explore my optimistic world

Smurfy Panglao, Bohol

| at Tuesday, April 03, 2012

Every time I look at these photographs, I am delighted with myself. I know it isn't bad to love your own work, or be vain with it, or to be proud of it... and I think, these are all worth sharing for, especially to the souls who wanted to gasp a fresher breath and spectacle of an unruffled, splendid beaches this hooooot summer season. Check these out!

Well, what more can I say with these scenic views that welcomed me and my course mates when we went to Bohol during our educational trip in 2010? Until now, I’m left speechless… just captivated with all of these portraits.

When you speak of Bohol, you speak of world-class sights. That’s why I would personally recommend Panglao, Bohol. It's worth the time and money! Special thanks to Mr. Ely Dejaresco, the teacher who brought us to that beautiful province.

(By the way, the title is taken from the 2011 3D animated movie, “Smurfs” because of the bright, azure blue atmosphere of the place.)

Angry bird

| at Thursday, March 29, 2012

“Let us share each other. Let us work together. Let us love one another.”

This was the compassionate statement of our office head. Stirring and touching in fact! But how can you love your fellow when you are gradually being thrown down to anger and hatred? And how can you love that fellow when you are deeply falling into the well of rage and fury?

Perhaps you may love him/her, but it will take a long time of understanding and consideration, of healing and rebuilding the broken relationship, of acceptance that what happened this afternoon must not be taken daily, that it must not affect our everyday disposition and approach while working in one office. Perhaps I may learn to love him/her, but in a lengthy period.

I got this one posted because I’m seriously mad at one officemate. We are very mad at him whose action has brought trouble to the office and the heads concern. Everyone is angry at him, except our two heads of office who have to stay neutral and fair.

Therefore I conclude, it’s all against one bullshit man. Cold war has just started.

'Cause it's your day!

| at Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Since I knew blogging, never did I forget of posting a short piece of written creation about you on your birthday and on the day of all fathers. And since today is your day, I will blog you for the nnth time. Para maiba naman, hahaluan ko ng Tagalog at Bisaya.

Before 12 midnight, instantly flashed to mind that few minutes will be your birthday. Then I cried, because I can't be home on your special day... because I often did the same when I was in college... because I love you that much.

Pa, hindi ako mapapagod kasasabi na mahal na mahal kita, kung gaano ako ka-proud, hangang-hanga, at thankful dahil ikaw ang naging papa namin, ang binigay ni Lord para maging gabay at maging haligi ng pamilya. Ikaw talaga ang tinadhanang maging kabiyak ni mama. Sa agwat ng edad at rami ng kaibhan n'yo, napalaki n'yo kami ng maayos—magalang, may disiplina, may tiwala sa sarili, may takot sa Diyos, at marunong makisama sa lahat ng tao.

Kung magkakaroon man nga ako ng asawa, gusto ko yung tulad mo. At kung hindi man, sapat na'ng ibuhos ko ang buong kalinga at pagmamahal sa iyo, kay mama, at sa mga kapatid ko. Ikaw na yung lalaking mamahalin ko, mamahalin namin habang buhay. Lahat ng payo at mga turo mo sa'kin, nandito lahat, nakatatak sa isip ko. Hindi ako magiging ganito kung wala ka at si mama.

Sana bigyan ka pa ni Lord ng maraming taon para magkasama pa tayo ng matagal nina mama at nina inday. Sa dami ng problema'ng nalampasan natin (dinaanan pa nga tayo ng lindol), alam kong malalampasan din natin ang mga bago pang hamon sa buhay, at haharapin natin 'to ng magkasama.

Pa, kahit hindi ka artista, pero ako ang number one fan mo. Kahit wala kang Twitter account, pero ako ang number one follower mo. Kahit wala kang account sa Facebook, pero ikaw ang pinaka-like ko. I love you so much pa. Palangga ta ka kaayu. Dili nako ma-imagine akong kinabuhi kung wala ka.

PS. Sana matupad ko na yung pangako ko sa'yong dadalhin kita sa Baguio, ang hilig-hilig mo kasi sa agriculture. Don't worry, hindi ko nakakalimutan yun ahh, hehe. :-) Happy birthday pa!

Staying grateful despite the tragedy

| at Friday, February 24, 2012

In spite of the catastrophe that destroyed a big portion in the town of La Libertad and the neighboring places of Guihulngan, Jimalalud and Tayasan on February 6, 2012, there are still several major factors or reasons that every person in these municipalities must be thankful for:

…that the 6.9 magnitude earthquake did not occur on night time, because if that was so, what will possibly draw before us, are lifeless bodies of our fellow citizens. Just imagine that ahead that sound sleep of our loved ones is a sudden, devastating earthquake. That’s why, let’s thank God that it did not befall on the evening.

…that Tañon Strait, the passage separating the islands of Cebu and Negros is not an open sea, because if that was so, expect a great tsunami to hit the area. That even dwellers in highlands will get to encounter the furious tidal waves.

…that the natives living along the shorelines were able to leave immediately and transfer to upland areas, because though there was low rise of sea level, but the water still reached and destroyed several houses few steps away from the coast, thus, leaving many people homeless.

…that some settlers in Bluke 2, Solongon stayed alert, making them able to perceive the unpredicted landslide. But unfortunately, many were buried alive; homes and properties, rice and corn fields gone astray.

…in our part, we are very much thankful that the property we call “home” is still standing. Though cracks are visible, though our kitchen and small garden are totally destroyed, but above all, the most important is seeing all your loved ones, all family members, ALIVE.

Here are some marks of damages in Sitio San Juan (coastline of La Libertad), where my family is residing, where for more than 20 years now, I learn what life is all about.

Nang Elena's house (neighbor)

Nanay Laida and Tatay Julio's house, where I spent most of my childhood days, as mama and papa used to leave me in their (nanay & tatay's) custody before reporting to work (for papa) and school (for mama).

Our neighbors’ nipa houses are totally destroyed,
meaning they can no more be inhabited.

Full devastation of houses

Photos courtesy of Uncle Rhodel Camero

Mga pinangga sa dos mil onse

| at Wednesday, December 28, 2011

The year of the rabbit has been a challenging age for me. Finding job in a big city has never been easy. It required patience and diligence. It took several weeks before I landed into a career—first in the city hall, second, being a secondary English teacher in a private Filipino-Chinese school. I was forced to leave the government for two months because of the delayed salary (for first timer employees). But it turned out to be like “playing” when after two months of being an educator, I resigned because I can’t handle the pressure, considering that I’m not an Education graduate and I can’t control the attitudes of some students who are really acting in their teenage states. Then I returned to the government, and that's where I am now.

But no regrets after all, because part of this journey is meeting wonderful people who have made a difference to your life. And I’d like to mention them here, the persons who became part of my beautiful and bountiful 2011. First is Ante Cita, my closest in the office and my best buddy. She became the bridge who introduced and gave me the privilege to teach in a state-of-the-art institution. She’s like a mother to me; Uncle Jeffrey, our God-fearing executive and my angel in the entrance to the government; Ma’am Rose, whom I’ve learned so much from, especially on important things related to the government; Sir Jun, the Frank Sinatra of Cebu, the great “bugoy” who always make us laugh, but who treats me as his daughter; Sir Vince, the quick and kind friend and employee who continue helping us especially in processing payrolls, requests, and technical works; my co-staffers at OSCA for the good treatment as the youngest in the office; my fellow “ka-friendship” employees at the City Hall; the senior citizen members and leaders of the different chapters of Cebu especially to Sir Lan (our OSCA Head), Ma’am Edith, Ma’am Panny, and the others who are often present in the office; my bubbly, intelligent, and good-looking students of Cebu Eastern College-High School (especially the third and second years); my co-teachers who were very kind to me when I was still at that school; Myrpha and Hyacinth, my sweet pupils in the regular evening tutorial sessions; my relatives, neighbors and friends at Sanciangko especially Auntie Lisa, Uncle Aye, other uncles, aunties and cousins who are supportive to my work; Ate Merlyn, my compassionate, generous landlady; and to all whom I’ve shared my worst and happy times with, this year.

I’m glad and grateful that God made you part of my 2011. Though most of my time is spent in Cebu, but never did I forget my good friends who are in Negros, and the others who are now staying in other place to work and settle, especially my batch mates in Mass Communication, The NORSUnian (TN), board mates, friends and family in La Libertad. I miss you that much. Gusto ko magkuyog tag usab. :(

Motivated to linger

| at Thursday, December 15, 2011

I said I won’t stop until I’ll find the job that will make me happy, but I told myself, I think I will stop here. Working in the government is but cool and adventurous. I find happiness here ‘cause most of the time, I’m doing field works and meeting different people from all walks of life. Here, I’ve got the opportunity to explore the City of Cebu, its people, and its way of governance.

I want to stay longer in the government because unlike private companies, I don’t have to worry much about my number of absences and lates, my outfit and others, only that I have to finish the task that has been entrusted to me by my heads of office and co-employees. But above all, unlike other firms and establishments, working in the government isn’t much stressful. I have quite time mingling with the visitors/ clients/constituents and co-employees, and also, quite time visiting the urban and rural barangays. This is the life that I wanted! I love working here. I’m literally moving.

Receiving “thank you” (salamat) from the people you are helping is fulfilling and satisfying. I find excitement every day that I render duty in our office at the City Hall. I love this job and I thank God for bringing me here. No regret that I’ve transferred and registered as a voter of Cebu City, because I’m able to help myself and others. This is the challenge that I’ll continue to stride.

Mingaw na sad :(

| at Monday, November 21, 2011

I feel lonely. I'm missing the most important ones—Manda, Carla, Yanna, Mama, Papa and Keray. I'm just alone in the room, and before closing my eyes, the thoughts of them always flash in this mindset. I want to be home. I want to play with my sisters. I want to talk with papa and mama. I want to sleep beside them. I want to be with them again. I'm missing them so much... and I'm just carrying this pain. Christmas will come sooner, and hopefully, that would be our time together.

Astig mo ahh!

| at Wednesday, November 09, 2011

“Do not judge the book by its own cover.”

I've encountered this for several times already—meeting men/guys with “bad” looks (I mean the way people see them is the negative “they”, looks like they're “bad boys” because of how they carry their selves and appear in front of the majority). But when you approach them, you'll get to know that they're not how they appear to us. It's like saying that their face is rock, but their heart is as soft as mallows. Usually, this type grow beards in their face, hair not fixed well, fond of black, “snob”, arrogant at first impression, seldom smiles, etc.

Today, I got the occasion of talking with a guy who fits to the description I cited. He's an auditor at the Accounting Office. By fate, he was the one who checked and audited our documents for payroll. I had the chance of talking with him as he called my attention up regarding a miscalculation in our paper. As I went toward him, I felt uneasy. I thought I can't handle his attitude. But when he started talking and explained to me the matter, I was a little astonished. Who would expect that that would be the way he talks? He's in fact good and friendly, only that some may feel aloof to mingle with him because of his “astig” looks.

Actually, I saw him (for the first time) on the morning of the same day at the Mayor's Office, and I was already intrigued. I mean, I think I'm interested to know and befriend him. And that wish was granted in less than 12 hours.

While waiting for him to finish the auditing, the clock ticked at 3:00pm, and after observing the 3 o'clock prayer, he honestly told me that he will light a cigar outside (the building) to spend the remaining 10-minute break. He even asked my permission and uttered his concern if I can wait for a few minutes before finishing his work... that he even tapped my back if I was sure with my words. I responded with a kind smile, “okay ra sir” (it's okay sir).

*sigh* I think I like him (ahw? not part of the post)... he may look different, but with that first encounter with him, you can say that he's real. If you'd ask me, I prefer this type—“bad boy” look. It's easy to judge with what you see on the outside, but when you know who he really is, you'll be more impressed. So better not to mind with the cover, just read the content.

Livelier when at work

| at Tuesday, November 08, 2011

I’d love to be working every day. I’d rather be in the office or having field work daily than stay inside the house (or in my auntie’s house) on weekdays or holidays. When I’m at work, I break away from worries and boredom for I’m in a company of busy yet happy people. A day turns out productive when I’m from duty, but when I’m staying in Sanciangko (where I am currently residing in now), I feel like my day ends with no task completed. I just sleep, read, write whatever comes my mind, talk with the neighbors, etc… I don’t think it makes sense, I don’t think I consider it an accomplishment..

In this month, straight two consecutive Mondays were holidays, November 1 also was, and November 30 will be. When I was a student, I love holidays, for it means no class. But now that I’ve already escaped from the walls of a university life, I hate holidays, for it means no pay, I am brought closer to problems, and I feel weak.

Happy Birthday Sir Mike!

| at Friday, October 28, 2011

(A blog post for a public servant who serves with a heart, with no egotistical intentions)

You were Vice Mayor of Cebu City when I first heard of the name, Michael Rama. And the first time I saw you in person was during the Vice Mayor’s League of the Philippines (VMLP) Convention on June 2008 at the Negros Oriental Convention Center. I was still in second year college that time (at Negros Oriental State University-Dumaguete) when our editor-in-chief of the school publication assigned me to cover the event. Upon knowing that you were the president of the league, I became more excited as I always look up to the politicians of Cebu and as what my father had mentioned about you—a competent leader. Also, every time I hear a known politician coming to visit our province, I am eager to meet that person as I am a fan of politics.

I intently listened as you delivered your speech during that affair which tackled on environment protection and preservation. I even took a note about it, but I can no more trace where that notebook is. It was a gathering of the leaders, attended by Broadcast Journalist Korina Sanchez who represented in behalf of Mar Roxas (she was still unmarried that time). I observed the Vice Mayors were even zealous to have a photo privilege with Ms. Korina.

I spent my internship at The Freeman on the summer of 2010. I saw you again during the opening of the Philippines Veteran’s Bank at Jones Avenue. You were the Acting Mayor that time, and you looked younger than you were still Vice Mayor.

I came back to Cebu on the following year, searching for a job. And never did I expect that I will have a chance to temporarily sit down in one of the chairs in your office as I am currently working in the Office of the Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA)-Mayor’s Office, wherein I am not just seeing you regularly, but meeting and greeting you “good morning sir/good afternoon sir” every time you get inside the office (usually in your “bagets” outfit) or every time I meet you at the hallway; writing several letters addressed to your name (undersigned by our chief, Jeffrey Ocampo).

You are one of the few politicians whom I highly respected most. Observing the way you run the government of Cebu City is evidence to the words of my father, that you are a good leader. Watching you in your fast-paced steps is enough to convince me and the whole Cebuano community that you are a commendable, transparent leader… a mayor who’s not thinking of his self-satisfaction, but working and doing everything (though it might risk his name) for the welfare of all his constituents.

I salute you sir! It’s more than a privilege to be working in your office even for a contractual basis; much more of a privilege because I even got the chance to visit your place, the Rama Compound for countless of times now.

In your 57th birthday, I hope God will give you more strength as you continue facing the daily challenges of life as a public servant, and as you continue fighting for what is just and right.

Speaking of something nonsense

| at Sunday, October 16, 2011

The best part of being inlove is when you just love a person and be happy about it, even if that person can never be yours… even if you know that it can’t last forever. That’s the true essence of love. It’s not about winning someone. It’s not about owning a relationship. It’s just about being happy because you know you’ve loved without a favor to be loved back.”

... The first message I received this morning from a friend in Negros. Reading it, I had mixed emotions. I smiled. I was touched, amazed with the words. How wonderful is the feeling when you’re inlove! How beautiful life is when you’re inlove! Yes, when one is inlove. But on the other side, I became sad thinking that I have no one to call as my… (blah, blah, blah)

It was only during those days when I felt inlove, and I want to be inlove again. I feel more inspired, more confident when I’m inlove. Actually, I’m starting to like someone, but I must have to know him more. I don’t want to rush and I have to control my emotion. I hope he’s true to me.

_______________________

One of the things I hate the most is when you trust a friend, treat him nicely, more than an ordinary friend. Yet, come a time when he’s feelings is more than his treatment to you as a friend. I hate it more when I’m not feeling the same to him. And with that, there’s a tendency that my action and approach toward him also changes, and no more be the same as before… an inclination that we will never be as close as how we were during those days. And I’m sorry because that’s who I am. This is how I respond when a friend attempts to shift his feelings to me, from friendship to a different level… for I just wanted us to be friends. Can we be friends? Can we stay as friends?

More than acquaintance

| at Monday, October 03, 2011

My last day of teaching was a surprise to my students. It was like an ordinary school day. On the day or days before that, no one knew that Friday, September 30, 2011 will be my last appearance in front of the class (of the four sections).

It was a strip of pain in my heart because I’ve already established a bond/friendship and have started loving my students. Yes, I love my students despite their attitudes (negative or positive it may be), because everyone is special and everyone has a reserved space here inside me. Though I’ve only taught for exactly two months and two days, but what I’m sure of is, I will miss them all.

From the four sections I’ve been teaching to, some students are serious, some are just okay (balanced), some are playful (hyperactive), some have low interest to academics for they want to give more concentration on the things that they want the most (such as basketball, dance, etc), some are quite, some are “never-mind” (those who are not giving attention and would just opt to text or listen to the songs downloaded in their phones).

But as I say, what I will miss most about them is the times when I’m with them… because every time I go mingling with these teenagers, I’m in high spirits, I am brought back to my younger years. But the moment I walk inside the faculty room, I feel the pressure, something intense. Though managing a discussion is also wearing, but somehow, your exhaustion is alleviated when you hear the brilliant ideas of your students as they share their insights and opinions regarding a topic, and when you see them meticulously doing the task you are asking them to do.

I’m sure, they are already grown up the next time I got to mingle with them. I hope they won’t forget me as their cheerful English teacher though I was only with them for a short period of time.

explore my optimistic world

Bonjour chérie

Smurfy Panglao, Bohol

Angry bird

'Cause it's your day!

Staying grateful despite the tragedy

Mga pinangga sa dos mil onse

Motivated to linger

Mingaw na sad :(

Astig mo ahh!

Livelier when at work

Happy Birthday Sir Mike!

Speaking of something nonsense

More than acquaintance

Now is...

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