But, I had to be responsible, after all, I am indeed responsible for the lives of this young adults while they're here in the University. It's difficult to strike a balance between what is reasonable and what is "abuso". But it had to be done. I just promised the kids that I'll throw a party for them at Tan-aw one of these days with of course, Legalize.

The most of this week I spent in Manila helping my cousin prepare for her wedding, attend a bridal shower and also do some errands. It is truly hectic but at least I would get to see my 38 year old cousin get married, sa wakas. I really hope things go well.

That's all for now. As for me, I will just continue doing what is right and I know as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, God will do the rest. :-)

just a little something to think about

2006-07-11T04:49:00.000-07:00

Your Values Profile

Loyalty:

You value loyalty a fair amount.
You're loyal to your friends... to a point.
But if they cross you, you will reconsider your loyalties.
Staying true to others is important to you, but you also stay true to yourself.

Honesty:

You value honesty a fair amount.
You're honest when you can be, but you aren't a stickler for it.
If a little white lie will make a situation more comfortable, you'll go for it.
In the end, you mostly care about "situational integrity."

Generosity:

You don't really value generosity.
Your needs always come first, no matter what.
And you'll possibly help someone else out...
But only if it helps you in return.

Humility:

You value humility a fair amount.
You tend to be an easy going, humble person.
But occasionally your ego takes over.
You have a slight competitive streak - and the need to be the best.

Tolerance:

You value tolerance highly.
Not only do you enjoy the company of those very different from you...
You do all that you can to seek it out interesting and unique friends.
You think there are many truths in life, and you're open to many of them.

The Five Factor Values Test

2006-07-10T01:43:00.000-07:00

Your Career Type: Social

You are helpful, friendly, and trustworthy.
Your talents lie in teaching, nursing, giving information, and solving social problems.

You would make an excellent:

Counselor - Dental Hygienist - Librarian
Nurse - Parole Officer - Personal Trainer
Physical Therapist - Social Worker - Teacher

The worst career options for your are realistic careers, like truck driver or farmer.

What's Your Ideal Career?

My Birthday

2006-06-27T04:39:00.000-07:00

Your Birthdate: June 22

You tend to be understated and under appreciated.
You have a hidden force to do amazing things, doing them your own way.
People may see you as strange and shy, but they know little.
Your unconventional ways have more power than they (and even you) know.

Your strength: Standing up for what you know is true

Your weakness: You tend to be picky and rigid

Your power color: Silver

Your power symbol: Square

Your power month: April

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

30th Birthday

2006-06-27T02:26:00.000-07:00

I just turned 30 last Thursday. Team 2010 offered a Mass for me and I was also given a very simple tribute with a simple merienda that followed. I wrote this that morning while on a break. Just a little scribbling of my thoughts.

30TH BIRTHDAY

It is my 30th Birthday today.

What have I done in the past 30 years?

*Become a University President.

*Marry the Greatest Love of my life.

*Graduate from UP Diliman on time and without any problem to my parents.

*Graduate from Maryknoll (Miriam College) High School with an outstanding library club president award.

*Read the Da Vinci Code and making my faith stronger than ever.

*Become a person of faith.

Truly I can go on and on and count all my blessings but what the only achievement that I can boast is the fact that I have friends and kept them through the years and I have been lucky that these are friends who have been with me through thick and thin.

I am lucky because I do not have to conform for them to love me.

I do not have to lend them money or treat them to dinner and gimiks for them to appreciate me.

I do not have to be thoughtful, God knows how much I have on my mind right now, for them to be loyal and true.

I just have to be me. Without any pretensions. Without any masks. Just me.

As I look on towards the next few years, I think of what more should I do with my life to make sure I do not destroy the purity I have earned through the years and I realized I just have to be my own self and not be swayed by the tides of time.

I still have so many things to do. Not achieve, DO!

Problems are a dime a dozen, and it seems very difficult, but when you look at the half full glass of every issue, you will realize that solutions are a dime a dozen too. It just needs the right amount of leadership and integrity to be implemented. I am not afraid.

30 seems to be a big number. I don’t feel thirty. Age truly is just a state of mind.

I remember walking through the corridors of UNEP and overheard a student talk to another how young their President is. They even said, “Bagana la pa ka igin iginon.”

Others would have felt offended but I just smiled to myself, because that is ME. I am this igin-iginon and transparent little girl who just does what is needed of her. This is who I am. That is my trademark.

As I look ahead and see the work that still needs to be done, I just say,

“Thank you Lord for your belief and faith in me. Thank you for the thirty years of loving family and friends who have nurtured me to be who I am now. Thank you for your everlasting faithfulness. I pray for more.”

Apprehensive

2006-06-27T02:21:00.000-07:00

Apprehensive. That is how I feel now. Tomorrow, I will be speaking in front of all the faculty members of the University for the very first time as their President.

Do you ever get that feeling that your mind is so full of stuff that you want to say but with so much thoughts you get paralyzed and say nothing? That is how I feel right now. There are so many things I want to say.

I think the best thing is just to pray and prepare well. Organize my thoughts logically and try not to offend anyone.

UNEP'S TEAM 2010

2006-05-18T02:17:00.000-07:00

I slept early yesterday after a vary exhausted day at work. It was the second day of our 1st institutional strategic planning activity and it was really tiring.

Although, in a way I was disappointed because I was not able to finish the OKRAPISPATRES activity yesterday, we were able to finally come up with an institutional vision-mission that would hopefully bring all our efforts into perspective.

I was happy because at least I learned that everybody in this University was interested to promote the its welfare. Everybody also understood that this University has a great soul that has to be set free from the bonds of mediocrity. We have also decided to give our group a name, the UNEP TEAM 2010. You see, we have time-bounded our vision by year 2010. I sure hope we complete what we have set out to do.

Today, I might have woken up still a little exhausted but I am happy that UNEP has finally woken up from her slumber.

Here's to a great new day UNEP!

Fire Fear

2006-05-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

Just a few days ago (April 27,2006) a fire gutted two (2) classrooms at the 4th floor of the Administration Building of the University of Northeastern Philippines here in Iriga.

I was in Manila when it happened and my phone was conking out at that time. They were not able to contact me. I got really pissed when I learned of the news. We are already having a little deficit problem, as it is, brought about by this weak economy were having, and the fire I think, just made it feel like the last straw.

I really do not know how to make of it. There has been a series of fires in schools and hospitals in the region lately. I remember about a few weeks ago, Ramon, my husband of just a little shy of three months told me that he had to fix the fire protection requirements of our school in Legazpi (CCDI) because just a few days before that a fire broke out in Bicol University, Aquinas Hospital and at Divine Word College, all in Legazpi City. Allegedly, there is an arsonist out there targetting big school and hospitals. Damage has only been to property, Thank God!

After this fire in our University, I was told that just a few days before the fire, University of Nueva Caceres in Naga City, CSSAC in Pili, Camarines Sur and CSPC in Nabua, Camarines Sur all suffered the same fate from this so called arsonist.

The fire in UNC gutted the whole 2nd floor of their High School Building - 12 classrooms in all, the CIDG people told me yesterday. The one in CSPC is just a small storage room. All the other fires where in places where there was not really much substantial damage.

What is really strange about the fire in UNEP is that the place that got burned was not really a high traffic area specially it being Summer and all. The two classrooms that caught fire was being occuppied as a Student Lounge so it only had a few tables and chairs. The other room is being occuppied as the office of the Dean of Commerce and Business Education. Electrical lines were also not disturbed as people in the building continued to work on their computers while the fire continued raging upstairs.

Is there really a group out to prove themselves? Oh, I don't know and frankly, I do not really care. Right now, I will just count my blessings:

1. At least there were no loss of life or injury inflicted to anyone.
2. At least now, our Mayor has decided to focus on the needs of the Iriga City Fire Department, something that has been on her things to do list but was not really a priority.
3. At least, we would be able to renovate the office properly and it can actually become three small classrooms for major subjects. The Dean's Office is now located at Rm. 401 where the Dean likes to stay now. He does not want to come back at his old office.
4. Schools are now starting to focus on the fire protection of their school as they provide more fire extinguishers and fix their fire exits.
5. Personally, once again, it made me realize how God can throw a curve ball when you least know it so better to be always prepared.

For now, as I sit on my computer contemplating on the implications of all this on my work and life, I am thankful because inspite of it all, I still feel blessed.

New Blog, New Stories

2006-04-20T04:15:00.000-07:00

Its been a tiring Thursday.

Spent most of the day in Goa solving problems.

Now, waiting for my ride back home from work.

Checked my email.

Regretted having missed iblog2.

Got inspired by the disini and mlq3 blogs.

Realized that all my internet activities were wedding related.

Now that the wedding is over and REAL LIFE started,

so many realizations... overwhelming...

an awakening to the truth...

THAT LIFE IS INDEED A SERIES OF CHOICES.

IT IS THE DECISIONS THAT WE MAKE THAT MAKES LIFE WHAT IT IS.

Welcome to the Dragon's Lair!