Sunday, December 6, 2009

Singapura

It has been a while since I experienced a different setting, a different taste. And as soon as I got that fix for a few days, I have been recharged.

Taking on the city for a few days showed me the many similarities and differences of Singapore and Manila. Consumerism pervades in every corner. Whether you are in Divisoria or Mustapha, it’s the same old banana. Every market is a collection of people trying to exchange stuff with your money.


Esplanade at night
At the same time, things are so different. SG is my first and only taste of the first world. And coming from this part of the world, I can’t help but stand in awe of its modernity and efficient way of doing things.

Working in the Philippine's central business district didn't make much difference. They mean much more serious business there in terms of efficiency of systems. Maybe that's why people smile less.

red building I saw on my way to 30 Cecil St.
Heck, even the pace of the escalators is much faster than what we have here. If these escalators are any indication of the difference in the pace of life, we have a lot of ground to make up for IF we want to catch on.

This trip was purely an escape. For a few days, I felt like living someone else’s life. It was a collection of missions for me, dog-bonding time, finding Pacita Abad's Alkaff bridge on foot, checking out the LKY school, trekking in Pulau Ubin, reconnecting with old friends and checking out the Platts office. As a throwback, we watched the movie Singapura at the national museum with Helen’s officemates. It was set in World War II’s Singapore.

Pacita Abad's Alkaff bridge
After six days, this SIMS-like place has grown on me. And I feel like I can better take on its smugness and toxicity.

Maybe that's what I need. A fresh perspective on something I've already seen.

The city and dog encounters have been a breath of fresh air.

in a bus stop in Toh Guan Road
I'm glad that whenever I feel like getting out of my daily grind. I have a fortress of solitude I can go to. As the Danish proverb says, the road to a friend's place is never long. Thanks to Bus 183. (I owe you a sling.)

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Let your heart be light
From now on,
our troubles will be out of sight

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Make the Yuletide gay,
From now on,
our troubles will be miles away.

Here we are as in olden days,
Happy golden days of yore.
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more.


Through the years
We all will be together,
If the Fates allow
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.
And have yourself A merry little Christmas now.


Monday, November 23, 2009

Defying Gravity



Something has changed within me 
Something is not the same
I'm through with playing by the rules
Of someone else's game








Too late for second-guessing 
Too late to go back to sleep 




It's time to trust my instincts
Close my eyes: and leap!



I'm through accepting limits
''cause someone says they're so
Some things I cannot change
But till I try, I'll never know!



Thursday, November 19, 2009

Criminal Minds and Glee

From Criminal Minds to Glee, the shift isn't that obvious actually. And the titles are a bit deceiving too. The former, despite its title, speaks of forgiveness in the end, while the latter speaks of competition and betrayal too. A case of “Don’t judge the show by its title”.

“Criminal Minds” uses quotations to drive home the point. While the Glee cast breaks into a song and dance number …..because they’re in a Glee Club.

I love the quotations in Criminal Minds. I, in the apex of boredom, even memorized some of these lines. And when nobody’s listening or if only a select few are, I sing some lines in the songs showcased in Glee.

And both are my top flavors of the month. Well, do these flavors only follow what’s trending or what’s abuzz? Or do I really like them? Who knows?

For now, they provide a wonderful diversion from the reality of the moment.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Pacman Gobbles 'Em Up


Pacman eats Mexico + UK + Puerto Rico Artwork by: Ralph Reigner Esquivias

My brother Bob is in the middle of the Indian Ocean but he just had to call me (using a sat phone) to ask me how the fight went. He was not satisfied knowing Manny Pacquiao won. He wanted to know every detail of the 12-round fight.


Bob and I, before the Pacquaio-De La Hoya fight 

Manny won again. So what’s new? Well, he did it in a weight division, seven rungs higher than his first belt. From flyweight to welterweight, his feat is simply amazing.

Some call him the best pound for pound boxer in the world. Some tag him as the best fighter of this era.

For all his achievements, one that has greatest impact for me is the unifying and paralyzing effect his fight has on the entire nation. As I was walking the Bonifacio High Street on a sunny Sunday morning, the walkways are devoid of the usual throngs of people. I heard one foreigner quipped, “Where are the people?” And she immediately answered her own question, oh today is the fight! That explains the ghost-town look of Hi-street.

Oh Manny.

With his nakakalokong smile and his ultra-quick punches, Manny united us once again, albeit for a few hours only.

Thanks to the organizers of the TIMEX run who put up a wide screen monitor for those who don’t have access to a live telecast. And watched under a blazing sun, we did.

Once again, the southpaw boxer from Gen San (or is it Sarangani now?) united a nation hungry for something to bind its people together.

Monday, November 16, 2009

The Fall of the Wall

Today is the anniversary of the fall of the wall, a fall that resounded around the world. Today, Germany is commemorating the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall.

For me, the primary purpose of a wall is to protect, not to divide. Is division a consequence of an attempt to protect? Protecting means dividing. This wall divided Germany into East and West. I was still in Grade 2 when this happened. Back then, I didn’t fully comprehend the opposing ideologies represented by this structure and the significance of that event. Maybe until now, I’m still clueless.

During the commemoration, unified Germany will use domino boards as if to mimic the effect of the fall of this wall in the making of the history of the world as we know it.

I haven’t seen the wall yet but Gracie has.  


 Gracie in Berlin



Brandenburger Tor




Thanks for sharing your pictures Gracie (at kasama ka pa talaga!) 

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Battered

It has been more than a month since Manila was ravaged by Ondoy. For most especially in the “dry”areas, it seems like a bad dream. But for others, it is still very much a part of their lives. There are still parts of Manila submerged in water where people use make-shift boats to navigate the streets. One of those areas is Pinagbuhatan, Pasig.

A photographer friend went there and what he captured through his lens, were reminders that Ondoy’s cruelty is still real for many of our fellowmen.

And Patricia Evangelista’s column in Inquirer reminded me that what happened wasn’t just a nightmare, it is as real as it can get.

http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20091025-232111/Yellow-river-red-balloon

Like Jars of Clay

I am the only one to blame for this
Somehow it all ends up the same
Soaring on the wings of selfish pride
I flew too high and like Icarus I collide
With a world I try so hard to leave behind
To rid myself of all but love
to give and die

To turn away and not become
Another nail to pierce the skin of one who loves
more deeply than the oceans,
more abundant than the tears
Of a world embracing every heartache

Amongst remains of a life I should not own
It takes all I am to believe
In the mercy that covers me

I look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
and wipe away the crimson stains
"dull the nails that still remain"

The battle between grace and pride
I gave up not so long ago

Thursday, November 5, 2009

BAmmer

Last month, after seeing another stretch of a nice beach, I told myself I've had enough of sand and beach this year. My next stop would have to be something different. Whether be it mountains or buildings or rice fields, I told myself I've had my fill of beaches this year. But next year of course is a different story.

In anything, we are like that. Too much of something, however palatable to the senses, takes away the fun.

Pag sobra na, nakakasawa, kahit gaano ka ok ang isang bagay.

BAmmer.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Wala Lang

A friend once told me writing is good for the soul. At times, this corner has been my secret garden. Well, so much for the secrecy, but this space has been a repository of sorts.

At times, the words just flow freely. But there are moments when there’s nothing and yet I just feel the need to click on the keyboard. And this is one of those moments. I feel like randomly typing and who knows where this is headed.

My mind stopped functioning and yet my fingers seem to have a mind of its own. This may be a waste of cyberspace, but who’s policing anyway? Now, that’s abusive. Everyone feels like they can freely say whatever they want here. But not everyone who holds a paintbrush is a Monet.

The freedom that the Internet operates in, has given people like me an outlet. Whether it may be from a lack of a venue…..blogging has been therapeutic for me.

And this concludes one of my sessions.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

En Garde

One of the things I've been wary about are the words I say when I'm pissed. And sad to say, I have my fair share of hurtful words utttered in moments of blur and haziness.

Words have their way of hurting more than physical abuse can. Their effect resound even after bruises have already healed.

And these verses say it all.

He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity. Proverbs 21:23

Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. -Ecclesiastes 5:2

For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. - Matthew 12:34b

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23

How easy it is to say that you'll always be on guard for these things.

And yet when our guard is down and we say hurtful words, things happen and sometimes it's too late to go back.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Like a Drawbridge

A friend told me yesterday trust is freely given. I agree, you cannot just force it on people.

But can you earn it? What are the different trust levels? How different is it between friends? Between couples? Between family members? Or should there be a difference?

Trust involves the laying down of a drawbridge into your mind. You’ll be allowing another to see your innermost thoughts. Most of us have only a handful of people that we can trust.

And yet how do you get to that point to that level of trust and then lose it in a jiffy?

Like a drawbridge, it is movable I guess.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

The Kite Runner

"For you, a thousand times over."

Whether for emphasis or sheer forgetfulness or maybe stubbornness, I tend to repeat things I’ve said and done.

But what if you can help it? Would you still do it a thousand times over?

My brother asked me what that line from Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner meant? He read the book and watched the movie. I haven’t done either until that time.

I got a copy of the movie from Helen before she left for school in the Lion City. But I didn’t get to see the movie until this year. I should’ve watched it way before.

I gave my brother a piece of my mind on what that line meant to me.

Amir and Hassan are best of friends who love to have “kite fights”. In one scene, Amir tells Hassan to go run the kite, to which Hassan shouts back "For you, a thousand times over".

The line speaks volumes of the relationship between these two friends.

And for me, it has taken a new meaning. Kudos to all the kite runners of this world who can say.....

"For you, a thousand times over." And expect nothing in return.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Casting Crowns

It is so easy to give in to nonchalance with equal indifference. And just as I was about to give in to apathy and wander in the valley of bitterness, Itunes randomly picked these lyrics (from Casting Crowns' Who Am I?) to spew out in perfect timing as if talking to me.


Who am I?
That the bright and morning star,
Would choose to light the way,
For my ever wondering heart.


Not because of who I am.
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.

Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,

And you told me who I am.


I am yours.
Who am I?
That the voice that calm the sea,
Would call out through the rain,
And calm the storm in me.

A song that reminds me who I am and reminds me that whatever storm is within me, can be the same (or less intense) turbulence troubling other people around me too. But each person has a different way of processing his or her own struggles. And in moments where I sometimes rely on myself or others, God picks me up and makes realize my true value.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Anonymous

After a while you learn the subtle difference
between holding a hand and chaining a soul.
And you learn that love doesn't mean security,
And you begin to learn that kisses aren't contracts
And presents aren't promises.
And you begin to accept your defeats with your head up and your eyes open.
With the grace of maturity, not the grief of a child.
And you learn to build all your roads on today
because tomorrow’s ground is too uncertain for plans,
And futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.
After a while you learn that even sunshine burns if you get too much.
So you plant your own garden and decorate your own soul,
Instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.
And you learn that you really can endure...
That you really are strong
And that you really do have worth.
And you learn and learn and learn....
With every goodbye you learn.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Of Running and Eating

Adidas King of the Road's tagline this year is "Because every runner is different". So true not only in the race, but in life as well. And yet despite these differences, a motley of personalities manage to get along. It just takes some effort and patience though. And everything in life, not just running, needs that extra effort and patience. (Serious mode stops here.)

Anyway, this year's KOTR wasn't as well-organized as the others, but it offered a lot of interesting sidelights. Not to mention that the singlet is screaming "Look how yellow I am". Some runners had funny lines written on their backs. Some had pretty serious "bumper lines". Everybody seemed to be on high spirits today. I even heard one runner looking for his Yaya to ask for the time. That put a smile in my face which stayed 'til the finish line.

Running today was a wonderful opportunity to bond with running buddies Shing, Sarah and Jufel.


back of famished runners

Running made us all famished. So it was quite a treat when Jufel and I chanced upon a new food choice in Food Choices. Go Greek! just opened last week in Glorietta. And I think today is a a beginning of a beautiful friendship between Go Greek! and I. Here's a sampler of what they have to offer at very reasonable prices.


Gyros Platter at P155

Kebab (what's left of it anyway) at P95

I'm now looking forward to the next fun run and my next Go Greek! visit. And both are definitely going to happen very soon.


Thursday, October 22, 2009

How to Save a Life (by The Fray)

Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
And you begin to wonder why you came

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And would I have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life


Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And I pray to God he hears you

Hang in There

I know I had my own share of dealing with changes of late. I'm just thankful that in time, things have become clearer and made more sense.

Now, seeing major changes happen to people who matter a great deal to me and knowing I can't do anything but watch and listen helplessly is disturbing. I know the type of change I've dealt are small-time compared to theirs. So I can't imagine how heart- breaking this may be for them.

But I guess there are some things that are beyond our reach. Even if we stretch our limitations just to grab 'em. Some things just slip through our fingers and it's not because our fingers are slippery. No amount of anti-slip support can make this one stick.

So hang in there, you can weather these aches because I know you as a friend whose quiet strength far outweighs mine.


Note: Published with permission from the recipient.

Monday, October 19, 2009

2.0

It has been two years since that fateful day in Glorietta when I fortunately got the "g2 pala" SMS belatedly.

For some strange reason, I was unusually calm immediately after the incident. The emotions just flowed a few days after. Sobrang delayed reaction.

But it took a while before I got the courage to go back to the mall.

After some time, I summoned enough guts to step into Glorietta again.

Now, I can casually walk into the mall like nothing ever really happened.

In time, all becomes a part of the past and yet still so much a part of us.

Whenever, I see the covered-up part of the mall, I remember to be thankful to Him who kept us out of harm's way that day.

On October 19, 2009, as I walked the corridor of GB5 and saw the watch store covered by a cloth, I was praying that let this be just an ordinary day at the mall.

Come to think of it, it's probably the safest place to be today.


  the commotion after

Saturday, October 17, 2009

A Reposting

At noon today, October 18, 2009, several armed men attempted to rob a shop in Greenbelt 5. Several shots were fired. One robber was killed and one person was reportedly hurt. I can just imagine the ensuing panic after. This reminded me of an incident in the same area. Here's a reposting of my entry on the Glorietta Blast which happened two years ago.

http://mysmallflatworld.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-glorietta-2-experience.html

Our Folks

When I was younger, I thought my parents were invincible and will live forever. When I was 8 or 9, my Mom told me she will not stay young and she’ll eventually die. And my young mind couldn’t comprehend that at that time, I remembered crying really hard upon hearing that. I guess any eight-year old won't be able to grasp the issue of mortality. Maybe I was thinking then, who’s gonna feed me? I only felt better when my mom told me, it’s not anytime soon and still far into the future.



orchid in my mom's garden

Recently, something hit me, our parents aren’t getting any younger. My mom just had her annual check-up and the doctor prescribed all sorts of maintenance meds. On the average, my generation’s parents have lived three scores. They’ve had their share of life’s rich experiences and have battle scars to prove it. At this time, I’m wondering what’s running through their minds when they look at our generation.

Just a random thought…..

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Ang Nakaraan

"The past is our definition. We may strive, with good reason, to escape it, or to escape what is bad in it, but we will escape it only by adding something better to it." -Wendell Berry


drama shot

Thanks for all those who have added something better to it, knowingly or unknowingly.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Mga Kuwento

I love listening to stories of distant lands, places I haven't been to. Like a child eager for new adventures beyond the fence of her own backyard. Stories I hear transport me to places I may not have the opportunity to go to. And yet hearing stories of adventure from people take me to these places. Like a magic carpet, each story takes my imagination to the places others have seen and experienced.

But sometimes as I crane my neck too much to see beyond my fence, I neglect to see what's just in front of me, missing out on adventures within my reach. Trapped in the confines of my closed mind, I fail to uncover hidden adventures in my own backyard.



I realized I don't really need to look too far for me to experience new bonds and kinship. Wherever I may be, adventure and fun will be there, I just need an open mind to see and appreciate it.

And to those who have shared stories, be it fact or fiction, I am forever grateful for the door you have opened to a world beyond my own.

Safe journeys everyone.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Lighthouse Effect

There's something romantic about lighthouses. It's not just the way they light a ship's way in a moonless night.

They have a magic feel to them that I can't describe. Staring at 'em set against a backdrop of a remote cape somewhere far away, is simply enchanting. And romantic I must say.

The Philippines, being an archipelago, has a lot of lighthouses and I'm blessed to see some of them and capture their gallant stand against the ravages of nature. Some withstood the test of time and have weathered many storms.


Naidi Hills, Basco


Naidi Hills, Basco


Sabtang Island


Sabtang Island



Patar, Bolinao


Capones Island, Zambales


Corregidor Island

But my first lighthouse experience is not captured in an image but it's something very close to my heart. It is in my hometown, Ajuy. The lighthouse is in an uninhabited island (Parola) in between Panay and Negros island.

We too, as sailing ships in this vast ocean of life, have our own lighthouses that guide our way.

What's your lighthouse?

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Blind Curves

I usually walk from the office to my place three blocks away. Along the way, there are two blind curves. One in Leviste and another one in Tordesillas. Before crossing both streets, I take extra caution and make sure that there are no oncoming vehicles.


Blind curves....life is full of 'em. You'll never know what will hit you next and yet the whole point is to walk mindful of these curves and yet not totally distracted by 'em.

We just have to walk, keeping in mind where the blind curves are but not letting 'em direct our path.

Many times we may be delayed in our journey by the oncoming from the numerous blind curves along the way. But this shouldn't get the joy out of walking. If there are no blind curves at all, life won't be that exciting anyway. It will just be a journey with no suprises along the way. Now that will just be no fun at all.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

PAG-ASA

Marikina is said to be the cleanest city in the country but a few hours of raining made it like this.



no, this isn't a dump site, this is an ordinary street in Marikina 

What I saw in Marikina yesterday was heartbreaking but at the same time seeing how our kababayans can help each other and still smile amidst everything reaffirmed my faith in the Filipino spirit.


man trying to clean the mud off passers by who just came from Provident Villages


A few days after the storm, I heard a lot of stories of survival. Some from people I know, some from total strangers.

All sharing a common bond,the indomitable human spirit survives the strongest storms. And if they don't, their passing leaves an inspiration to emulate  like that  teenager  saving several people including a  baby, before drowning.

This storm left a lot of lessons in its wake,lessons of survival and sacrifice.

But if there's anything that Ondoy taught me, it's a message of hope, the Filipinos' bayanihan spirit is still alive. I just hope it doesn't take another storm to jumpstart it again.

 

Monday, September 28, 2009

After the Storm

I thought I was prepared to hear the stories and see the images in Ondoy’s aftermath. But nothing could have prepared me for what I’ve seen in the past few days.

Heartbreaking images of dead bodies. Old folks and little children navigating deep waters. Families carried away by a raging river. Amidst everything, throngs of people helping each other in any way they can.

Time and again, moments like these, make me ask why.

At the same time, it makes me appreciate simple basic things in life, water, shelter and food.

It will take some time before things go back to normal. And yet for some who have lost their loved ones, normalcy is far in the horizon.

Help may not have come too soon for those who have waited for several hours in the cold, starving and wet. And all they can do is hope that help is on the way.

Now may not be the time to point fingers on who to blame. And yet, who can blame one who has lost everything? The process of rebuilding is a long, arduous road which requires a concerted effort from the government and the whole community. But where do you start?

I initially believed Bayanihan spirit will carry us through. And so far, it has worked wonders with aid pouring in from all sectors.

While our fellowmen grapple to hang on to something, we can offer our resources to the victims, hoping that the helping hand we lend will serve as anchor that can provide solace in these dark and trying times.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Ondoy's Rage

It's 1am I can't sleep. I've been listening to the AM radio and been online the whole day. I woke up prepared to have a full day ahead, not realizing that Ondoy already made plans for me. Today, Manila was hit by its worst flooding in recent years. Ondoy brought a huge amount of rainfall never seen in 40-plus years. A PAG-ASA report said that the amount of rainfall today is equivalent to a month's worth.

Hundreds were trapped on their roof. I saw people being carried by the strong current of a raging Marikina river. A friend's whole house was submerged. A few of  my friends got stranded on the road. A friend of mine, after spending six hours on the road decided to leave their car and took the train instead. Another friend subsisted on her sports drinks and water for 7 hours while being stranded on the road. An officemate spent the night in the campus where she had a talk that morning. The sidewalk in front of our building caved in and a parked car got "swallowed by the earth.


there used to be a sidewalk, a fence and parked cars here 
 
I heard and read a lot of stories displaying Bayanihan spirit today. Twitter was helpful in giving me updates about what's going on in other parts of the Metro.

In the next few days, I'm going to hear a lot of stories . Some tragic and some would be inspiring stories of survival.


after the storm, Makati seem gloomier and emptier

Moments like these are opportunities for heroes to rise, loopholes in our disaster coordination strategy to be uncovered, politicians to share the limelight and volunteers to shine.

And Ondoy allowed me to see something else the sun has been masking all along.....

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Bombay

I used to think the world is small since I bump into people I know in bizarre circumstances. Those small-world encounters started this blog. Then again, I realized maybe it’s just because I move in very small tight-knit circles. And this classic Bombay story is an illustration of the many intersections of the Venn diagrams I inhabit.
No, this is not related to anything Indian at all.

In our dialect Hiligaynon, the term for onion is Bombay.

Shifting from Hiligaynon to Tagalog is a bit of a challenge for any Ilonggo or Ilongga when it comes to fruits and vegetables. Translating bahay kubo may not be simple after all.

In one of those long road trips where you get to talk about anything, a friend related a story about her search for onions in a sari-sari store somewhere in Project 6.

Fresh from Iloilo, she has only been in Manila for a few days when she decided to buy onions. And in a sari-sari store where you have to say what you want, (just like in life, sorry can’t help inserting this)  to get what you want.

And alas! For a moment, she forgot where she was and asked for BOMBAY! Of course she got a strange and annoyed stare from Aling Nena. Of course Aling Nena’s tindahan doesn’t sell Indians.

We laughed about this to no end. I shared this funny story with my brother in Iloilo.


bawang (I asked Tin for a picture of a bawang when I really meant sibuyas, hay)

Fast forward a few months later, my brother was in a party in Iloilo. And he overheard the same story told in a first person perspective from a stranger. He immediately sent me an SMS and asked how the owner of the Bombay story looked like.

I called him instantly and yes, as soon as he picked up the phone, the high-pitched laughter in the background confirmed that my friend is also in the party where my brother is.

Bombay (Thanks Tin for the picture!)

That’s how I introduced my brother to a stranger over the phone.

And that’s how Bombay got an entry of its own.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

4.0

I was in a coffee shop with a friend somewhere in Salcedo Village when my phone rang.

It was a phone call that will forever be etched on my mind.

It has been four years since that day.


 riding into the sunset


P. S. My youngest sister visited our father's grave today.  

Sunday, September 20, 2009

In Good Food Mood

To say that I ate a lot the past few days is an understatement. Thanks to generous hearts I've been eating to my heart's content lately. Since I've been wanting an excuse to post another set of food pictures, here goes....



Ate Belle's amazing Blitz Torte

    Bag of Beans' Apple Pie ala Mode
 

Poached pear with Vanilla







Rosted Duck Breast Infused with Foie Gras


Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Isang Pagpupugay


I have this annual tradition to watch the UAAP cheer dance competition on TV or live (if I can get hold of tickets which are really hard to get).

the stage
Although my school spirit may be dormant the rest of the year, this is the time when I have that spirit re awakened. When I hear the deafening drums and thousands of screaming students and alumni, I can't help but join the revelry.

There are moments when I ask myself shouldn’t have I outgrown this youthful exuberance for the hallways I left seven years ago? But moments like this, I feel the student in me, wants to be a part of it again.

Last September 13, the cheering squads of the eight competing schools of the UAAP slug it out in the country's biggest cheer dance competition.

And this year is supposed to be the year UP is going to bag the crown three years in a row, a grand slam. But that dream didn't materialize. The squad got 2nd runner-up honors.

Unlike the 2006 debacle, I wasn't that devastated. Time and again, the UP PEP squad outdid themselves. Every year they set the benchmark for novelty and innovation in choreography, concept and even costumes.
Back in college, they were the first squad to wear tights instead of the usual skirts. Then almost everybody else followed suit the following year. When everybody started wearing tights (I dunno what they're really called though), they wore cut-offs and then following year, it was shorts and the next year, just body stockings with Alibata characters. This year, they sported skirts, schoolgirl skirts at that. (Note: Their costumes this year aren't that visually appealing though, red+green=brown. But it was unique alright, as one fan in a forum said, it's not layogenic though.)

In 2007, they blew me away with their “rock” theme! That was the year when they regained the crown from UST, they used the "Astig" theme. True to their tradition of bringing something different every year, the 2008 theme was tribal, Tribu Sugod.

But this year, the theme was something unique. It is more like a tribute to the UP community that supported the squad all these years (We always have the biggest contingent during the cheerdance competition). The squad used a lot of symbols only familiar to a member of the UP community. Though, some say that this UP-centric theme backfired. They used an Ikot jeepney, Sablay, blue book and songs like State U by Yano, Hari ng Sablay by Sugarfee. Some say that the use of this theme may not have helped enhance the fluidity of the entire performance. Oh well, maybe.

For me though, the PEP squad had such a unique concept but there was a problem with execution. The UP theme maybe just a sidelight, however, their execution spelled the difference. Just like in any ballgame, the coach may have the perfect strategy, a game plan but come game time, there could be mishaps in the execution.

And yesterday, it happened to the squad. A major pyramid formation wasn't completed and one toss went awry. The UP crowd gasped on those two instances (the other cheered of course), maybe, every supporter feeling the third crown slipping away with each miscue. (Every minor error in this competition gets one-point deduction.) And ironically, these missteps happened to the less difficult part of the routine. They nailed the complicated tosses and lifts with such ease. I appreciated how much effort they must have put to perfect those complicated tosses and dismounts.

And yet I still hoped that the other squads might have lapses too. But unfortunately for us and fortunately for them, FEU and ADMU almost had flawless execution. Kudos to them! In a field where there's a new set of judges whose expertise gymnastics and cheerleading, perfect execution (not just difficulty of movements) is of utmost importance. After UP PEP's performance, the crown was up for the taking.

But in a competition dominated by UST (8) and UP (5) crowns, the bitter rivals were hoping that should they not get the championship, their rival shouldn't get the crown too. So when UP was announced as the 2nd runner-up, the UST crowd cried out shouts of celebration, something that the UP crowd didn't take sitting down. So when Ateneo was called as the first runner-ups (Ateneo’s coach is a former UP PEP Squad), everyone in the coliseum chanted FEU as if to spite UST's premature celebration of regaining the crown after UP was announced.

And at the back of my mind, this mob mentality that “Kahit sino puedeng manalo, wag lang yung mortal kong kaaway”, is human nature. And what happened yesterday highlighted this bitter reality. And sadly, I shared that mentality.

But there was also a redeeming factor, a positive note amidst intense competition. Before, UP had no props when all other schools were waving colorful balloons, ribbons and banners. All we had were our fists. It was a pitiful sight at first but I got used to it, only raw voices shouting support like activists on the streets.


the banner (fine print is on the bottom right-hand corner)

But starting last year, UP banners were handed out to the crowd. (Oh yes, we commercialized this too.) And this year, there were additional paraphernalia handed out to UP supporters. But one particular banner gave me goose bumps, not because of what it “shouted” (UP) but what's on the fine print. The banner was an anonymous donation and the fine print says.....”Narito kami nagpupugay sa unibersidad ng aming buhay. I read in a forum that this was a donation from devoted UP PEP fans (aka alumni) who brought the banners to the coliseum, not even sure whether they can get them in the venue or not. Thanks to their generosity, maroon was visible this time around.

Anyway, time and again, the UP PEP squad made me proud to be part of this community, a community that I have been a part of for 8 years. Oh yes, eight years.

Though, the PEP squad ng bayan may not have defended the crown this year. What they did this year gave me more reason to look forward to this competition next year and the next.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Untitled

When I watched Time Traveler’s Wife, I was prepared to cry my hearts out. It turned out I didn’t cry at all save for a moment when my eyes welled up when Henry was thanking his friend Gomez.

Most of us have bags of hang-ups of varying sizes and styles. I realized I shouldn’t expect the bag to become lighter on its own. I have to let go of excess baggage because eventually I’ll end up paying for it.  
bags I momentarily left in the airport lobby  
 
I realized that I missed laughing my hearts out, that pure mindless laughter about anything or nothing at all.

The drama has to end somewhere and it comes at the moment of our own choosing.
  

Monday, September 7, 2009

Say Cheese

I always thought cheese-flavored ice cream is a universally-accepted concept until Jerry pointed out that they don't have it back home.

Last weekend, how special it is, was highlighted in one cozy guesthouse in Malate. A couple of friends and I finished walking around Quaipo when the conversation turned to unique local delicacy. And something that I didn't think to be unique before, spilled out of my mouth. "Cheese-flavored ice cream", I blurted out. One of them said, "You got to be kidding me."

So we got Quezo Real from the nearest 7-11 and decided to go to a wine and cheese party at the place where one of my companions was staying. Well, actually, I thought it was an open party but it turned out to be an exclusive party for the guesthouse's guests only. But thanks to friendly marshals and our "cheese", we were able to  get in.

As soon as I placed the cheese-flavored ice cream on the table, it was such a huge hit. And people from the northern and southern hemispere gathered around the table, were staring at this strange (for them anyway) flavor of ice cream. I was so amused with the varied expressions on their faces when they saw that this ice cream flavor also has chunks of cheese in it.

Growing up, cheese-flavored ice cream is just an ordinary standard flavor. I always thought this flavor is commonplace. But it turned out it isn't ordinary, outside my world. It took other people to point it out.

What's ordinary for me is extra-ordinary for some and vice versa.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Celebration of Life


It’s supposed to be my Dad’s 64th birthday today. He died a month after his 60th birthday.

And then my mind wandered to this paradoxical question… Is death more celebrated than life?

Only after his death did Michael Jackson manage to be in the limelight again. Before that, he was just a has-been who managed to sell the best-selling album of all time. Now that he is gone, he has “enjoyed” more attention while he was alive after his heyday.

On August 1, former President Aquino passed away and we saw a celebration of her life participated in by the whole nation.

And now, we see a review of Senator Edward Kennedy’s life in the news. I just came to know more of this icon only after he passed away.

While listening to the eulogies for the former president, I asked a friend why there can’t be the same outpouring of celebration and affirmation while people are still breathing and can hear all the good you have to say about them. Doing this may seem unnatural, probably morbid even.

These are public figures whom I didn’t have the opportunity to meet and yet their lives, or the end of it, made me realize that life must be celebrated.

In a less gloomy note, I admire the people who know how to affirm their loved ones while they’re still around. I myself haven’t done this a lot. I realize I should be appreciative of more people around me, whether be it by actions or words.

To borrow Plato’s words, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” And so I decided that I'll try my best to express kindness to the people around me before they become casualties of their own battles, real or imaginary.

Monday, August 24, 2009

View from the Top

Whenever I watch something on screen, I love when the camera shows an aerial shot of the whole place whether it’s a huge city or a small town. You don’t get that in real life. All you get is a Google street view.


The aerial shot gives me a different perspective each time. That’s why the view from the 40th floor never ceases to amaze me, an aerial view of some sort; it reminds me how small I am and how big the world is.

It puts things into perspective, that in this vast world, I occupy a space so minute that others may not see the dent I make in the time-space continuum. And yet for others, the dent is all there is.

9.8 meters per second per second

Sometimes I wonder if my acceleration is slower than the rest of the world. If the world accelerates at a dizzying rate, do I manage to maintain a somewhat constant speed or do I sometimes decelerate?

If I think about it too much, I realize I’ll just waste my time thinking about stuff that in the end doesn’t really matter. In the race called life, it doesn’t matter if I was able to outpace my fellow runners. Each person has his own pace, his own limitations. What is important is I was able to exceed my limitations.

What really matters is if I have ran the race, if I have kept the faith, and if at the end, my Master will say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant”.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Yohan


Yohan, my one-year old nephew, stays with my mom back home in the province. He has become attached to my mom that he cries whenever my mom leaves the house or appears to be walking away from the house. So when he sees someone wearing a teacher's uniform walking on the street in front of our house, he cries. He thinks anyone wearing that uniform is my mom, his lola. And he wants to tag along with her.


A simple child logic. No complicated conundrums. In his head, "Hey those are my Lola's clothes! That must be my Lola!".

Simple logic. Simple solutions.

Thanks Yohan for making me realize life need not be that complicated. The solution can be pretty simple. Who knows? That person walking in front of our house donning a teacher's uniform could really be my mom after all.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Tim Tebow

A few months ago, while we were watching TV, my brother Bob, called my attention to a college football star playing in the NCAA, who was born in the Philippines. His name is Tim Tebow and I am glad to come across this article in Inquirer about him.

http://www.filipinas.inquirer.net/?p=2021

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Drive

A friend told me that she has an internal mp3 player which play certain songs while she runs. And recently, my own player got activated and one of the songs that is on repeat is Incubus' Drive.

Sometimes, I feel the fear of,
uncertainty stinging clear.
And I can't help but ask myself
how much I'll let the fear take the wheel and steer.
It's driven me before, and it seems
to have a faint, haunting mass appeal.
But lately I, am beginning to find that I,
should be the one behind the wheel.

Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there,
with open arms and open eyes.

Next track please.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Pinatubo

Meg, Vida, Don, Rex and I went up Pinatubo in April 2008. It was a memorable trek. We rode a 4x4 traversing a massive valley with small creeks and grasses, few and far between. Then, we had to hike two hours (45 minute according to the trail sign) passing through Mordor-like landscape and a creek covered with all sorts of vegetation, to get to Pinatubo's crater.

But a few weeks ago, Pinatubo became witness to another tragedy. Three tourists and two Filipinos died trekking Mt. Pinatubo while Typhoon Kiko ravage the province of Zambales and the rest of Central Luzon.

Here’s a link to the story:

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=495015&publicationSubCategoryId=63

Hiking Pinatubo during the rainy season is not recommended. However, during dry months, I’d definitely recommend going up this volcano and see what the 1991 disastrous eruption left in its aftermath.


start of the 2-hour hike


the beautiful crater

the 4x4 ride