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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. :-)