Travel and Photography

Be Thankful

2012-01-03T21:19:00.000+08:00

My two-year old daughter Gabby, learned to say "Thank you" when she was about 1 and 1/2 years old. She would say "thank you" about anything, I mean anything. She will say "thank you" when I gave her some "pasalubong" (homecoming treat), whenever I let her watch her favorite shows (Hi-5, Dora and Barney) or even helping her stand-up or get something for her. The funny thing is, she will also say "thank you" even if she is the one giving or doing something for us as if reminding us to say "thank you". It become 2nd nature to her and it's something that is not mechanical, I feel the sincerity and gratefulness in her heart.

Truly, there are many things to learn from a child.

This time I learned to be grateful and thankful. I learned to be thankful on good and not so good things, about big and small blessings. From a child's perspective everything is a big blessing, no small blessings and no blessings in disguised, just big blessings period.

2011 just ended and I thank God for all the blessings I received. Life is full of challenges, sometimes rough but I survived from it because of God's blessings and guidance. I am more than blessed than the previous years and I believe this year is another year of blessings.

It's time for me to harvest.

I will share with you again the lyrics of the only song I composed in 2011 (I hope to have more this year). Have a blessed 2012 to all.

Overjoyed, overflowed

From the Blessings of the Lord

Now I'm here, To proclaim

What the Lord has done for me

For this is the day that the Lord has made for me

He blessed my life, Now I'm free

To proclaim his wondrous deeds.

I am blessed and overjoyed.

All my life, He blesses me.

Even though I'm doing nothing for Him.

I'm overjoyed with what he's done for me

(Now I know He loves me endlessly)

I will proclaim, I will declare.

Gabby Made Me Cry Again...

2011-09-01T12:52:00.003+08:00

While my wife is nursing my younger daughter, I decided to bring Gabby upstairs to watch her videos during the early days of her development inside her mom's womb and video clips of her birth and baptism.

Gabby is having an "episode" (going through a difficult adjustments) during the first couple of days with her younger sister. So we watched the videos, I explained to her each videos, on what was happening. She likes the video of her moving inside her mom's womb, she said "wow!" and "cool" repeatedly. She laughed while watching the video of her crying during her birth and she was too shy to look at me while watching the video of her singing (she's only about 3 months then, I guess).

She understood everything I said, that her little sister will undergo the same process, that her little sister will need more attention for the time being.

And then...

She kissed me, as if telling me "Daddy, thank you", then I cried, I cried not just because of that kiss. I cried because I feel very blessed to have Gabby as my daughter, a very sweet and loving daughter and I thank God for allowing me to spend that special day with her.

Gabby loves her sister Dannie even more, she hugs her every morning. She check every now and then if Dannie is okay and she still laughs while Dannie is crying. I can't wait to see them playing together and helping each other. Its going to be a "cool" and "wow" moments.

Gabby Made Us Cry

2011-08-25T03:04:00.003+08:00

Finally, our stay in the hospital is over.. Last Saturday, we came home and reunited with our elder daughter.

Gabby was outside the gate waiting for us to arrived. When she saw us she kissed us and our little Dannie welcoming her into our house. She is so delighted to see us home.

On our first night together as a family, a touching scene happened. My wife was nursing Dannie while our elder daughter watched them. She's sleepy but can't go to bed because she was waiting for her mom to join her. What Gabby did was she sat besides her mom waiting for her to finish nursing Dannie. She took a peek once in a while checking if Dannie is asleep.

Finally, after 30 minutes or so, my wife finished nursing Dannie then put her in the crib. It's was a signal for Gabby to finally asked her mom to join her in bed. That kind of gesture made me and my wife cry.

Gabby is only 22 months old and it's unusual for Gabby to experienced things like this. She may be confused with what is happening around her, for almost two years our attention was only on her but now there is a little girl who shares it. She is not prepared for the changes but I know she's coping... She understands.
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We are learning important lessons,

About faith and trust,
About perseverance,
And about sharing and giving.

Have a nice day to all.

Boracay...A Vanishing Beauty?

2011-06-08T00:45:00.028+08:00

In 1990, Boracay was voted by the BMW Tropical Beach Handbook as one of the best beaches in the world and again in 1996 by British publication TV Quick as the world's number one tropical beach. Today, Boracay is still one of the top destinations among Filipinos and foreigners as well.
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In 2007, my wife and I, together with some friends went here see the beauty of Boracay and experience it at its best. We stayed in a hotel located in Station 2 were most of the tourist stayed. The fine sand of the beach is awesome, the water is so clear and yet why I didn't soak myself into the water. Nightlife?, that's another story, I just slept all night, I just let my wife and friends enjoy the night. There were giant sand castles then and for a few pesos you could posed for a few photos. Honestly, I did not enjoy much of my stay there, so I regret it now.

After 4 years, we went back in Boracay for another vacation, this time we stayed in a hotel located in Station 1, were most of celebrities and foreigners stayed. Actually, hotel accommodations at Station 1 is more affordable than before.

But I noticed that there is something wrong that is happening in the beach, a very noticeable changes. The sand is eroding and sewage pipes are now exposed. In fact woods are placed around some manholes to hide it from tourists, but the truth is, it will not hide nor solve the real problem of the island. For the past years the white sand of Boracay was eaten by the sea. Is it because of climate change or the over-development of the island?. I guess both.

United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in its climate change publications, said that for every centimeter rise in sea level results in a one-meter beach erosion. From climate change alone, a portion of Boracay's white beach vanished, wiped out by the sea. Resorts whose seawalls built too close to the shore also contribute to sand erosion.

Over-development adds to the pressing problems faced by the island. There are massive violations of building guidelines along the beach. Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) was unveiled in 2008 that would help regulate the development of the island and save it from further deterioration. Is it being implemented?, I am not sure. In our country, most of the laws, guidelines and ordinances were not implemented properly, it just remain written on a piece of paper.

Boats destroy corrals, sand miners may be still in the land, tourists disregard concerns on our environment and corruption in our government contribute to the present and alarming problem(s) of Boracay. For sure, more tourists will come and go in Boracay and perhaps many of them will not notice the (bad) changes that is happening in Boracay or maybe they don't just care. I envy my friend who saw the virgin island of Boracay in 1987. He said that the white sand of the island was wider compare to its present state, maybe more than half of it were gone. I wish I could travel back in time.

I always love to go to an unexplored, untouched island. A pristine island is so rare to find, when found it is being shared to others. But sharing it may contribute in degrading and destroying an island, because it became popular, it became the center of development and attraction and soon we will look again for another place to destroy. It is always our responsibility to protect our environment so that the next generation will enjoy it too.

The white beach of Boracay is the reason why people go here, not the extravagant nightlife, not the water sports nor the henna tattoo which incidentally caused me an allergy. There are programs being done to mitigate the problems of Boracay, I hope it is not too late. Giant sand castles are long gone but I hope Boracay wont be another casualty of our carelessness and of this so called development.

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

It's Our 5th Anniversay

2011-04-30T02:03:00.002+08:00

Marriage is not only for fun. It is neither just a traditional obligation nor a natural requirement when your age matures. Marrying someone is uniting with somebody whom is the love of your life. (Secret Contents)

I was trying to write something for my wife on our 5th Wedding Anniversary but somehow I am lost for words. I already wrote about my love and devotion to her, how she changed my life and how she makes me very special.

Then after 15 hours (I am still in the office as of this writing,...at 3am)...I thought about my life without her, It's like a movie without music. Thank God, I found her long before she found me (I wonder why it took her two years before she realized that I was the one she's looking for, ehem!).

I love remembering over and over again what transpired on April 30, 2006, the day she said "I do". It gives me goose bumps. I remember the day she walked down the aisle, I was crying and when I held her hand I forgot everything (I even forgot to kiss my mom). I love that scene.

Five years after, I still feel the same way.

I am blessed and overjoyed.

For my wife:

For months, I've been working until after all the people are sleeping and you are patiently waiting for me. I've been missing you a lot (and our daughter too). Today is just another day here at work. Hopefully, in an hour I am done and I could go home and embrace you so tightly.

Sorry about today, I should be home and spend the rest of the day with you. Thanks to your patience and understanding. Thank you that you still open the door for me. I know you love me despite the limited time with you lately. I was not able to plan anything today, I hope we could make this day a memorable one even if my plan of marrying you again wont push through because of limited budget. I hope to do this within the year or on our next anniversary.

Happy Anniversary and I love you.

Salubong

2011-04-24T05:44:00.009+08:00

Salubong is an Easter Sunday pre-dawn ritual which reenacts the Risen Christ's meeting with His mother Mary.

This was the first time I attended or witnessed "Salubong" (literally fetch) since 1999. The celebration took place one street away from our house or about 50 meters away so I woke up at 4 am to witnessed it.

The ritual may not be biblical but we believe that it happened a long time ago besides Mary is Jesus' mother and it was appropriate that Mary should know first that His Son is alive. As if Jesus was telling Mary "Do not mourn anymore, I am risen and alive".

We are "Mary" of the modern time, We are in deep pain for the lost of love ones or for some trials in our life but Jesus is telling us "Do not mourn anymore, I am here, I am alive and I will take away all your sufferings and pain". The resurrection of Christ gives us hope and a new beginning and a new life.

Happy Easter everyone.

Happy Thoughts

2011-03-28T08:31:00.012+08:00

Happy thoughts are part of our lives. The human brain produces approximately 70,000 thoughts on an average day. Maybe, I think of my family most of the time.

Thoughts about missing quality time, thoughts about how my daughter is doing on a particular day and thoughts about my soon to be 2nd child. Just like yesterday my daughter took her moms earphone, put it on her ears then sung and sway her hips as if she was listening to music. I missed seeing it because I was still in the office at 10 in the evening.

My wife is 4 months pregnant and I am guilty of not taking care of her just like I did when she was pregnant with Gabby. Things like preparing a glass of milk or pamper her with a foot massage. Thank God she's too understanding, she did kicked me out of our house.

At this very moment, I think about them again, maybe a thousand times or maybe more. Just a thought of them makes me smile and makes me feel good again. A thousand more makes me feel like I can do anything for them.

I hope to give more of my time to them rather than giving more to my work. I hope to spend more of me with them, laughing, singing, playing and enjoying each other's company.

I know things will change for the better.

Peter Pan could fly because of pixie dust and a happy thought.. I don't need pixie dust, all I need is a happy thought (them) and I will soar like an eagle and will fly like Captain Barbell I guess.

Club Love

2011-03-08T12:45:00.003+08:00

I Heart You Pare (starring Dingsdong Dantes and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid) is one of the popular show in town today on GMA Kapuso Network. I watched a couple of episode but I am not inclined to watch it daily. Mr. Bembol Roco is a better actor and much affective in gay role (Beauty Queen) than Mr. Tirso Cruz III (Sorry mom, I know you love Tirso so much).

Anyway, I mentioned the show because most of the scene is being shot at Boiler Room in Marikina Riverbanks. Actually, before Typhoon Ondoy destructed most of Metro Manila in 2009 it was a Restaurant/Bar but it never reopened after the onslaught of typhoon Ondoy.

Me, my wife and my daughter Gabby took a few post in front of The Boiler.. err.. Club Love and did a little tour around the establishment.

I also considered this place when I was looking for a venue for my daughter's 1st birthday but it was too big for 150 guess, it can actually accommodate 500 persons or even more.

Contact Details:
Boiler Room
Riverwalk, Riverbanks Center
Barangka, Marikina City
Tel No.: 757-3536 or 757-3537

Overjoyed

2011-01-24T12:48:00.003+08:00

This song is a response to my blog: Enjoying God's Blessing

Overjoyed, overflowed
From the Blessings of the Lord
Now I'm here, To proclaim
What the Lord has done for me
For this is the day that the Lord has made for me
He blessed my life, Now I'm free
To proclaim his wondrous deeds.
I am blessed and overjoyed.

All my life, He blesses me.
Even though I'm doing nothing for Him.
I'm overjoyed with what he's done for me
Now I know He loves me endlessly
I will proclaim, I will declare.

I am almost done writing the music notation. I hope many people will be blessed by the Lord through this song. I am happy to share it in the coming days.

Enjoying God's Blessing

2011-01-17T12:25:00.006+08:00

When you honor and praise God through your commitment and obedience to stewardship, He showers you with joy. He turns your giving into a thrilling adventure in Christian living. (Source: http://www.messagestransmissibles.com/)

The question is, am I committed and obedient to deserve such blessing?. I've been busy with work for more than a month now. Lots and lots of overtime and sometimes I went home in the wee hour of the morning. I missed my weekly commitment as a guitarist/singer at Ortigas Feast (A weekly gathering of the Light of Jesus Community).

My work is s blessing from God, so I should love it and serve wholeheartedly to honor God, to serve others (our client and co-workers) and provide for my needs. Though, I am tired everyday I came home (which I did not experience for the longest time), my spirit and my body is recharged and rejuvenates whenever I see my wife and my daughter (they make my life stay balance) and I am enjoying it. I love to stare at them, kiss them and hug them.

Whatever I do for God, I cannot outgive Him. He blesses me even more even if I'm doing nothing for him (I feel like I am only on the receiving end right now).

Last week (Monday). I received another blessing from God, another lifetime blessing from Him.

God gave me two (2) lines.

Two lines, which means life.

Yes, I am going to have my 2nd child.

God amazes me again. I prayed (my wife doesn't know) for this last December 2010 and God answered me instantly. Last time seems to be so long, almost 4 years before God gave as our first child.

I guess it's not about how long we pray.

It's about our readiness to receive His blessings and our readiness to enjoy it.

Enjoy your blessings.

My Daughter have Chicken Pox and I Learned and Important Lesson in Life

2010-11-30T12:39:00.010+08:00

My daughter was just treated because of pneumonia. At first glance you wont even think that she got pneumonia until she coughs and sneezes. She was declared free of pneumonia last Saturday but another one was about to unfold, an ordeal I don't want my daughter to experience but part of growing up.
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For two days, she was too cranky, refused to drink her milk and eat her food, she can't even find her rhythm to sleep at night. She is very irritated because of chicken pox.

On the first day (that's a Friday), she only consumed 4 ounces of milk the whole day, nothing more and you will already noticed that she lose some weights (see left photo). The second day was even harder though she ate a small serving of porridge, she did not eat anymore or even drink her milk.

She cried at night until 3 am I guess. I bought some biscuits and a cup of noodles hoping that she would eat it but still refused. We tried hard to let her drink her milk, even if she was trying it was really difficult for her because her tongue also have chicken pox.
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I was really worried that she would end up dehydrated. At about 4am (I guess), we tried to convinced her to drink her milk. We told her that she needs it to avoid dehydration. With the help of a teaspoon she begun drinking her milk. It may be funny but I started to cry the moment she sipped her milk and consumed 6 ounces of milk.

Because of my daughter's ordeal, I understand more how our Almighty Father love us, His children. When we are experiencing difficulties in life, He is watching us and even cry with us. He is hurting when we got hurt, he grieves with us when we are sad but most especially, He dances with us in times of victory.

There is always a lesson to learn and blessings to receive from any trials that comes our way. My daughter's ordeal is over. She is drinking her milk now and her appetite is back to normal. She ate a lot of grapes yesterday. The blessings she receive: she is not drinking her milk in her feeding bottle anymore but straight from a cup (though sometimes she still wanted a teaspoon).

No more tears at night.

Parenthood is a difficult job but I love every second of it.

P.S. : Thanks to her toy Barney, it helped a lot. Some sort of a security blanket I guess. We are expecting that the chicken pox will be gone in a day or 2

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© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Marikina Christmas Celebration 2010 @ the River Park

2010-11-23T12:35:00.016+08:00

Its been a tradition of the City Government of Marikina to celebrate Christmas season extra ordinarily and it was inaugurated last November 15, 2010 at the Marikina River Park.

Just like in the past years since its conception in 2002, the celebration highlights the "Tiange sa Ilog" (Night Bazaar by the River). The entire stretch of the Marikina River is lined up with hundreds of stalls selling shoes, toys, cloths, accessories and food mostly at affordable price.

For the past 7 years the theme of the celebration is "Marikina Christmas Festival" or MCF for short which is also the initials of our previous Mayor, Marides Carlos Fernando. In line with the tradition, the City Government named the theme after the name of our new Mayor, Del de Guzman which is “Dito Exciting Lagi ang Pasko” (in Marikina, Christmas is always exciting). I do hope they would come up with a better theme next year.

A new exciting theme park is recently open along Jesus dela Peña side of the river park, the Wonder Park, our own version of Jurassic Park. Nightly fares also feature various entertainment shows in line with the nine-week festivity focusing on different weekly themes. Weekly themes include Reyna ng Karnabal, Food Festival, Paskuhan ng mga Bata, Fashion Show, Palarong Pasko, Circus and Magic Shows, Cultural Show, Senior Citizens, and Barangay Week.

This year's celebration is simpler and safe. In fact, the city government deploy peace and order team composed of local policemen, barangay tanods and security guards. They also deploy K-9 units at the Tiangge’s entry and exit points.

Come and enjoy Marikina City's Christmas Festival. It will run until January 15, 2011

Photo Source: http://www.marikina.gov.ph/

Celebrating My Daughter's 1st Birthday

2010-10-23T03:06:00.004+08:00

My baby is now a lady... oops!!!, wait a minute let me rephrase it. My baby is now a toddler (LOL). Today, my sweet daughter is celebrating her 1st birthday and today I also celebrate my 1st year of fatherhood. It is fun documenting my daughter's growth and I will continue doing it as long as I can.

The funny thing is she's only a year older but I am already thinking about her future. Is she going to get married?. If yes, I hope and pray that she could find a man who is not just a boyfriend material but a husband material. Who won't take advantage of her, who will not just love her but more importantly respect her. Anyway, it is still a couple of decades away though I am preparing for this (actually, I have sets of questions in mind when I begin interviewing suitors).

I can't tell if I am going to be a good father (I hope so) but I am striving hard to be like one. My daughter really makes us happy. She knows how to make us smile even though she's not doing anything. She'll just look into your eyes and everything melts away.

She is still learning to walk on her own and I noticed that everytime she's about to fall, she is reaching out to hold our hands and we are more than happy to give our hands to her. There will come a time that she will not anymore need our hands and she will walk on her own, travel and go anywhere she wants, make her own decisions in life and have her own family (or maybe a different vocation). We will make sure that we are there to guide her in every decisions.

I was hoping that she will remain a child forever. That is also the reason why her party's motiff is Tinkerbell. Remember Peterpan and the Neverland?, were kids never grow old?. I want to to go to Neverland too. The reality is, she will grow slowly (and I will grow old too). Anyway, I still have many more years to enjoy my daughter (and my future children).

To my lovely daughter, happy 1st birthday to you. Thank you for all the laughter and quality time we shared and we are looking forward for more. Things are getting better and better and exciting as ever. We love you and enjoy this day.

Create Your Miracles

2010-10-07T12:58:00.002+08:00

I thought of sharing this blog post again, Posted on www.friendster.com on September 2005. I also shared this two Mondays ago when I lead the worship at the Ortigas Feast

This would be the second time that I joined a songwriting contest...

Frankly, it is so difficult to compose a song specially if it's for the Lord. I begun writing a song a day after the announcement of the songwriting contest. I was so excited but there were hesitations, not to mention a lot of pressures from my brothers and sisters in the community. They were all expecting that I will join.

Months, Weeks, days had past until it was about a week to go before the deadline of submission, I haven't write my song entry. I wrote two songs but eventually went straight to the trash bin until I finally gave up. It was so difficult if there was no inspiration coming from the Lord.

But my heart kept on saying, "join the contest'' but it was barely 3 days to go before the deadline."Lord, please extend the deadline if you really want me to joint the contest". The Lord granted my prayer.

A week of extension was all I got. It might not enough but I started writing a new song. I arranged the schedule of the recording not knowing if I could finish the song in time for the recording. Even if I haven't got any progress, I scheduled the recording 3 days before the final date of submission. I just let go of my intentions and let God do the job.

Eventually, I finished the song Friday morning.

One more problem that I encountered was when the owner of the studio I was renting told me that he might not be available on that particular night because he had a gig. I called Friday morning confirming our schedule if it will pushed through or not. He just told his band mate that he wont be attending their gig because he will earned more from the recording.

We recorded the song and it turned out well..

The Lord purified my motives, my intention. Before, I want to win the contest, that's all, nothing more. Those sleepless nights was over, I let Him work and purify my heart. Winning was not important anymore. I just want Him to use me as a vessel of His miracles and let the people hear the song and tell them, "This is God's work, God's miracle"...

I only hope that it will make it to the finals so that many people could hear it and to share what the Lord has done for me, how He used me, How he purified me...

The Song is simple..."Let Your Glory Shine"

To God be the Glory!!!!

Postscript:

On the finals night, I just went there to serve the Lord and sing to Him the song, I felt His presence, we just sung the song and enjoyed the night, it was really a humbling experience for me. Eventually, I got the 2nd Prize but more than the prize I learned a very important lesson, Always trust the Lord. When we focus our minds and heart in whatever we are doing to glorify God, His glory will shine.

Even if the song is long forgotten, I still continue writing songs for The Lord. May His Glory shines through me.

Use Your Gifts

2010-09-21T12:43:00.004+08:00

The common interpretation of the Parable of the Talent is to teach us that we are under a moral obligation to use our abilities rather than bury them.

In the Bible, talent is a type of currency used during the time of Jesus. However, even the lowest value for a talent puts it as worth several thousand denarii and a denarius was the usual payment for a day's labor. So a talent was the value of many years of work by an ordinary person. (Source Wikipedia)

In today's use, talent or skill/ability (singing, dancing, playing musical instruments, etc.) is not also acquired overnight, it is many years of work.

Here are some points we may learn from the Parable:

God has faith in us, knows our potential and our capabilities.
He did not expect more from us than we can do
He knew our potentials

It is important that we get to know our Master, Jesus, so we understand His intentions for us and His faith in us. In knowing how He thinks of us, we understand our own potential better.

I've learned from a seminar (Child's Amazing Brain) that our brain composed of thousands of nerves which is connected to the center of our brain (It's like computers connected to a main server). Those nerves represent different skills and abilities.

When we are still on our toddler years, we have bits and pieces of every talent known on earth, as we grow older, we specialized on particular skill(s) and the unused nerves simply die because we don't use it anymore. That's how our talent works, if we don't use and develop it, it will simply die, period. God designed our brain to self-destruct those unused talents so that our brain will function better and specialized on things we love to do. So better use it and develop it for the glory of God.

Celebrating My 35th Birthday

2010-07-29T23:02:00.011+08:00

Today is my 35th birthday and I celebrated it with my wife and nine month old daughter. It was a bit different celebration compare with my previous birthday(s). It was not just my day but my family's day.

We went to "Fun Ranch" in Ortigas and enjoyed the train ride and other attraction as well. Honestly, we only stayed there for an hour or so but it was the best hour of my birthday celebration. No luxurious lunch or dinner and fancy gifts but I was more than bless by God. The most precious gift I ever received from God is my wife and daughter, I can't compare it with any other gift (off course, I will not refused anyone who will give me a birthday present, LOL :D)

It's no father's day today just like my wife said but I choose to celebrate my birthday this way, to be a father to my daughter. Later in the afternoon, we kill time in a famous coffee shop while Gabby took a nap. I always love how my daughter sleep on my shoulder and I took that opportunity everytime my wife was finished nursing her. I never thought that I was snoozing too (ha! ha! ha!).

Before we went home, We proceeded to a hotel for their presentation (We almost sign up with what they were offering to us, whew!) and get our free gift certificate (3 days and 2 nights hotel accommodations) and a free dinner too. Not a bad birthday gift from a person whom I never knew, all I need to do was to listen to their presentation.

To all the 150++ (friends, schoolmates and family) who greeted me through Facebook, e-mails and text messages, thank you very much for your warm greetings, wishes and prayers. I am 35 years old but still looking young (naks!) and feeling young.

The above video was taken this afternoon at Fun Ranch

Ninoy Aquino Jr.'s Letter to PE Noynoy Aquino III

2010-06-29T17:45:00.002+08:00

August 25, 1973

Fort Bonifacio
11:30pm
Mr. Benigno S. Aquino III

P E R S O N A L

My dearest Son:

One of these days , when you have completed your studies I am sure you will have the opportunity to visit many countries. And in your travels you will witness a bullfight.

In Spanish bullfighting as you know, a man – the matador – is pitted against an angry bull.

The man goads the bull to extreme anger and madness. Then a moment comes when the bull, maddened, bleeding and covered with darts, feeling his last moment has come, stops rushing about and grimly turns his face on the man with the scarlet “muleta” and sword. The Spaniards call this “the moment of truth.” This is the climax of the bullfight.

This afternoon, I have arrived at my own moment of truth. After a lengthy conference with my lawyers, Senators Jovito R. Salonga and Lorenzo M. Tanada I made a very crucial and vital decision that will surely affect all our lives: mommie’s, your sisters’, yours and all our loved ones as well as mine.

I have decided not to participate in the proceedings of the Military Commission assigned to try the charges filed against me by the army prosecution staff. As you know, I’ve been charged with illegal possession of firearms, violation of RA 1700 otherwise known as the “Anti-Subversion Act” and murder.

You are still too young to grasp the full impact of my decision. Briefly: by not participating in the proceedings, I will not be represented by counsel, the prosecution will present its witnesses without any cross examinations, I will not put up any defense, I will remain passive and quiet through the entire trial and I will merely await the verdict. Inasmuch as it will be a completely one-sided affair, I suppose it is reasonable to expect the maximum penalty will be given to me. I expect to be sentenced to imprisonment the rest of my natural life, or possibly be sent to stand before a firing squad. By adopting the course of action I decided upon this afternoon, I have literally decided to walk into the very jaws of death.

You may ask: why did you do it?

Son, my decision is an act of conscience. It is an act of protest against the structures of injustice that have been imposed upon our hapless countrymen. Futile and puny, as it will surely appear to many, it is my last act of defiance against tyranny and dictatorship.

You are my only son. You carry my name and the name of my father. I have no material wealth to leave you. I never had time to make money while I was in the hire of our people.

For this I am very sorry. I had hopes of building a little nest egg for you. I bought a ranch in Masbate in the hope that after ten or fifteen years, the coconut trees I planted there would be yielding enough to assure you a modest but comfortable existence.

Unfortunately, I had to sell all our properties as I fought battle after political battle as a beleaguered member of the opposition. And after the last battle, I had more obligations than assets.

The only valuable asset I can bequeath to you now is the name you carry. I have tried my best during my years of public service to keep that name untarnished and respected, unmarked by sorry compromises for expediency. I now pass it on to you, as good, I pray, as when my father, your grandfather passed it on to me.

I prepared a statement which I intend to read before the military commission on Monday at the opening of my trial. I hope the commission members will be understanding and kind enough to allow me to read my statement into the record. This may well be my first and only participation in the entire proceedings.

In this statement, I said: Some people suggested that I beg for mercy from the present powers that be. Son, this I cannot do in conscience. I would rather die on my feet with honor, than live on bended knees in shame.

Your great grandfather, Gen. Servilliano Aquino was twice condemned to death by both the Spaniards and the American colonizers. Fortunately, he survived both by a twist of fate.

Your grandfather, my father was also imprisoned by the Americans because he loved his people more than the Americans who colonized us. He was finally vindicated. Our ancestors have shared the pains, the sorrows and the anguish of Mother Filipinas when she was in bondage.

It is a rare privilege for me to join the Motherland in the dark dungeon where she was led back by one of her own sons whom she lavished with love and glory.

I ended my statement thus: I have chosen to follow my conscience and accept the tyrant’s revenge.

It takes little effort to stop a tyrant. I have no doubt in the ultimate victory of right over wrong, of evil over good, in the awakening of the Filipino.

Forgive me for passing unto your young shoulders the great responsibility for our family. I trust you will love your mother and your sisters and lavish them with the care and protection I would have given them.

I was barely fifteen years old when my father died. His death was my most traumatic experience. I loved and hero-worshipped him so much, I wanted to join him in his grave when he passed away. But as in all sorrows, eventually they are washed away by the rains of time.

In the coming years, I hope you will study very hard so that you will have a solid foundation on which to build your future. I may no longer be around to give you my fatherly advice. I have asked many of your uncles to help you along should the need arise and I pray you will have the humility to drink from their fountain of experiences.

Look after your two younger sisters with understanding and affection. Viel and Krissy will need your umbrella of protection for a long time. Krissy is still very young and fate has been most unkind to both of us. Our parting came too soon. Please make up for me. Take care of her as I would have taken care of her with patience and warm affection.

Finally, stand by your mother as she stood beside me through the buffeting winds of crisis and uncertainties firm and resolute and uncowed. I pray to God, you inherit her indomitable spirit and her rare brand of silent courage.

I had hopes of introducing you to my friends, showing you the world and guide you through the maze of survival. I am afraid, you will now have to go it alone without your guide.

The only advice I can give you: Live with honor and follow your conscience.

There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.

Son, the ball is now in your hands.

Lovingly,

Dad

Pan de Amerikana in Marikina

2010-06-26T12:50:00.009+08:00

If there is one place that I might want to visit again and again, it's Pan de Amerikana in Marikina City.

We spent several occasions at Pan de Amerikana because the food is very affordable and the place is very relaxing. For less than P1,000, our family (group of 12) enjoyed the time we spent here. They have affordable and yummy breakfast like tocino, omelet, tapsilog and a lot more and off course they have a very tasty wheat pandesal (mega sized wheat at P5.50, giant Pandesal Pan Amerikano at P55).

Pan de Amerikana is a restaurant in garden setting with water falls, tree house, rope bridge, koi pond, traviesa benches, old antique wood tables, batibot chairs and tables, tropical rain forest plants, wishing well and Italian colonnade European ruins. It's ideal for any occasion and it will really work on your budget.

We also enjoy playing chess will eating our breakfast for many of their tables have a built-in chess board, all you need to do is borrow from the cashier one set of chess pieces.

Playing chess once again reminds me of my high school and collage days were I became a chess varsity player. I even joined the chess club here in Marikina and played with the top players of our town. I never won any single tournament but the experience was great, though I won some in our school (I wonder if I could still play skillfully)

There are these jumbo-sized three and a half (3 1/2) feet high plastic chess pieces imported from New York City with matching jumbo chess clock that you could actually use to play chess or simply take some photo souvenirs for your family. It was very tiring playing the jumbo chess as if I was working out on a gym.

A group of photographers and art enthusiasts also have their regular meeting at Pan de Amerikana. they also hold workshops here (I might join them in the near future)

Pan de Amerikana is a good place for families, chess enthusiasts, couples and photographers. You might want to eat here after you visit the World of Butterflies in Marikina City.They opens from 6am to 7pm daily except Sundays which only opens from 6am to 3pm. Located at No. 92 Ordoñez Street (Molave Street) Concepcion Dos Marikina City. For reservation, please call at telephone number 475-2398 and look for Mean.
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Specialty:

Everlasting and Waknatoy, these dishes were invented in the kitchens of Marikina. The everlasting is their version of Embotido, everlasting is a regular dish at the table of Marikeños during fiestas and other gatherings. Waknatoy is similar to menudo though I haven't tried it yet.

Don't forget to buy the authentic 1950's pandesal and their ensaymada.

Branches:

Pandesal Since 1950's
118 Katipunan Avenue, White Plains, Quezon City
(Beside Lola Idang's)
Telephone: +632 421-1966

Mobile: +63 917 881-1884

Unit 4, Madison Building, Wilson street Greenhills, San Juan
Telephone: +632 384-6741

Mobile: +63 917-5664424

Constellation Drive corner Makati Avenue, Belair
Near North Park along Makati Avenue
Telephone: +632 387-9413

Mobile: +63917 571-2224

Father's Day Reflection

2010-06-24T15:04:00.008+08:00

This reflection might be late (I was busy writing about our Palawan Vacation) because Father's Day in the Philippines and the rest of Asia was celebrated last Sunday, June 20. But I still have the urge to share my reflection, anyway Father's Day is not yet celebrated in other part of the world. For instance, Father's Day in Australia and New Zealand will be on September 5.

This was my first Father's Day Celebration (my daughter was born last October). No fancy celebration, we went to hear mass (I was waiting for the presiding priest to give a special blessing for fathers like me, but there was non), we ate our breakfast at Pan de Amerikana and my wife bought a cake for me and my father-in-law. While we were enjoying our breakfast my father-in-law and I played 2 rounds of chess, I won both rounds (yahoo!, to date we're 5-0).

Later in the afternoon, I went to a mall and found out that there was a simple treat for fathers like me. It was almost on the final stretch of the program but still I joined them. We played the longest line using only coins and our team lost. How could we win when I only have 6 loose coins in my pocket, the same with my team mates. Later, I was forced to join "Pinoy Henyo" (A famous game from a noontime show). We were all laughing and we lost again. The the mystery word was “peluka” (wig), my team mate thought it was “pelikula” (movie).

After buying a book (Percy Jackson Book 3), I went home then I played with my daughter. It was the most memorable moment for me. When I am in the office, I am striving to be the best project manager. When I am serving the Lord through music, I am striving to be the best guitarist. When I hold my camera, I was transformed and become a photographer hoping to shoot better photographs. And when I am home, I am a cool father to my daughter and a loving husband to my wife (I know my wife will agree). But this is the role I like the most, I don't need to please anybody and pretend to be someone. All I need to do is embrace my wife and daughter, play with them and have a wonderful chat with them and be myself. Their smile gives the greatest joy here on earth. It is fulfilling knowing that I am already a father. It is challenging sometimes but nothing compares with the joy my daughter give me and my wife.

I visited my father's grave to offer some flowers and a prayer. I always missed my dad, specially on special occasions like this and it was just right to visit him and give him praises (I know he heard me in one way or another). I owe everything to him (and mom) for who I am and what I become. He built a strong foundation that no one can take away. I have grown up with his values and dedication. He was not perfect but I never imagined myself having a dad aside from him. With this, I thank my dad once more.

My dad was truly a D.A.D.* father. He is my hero and my idol and I hope someday my daughter and future kids will tell me the same thing.

Happy Father's Day to us all!

*Dedicated And Devoted

Kalui Restaurant

2010-06-22T00:05:00.015+08:00

There are a lot of places to eat in Puerto Princesa City. Unlike the first time I visited Palawan, there are food chains and stalls almost every corner of the city. But if there is one restaurant tourists and visitors shouldn't missed, it is Kalui Restaurant. Kalui is equally recommended by Palawaños like the Badjao Seafront Restaurant but food are cheaper and delicious as well, not to mention that the place is more accessible since it is located in Rizal Avenue, a major street in Puerto Princesa City. It is considered as one of the city's pride and icon. In fact, Kalui is now on its 20th++ year of existence (I wonder why we didn't eat here on our first visit in Palawan).

As their website claimed, "Your tour in Palawan wouldn't be complete if you haven't visit this place" and I agree with them. Kalui provides one of the best (if not the best) customer service. Once you enter the restaurant, you will be greeted by their friendly staff.

The entrance to the restaurant is not atrractive at all, it's like a simple tarangkahan (wooden gate) of a traditional house. I noticed that upon entering the lobby, guests are requested to removed their shoes and socks, slippers and sandals. Personally, I don't mind walking on the floor barefooted because I do it a lot of times inside our house (LOL), I felt like I'm not away from home. Kidding aside, the floors are well-polished and clean, so you don't have to worry to have a dirty feet after. There are various dining spots to choose, there are regular table and chairs and also there are an elevated porches with low table (just like the tables in tea houses) with pillows for sitting (there are other dining spots in Kalui that I was not able to explore). We chose the later because it is more cozy and add more excitement to our starving stomach. We thought we would enjoy the food even more (Luckily, our group was able to secure a spot).

Unlike other restaurants, Kalui's menu changes each day which depends on the fresh catch of the day. You will found out that the date is printed on the menu, so you may not be able to order a certain food even if a friend ordered it the other day and recommended it to you to try. They also have regular menu like tuna belly, lapu-lapu and blue marlin. They also serve lobster, shrimps, crabs and other kind of seafoods. Aside from these, they also serve fresh fruits vegetables but for red meat lovers will be disappointed because they don't serve red meat at all.

I tried their own version of sinigang (It's my favorite). They use coconut juice as pampaasim instead of the commonly used sampaloc (tamarind). In addition to what we have ordered, they also served a complimentary dessert made of fresh fruits (banana, watermelon, mango and papaya) on a coconut husk sprinkled with muscovado sugar.

The restaurant's interior have paintings and lantern decorations. The architecture resembles a large and traditional Nipa Hut (Bahay Kubo). The atmosphere is romantic and intimate because of the low lightning (an ideal place for couples maybe).

With this unique and fantastic dining experience, a guest will not have to pay no more than P300. One last note, it is recommended for everyone to make a reservation ahead of time to avoid waiting for a much longer time (we waited for an hour and a half) because they are fully booked most often than not. This is the price of being so famous.

Kalui Restaurant is open daily from Monday to Saturday, except during Sundays. Lunch is at 11 am to 2 pm, and dinner is from 6 to 11 pm. It is Located at 369 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City (10 minutes from Palawan Provincial Capitol). For reservation, you may call at telephone no. (6348) 433-2580 or at Mobile No: +63 928-7539621.

Note: All photos were taken/captured using my Point and Shoot Canon Powershot A540.

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Badjao Seafront Restaruant

2010-06-20T00:27:00.002+08:00

This was one of the much awaited dining experience for our family to dine and eat at Badjao Seafront Restaurant. It is one of the restaurants highly recommended by the local residents of Palawan to visitors and tourists. So even though our schedule was tight because it was our last day in Palawan, we still managed to squeeze it in into our schedule.
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The restaurant is built on top of a mangrove habitat (forest). It featured a nice view of the sea, it wont be called Seafront restaurant for nothing. The restaurant itself is about 200 meters from the parking lot. One must walk on a wooden bridge built above the mangrove trees.

If you are commuting via tricycle, you must tell the driver to bring you at "Badjao Seafront Restaurant" don't just tell "Badjao Restaurant" because they have a branch located at Puerto Princesa's commercial district which is near Hotel Flueris and Badjao Inn. Do not also forget to tell the tricycle driver to wait for you since it is not accessible to any mode of transportation.

The restaurant is a popular dining place in Puerto Princesa City not just because of the cool sea breeze and warm ambiance but also because of the delicious food though there's nothing special as far as the food is concern. . The specialties of the Badjao Seafront Restaurant are the seafood platter and the set meal featuring the freshest catch of the day. One seafood platter is good for 2 to 3 person but it depends on your appetite..

As we were waiting for our food, we took the opportunity to feel the cool breeze of the sea and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. We also had the chance to sea a blue-colored bird (I don't what kind of bird it is)

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The food were served promptly but I was to disappointed with their "sinigang na maya-maya" because it barely have soup. The quantity of the food per serving is less than I was expecting. I think it is better to order individually rather than ordering a set menu because in the long run it is cheaper.

For me, Kalui is far better that Badjao Seafront Restaurant as far as the food they are serving is concern (I'll share about it some other day).

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The restaurant is located along A. Abueg Sr. Street and is about 20 minutes from Palawan Provincial Capitol.

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© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Baker's Hill

2010-06-19T01:00:00.001+08:00

There is one place in Palawan particularly in Puerto Princesa City you shouldn't missed. Baker's Hill (it is literally sits on top of a hill) became a tourist destination not just because of their delicious bread products but also of the attractive statues strategically positioned around the vicinity, it's like a theme park minus the carnival rides.

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Originally, a house was built for the Torres Family and not intended for the public. Later, a bakery was built and eventually they decided to develop it into it into a theme park to attract costumers and tourist. It became an instant hit, they have a mini aviary which houses peacocks, ostrich and other birds (I didn't saw it when I visited the place).

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The place is very attractive for children because of the many playground in the vicinity. Kids and adult will definitely enjoy it.

You should try eating at their restaurant, after you stroll around the park you will definitely crave for more food. They have pizza and pasta in their menu.

Before going home, don't forget to buy pasalubong for your love ones. Off course they have breads, souvenir items like shirts and pearl. Can you ask for more?. Baker's Hill is like a one stop shop for tourists and actually part of the itinerary for a pre-arranged tours.

One more reminder, clean as you go.
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Baker’s Hill is located at the Mitra Road, Barangay Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City. Tel. No. (6344) 4333414. Free Admission

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© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Puerto Princesa City's Baywalk

2010-06-16T15:04:00.006+08:00

After our very tiring but enjoyable Underground River Tour, we went to Puerto Princesa City's (PPC's) own version of Baywalk in Manila for a short visit. Unlike the now defunct Manila Baywalk, PPC's Baywalk is less crowded, a suiting place to relax and a nice place to bond with your family.

I was not able to see the bay during sunset, I hope next time I could go here during sunset when I visit Palawan in the future. Even though that it is more ideal to stroll here early in the morning, PPC's Baywalk has its own uniqueness during nighttime. The lamp posts which is beautifully design with different shape) add more beauty and character to the place.

There are bikes for rent here for only P25 (no side car) per hour. Couples will enjoy the place while riding on a pedicab (bike with side car).

I went to the farthest side of the Bay (riding on a bike) to take a couple of shots of the Pier but there was already a wall built as high as 10 feet maybe. It was disappointing because (maybe) a couple of months back the wall was not there yet.

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A peacock shaped lamp post (see photo on the left) caught my attention because of its design and color. I took a couple of shots before I rejoined with my relatives and friends.

Incidentally, this lamp post is part of the PPC's Official Seal. I've also learned that the symbol was probably chosen as a salute to the Palawan Peacock Pheasant which is endangered and endemic in Palawan.

I wish I stayed longer but it was getting late and we still need to wake up early in the morning for our Honda bay Island Hopping.

Aborlan, Palawan (Day 4)

2010-06-13T08:27:00.001+08:00

Aborlan is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Palawan and divided into 19 barangays. it is located 69 kms. (or an hour an a half of road trip)south of Puerto Princesa City. It is also the town where three (3) small farms and (big) houses of my uncle is located.

Aborlan became a news item during the elections in the Philippines when one of the leading gubernatorial candidate was disqualified by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)because of residency issue. However, the said candidate was able to get the Supreme Court to temporarily set aside the COMELEC’s disqualification ruling. He eventually won by a slight margin of less than 15,000 from his lone opponent. A group asked the Supreme Court to uphold the disqualification of the newly elected governor by the COMELEC. No latest development has been reported as of this date.

Anyway, I won't waste another paragraph on this controversy (for now).

We were originally schedules to travel to Aborlan as early as 7 am but we only decided to travel late in the afternoon. It was a quick tour actually. During the trip, we passed by several entry point going to Ihawag Prison and Penal Farm (I first visited it in 2005).

Our first stop was at the mango farm of our uncle. We harvested quite a number of Palawan mangoes as well as Indian mangoes for our own consumption. My daughter picked one from the tree and smile while I took some photos.

I also took the opportunity to bond with my daughter and rode on a swing located at the back of the farm house.

After eating a few pieces of mangoes, we continue our trip going to the 2nd farm.

It is a coconut farm with a number of animals like chicken, pig, ducks among others. We drunk an unlimited buko juice.I posed for a wacky shot with my wife as if we were eating the whole coconut.

After filling up all our stomachs, we continue our trip on our final destination and rest for a while and quenched our thirst with ice cold drinks.

We left Aborlan at around 6pm and arrive two (2) hours shortly to our place of origin. After eating our dinner, we set the karaoke and begun singing until the wee hours of the morning.

Honda Bay Island Hopping (Day 3)

2010-06-11T01:20:00.004+08:00

Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan is comprised of several islands with shallow reefs bordering wonderful beaches which have become the much loved swimming, snorkeling, and diving destinations of local residents and tourists.

We set sail at Barangay. Sta, Lourdes where pump boats can be hired (we pre-arranged our boat and it cost us P250 per person, we were a group of 26) . It was quite a long boat ride going to one island to another. Some islands are privately owned and some islands require entrance fees before you could set your feet on the sand. Thankfully, our guide was able to persuade the person in charge that we will only stay in a particular island for a few minutes only. We were able to visit Starfish Island (P30 entrance fee), Snake Island (no entrance fee) and Pandan Island (P150 entrance fee)

The best recognized islands of Honda Bay are Cowrie and Bat Islands named because of the large fruit bats coming out of their holes at sundown for their evening feed. There is this island which is called "Lu-li" Island, derived from the word "lulubog-lilitaw" (sinking and floating) because the island is only visible during low tide.

Starfish Island - it is an island with coral reefs, crystal clear water, fine white sand beaches and clear water that teems with starfish. It was called Starfish Islands obviously because of a considerable number of starfish found here.

There are cottages here and a few props like benches with branches and a giant clam shell which I believe was put here for photo opportunity purposes.

You could ask your boat guides to took photos for you for they know a number of fancy shots which you will enjoy.

We haven't explore the island thoroughly because of time constrains so we set sail again going to Snake Island were we ate our lunch with our relatives and friends.

Snake Island - This island was called Snake Island because of the island's snake-like shape (you will see it in an aerial view) and not because snakes inhabited the island.

There are mangrove trees found here and a very long white beach sand. You could try exploring the whole island but beware you need food because it is too long to explore. The best time to explore i t is during low tide because some part of the island is submerge during high tide.

The island is the best place to relax, snorkel (there's a lot of fish here), swim or whatever things fit to do here. There is a sari-sari store found here where you could buy fresh buko, halo-halo and ice-cold drinks for your refreshments. There are also fresh fishes for sale for you to grill and some souvenir items to buy. Personally, I am not in favor of stores in an island or beaches but I think they do a good job in maintaining the cleanliness of the beach.

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Pandan Island - this island was the last island we visited before we went home. We took a few minutes of photo session before we set sail again going back to Sta. Lourdes Wharf .

It has a number of cottages and coconut trees found here. It is quite a small island compare with other islands but you will definitely enjoy the white sands and scenery here.

We were about to leave the island when the boatman instructed us to stay for a while because there was a strong wind coming. If it was not for the kids we will not wait for the wind to subside. After a few more minutes, we set sail again going home. the trip was scary because of the big waves but it was manageable to it scared me a lot.

We arrived safely at Sta. Lourdes Wharf were a group of orphans serenaded us with traditional songs for a small amount of donations.

Things to bring:

Snorkeling gear
Camera
Sun Block
Food
Money

The Underground River (Day 2)

2010-06-09T22:21:00.010+08:00

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) (or most commonly called The Underground River) is one of the most distinguished biodiversity conservation areas of the Philippines. It is known lush old growth tropical forest, interesting wildlife such as bats, reptiles and swiflets or balisasayaw (known for the nest they created and one of the main engridient of nido soup), among others pristine white sand beaches and unspoiled natural beauty. It features spectacular limestone formation that contains an Underground River which measures about 8.2 Km long and is simply navigable up to 4.3 km. It is one of the few such rivers which the public can easily experience and appreciate.
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Until the 2007 discovery of an underground river in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, PPSRNP is reputed to be the longest navigable underground river in the world.

The PPSRNP is the official nominee of the Philippines and a finalist to the Search for The New 7 Wonders of Nature. As a natural area, it has attracted an increasing number of conservationist, scientist, students, photographers, wildlife watchers and nature lovers. It is a source of pride and a key element in the identity of the people of Puerto Princesa in particular and of the Philippines as a whole.

It has become a habitat for thousands of variety of flora and fauna including endangered species such as the Pheasant Peacock and Philippine Cockatoo. Nothing beats the famous monkeys (thief monkeys, they will just grab whatever you are holding) and picture-friendly monitor lizards or “bayawak”. Though I haven't seen a single monkey or peacock around the area, I wonder what happened to these species.

Be imaginative to figure out the shape of the stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave.

Here are some basic rules for cave tour to be followed:

Present valid entry permit (get it prior to the day of the trip)
Register properly on logbook
Wear safety equipment and await your turn
Keep voice at a minimum while on tour
Do not touch walls or other rock formations
Do not scare cave dwellers
Do not smoke, eat or throw waste inside the cave
Relax and enjoy by paying attention to your able cave guides

General Entrance Fee:
P 75.00 and P 50.00

Cave Entrance Fee*:

21 – 59 yr. Old (P 200.00)
17 – 20 yr. Old (P 100.00)
13 – 16 yr. Old ( P 75.00)
6 – 12 yr. Old (P 50.00)

*Filipino Senior Citizens 60 yr. old and above, Children 5 years old and below, and the handicapped are exempted from paying entrance for the Underground River Tour.

Other Fees:

Van Rental from the City Proper
P 3,500.00 – two way (average van rental price)

Boat to Underground River Beach
P700.00 for 6 persons – two way

How to get There:

The Underground river is accessible by land via an 81 km road. It takes around one and a half hours of travel over mostly paved road from Puerto Princesa City to Sabang. It is served by public utility jeepneys and air-condition shuttle vans.

Villa San Mateo Subdivision

2010-05-26T12:12:00.014+08:00

Location: Guitnang Bayan, San Mateo Rizal
Lot Area (Inner): 36 sq. m.
Floor Area: 46.8 sq. m.

We acquire a property @ Villa San Mateo sometime 2007 (or 2008?), it is affordable at that time. Down payment is payable at 12 months and the Loanable amount is P500,000. It is a 2-storey townhouse and is cheaper compare with other low cost housing (row houses in some other subdivision almost cost the same).

My requirement was met because it is accessible (30 minutes from Marikina), they said that water is available 24 hours a day (that's what they are saying to prospective buyers) and some amenities will be constructed the soonest time. After two or three years these are no longer true. Everytime that I'm dealing with with the New APEC Development, Inc. staffs, problem arises (I think they are dangerous to my health).

Documentation for one is a problem, they don't even know how to take care of the papers I am submitting, and the result, I need to submit it again and again and waste more time and energy.

The Engineering Department really got into my nerves. Imagine, I already paid the move-in fee last January 2010 and I applied for "Occupancy Permit" in March 2010, supposedly the water meter should be connected within 30 days from the time of filing. All I need is to follow it up almost everyday and go to their office 5 times (they promised me the same number of times).

As of this time, the complaint I filed to the Engineering Department is still pending (C.R. Ceiling and Roof Leak and encroachment of the other unit's improvement and fence in our property line).

These are just a few of many problems that I encountered with them.

Here are some of what I observed in the Features and Highlights of the said subdivision.
.Entrance gate with guardhouse - as of this date, the guardhouse is still a makeshift house and the gate is still temporary (I think)

.Clubhouse, Playground & Basketball Court - I wonder if what subdivision they are referring to, I haven't seen any of it.

Centralized Water Supply (NAWASA) - Yes, it is centralized but the supply is not continuous, in fact, it is only available between 3am to 6am. They said in the briefing that the water supply is 24 hour. They really need to solve this problem, I heard a lot of complaint from some of the residents of the subdivision. Presently, only half or so of the total units are occupied.

Revised IRR, Presidential Decree 957, Section 1:6a stated that "The subdivision water supply shall be mandatory or obligatory connected to an appropriate public water system or community system provided that the water supply is enough to meet the total daily requirements of the anticipated population".

Section 1:6b stated that "Water Requirement - Every dwelling unit shall be served by an individual supply of water sufficient to meet the total hourly domestic needs of every household for any 8 hour period.

The Average Daily Demand (ADD) for both open market and medium cost housing projects is 150 liters per capita per day (LCPD) household connection."

My personal assessment, one tank of 5000 gallons (available only between 3am to 6am) is not enough for 800++ households. Hey! APEC, do something.

.Meralco Electric System - it is the only thing that works here.

Paging Pag-IBIG fund, please resolve this problem the soonest time possible. If this is not solved immediately Villa San Mateo is not a livable subdivision after all.

Prawn Farm in Bohol

2010-05-24T12:02:00.007+08:00

Prawn Farm is a homegrown restaurant located on the ground floor of the Island City Mall, the largest air conditioned structure in the city (I heard that the restaurant's owner is also the mall's owner). It looks like a fine dining restaurant but the food is affordable. We chose to eat here because it's not too crowded to eat and talk with friends.

Known for its enticing Filipino delicacies, this casual dining facility serves delightful dishes of various kinds of seafood including crabs, prawns and fishes. I wont put much time on the food the offer because I am too biased when it comes to seafood but for sure you will enjoy the taste (hmmm).

I've read a number of good reviews for Prawn Farm but in our case it was the opposite. I have nothing to say with the food because I really enjoyed the food (I told you I'm too biased), The place is clean and cozy but for the efficiency of service they provide? I think they need to strive harder.

We were all delighted and excited to order some of the food they offer but the excitement and the smile on our faces started to fade. We waited for a total of an hour and half plus a number of follow-ups before our food was served. It added to our dismay when we saw some of the table being served first even if we arrived much earlier. The even finished eating before we could start our meal.

Our schedules was affected because of their awful service. We quickly finished our food and left the restaurant. They should call their restaurant FROWN FARM instead.

I hope that our case was only isolated, I'll give them a chance to redeem themselves when I visit Bohol in the near future.

Pahiyas Festival 2010

2010-05-17T12:18:00.012+08:00

The San Isidro Pahiyas Festival held every 15th of May 15 and has become one of the country's tourist attractions prompting the Department of Tourism to list down Lucban as a tourist town and a cultural heritage site. Pahiyas Festival is a colorful feast in honor of their patron saint, San Isidro Labrador.

The festival's name comes from the Filipino terms hiyas (jewel) and pahiyas (precious offering). This feast is an ancient farmers' harvest celebration that dates back to the 16th century. According to legend, San Isidro Labrador magically plowed the field whenever he went out of the church. This is the story that the Spaniards passed on to the Philippines from Mexico during their colonial period. Since then, the Pahiyas Festival has been a source of excitement for the locals and visitors of Quezon Province.

Chosen locals'' houses are decorated with agricultural harvest (vegetables and colorful rice wafers (or kiping). These thin wafers made from rice dough are usually arranged into two or three layers of chandeliers called aranya (see left photo). The locals use different kinds of leaves to add flavor and color to the kiping. They also produce varieties of tastes and textures by using different ingredients such as kabal, coffee, talisay (umbrella tree), cocoa, and banaba leaves.

Each house tries to outdo each other in decorations in an annual competition as they vie for the honor of being recognized for their creativity and artistry (prizes were given to the winning pahiyas based on a given criteria).

After the competition is over and the awards are handed over to the owners of the winning house, the decorations of the house will be thrown away to the huge flock of people as free treats. For the other houses, after the festival, those kipings that were used as decorations are cooked and eaten as rice chips. Also during the festival, the people display their harvest in front of their homes so that the parish priest can bless them as the procession passes by.

Aside from this, there are also contest for best karosa, it's almost the same as decoration in different houses, the only difference is they decorated their jeeps instead. Another one is the "Cart Decoration Contest", locals decorated their cart just like the houses, featuring their famous and delicious Pansit Habhab, left photo shows the winner for this year's contest. Fashion designers also compete by showing their creativity in making a gown using native materials.

There were also this carabao parade where some of the carabaos kneel to the tourist delight. There was this particular carabao which caught my attention and it's my first time to see such carabao, it's an albino carabao, it was so called albino because of its unusual color which is reddish white.

There's the TIYANGGE SA LUCBAN, an agro-industrial fair showcasing Lucban's products. This fair features foods native to the town like the delicious Lucban longganisa, puto seko, broas, tikoy and other delicacies; ornamental plants like dapo and cut flowers; handicrafts such as buri/buntal hats, bags and a number of other cottage industry products.

Lastly, I was able to enjoy the majestic height of Mount banahaw de Lucban. the sky was clear, I was able to see its peak (I'll tell more about it next time).

Indeed, Pahiyas Festival is truly a colorful and wonderful event. I'll be returning here next year to enjoy more of the Festival (I haven't move around much because of thousand s of people who flocked here and enjoy their weekend.

The Last Song - Movie (2010)

2010-05-13T01:26:00.005+08:00

I was excited to watch this movie after I read the novel. Actually, the screenplay for this film was written by Nicholas Sparks prior to the completion of the book. the screenplay was completed in January 2009 while the book was completed in June 2009 (the same time shooting of the film begun) and was published in September 2009.
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I thought that I will enjoy watching the film because I already know the story and I only want to see if the movie will give justice to the nice story of the book, but I was wrong. It's seems that the screenplay for this movie is just a draft for Nicholas Sparks' book version. The movie is a lighter version of the book in terms of emotions. The supporting characters just pops in and pops out in the film. It just misses so many details which would make the film better and interesting.

The book version is far better than this film, the emotions, the characters, the dialogue and the story. I thought that Pastor Harris' character should be in the film's version (you will only see him in the last part of the film). He is the spiritual adviser and friend of his father. There are also a lot of issues unresolved and omitted like the shoplifting case of Ronnie. Blazed, who was rushed to the hospital because she was accidentally got burned by the fireball. Marcus who was put into jail because he is the real reason why the church caught fire. Ronnie's mother, who was the real reason why her father left them. The list goes on and on.

Miley Cyrus, need a lot of workshop to improve her acting skills. For me, the objective to make a viable grown-up movie actress out of Cyrus was not met. She's not nearly enough of a natural actress. She just can't duplicate Mandy Moore's performance. Thanks to Greg Kinnear, the actor who plays Ronnie's father because he delivers a natural and realistic performance (though I like his character in the book, more serious and has more depth). If it weren't for him and Bobby Coleman, off course, the actor who plays the smart 12 year old brother of Ronnie, The Last Song would torture you to death.

The Last Song (Movie), is disappointing. It is a no walk to remember. How much it will cost you if you watch this film?, P300? (movie ticket plus snack), The book is only P315 (paperback), if you want to know the good story of The Last Song, do yourself a favor please buy and read the book.

2010 Automated Elections - The aftermath

2010-05-11T12:22:00.015+08:00

As a PPCRV (Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting) Volunteer, I needed to report to the polling place as early as 6AM for us to witnessed and watch the whole proceeding from the preparation of the PCOS machine up to the last minute of voting, counting and transmission process. I was surprised to see a lot of people waiting outside the polling place. It was very evident that a lot of people were so excited to cast their votes.

Many people waited for a couple of hours or even more but some waited for just a few minutes (I waited for 5 minutes for my turn and another 5 minutes more to cast my vote). People were complaining on the slow flow of the proceedings and some even have to scold or said foul worlds on the teachers. Patience is really a virtue.

Election paraphernalia were raining like hell. As par as I know, campaign period ended last Saturday(?) (May 8, 2010). Some even have the guts to tell us that what they were giving doesn't have the word "Vote" and it is just a sample ballot. Sample ballots? of what/whom?, of particular candidates/party, off course. Ah, it is still an act of campaigning and these paraphernalia prohibited inside the precinct and within 30 meter radius. We heard a lot of complains from different groups on why we were confiscating these "fans" and "sample ballots": Sorry, it is part of our job and it is clearly written in our law.

One particular cluster precinct in our polling place is so "problematic". Since morning, it was bombarded with a lot of problems and commotions which can be avoided if everyone were cool headed and not easily accused of anyone of cheating. There was a time that we needed to call police assistance to pacify a watcher who was hysterical (though her words are full of crap and without any basis at all. She don't even have the authority to be there in the first place and she had the guts to complaint and accused everyone of cheating, ah!, ridiculous. Poor woman, she ended up humiliated by "Uzis" (spectators).

Back up battery pack for the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machine in our precinct burned without any reason. No replacement unit were delivered. We just prayed that there would be no power interruption. Voting closed at 7:15PM and all the paper works and documentations were finished a little over midnight; then we waited...for hours We waited for the modem needed to transmit the results. We have 15 clusters/PCOS machines in our barangay and Smarmatic only issued 6 modems.

You may agree with me that this election is the best election ever held in our country. The results are quick and hopefully accurate, less election related violence and death, and cheating were minimized if not eradicated. As a result, many candidates conceded easily. People who don't believe that the system wont work now commending the efforts of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). Off course, there are still rooms for improvement and I hope that the next elections will get better and better.

I was not compensated (but well fed) with the works I've done and experienced harassment but still I have no regrets of being a PPCRV poll watcher for the 7th times. One thing is for sure, I will volunteer again and again and help in protecting our votes (not protecting any candidate) in any way, big or small.

Let's hope and pray that the person we have chosen to lead our country is the rightful person.

By the way, feel free to post your comment/story regarding the May 2010 Elections

The Last Song (2009)

2010-05-09T00:38:00.008+08:00

WARNING!!!: Contains Spoiler

Lately, I've been reading novels written by Nicholas Sparks. I've read his novels such as; A Bend in the Road, Dear John and now, The Last Song (I am now reading his novel entitled "The Rescue").

I've watched (and haven't read) his novels' movie adaptations including "A Walk to Remember" (my all time favorite) and I really admire his style of writing.

I just finished reading (thank God I finished it before its Movie version is shown) the "Last Song" and I could say that this is one of his best novel to date since "A Walk to Remember".

It is about a 17 year old girl named Ronnie Miller, a piano prodigy when she was still young. She turned into a rebellious teenager when her parents divorced and her father moved from New York City to Wrights ville Beach, North Carolina (Tybee Island, Georgia on its movie adaptation).

Her mom decides to let her spend summer with her dad, a former concert pianist and teacher. She is with her younger brother named Jonah Miller. Ronnie shows hostility towards her father, unlike Jonah who easily bonded with his father. She met Will Blakelee and became involved together in protecting the Loggerhead Sea Turtle nest. As Ronnie is romantically involved with Will, Ronnie managed to bond with his father.

As the story progresses, a series of secrets unfold (A Nicholas Sparks trademark), it resulted to conflicts and in the end, reconciliation. I won't go into details so that those who haven't read the novel will have a chance to enjoy the movie even more.

The novel is loaded with emotions and complications (a reality that many teenagers faces today ). It is an unforgettable story about love in its myriad forms – first love, the love between parents and children, the many ways that deeply felt relationships can break our hearts… and heal them. It is not just a teenage drama novel, it is also a family novel. There are many touching moments, especially on the last seven (7) chapters of the novel which I'm sure teenage and adult alike will like and learn from it. Jonah, Ronnie's younger brother shows how innocent a child is. Spending quality time with his father and they immersed in creating a work of art that will become the centerpiece of a local church.

One last note, I was not able to control my emotion on the last 7 chapters of the novel, I can't even hide the tears in my eyes. Many of you (or us) love the movie, A Walk to Remember, I bet that "The Last Song" movie will catch our hearts and and emotions and will become one of your favorites (though I'm not sure if the movie will give justice to its novel counterpart).

The movie will be shown this coming May 12, 2010. Starring Miley Cyrus (the Hannah Montana girl) as Ronnie. Screenplay by Nicholas Sparks (trivia: he finished the screenplay first before the novel was completed in June 2009). Watch the movie trailer here.

I will quote one memorable line in the novel:

Life, was much like a song.
In the beginning there is mystery, in the end there is confirmation, but it's in the middle where all the emotion resides to make the whole thing worthwhile. - (Chapter 36, The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks)

Parish Pastoral Counting for Responsible Voting

2010-05-04T14:13:00.016+08:00

The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) has been working assiduously for Clean, Honest, Accurate, Meaningful and Peaceful elections (CHAMP Elections). It has done so, and continues to do so without the usual fanfare or clanging cymbals and noisy gongs. As a national parish-based political but non-partisan lay movement established in 1991, the PPCRV has grown to earn the respect of both civil society and ecclesiastical bodies in its initiatives of transforming the electoral culture of the country. The organization continues its mission through the spirit of volunteerism.

I am a PPCRV poll-watcher since the organization's first accreditation in 1992 National Election. I was not a registered voter then so my role is limited to deliver food to my fellow PPCRV volunteer and get the 7th copy of the Election Returns (used for NAMFREL's Quick Count). From then on, I participated in all Local and National Elections (7 Elections including this year).

What made me decide to volunteer? I believe that I have the responsibility, big or small in ensuring a CHAMP Elections. It is my small way of protecting/guarding my vote and the votes of my fellow Filipino (not the votes for a particular candidate). I don't care if I'm not getting any monetary compensation, it is enough to fulfill my duty and responsibility as a Filipino.

As the 2010 automated election draws near, PPCRV is assured that the automated system will diminish (if not eliminated) the chance for cheating and tampering of votes. But as Ambassador De Villa’s words put it, “No matter how good the system might be, if your choice of candidate remains to be inferior, then elections will still amount to the same thing. The bottom line is, choose quality candidates.”

7 days to go before Election day: Reminder: Pray, choose wisely and make a list of the candidates you're going to vote.

Kamayan Sa Palaisdaan

2010-05-02T18:50:00.008+08:00

Kamayan sa Palaisdaan seems to get the most customers around lunch time, which is sometimes followed by a quick afternoon nap. It is almost a second home top most of the locals.

If you want to enjoy most of your time here in Kamayan sa Palaisdaan, better be there as early as 10 maybe, we arrived there at 12:30 PM and were only seated at around 2PM and waited another hour to be served. Sometimes the cause of delays are those costumers who already finished their lunch but decided to stay for a little longer even if someone is waiting for them to vacate the nipa.

The menu consists mostly of fish, since Tayabas is known for their light and delectable seafood compared to Lucban’s meat fest. Sure winners are the Inihaw na Pla-Pla and the Inihaw na Hito. It was my first time to eat Ginataang Suso with Pako (it's not breast with nails okay?) I like it but I'm not sure if I will it or order it again (LOL)

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KAMAYAN SA PALAISDAAN is located at Tayabas, Quezon and is an ideal getaway restaurant for seafood lovers.

Fore more details please visit their website or email them at info@kamayansapalaisdaan.com.ph. You may also call at 7130108, Mobile/SMS: 0921205120 look for Arlene Nantes their Marketing Head

It's Our 4th Anniversary

2010-04-27T17:29:00.009+08:00

It's Our 4th Anniversary this coming Friday (April 30, 2010). As always, allow me to share this Audio Visual Presentation (AVP) I made just for this occasion. I'm always happy, in-love and blessed because of my wife. She never failed to make me feel loved.

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of this video may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photo story was created by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the author. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Camayan Beach Resort

2010-04-12T12:21:00.009+08:00

According to their web site, Camayan Beach Resort, formerly known as Miracle Beach during the days of the US Navy’s presence in Subic Bay. The management team of Ocean Adventure assumed responsibility for Miracle Beach, the best beach in Subic, in December, 2002. In July, 2005, the first hotel building was completed and Camayan Beach Resort was in business.

As far as the beach is concern, I was disappointed. Though Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove are not yet fully developed as of this date (I know development of the coves is inevitable, I hope the coves' beauty won't be destroyed) they are far better than Camayan Beach Resort.

At Camayan Beach Resort, you only have a few meters (I think it's about 5 to 8 meters) of sand from shore line. Sea waters are not impressive at all aside from the fact that it's too itchy when you take a dip into the water. At P300 per person, it 's not worth your money after all.

Aside from swimming, there are other activities Camayan Beach Resort has to offer; You can Play!: Beach Volleyball, Water Gladiator, Beach Frisbee, Golf & Beach Soccer; You can Explore!: Kayak in the Mangroves, Snorkeling on the Reef & Biking in the Forest; You can Relax!: Beach Cabanas, Massage & Shopping. I haven't try to explore the Forest & under the Sea through the activities they offer but maybe it is worth a try and I hope it wont be a disappointment too just like their beach.

How to Get There:

Take the NLEX north to the Clark exit onto SCTEX to Subic Bay Freeport and enjoy this new state of the art, scenic highway. Secret merges into the Tipo Road as it approaches Subic Bay. Take Tipo Road to it end turn right and then left on Argonaut Highway at the first traffic signal and follow the signs to Camayan Beach Resort and Hotel and Ocean Adventure.

Kamay Ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon

2010-04-08T06:05:00.009+08:00

Kamay ni Hesus (Hands of Jesus) Healing Church is one of the top Lenten destinations today here in the Philippines.

The shrine is located on the slopes of Mt. Banahaw, Barangay Tinamnan, Lucban, Quezon. It features a church where healing masses are celebrated by the well known healing priest Fr. Joey Faller. Pilgrims and those who seek physical and spiritual healing travel and visit Kamay ni Hesus.

Also on the site is a 290++ steps (maybe higher than the Lourdes Grotto in Baguio City) hill with life size figures depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross. When you reach the top, you will find a large statue of Jesus Christ (a 50-foot statue built in 2004)

This is a century old tradition by the Filipinos and part of that is going to holy places and attending mass as well as what we call as the Visita Iglesia or visiting churches.

How to Get There:

From South Super Hi-way take Calamba Exit, go straight ahead passing on the national road until you reach the Church of Pagsanjan, Laguna. Turn right passing on the national road until you reach town of Lusiana, Laguna. Go straight ahead until you reach town of Lucban, Quezon. Kamay ni Hesus is 1 km. away from the town proper.

You can also try going to the Shrine Via Liliw-Majayjay.

To get there via public transport, just ride on a Lucena bound bus at Kamuning or Buendia (JAC Liner, Green Star, South Star etc.) that will take you to Lucena Grand Central. From there, the shrine is just a short Jeepney ride.

For more inquiries and more information on mass schedules, prayer request, invitation and healing sessions, you may contact (63)42-5403085; +63917-8536267 .

Pacquiao vs. Clottey Fight

2010-03-17T15:30:00.008+08:00

The fight between Pacquaio vs. Clottey was one of the most boring fights I ever watched in television. Boring in a sense that Clottey is his opponent. In fact, I skipped a couple of rounds and wrote a blog instead. Clottey is a strong puncher and have a great defensive strategy though sometimes used his dirty tactics.

Even Pacquiao was a bit frustrated the way Clottey fight, He even made a joke of Clottey's defense using an infraction rule punch using his two fist simultaneously like he was clapping cymbals (Pompyang punch, popularized in the movies of the late Fernando Poe Jr.). Anyway, let's leave everything to the experts and let's concentrate on how Arnel Pineda sung our "Philippine National Anthem" (again!?)

The National Historical Institute (NHI) has criticized a number of Filipino singers who had sung the Philippine National Anthem in recent fights of Pacquiao for supposedly creating their own interpretation of the song. The NHI is the government body tasked to ensure reverence for the national anthem, the Philippine flag and other national symbols.

Under Section 37 of Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code: The National Anthem must be sung in accordance with the original musical arrangement of composer Julian Felipe, who gave it a marching tempo. Violators may be fined P5,000 to P20,000 or jailed for a year.

Why did he changed the last notes of the anthem?. To draw out attention to himself?, I hope not. Do Filipinos doesn't really care about the Laws of our land as long as "makakalusot naman" (get away with it) and they have the guts to say that it doesn't make them less of a Filipino?. If we don't have this law, "wala ng dapat pag-usapan", end of the story. I know we have more pressing problems to deal with but a simple law as this being violated and a simple issue like this not being resolved (for the longest time), how much more poverty, corruption,... and the list goes on and on. I cannot imagine.

Pineda said; "Ang sa akin ay kakantahin ko ito sa paraan na alam kong magugustuhan ng mga Filipino, bata man o matanda,"(For me, I will sing it the way I know the Filipinos, young and old will like it) . Okay, do it if it's your own song and if it's your concert.

Arnel Pineda just couldn't resist belting the last lines of the Philippine National Anthem. He should have learned from the previous artists who sung it and avoid criticism but praise. Let's wait for Pacquiao's next fight if the assigned singer will be criticized or not.

In fairness to Mr. Pineda, his rendition is far better than Mr. Martin Nievera's rendition. I am still proud of Mr. Pineda even if he failed to sing our National Anthem correctly, just because he made it to the international scene by being the lead singer of the band "Journey".

Photo source: http://www.pacquiaovideo.com/2010/03/manny-pacquiao-double-fist-clap-punch.html

Finally... My Own Website

2010-03-11T22:00:00.007+08:00

Finally, a website of my own. Thanks to Noel Nuguid for designing and hosting my website. I am lucky to get the domain name http://www.rickypascual.com/ (my name is too common). The website contains selected photographs I took. I hope I could post one photo a day.

If you are also interested in getting my service, rates are shown on "services" page. For now I am concentrating on birthdays, pre-nuptial and school events. I still need to learn more about covering weddings and hopefully attend seminars, though I covered 2 weddings to date.

Hope you could visit my site. Comments are highly appreciated. Have a nice day

Ganito Sila sa Makati...Ganito Rin Ata sa Buong Pilipinas

2010-02-28T22:39:00.008+08:00

After last years bad experience in the hands of paranoid Filipinos, here comes another not so bad experience.

This happened this afternoon at Makati Park and Gardens were we were approached by a security guard telling us that we are not allowed to take photographs without securing permit. I wanted to understand their ridiculous policy (I wonder if it is really their policy of not allowing individual who use D-SLR in taking photographs) but I don't understand why.

As far as I know Makati Park and Gardens is a public place, if it's not, I would certainly ask permission first even if I will only use a point and shoot camera.

I had this experience with a security guard in a famous mall. I was taking a few shots of a cloud formation. The guard said: Sir, bawal po mag picture (Sir, it is not allowed here to take photo).

I said: Bakit!, sa inyo ba yung ulap? (Why!, do you own the clouds?). Even a friend had experience it at baywalk when she was shooting sunset's photo, sigh!?

I was apprehended (though I understand them that it's for security reason) when I was shooting junk tanks in a military camp.

I wonder...what's wrong with D-SLR camera?. Please join and sign the petition found here.

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© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Our Valentine's Day Celebration @ Sun Cruises

2010-02-25T12:04:00.002+08:00

My wife and I spent our Valentine's Day at Sun Cruises in Manila Bay. We were supposed to be at the boarding area before boarding time (at 7:30 pm) so we left Marikina City at around 6:00 pm, taking MRT and LRT before we rode on a taxi going to CCP Complex. The traffic condition was worst than expected. In a normal day it should only take as about 10 minutes from LRT Vito Cruz Station but on that day it took us more than 30 minutes, almost missing the boat (there were several couple who did not arrived on time: goodbye P1500).

I was expecting a one couple-one table ratio, I (maybe many of us) was disappointed (see photo why). Anyway, the food did not pass my expectation (I thought the food would taste better if I was the one who cook it, ha ha ha). The night wouldn't be special at all if we haven't witnessed/watched the Pyro-musical in MOA (SM Mall of Asia), aside from a little surprise I prepared for my wife. I ordered a bouquet of flower from the organizer and gave it to her. I requested our theme song to be played, luckily the guitarist played it while I was giving the bouquet.

The night was maybe a disappointment to some (how can you tell cheesy line with your date if other couples could hear you-LOL). We joined our friends and talk about anything and we laughed (while many were bored) all night.

The organizer redeemed themselves by giving out some raffle prizes, including an overnight stay for two at Corregidor Island.

We both enjoyed our date, even if our expectations was not met.

Fashion Shoot

2010-02-21T23:01:00.005+08:00

A friend invited me to join them in shooting some of their new sets of apparels for their business. Check out their multiply sites at http://youniquelyyou.multiply.com/ . Above photo were also uploaded in my new photography website @ http://www.rickypascual.com.

Dress By: Youniquely You

Model: Hannah "Ces"' Tan

15th Philippine Hot Air Balloon

2010-02-14T15:16:00.008+08:00

This was my first Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. I was planning for 3 straight year to attend the event but it was only this year that I was able to really have time to witnessed it. Equipped will my Canon 400D Kit, with some guts on traveling alone and a little information on where to ride a bus, Luckily, my travel was smooth without any delay.

It might be a little bit too expensive (P1000) to bought a VIP pass and come near the Hot Air Balloon and took as many photos as I can (or until my memory card is full). I thought we can stay on a designated area to shoot but after the hot air balloon leave our sight it was also time for us to leave the area and come back in the afternoon for the night glow activity.

I hope that next year there would be no more gas card as part of the package so that the price would be lowered or maybe add some more freebies aside from the T-shirt (they should come up with a better design and prints next year).

Generally, I did enjoy the event and I will definitely attend next year and shoot better photos (and hope to win too).

See you next year at the 16th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (some time in February).

How to Get There:

Public Transport: Take any bus going to Dagupan and go down at Dau Bus Terminal, (you wont missed it because it is a common bus terminal) I prefer Five Star Bus because they have a 24 hour schedule going there. From Dau, look for jeepneys or tricycle going to Clark Gate. Take another jeepney (C-Point) that will bring you to the Clark Airfield.

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By Car: Take the North Luzon Expressway from Manila and exit to Dau, Mabalacat. Turn left to Angeles City after the exit. Make a right turn to the Clark Freeport Zone. Proceed along Manuel Roxas Highway and turn right. Travel time rage from one and a half hour to two hours.
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Finding My One True Love - My Wife's Account

2010-02-11T17:16:00.017+08:00

I wonder if many of you already heard my wife's version of our love story. As far as I know, many of you heard my version of our story (I might be too biased if you will not read her side of the story). Now that our story is included in Bro. Bo Sanchez' new book "40 Stories of Finding Your one True Love" and since it's Valentine's Day (we are allowed to say or tell cheesy story), may I share with you my wife's account. It will add more spices to our love story.

Read on and may this story bless all single people out there, Happy Valentine's Day to all.

I met Ricky in 1995 when our respective choir merged. Though I saw him back in our high school days at San Pedro Apostol Chapel during Sunday Masses. I barely know him and I am not even interested to know his name. The only thing I can remember is he is the very thin white man. Our Choir had regular practices aside from our regular Sunday Mass services and Prayer meetings, but there's no opportunity for us to know each other better. I'm already comfortable with the other guy members of their group and eventually became my friends but not to him. He's so quiet and I thought we did not have any common interest, so why bother? Huh? I just saw him as a weird holy man who always carries a notebook and a Bible every prayer meetings.

Until our choir retreat last May 1996, during the ministry time, we were asked to give a lighted candles to anyone among the group and say something, may it be an apology or honoring. I chose Ricky and took the chance to befriend him. While I passed the candle to him, I said “Sana maging close tayo...tahimik mo kasi” (I hope we could be good friends. You’re too quiet). He just nodded... I think that's a good start.

After the retreat he started talking, marunong pala s'yang magsalita, ha ha ha (He knows how to speak afterall), telling stories and tried to throw scripted jokes...just like text messages. I remember, the first time that we really got the chance to have a longer conversation was when we went to Marikina City Jail for an outreach program. We talked inside a tricycle with another sister while the others are inside the hall listening to the talk. I learned that he is so talented. He started showing off by singing his compositions. He knows how to play the guitar, of course I praise his talent as a sign of encouragement of a sister to a brother (Before I heard the talk of Bro. Bo about flirt-some, I think I know how to flirt-some, LOL) then we became friends.

I received a letter from Ricky dated July 16, 1996 asking me if he could pick me up from school. I got a little excited and thought it was cool, but to my dismay. Ricky was so quiet the whole time that we were together, I was even turned-off when we ride on a jeep instead of FX. Napanis pa laway ko (He did not even talked to me) the entire trip from P.U.P Sta. Mesa to Marikina, all he could say was "Mama, bayad" (Driver, my fare) and "Para, ho" (Stop here). After that I dreaded the thought of him fetching me from school. I don't know how to handle that awkward situation and thought to myself, “how could I live with this kind of person...soooo boring".

But In fairness with him, during the time we were together on every practices and services, I know for sure that he is a good man. He is quiet but deep, boring but descent. He lacks humor but everybody loves him, especially by our elders and parents of our choirmates. My respect for him is there but I just think we were not compatible.

While I was “slightly” considering Ricky… trying to convince myself that he is a BF material, I saw my long distance BF again. It is when I went to Palawan with my classmates last August 1996. I was head over heals to my ex-BF, tall, basketball player, hunk (at least to me), a total opposite of Ricky. We reunited and when I returned to Manila, I was a different person.

I started avoiding Ricky. His corny jokes pissed me off. When he finally said “I love you”, I almost shouted and pushed him out of our gate (ricky's note: this is the first of seven attempts). I treated him like a man with leprosy (I was just exaggerating). One instance I remembered, It was Christmas Eve, Ricky went to our house together with one of the brother. I stayed on my room upstairs and didn't eat Noche Buena with my family because of Ricky. To me he is an uninvited guest. I was actually waiting for my BF then who eventually didn't showed up.

Another “pagmamaldita” (peevishness) that I’ve done to Ricky happened in Batangas. Our choir went there for a vacation. Ricky serenaded me together with our very supportive friends. But instead of appreciating the gesture, I yelled at them, “Hoy! Magpatulog kayo!” (Hey!, allow us to sleep). To me it was only a joke, but I saw in his eyes how I’ve hurt him. Every time that he give me a letter, he always says that he already asked the Lord for me. That even irritated me so much. To me, it means that if I didn't love him back, I'll be stubborn to God. (because I know He favors Ricky than me) Knowing this, I countered pray with God. “Lord... kung talagang sya, e 'di sige.... Pero Lord, wag ha?” (Lord if he is the one for me, so be it... but please don't, Lord) Crazy me... There are times I won’t attend a gathering if I know that he was also coming. I didn't want him around not because I hate him, but maybe I can't stand seeing him being silent again...miserable because of me. I didn't treat him the way he deserved, but still he continue loving me silently. He didn't say it but I see it in his actions.

It was 1997, another retreat came. It was very timely because I'm so down that time. During the ministry time, as a ministry head, Ricky had to wash our feet. Then it was my turn, he washed and kissed my feet very passionately as if he was kissing me on the cheek. I held my tears from falling. How come this man is so intent and sincere, so down to earth despite all the hardship and heartache I cast on him. I felt the Lord kissing my feet and forgiving all my sins. Instantly, I know for sure that God is already showing His “gift” to me. A gift that I repeatedly ignored and refused.

From then, I finally decided to really treat Ricky well.

Realization came March of 1998. During the youth camp in Antipolo, I noticed that he is not with our group often. Instead, he was always with the other group and surrounded by sisters from the other parish. He is so popular and even voted as “Mr. Youth Camp” of that event. That time I hated him from being snob but deep inside I was just jealous. That made me really think.

Fast forward....May 1998.

One night inside our room, my sister and me are preparing our things for the next day's retreat, when I notice a rolled paper beside her make-up kit. Curious as I was, I grabbed it and asked what was it. When I was about to open it, my sister immediately snatched it from me and we almost wrestled. I thought it was a letter for her from an admirer that why shes so protective. She said it was Ricky’s letter to me. I asked why not give it to me then. She told me that Ricky instructed her to give me the letter right after the retreat. She then kept it inside her cabinet.

After the retreat, again I remember the curiosity I had in that unique letter. I’m so eager to see what is written there and can’t wait until tomorrow, I can’t wait for my sister to give it to me. So while my sister was already fast asleep, since I know where the letter is, I took the letter and read it alone. But I immediately returned it from where I took it so that my sister won’t notice. Ha ha ha!, Ricky took all his courage to wrote down again his feelings. He poured out all his emotions, things that he can’t say personally. The next morning, I pretended that I haven't read the letter yet and asked my sister for the letter. She told me that during the retreat, Ricky told her not to give me the letter anymore. I was kind of confused and sad because of that. Does Ricky finally giving up or he just realized that I'm not worthy of his love?

Time passed, me & Ricky became good friends. We started exchanging friendly letters. Sometimes, he and some choir mates would visit me in our house. I didn't noticed that I really started liking him, feeling that I hide even to my bestfriend. That made me think of our current situation, we are now friends. I know he still loves me but he never brought up the issue again. Now I’m beginning to love him but he never asked. Now I missed his attention but never admitted it even to myself. Gosh.. I’m in trouble...how...think! think!.

One time, I saw a poem from my officemate's journal. The last part is like this, “I don't want you to be my friend anymore, because I've learned to love you . . . my friend”. I copied it, I thought it was the best way to tell Ricky that I'm finally accepting his love.

[The] night of July 15 1998, I saw him in front of my friend's house, I just came from work. He walked me home. He was about to leave when we reached our gate, I invited him in. I said to myself “this is the right time”. The poem was already type written a month ago and I was just waiting for the right time. Inside, to keep him from going home, I showed him some pictures which I know he already saw. I offered him a cup of coffee though I know he is not a coffee drinker, I was too nervous. Finally, it was really time for him to leave because it was almost midnight, I handed him the poem. I told him to read it when he reached home but he was so eager to read it in front of me. We were both speechless.

After we announced our relationship to the group, everybody was very happy and in festive mood. One of the elder even held a simple celebration for us.

I just learned about his deal with the Lord a month after. He told me that I was just 5 minutes early from the deadline. A 5 minutes delayed would mean loosing my happiness. Happiness and contentment that I am experiencing right now.

In my life, I had fair share of regrets. Most of them are cause of bad decisions and wrong judgments. But deciding to choose Ricky as my husband is one decision I would never regret.

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Choosing Ricky means being obedient to God and being open to His will. He is truly a Gods gift, my one true love.

I read her story over and over again and I can't help but smile (sigh!?!) as if I only read this story for the first time. I love telling our story again and again and I won't get tired of doing it for the rest of my life. It's been 14 years since I courted her and the feeling is the same. In fact it's getting stronger everyday. Ah!, I never imagined my world without my wife in my life, It feels so empty.

Okay, so much for the cheesy part. I hope you all enjoy your day with your love one on this occasion. If you haven't got a copy of the book "40 Stories of Finding Your One True Love", please buy it for only P249. You can buy it at Shepherd's Voice Publication in Chicago, Cubao or Go to Valle Verde Feast near ULTRA ~~(I haven't seen it yet at National Book Store Branches)~~and at all National Bookstore Branches Nationwide..

Happy Heart's Day to all.

40 Stories Of Finding Your One True Love

2010-02-05T16:58:00.006+08:00

This post is written at the back of the book's cover.

These 40 Love Stories Will Make You Fall in Love Again:

In the incredible bestselling book, "How To Find Your One True Love", Bo Sanchez wrote only one love story: his love story with his wife Marowe. Through the years, that book has rocked he world of thousand of singles all over the planet. It has saved many singles of marrying the wrong person. It has inspired many to choose the right partners. And from the many emails Bo received, the book has caused many great marriages.

So imagine how this book you are holding will inspire you more.

Because instead of one love story, you'll read 40 love stories.

True stories. Beautiful stories. Inspiring stories.

Warning:Through this 40 stories, your faith will be deepened. Your hope will be strengthened. And even i you've already found your one true love, you'll all in love all over again.

Open this book now and bless your life in the powerful way.

ricky's note: The moment I got the copy of this book (40 Stories of Finding You One True Love) in my hand, I started reading it and after 2 hours I finished reading the book. All stories are very inspiring, sometimes I laugh and sometimes I cried specially when I read the story on page 9: Find out why.

Grab a copy of this wonderful book and I'm sure it will inspire you, specially the single men and women out there. Available in National Bookstore and in all leading bookstores nationwide.)

Inter-Feast Singles Night Promotion

2010-01-29T15:42:00.007+08:00

A much better uploaded version (there are still slight changes on the tempo of the pictures after uploading it, I wonder why) of the AVP I made for the promotion of Inter-Feast Singles Night. Watch.

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of this video may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above video were taken/edited by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the videographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Caramoan Sunrise

2010-01-29T11:50:00.005+08:00

Took this while we were riding on a boat going to Caramoan.

Sunrise in Caramoan

Nagsasa Sunset

2010-01-25T13:00:00.004+08:00

I hope I got it right.

Focal Length: 18mm

Exposure time: 1/2500

Aperture: f/11.0

ISO: 400

Nagsasa, Zambales

Color Accent

2010-01-22T10:15:00.006+08:00

I just found out (2 years after I bought this camera) that my old "Canon Powershot A540" point and shoot camera can do color accent in just a couple of easy steps. Though it does have limitations, it still easier than doing this in Photoshop, specially if you are just a snap shooters.

Lesson: Read your manual thoroughly (I know I am guilty of not reading it, but I've learned my lesson), you might just end up missing helpful features of you camera.

Busuanga, Palawan with new friends

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Chie Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Sunset @ Fort Santiago

2010-01-20T09:58:00.005+08:00

One of the photographs I captured during my hands-on training in Basic Photography Class:

Fort Santiago, Manila (Time: 1801 hrs)

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Abstract Photo by Rotating

2010-01-19T09:46:00.004+08:00

Just practicing what I've learned from a photography magazine:

Marikina River Park

Eclipse, January 15, 2010

2010-01-16T11:09:00.008+08:00

The Philippines saw a partial solar eclipse yesterday with the moon covering around half of the sun in some areas of the country.

I was able to capture it with my camera (my first). I Got a few decent shot before the sun was covered by clouds. The photo on the left was taken at 4:51 P.M, Manila time.

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Around the world, the eclipse was viewed as an annular eclipse, meaning the moon did not cover the whole of the sun, as in the case of a total eclipse. Instead, the sun appeared as a bright ring around the moon. Yesterday's eclipse is the longest solar eclipse in terms of duration since 1992.

Marikina City Comes Back To Life With Marikina Christmas Festival 2009

2009-12-31T21:54:00.010+08:00

Well, this post might be too late but still I thought of sharing this with you.

Marikina Christmas Festival is an annual event in Marikina Cty during Christmas Season. The entire stretch of the Marikina River is lined up with stalls selling toys, bags, shoes, clothes, home accessories and a lot more at affordable prices.

I thought Marikina Christmas Festival will not push through because of the onslaught of “Typhoon Ondoy” last September but I was wrong, instead it's bigger than ever. In fact the main attraction on this year's festival is the Mechanical Display at Marikina City Hall, the same mechanical display we watched decades ago in COD (a popular Mall in Cubao during the 70's). The show features animated dolls that move in sync with the music or with the voice over. Though I haven't watch it yet, I know it would be enjoyable for me and others who knew this popular show and will likewise be enjoyed by today's children as well. The Mechanical display will last until January 15, 2009, see you there (I will watch it this weekend)

As usual, Marikina City ended 2009 with a big concert which is being held yearly at the Marikina Amphitheater. The concert ended with a 30 minute fireworks display. This year's concert featured Ms. Pop's Fernandez and some popular bands and was hosted by Vice Ganda (of the famous show, “Showtime”).

More photos and stories to follow, Have a blessed Year 2010.

I'm Glad, I Found This Photo

2009-12-03T10:32:00.007+08:00

If there is one thing that I really regret of not saving during Typhoon Ondoy is our photographs, it was destroyed by the flood. There's no way to restore it, more so to reprint it. (Thank God, now it's digital). I was sad knowing that I won't be seeing my dad's photographs (he died 14 years ago).

Photographs reminds us of significant events in our life and losing it is like losing a portion of our being (you could tell stories about it but it is better if there is a photo of that particular event to support your story).

Last week as I was browsing on my multiply site, I found this particular photo, I am glad I was able to scanned and uploaded it on my site a few years back. It made my feel better. We lost all but three (this one, my parent's wedding and the company ID which I still have on my wallet) of my dad's photographs (I hope there's still more, I am still digging on my files).

Me and My Dad after I graduated from high school

Dad will aways be in my heart and mind. No super typhoon could ever take it away from me.

My Thoughts on My Baby's Birth

2009-10-23T10:17:00.002+08:00

I am here once again waiting outside the operating room. My wife is scheduled to give birth to our first born child via Cesarean Operation. Unlike the first one this is different, this is going to be a happy one. Just the thought of seeing my child for the first time is like heaven, it feels so wonderful.
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This time the tears in my eyes is not because of grief and sadness but because of joy and gladness. Before, I received text messages of sympathy but today I am receiving text messages congratulating us for our first child. Our friends cried with us during the sad days of our life and today they are rejoicing with us.
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Today marks the beginning of a happier days for us. In a few hours I'll be meeting my little princess. Thanks to our friends who always pray for my wife's pregnancy. It was indeed an enjoyable pregnancy.
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I thank and praise God for allowing us to have Gabby in our life, for protecting her each day and each moment. I'll be seeing my wife in a couple of hours and I know this time her eyes will have sparks on it and her lips, with a smile. I cannot matched the pain she is enduring right now. If only I could bare the pain for her, I will. I am so proud of my wife
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This is the day that the Lord has made for us and we rejoice in the Lord.
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Friends, join us in welcoming Gabby in our life.

The Wrath of Typhoon Ondoy

2009-10-06T14:19:00.012+08:00

Here's a collection of photos during Tropical Storm Ondoy. Ondoy brought the worst rainfall to Metro Manila among recorded typhoons according by PAGASA, producing only moderate winds but hours of extremely heavy rain. At least 240 deaths were officially reported from the typhoon in the Philippines.

Marikina City was the most devastated region where almost all of the city's area was submerged in water not more than ten feet and tons of knee-deep mud. During the typhoon, Marikina River broke off from its banks and transformed streets into rivers of flood. The breakage of the river from its dike causes heavy flooding on other Metro Manila streets. Marikina residential areas, particularly Provident Village, was highly spawned by flood were at least eight people were found dead. Marikina itself recorded 78 deaths, the highest among Metro Manila cities. (Source: Wikipedia)

We were just blessed that the flood inside our house is only knee deep but still it was my first to experience such. Our parents were not fortunate, flood at their house was six feet high but thankfully they are all okay.

We pray for the people who lost their life. May we all learn to take good care of our environment. I hope that the root of this problem may be solved.

Many of the photos used in this video are from various sites on the web. They are too many to mention but it was used solely in making of this video.

Two Days After the Flood

2009-09-28T06:14:00.011+08:00

Typhoon Ondoy was the worst typhoon ever hit Marikina City and the entire Metro Manila. I thought Typhoon Ondoy will not hit us badly.

The street near our house was flooded (I never imagine it was coming), flowing at a speed of 40 Kph. Electricity were cut, communication signal was bad. A few more minutes, water begun to enter our house and from that moment I knew it was serious.

I started bringing our things into safety, and in about an hour our house was submerged above the knee level. It was physically tiring, I was exhausted and more worried for our love ones. I don't even know if they were all okay.

After the flood subsided, I visited my mom's house to check if they are okay. The situation is worst than I expected. They told me that the flood was 6 feet high (It was the first flood ever in our place). The only thing my mom could save was a television and our diplomas.

After all these ordeals, thank God we're all fine. We pray for the safety of our fellow Filipino, for those who are still trapped in their respective houses because of the flood and for all those who lost their love ones, may they find comfort and strength in God.

May we finally learned from this experienced. I read this in one of my friend's Facebook Account and I paraphrased it, "Filipinos are caring by nature but we need to start caring for our nature now."

When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are King over the flood
I will be still know you are God.

May the Lord have mercy on us.

President Cory Aquino,...A Woman of Courage and Dignity

2009-08-01T08:06:00.008+08:00

Tomorrow, we will say goodbye to our beloved Former President Corazon Aquino, an Icon of Democracy. Surely, hundred of thousands of people will flock and give the final respect due her. She may not be the best or greatest President our country has ever had but she is the only President who was not tainted with any corruption, a great leader, a prayerful president and a courageous woman.

Even in her last days, she showed us that God is in control of everything. I am in awe with her devotion to our Mother and most specially her faith in God. She was equipped with this faith during her presidency. She was the symbol of our hope, unity and love.

I know we can't have such a person and a leader like President Cory in our lifetime and I am sure many politicians envy her. (I wonder if they dreamed to have the same attention when they die.). Our nation will surely missed her. We may not be seeing her wearing her signature yellow cloths and we may not hear her soft voice anymore but one thing is for sure her legacy will live on from generation to generation. A loving mother, a wife and a strong woman. Like Ninoy, I admire her unconditional love to our nation.

I hope that the hard earned democracy did not die with her and I hope she will not just be part of our history but rather a part of life. I will surely teach my children her contribution, devotion, faith and dignity. So that they will imitate her love to our country and to our God.

She is the reason why I am proud to be a Filipino.

"My responsibility as a Filipino to my country goes beyond it to my grave." -Pres. Corazon Aquino, SONA-July 22, 1991

Photo Credit: http://fjsanchez.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/cory_aquino1.jpg

Reflection On My 34th Birthday

2009-07-29T10:36:00.017+08:00

Yesterday is my 34th Birthday (hmm, I am that old?).

My wife treated me to my first ever (maybe the last) facial treatment in my entire life. I loved the massage and scrubbing part but the pricking is really like hell, ouch!!!. I guess that's the price of wanting to be clean or the price of being vain, I guess?. The treatment lasted for an hour, an hour of squeezing and pricking. Whew that was close, another 10 minutes of it, I might end up dead (LOL).

It feels good after the treatment. Those elusive blackheads are gone. I've learned that the reasons behind these blackheads are the clogging of pores because of over activity of the sebaceous (the what?) glands and dead skin cells. This could be because of hormonal imbalance, poor sanitary, dietary habits, use of excessive or harmful cosmetic products, lack of apt water content in the body and many more.

Whatever...

What's the connection?

Well, I can't ask for anything more since the Lord supplies all my needs and granting all my prayers according to his will. In short, I'm satisfied with what is happening to me except recently, I am struggling in my ministry. It made me think if what I did in serving the Lord is enough but I guess it's not enough and it wont be enough even if I serve Him in my lifetime. I won't go into details anymore, painful as it is but I know after this I'll be a better person, I'll be more loving, I'll be more understanding and I'll be more obedient.

Yesterday is the Feast day of St. Martha and the Gospel is in Luke Chapter 10.

"You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken away from her. - Luke 10:42

I got this reflection from http://www.wordgodspells.com/ by Eduardo “Momong” Robillo,

"Every once in a while, we need to “sit at the feet of Jesus”, and allow His words in Scriptures to invigorate our soul. When we are “worried and upset about many things”, the soothing words of our Lord can lift our burdens (Mt.11:28-30), and lead us to green pastures (Ps. 23). It is our intimate relationship with Jesus that can put all our activities in proper perspective. Abiding by His Word is more important than any other responsibility. "

...And this is what I'm doing at this very moment, sit at the feet of Jesus...

Prayer:

In all the things we say and do Lead us to ‘choose the better part’,Grant us Lord the grace to serve You with Martha’s hands and Mary’s heart.

P.S.1: For those who greeted me yesterday, Thanks a lot, I appreciate it very much and for those who will still greet me after reading this blog, thank you also.

P.S. 2: To my wife, thank you for making my day special, you never fail to make me feel happy and loved.

Psalm 47

2009-07-24T12:29:00.002+08:00

This song was my entry in the Kerygma Songwriting Contest 2007 and the 3rd song I recorded in a studio (it cost me a lot). Inspired by Psalm 47, one of the many songs I wrote with lyrics based on the Book of Psalm. I was struggling to composed a song for this contest, and God gave me a song which I finished in just 10 minutes. God is amazing indeed.

The song didn't make it to the finals more so in the album but it's nothing compare with the joy of accomplishing what God want me to do.

Enjoy listening.

To God be the Glory

"I sing to you Lord a hymn of Love for Your faithfulness to me.."

Download or Listen

Come everyone let's clap our hands for joy,

Shout to God with joyful praise.

For the Lord is an awesome God,

He is great, King of all Kings.

For the Lord is an awesome God,

He is great, King of all Kings.

CHORUS: .

Alleluia, God of Israel,

We exalt Your Name above all,

Alleluia, God of Abraham,

We give praise forevermore.

(Repeat)

(Repeat Stanza)

(Repeat Chorus)

.BRIDGE:

Alleluia (8x)

(Repeat CHORUS except last line)

.CODA:

We give praise forevermore. (3x)

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image and song/lyrics may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer/composer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

When God Seems Distant

2009-07-23T12:48:00.003+08:00

This is my Reflection on Chapter 14 of the "Purpose Driven Life" by Ricky Warren"

"The Lord has hidden himself from his people, but I trust him and place my hope in him" - Isaiah 8:17, TEV

Rick Warren said "It is easy to worship God when things are going great in your life - when he has provided food, friends, family, health and happy situation". Yes, It is so easy because we have all the good reasons to worship God but can we still do the same when we feel that the Lord seems distant?. There are many instances in my life that I felt that God seems so distant, I felt that I am alone.

Two years ago my wife had a miscarriage (see "We Lost Our Baby"), that was the loneliest time of my life. Literally, I was alone and it seems any flee from God is useless. I may be ruined, I may be in grief, but I never ask "Why?". I just surrender everything to God.

The Lord said: "I will never leave you nor forsake you", it is always true even if we don't feel his presence. The Lord has done many good things for me, and he is doing more.

Tragedies and trials is just part of growing in faith. At this time of my life, whenever I feel God's absence, I feel more His love, His embrace and His comfort. I'll be forever grateful for everything He has done for me... and I know God is watching over me every seconds of my life... I just have faith and trust that He will never leave me specially in times of need.

In less than 3 months my first child will be born.

It is still more difficult to be crucified than to undergo such tragedies and trials. -Anonymous

Me and My New Guitar

2009-07-06T22:12:00.016+08:00

It's been more than a month since my wife bought this guitar (left photo) for me. Actually, this is not the one I was looking when we were in a music store. I intended to buy a cheaper classical guitar but my wife told me to choose the guitar I really like.

More than three (3) years ago, I wanted to buy this guitar after I retire my thirteen(13) year old guitar. It cost P27,000 then. It's quite expensive so I decided to delay buying it. I told to my self, "Someday, I will buy you".

Thanks to my wife, I now own this wonderful guitar, Applause (by Ovation) AE227-1. It cost P19,000 a year ago but we bought it at a discounted price of P7,900, whoa!, that's a blowout. It may not be the top of the line guitar but I really love my new guitar.

Why?, because its a gift from my wife. If its from my wife it must be good.

My wife knows how to make me feel loved in so many ways and this is just one of it. To date I already wrote 5 songs using this guitar, songs of praise and thanksgiving.

I wonder when and where I could play my guitar in one of my ministry services. I was serving in the music ministry as a guitarist for 3 years before I became one of the singers. Singing may not be my core gift but I just follow the Lord. If and when will he allow me to play again, it's up to Him. Everything is temporary just like my new guitar. It will soon lost its nice paint and beautiful sounds but the love of God will remain.

I am still praying if its time for me to move on and accept another challenge. Honestly?, I missed church celebration and it's sacred and beautiful music. I missed the solemnity of the celebration of the Holy Mass. In the meantime, while I am still waiting for my next assignment (or maybe same assignment) I will just composed more songs for the Lord (Liturgical and Praise Songs). Wherever He may lead me I will go.

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To God Be The Glory

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P.S.

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This month I am celebrating my 5th year in serving in the music ministry and 14th year since I joined a parish choir in 1995..

.© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Skywalk Extreme Adventure

2009-06-30T23:50:00.011+08:00

The country's first Skywalk Extreme Adventure is now gaining popularity since its opening last December 11, 2008 December 11, 2008. The hottest attraction in Cebu City is located on the 37th floor of Crown Regency Hotel & Towers. It will provide you the thrill and excitement as you walk around the edge of the building on a narrow platform. A harness is attached to keep you safe. The adventure will treat you with a 360 degrees view of the city.

It is more fun if you will try this with friends even if you have a fear of height (just like me). The walk will last for about 20 minutes and as you walk around the platform, your fear will turn into a smile.

For only P600 you will enjoy the walk with sumptuous buffet dinner awaiting you after the adventure. A photographer will take photo for you, so pose as much as you want since the price of the compilation CD is defending on the number of guest and not on the number of photos taken.

This adventure is not recommended for the fainted heart. Pregnant are also prohibited to try this activity(hmm, I wonder how my wife was able to try this activity, shhhh!)

Personally, I don't like the way they took the photo (see above photo) aside from the fact that it's too expensive (P230/person) but we don't have any choice but to take the CD and pay P2,070.

We all had fun at the Skywalk Extreme. It is good for a one time experience only (or maybe two if you want to try it in the afternoon and in the evening). I'll be back here and try it once more together with the edge coaster, a more thrilling and heart stopping ride.
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Tips:

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1. Wear sneakers or rubber shoes (with socks) since they won't accept closed leather shoes or slippers though they will provide shoes for you.

2. A locker is provided to store your things and valuable items like jewelry, watch, and others.

3. Do the Skywalk Adventure before your buffet dinner, I'm sure you know why.

4. Prepare an extra money for souvenirs.

5. Try this in the afternoon, they said it is more exciting than in the evening.

Burned Out?

2009-06-27T12:46:00.018+08:00

As I was reflecting during lunchtime,...a song was written. I picked-up my boss' guitar and strummed it while my co-employees were sleeping and resting. In less that an hour the song was finished.

I sometimes I wonder if I really served the Lord with all my heart. I've been serving the Lord for more than two decades and half of it was spent in the music ministry. I've learned many things like reading music notations and learned to play the guitar. Today, I am still serving in the music ministry but I know I don't give my 100% to God.

Am I getting burned-out? I hope not...

May I give more glory to God each day through the songs I compose and to the ministry he gave me.

Prayer: Lord keep the fire burning in me, may I glorify You more each day through the gifts you gave me.

ALL I WANT IS YOU
Words and Music By: Ricardo Pascual 062609

God of mercy, God of glory
Take me, mold me
God unfailing, God all-knowing

Guide me, lead me

CHORUS:

I give You all that I am,
Take full control,
Use me, Oh Lord
I seek your love and Your grace
Draw me, Oh Lord
Closer to you
All I want is to love You, Lord
All I want it to serve you more.

(Repeat all)

Interlude:

BRIDGE:

All I want is you
All I need is your love.
(Repeat 8x)

(Repeat Chorus 2x)

CODA:

All I want is to love you Lord
All I want is to serve you more
All I want is to love you Lord
All I want is to serve you more.

It's Father's Day Today

2009-06-22T00:21:00.012+08:00

A friend sent me a Father's Day message. I know why she greeted me that way but I still asked her why.

Friend: Advanced Happy Father's Day

Me: Why "advanced", Today is Father's Day?

Friend: Hindi pa lumalabas baby n'yo (Your baby is not born yet.)

She's right,my wife will give birth to our first child late October 2009 but frankly, It feels good to be greeted "Happy Father's Day" for the first time.

Here's another one:

"Bro, day-off natin ngayon ha?, It's our special day, wala munang laba at plantsa (don't do the laundry and ironing of cloths)... he he he, Happy Father's Day"

Here's one more which really made me laugh:

Happy Father's day sa pinaka-mabait, pinaka-pogi, pinaka-loyal at walang kabisyo-bisyong tatay- pagbati mula sa napakasinungaling ding tatay (Happy Father's Day to the kindest, handsomest, most loyal and without vices father - a greetings from the most liar father)

But the most touching and inspiring message I got is from my child (since my child is not yet born, my wife wrote the message in Gabby's behalf) and my wife gave me a gift (yahoo!!)

Dear Daddy Ricky...

Happy Happy Father's Day!, thank you for taking good care of me while I'm on mommy's tummy (womb). I know you will be a good Dad coz I see how you love my mommy and how you pamper her. Looking forward of feeling your embrace and kiss. By the way, thanks for praying for me every night. Hope to hear you sing for me.

Love You!!!

Gabby

...And it made my day complete.

Here's a prayer for all the Fathers in the world:

May our labor bring not only favor, success and prosperity but great fulfillment. May God continue to bless us with an encouraging family which makes us more valuable with each passing day.

Happy Father's Day to us all.

Sagbayan Peak

2009-06-19T13:24:00.013+08:00

Sagbayan Peak Resort is a mountain-top resort and recreation center located in Sagbayan, Bohol about 10 kilometers away fr0m Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen, Bohol.

The resort is nestled on a five hectare mountain-top and is more spacious and less crowded compared with the Chocolate Hills Complex. Though it is not the Chocolate Hills' main area, you can still view similar hill formations.

Its main attraction is the observation platform which offers a 360-degree view of the famous Chocolate Hills plus the sea which separates Cebu and Bohol. One can view the Cebu City skyline across the sea with a high-powered telescope found on the pavilion’s deck. (insert P10 coin and enjoy viewing for 2 minutes)

There are other attractions and facilities which equally gives enjoyment and excitement to the visitors. They have restaurant, picnic grounds, playground, a butterfly dome with numerous butterflies species, chapel, cafe and Tarsier sanctuary.

There are also numerous cartoon characters scattered around the resort such as Duffy Duck, Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs, Bugs Bunny, Lola, Marilyn Monroe, Donald Duck, Lion King and other dinosaurs which will surely excites not just the young ones but also the young at heart. Don't forget to have a post with the 19-foot T-rex found inside the resort, relax it wont bite.

There is a market near the playground which offers native products and delicacies for your pasalubong.

After the tiring but enjoyable exploration of Sagbayan Peak, one can take a short dip in the swimming pool of the Water Park: The new addition to the many facilities of the resort. For only P80, visitors can enjoy the water in the pool.

Sagbayan peak is obviously a one stop resort where you can meditate, enjoy nature, burn calories, eat, play with your kids, take a snap shot and take a dip in the water in just one day.

One last note: I'm note sure if the "Tarsier Sanctuary" is still there since an ordinance was passed which limits tarsier viewing within Corella, Bohol: the only place in Bohol declared as a sanctuary by the DENR.

For Bookings and Reservation:

Bohol Office:

Sagbayan Peak, Sagbayan, Bohol, 6331
Tel./Fax: +63 (38) 511-9167
Cellphone: 0921-3230866

Manila Office:
Unit 501 Park Trade Centre Building
1716 Investment Drive, Madrigal Bussiness Par,
Alabang, Muntinlupa City, 1780
Telephone: +63 (2) 842-7812
Fax: +63 (2) 807-6111
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My Dad...My Idol...My Hero

2009-06-15T13:15:00.007+08:00

I thank my dad (and mom too) for raising me up to be a good person and to be a person of good values. I thank him for the memories and good times we've shared. I missed those days...

Let me share with you how dad filled my life with love and how he taught me lessons which I will never learn from the four corners of the classroom:

My dad had a bike, a traditional bike with a basket in front of it. When I was young, I always look forward in riding on his bike and go to Loyola. We just roamed around the memorial park. What else could we do? Beside there was nothing but tombs and trees, but the experienced was great and fun. Usually, during holy week, we followed all the processions in our town, just to watched the procession again and again. There were many good memories made because of my dad's B-tek... B-tekleta, that was the reason why it's so difficult for me to gave it away, I even wanted to fixed and restore it.

Dad used to make scaled model vehicles, with scrap woods as his medium, trucks, jeep etc. Dad didn't even finished elementary but his skills and knowledge is so admirable. He knew how to fix almost everything, he was a carpenter, a shoe maker, etc. and etc. His secret?,..He had passion in everything he did. He had passion in learning new things.

Dad is not perfect. He had his shares of shortcomings, kept secrets from my mom, nagged us all his children, but honestly, he was always right. We were just too stubborn to do what we were told, clean the house, study hard, don't fight with each other, respect one another, etc. And the secrets he kept from us? A bunch of loans for our studies, we don't even knew then that the money we used for our tuition came from loans, (5-6). The 6 figure dept was paid with the money we got from his retirement after he suffered from stroke.

The sickness he had never stopped him from loving us. In fact, he always waited for me to arrive home, then we will watched movie together even in the wee hours of the morning. It was our routine for a long time until he died when I was 3rd year in college.

I missed those days, maybe if he was still alive we were serving the Lord together along with my mom and my siblings, see me graduated from college, celebrated milestones in my life: like passing the board exams (Jr. G.E. And C.E. Board), winning a songwriting contest and marrying the love of my life.

He served God with all his heart, mind and soul. He was always ready to serve without asking anything. He had the initiative to do things even if it was not his job. He was a man of action, a faithful and loving husband, a good example, a good father and a true servant of God.

When he suffered from stroke, his ability to speak was affected but no words could matched everything he had taught me through his actions.

It was hard for me to accept that dad is gone. I still remember those good memories, I smiled whenever I do. It took me 6 long years before I accepted that "Tatay" is gone. That I would never ever feel his warm embrace. But one thing is for sure, his memories and lessons he gave me will always be in my heart and mind.

In 4 months time I will become a father too and those values I've learned from him I will surely imitate. I will surely passed it on to my children.

Thank you Dad for all the memories we've shared, for all the love and values you gave, for being faithful to mom and for loving us all your children. You will always be my idol...my hero...

Happy Father's Day to us all!!

Loboc Church

2009-06-11T12:38:00.017+08:00

The San Pedro Church or Loboc Church as it is popularly known today is found in the town of Loboc in Bohol. It is the second oldest church in Bohol (2nd only to Baclayon Chruch. It was originally built in 1602. During that time, Loboc became well known as a pilgrimage site because the saintly priest Alonso de Humanes was buried in the church. The church was destroyed by fire and a newer and bigger church was built and completed in 1734. Because of its proximity to the river, the church was hit by several floods.

Loboc became the center of the Jesuit missions but were expelled from the Philippines. The Recollects succeeded Jesuits in their ministry to Loboc in 1768.

Inside you will admire numerous painting on the ceiling. A pipe organ is still found inside the church which was installed by the Recollects in 1820.

A hexagonal bell tower is located about a 100 meters away from the church besides an unfinished bridge. The construction were stopped since it will directly hit the 400 year-old church. I wonder why the project was started in the first place. This project is just a waste of taxpayers' money.

At the back of of the church is a three-storey structure which served as the convent of the church and is now converted into a small museum were you can find old musical instruments and other memorabilia which show the history of Loboc. The church and whole town of Loboc become more popular when Loboc Children's Choir keep on winning international competitions around the globe. The group sings during the Sunday Masses.

Other interest in Loboc:

Floating Restaurant

Tarsier Sanctuary

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© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Blood Compact

2009-06-11T01:03:00.004+08:00

The Blood Compact Shrine was built in honor of the treaty of friendship between Spanish Commander Gen. Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Boholano warrior Datu Sikatuna. The sculpture is a creation of no other than our National Artist, Napoleon Abueva, a Boholano himself.

There is confusion whether the blood compact took place in March 16 1565 or March 25, 1565 due to the Gregorian calendar reform in 1584. A few years back, another confusion arises when Loaynons had been clamoring for the correct historical site and exact date of the 1st International treaty of Friendship.

After thorough investigation and gathering of historical facts, it was concluded by the National Historical Institute (NHI) that the “Blood Compact” took place on board the flagship San Pedro which was anchored off the waters of Laoy, Bohol on March 25, 1565 making the Shrine in Bool, Bohol an approximate site of the treaty. In July 21 , 2005 thru NHI Resolution No. 04, series of 2005 , officially declared the exact location & date of the Bohol Blood Compact.

Anyway, whether the Shrine found in Bool is the exact location or not it is still worth your visit, besides the fact that it was created by a national artist, the view of the sea is very much relaxing after a very tiring tour around Bohol. Usually the shrine is the last stop before travellers retire. There are stores besides the shrine were you could buy native products and pasalubong.

Note: Photo of the shrine was taken using P/S Canon A540 when we visited Bohol in 2006

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How to Get There

The shrine is just a short tricycle ride from Tagbilaran City. Buses or vans are available from the Dao Terminal. It is located along Carlos P. Garcia circumferential road where many transportation are available.

The Loboc Children's Choir

2009-06-09T06:03:00.002+08:00

The main reason why we went to the little town of Loboc is to see and hear the Loboc Children's Choir (LCC) singing. I am a big fan of choral groups especially of those with spiritual foundation and Loboc Children's Choir is one of them. I first heard about the group when they bagged the Gold Medal (First Prize) of the Youth Category in the 6th International Folk Songs Festival "Europe and Its Songs" held in Barcelona, Spain. Aside from this, they also bested the other 12 choirs from all over the world and was awarded the Festival Cup or the Grand Prize for garnering the highest point average of 97.5.

They were given the heroes welcome but sadly many (media and ordinary people) didn't bother to give time in welcoming them. It was really frustrating to see that my fellow Filipino neglected the honor these children gave to our country but rather they wasted their time to a singer who joined in a talent search in America, she didn't even win the contest more so she doesn't have an exceptionally beautiful voice, not even at par with our local singers.

Anyway, my wife and I attended the 8 o'clock Mass (local dialect) in Loboc Church. After the Mass, we were looking for the LCC and have a photo opportunities and maybe hear them singing. I was surprise that the choir who sung in the Mass was actually the LCC (if we already knew it). They were all grown up so we didn't recognize them. We missed the opportunity to see them face to face.

We bought their 1st album "And A Child’s Heart Sings". The album includes famous songs like "Leron , Leron Sinta" and "Sa Ugoy ng Duyan". It has a total of 19 tracks which includes liturgical songs, famous Filipino folk songs and other popular contemporary songs. They recently launch another album entitled "River of Songs".

The Loboc Music Tradition started way back in 16th century. Everything is preserved in Loboc Museum. So I am not surprise that the LCC has a beautiful and angelic voice. LCC's Conductor and Musical Director is Ms. Alma Fernando-Taldo

For your orders of their albums, you may email at lobocchildrenschoir@yahoo.com

Photo Credit: http://img119.imageshack.us/i/loboc30bt.jpg/

Loboc's Floating Restaurant

2009-06-07T02:41:00.007+08:00

Loboc is known for its floating restaurant where you can eat buffet lunch while enjoying cruising the scenic jade-green (mud-brown when raining) river and the lush green landscape. A live band will entertain cruisers performing any type of music, from jazz to blues, pop to rock, name it and they have it. Ask the staff if what type of music will be played in a particular boat if you have a preferred type of music.

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These floating restaurants consists of two large outriggered banka-hulls, over which a large wooden platform is placed and cruises along the Loboc River, it can accommodate up to 50 persons. The cruise is somehow slow since it moves against the current. In certain points of the cruise, there are some kids and adult alike doing their daring stunts like swinging in a rope or jump in the river from a large coconut tree. These kids will ask for money for their brief show.

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When the floating restaurant approaches Busay falls, it will stop briefly before turning back (the boat cannot go beyond Busay Falls) to let the cruisers watch and listen to some local rondalla group playing native songs. The falls is about one and a half meters. Locals usually take a dip and enjoy bathing under the falls. Guests are welcome to take a dip too. The return trip is little faster.

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One setback though is the food being serve. My wife and I were not impressed with the food since it is quite ordinary. They serve grilled seafood, grilled chicken and lumpiang shanghai among others. We were hoping to taste some of Bohol's delicacies. Well, that was 3 years ago but I had no chance of finding out if the food choices improves since we did not take the cruise when we get there last month. Anyway the floating restaurant is still worth trying for first timers.
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Here's a short clip of Loboc River taken in October 2006 :

Loboc River Cruise: P300, includes buffet lunch and 45 minutes cruise along Loboc River

More in Loboc:

Loboc Children's Choir
Loboc Church and Museum
Unfinished Bridge

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of any image/video may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above photos/video were taken by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the photographer/videographer. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.

Tagbilaran Seaport

2009-06-04T12:44:00.011+08:00

The port of Tagbilaran is the city’s main seaport and is located on the northern edge of the city. The port attends up to 5,000 passengers daily coming from Cebu City and other regular ferries coming from Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Dumaguete among others.

Tagbilaran Seaport is very clean and spacious and is well-maintained. Not to mention the clean sea waters along of the port.

I've never seen such a clear water in other piers in the the country, well at least for now. I was appalled that even if there are vessels coming in and out everyday, they still maintain its cleanliness and beauty.

I've seen small boats looming around the port's water, waiting for passengers to throw lose coins for them. They will dive for it even if it falls under the water.

Try this alternative route going to Bohol. It's safe and fast and you will see with your own eyes the clear and clean sea in the port.

Fast craft is the best mode of transportation from Cebu City to Tagbilaran, Bohol and vise versa. There are three shipping companies who provides the services namely Supercat, Ocean Jet and Weesam Express. For booking and reservation just click the links found below.

For Booking and Details:

WG & A Super Ferry

Tel. Nos: +63 2 528-7000, +63 2 404-3411

ATSC Tagbilaran, Pooc Pantalan,Poblacion 1, Tagbilaran City

+63 38 501-8380

Sulpicio Lines

Tel. Nos:(032) 232-5361 to 80

Trans-Asia Shipping Lines

Tel. Nos: +63 32 2546491 to 95

Fax No. : +63 32 255-7899

Tagbilaran Shipping Agency51 Palma Street, Tagbilaran City

Cokaliong Shipping Lines

Tel. Nos: +63 32 23272111

Tagbilaran Tel. No. : +63 38 4113874 / 4115242

Cebu Address: 46 D. Jakosalem Street, Cebu City

Tel.No.: +63 32 71220 / 75941 / 2532262

Baclayon Church

2009-06-02T09:30:00.005+08:00

The Our Lady of Immaculate Conception which is more popularly called Baclayon Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.
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Baclayon became a parish in 1717 and construction of a new church commenced. The present structure was completed in 1727.

The church obtained a large bell in 1835. There is a dungeon which was used during the Spanish era to punish natives who violated the rules of the Roman Catholic church.

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The interiors and exterior of the church have preserved several relics and artifacts which can be traced to the early 16th century. Fr. Juan de Torres and Fr. Gabriel Sanchez were the first missionaries in the region and founder of the Baclayon Church.

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Beside the church is a small museum where you can find old relics and artifacts of the church, including books and hymnals, gold and silver church furnishings and trinkets as well as the paintings of Liberato Gatchalian. Picture taking is not allowed inside the museum due to the many incidents of theft.

The church is about is about 6 km east of Tagbilaran. There are several options to get there: You can ride a bus or jeepney in Tagbilaran, going into the direction of Baclayon or you may also hire a tricycle willing to bring you there and wait or better yet, hire a van to bring you to the different tourist destination aside from Baclayon Church.

More of Bohol here:

Tigbao Hanging Bridge

2009-06-01T03:25:00.009+08:00

Another tourist destination in Bohol is the Tigbao Hanging Bridge (Sipatan Hanging Bridge) which crosses the Sipatan River and connects the village on the other sides. The bridge is made from the combination of steel cable and bamboo materials. It is approximately 40 meters long and 20 meters above sea level.

Its main purpose is actually for the use of the locals of the municipality but it becomes an attraction to tourist because of its characteristics . It sways and bounces as you crosses the bridge going to the other end.

I remember when I was in the middle of the bridge, my wife suddenly runs towards me and the bridge really swayed,.. a lot and it was really very scary.
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As of February 2009, a P10.00 fee is collected before you can cross the bridge and discover what awaits on the other side of the bridge. The fee will be use for the development of the bridge's entrance. Three (3) years ago, a man who who is called Buko King was stationed besides the hanging bridge but he was not there when we went there a couple of weeks ago. Since we did not cross the street I just found out that Buko King is now stationed at the other end of the bridge.

The Man-Made Forest in Bohol

2009-05-30T08:57:00.002+08:00

In the 1960's, during the term of President Diosdado Macapagal, a nationwide reforestation program was launched by the government. In Bohol it was spearheaded by then governor Lino Chatto. Thousands of Mahogany seedlings were planted on a cleared area of 857.4 hectares in Bilar and Loboc towns.

The forest can be seen as you take the road going to Carmen, Bohol (site of the famous Chocolate Hills). When you approaches the forest, one will feel the change in temperature, especially during summer or hot season. It is hot outside the forested area, but refreshing (you can feel the cool breeze) inside the forest area.

The Loboc-Bilar man-made forest plays host to many visitors, locals and foreigners alike who take time to view it from the road and take pictures. The Metro Manila filmmakers often use the forest as a backdrop for some of their action films. In fact, our girl friends even imagined the scene in the "Twilight" film as we were doing our respective post, hmmm.

A side-trip to the forest is refreshing aside from being a perfect backdrop for your photo opportunity.

Here's a video of the "Man-made Forest" when we visited Bohol three (3) years ago:

The Chocolate Hills in Bohol

2009-05-26T22:47:00.008+08:00

The Chocolate Hills is one of the famous tourist attraction in Bohol. The hills are estimated around 1,268 hills. The hills are covered with grass that turns chocolate brown during dry season, hence the name was derived from this color.
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There are a number of legends regarding the formation of the hills, one legend tells us that the hills came into existence when two feuding giants threw stones, boulders and sand at each other that lasted for days. When they finally became exhausted, they became friends and left the island but forgot to clean the mess they made.

However, up to this day, geologists have not yet reached consensus on how they where really formed. The most widely accepted theory is that it was formed ages ago by the uplift of coral deposits and the action of rain water and erosion. The same statement is written in a bronze plaque found in the observation deck of Chocolate Hills Complex.

Chocolate Hills Complex is located in Carmen Bohol, about 34 miles from Tagbilaran City. The complex is a government-owned complex and the original viewing station of the Chocolate Hills. It has a restaurant and hostels and the observation or viewing deck which is about 210 feet above the ground. There are 210 steps leading to the viewing deck were you can view the landscape which is covered by a thousand of hills.

The other viewing station is at Sagbayan Peak in the town of Sagbayan . It is only 11 miles away from Chocolate Hills Complex. Sagbayan Peak is a mountain-top resort and recreational center.

Entrance Fee:

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Chocolate Hills Complex - P50 per person (as of 2008)

Sagbayan Peak - P20 per person (as of 2006)

Bohol Beach Resorts, a Paradise

2009-05-25T11:52:00.012+08:00

Bohol Beach Resorts is nestled in the paradise of Panglao Island in Bohol. It has a long stretch of fine and white sandy beach, a perfect haven for beach lovers and diving enthusiast.

My wife and I went here in 2006 and stayed in Dumaluan resort, one of the resort which offers cheaper accommodation rates. The resort is too crowdy unlike the first time we went here, were we felt that we own the island (tip: you will enjoy more during weekdays or off-peek season).

Thanks to the nearby resort, the Bohol Beach Club we were able to enjoy the beach even more. Actually, you can stroll and swim in front of Bohol Beach Club without even spending a single centavo but If you wish to see and enjoy the facilities of this resort, you need to pay P250 which includes entrance fee and P150 consumable.

We stayed at Amihan Wing were we eat our lunch at Taclobo restaurant. We haven't got a chance to really explore the place though the resort boast of 3 swimming pools and other facilities such as function rooms, accommodations and sports facilities.

Bohol Beach Club is surrounded with palm trees which added to the already beautiful and adorable place. A picture perfect place indeed.

There are still a lot of resorts to explore in Panglao, a good reason for me to return here in the near future.

Believe me its better than Boracay even without the night life.

For Reservation and Inquiry:

Bohol Beach Club

Dumaluan Beach Resort

Alona Palm Beach Resort

The Philippine Tarsier in Bohol

2009-05-23T01:44:00.014+08:00

The Philippine Tarsier (Tarsius syrichta), is one of the smallest known primates (the classification of tarsier as to what family it really belong somewhat problematic), no larger than the hands of an adult man. The Philippine tarsier is mostly active at night (nocturnal) and eats insects such as crickets. Aside from Bohol, it can also be found in the islands of Samar, Leyte and in Mindanao. It is endemic in the Philippines.

Although it is a protected species and the practice of catching and selling them to tourists has stopped, the species is still threatened by the destruction of its natural forest habitat. They are becoming endangered because they are being kept in captivity and died earlier than their original death date. Tarsiers are “very fragile and suicidal once stressed out” from excessive noise and being repeatedly touched by people. If no action is taken, these species will soon be added to the list of extinct species. To date the Philippine Tarsier is critically endangered (means that its numbers have decreased, or will decrease, by 80% within three generations)

The Philippine Tarsier Foundation Inc. was mandated by the Department of Natural Resources(DENR) in their 1997 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to implement the Philippine Tarsier Conservation Program. The foundation is successful in breeding the tarsier in captivity but the effort is far from over in one way or another we could help in conserving and saving the tarsier population into extinction.

Recently, in the effort to protect Bohol's tarsier, The Provincial Council of Bohol passed an ordinance which limits tarsier viewing within Corella, Bohol: the only place in Bohol declared as a sanctuary by the DENR (see related article).

As of this date the moved to closed down the Tarsier Sanctuary in Loboc and Loay is not yet implemented. We were there last weekend and the situation is still the same, the tourists who flock here doesn't care much, even if they were told not to touch and use flash photography, many people are still not following the simplest instructions. Yes, they are really adorable but this practice shouldn't be continued. It is high time to implement the ordinance even if it will mean hurting the tourism in Loboc and Loay.

I am glad to see the tarsier in the flesh for the 2nd time (the last time was in 2006, and I made a terrible mistake, I forgot to turn off my camera's flash) and I hope to see them again in the near future and I hope that the future generations will still see these adorable creatures alive and not just in photographs and websites.

Balicasag Marine Sanctuary

2009-05-21T03:33:00.010+08:00

Aside from dolphin watching, snorkeling is one of the main attraction in Bohol specially in Balicasag Island.

Balicasag Marine Sanctuary is a 45 minutes to an hour of boat ride from Bohol Beach Club n Panglao Island. It is a government run sanctuary.

Here, you will find a 400 meter Marine Sanctuary of corals with different kinds of fishes, characterized by a vertical walls over deep waters. The fishes sometimes bites but friendly, it seems that they are attune to the visitors who flock here regularly. Even in the shallow waters, school of fish (jack fish) can be seen here and other popular fishes such as Nemo and Dori ("Finding Nemo").

If you really want to enjoy the marine life in Balicasag, try SCUBA diving, there are a lot of diving spots in Balicasag such as the Black Forrest, Rudy's Rock, Rico's Wall, Cathedral and Diver's Heaven (I don't know where the names were originated). I was able to ask for the rate of diving lesson for beginner, it's around P2,800 for 30 minutes of lesson which includes diving gear. If I already gained all the confidence underwater I will definitely try diving, hopefully in 2 years time

Some of the corals were destroyed by the rampant and destructive fishing such as dynamite fishing in the early 80's. In response to this, the whole island had been designated as a marine sanctuary to ensure protection of the corals and marine life around the island.

Snorkeling in Balicasag will cost you P1,800 for boat rental and P150 per person as fee to the Sanctuary. There are also snorkels, mask and wet shoes for rent which cost you P250-P300 per set. Better invest on these things because in the long run it will saved you more money. Buying snorkeling gear will cost you around P2,000 and wet shoes is around P250 (local brand).

Don't forget to bring your underwater camera (mine is Olympus MJU 1030) or buy a waterproof camera casing for a more enjoyable trip and snorkeling to Balicasag Marine Sanctuary.
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Under the Sea of Balicasag

2009-05-19T02:19:00.001+08:00

Underwater Video of Balicasag Marine Sanctuary in Bohol. Using Olympus MJU1030 (this camera is very useful underwater, it can reach up to 30ft. below sea level), I was able to capture at least a few minutes of life "Under the Sea".

Song: Under The Sea from the animated movie "The Little Mermaid".

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Unauthorized use, edit, copy, reproduction, publication, duplication, download and distribution of this video may result in severe legal and criminal penalties under the law. The above video was created by Ricky Pascual and remain the properties of the author. Please do not use elsewhere without the owner’s permission.