KALOYSTER.ph

30th and still counting...

2012-02-02T12:14:00.000+08:00

Time to relive the memories and see familiar faces. Let's support UP StatSoc's 3rd Alumni Homecoming for its 30th Anniversary! 2 days to go!

Chico & Delamar Book Signing

2012-01-21T20:28:00.000+08:00

Save the date!

#ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines

2012-01-07T09:45:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, the Department of Tourism unveiled their new tourism slogan. And in a few hours, it was a trending topic at twitter and many people joined in the bandwagon and created their own Meme's for the slogan.

For International press release...

For local release...

Meme's from DOT's official campaign website.

And even Fil-Am Rob Schneider did his own thing in support of this new slogan...

And here's my favorite! Credit goes to the owner.

2012 NY Message

2012-01-01T02:20:00.000+08:00

Thanks 2011. We've shared a lot of tears and laughters, success and disappointments, inspirations and desperations, losses and survivals. A bittersweet combination that helped mold us into who we are now. Claiming for a better 2012 not only for me but especially to those who fell victims to different circumstances in the past year. Let's pick up the pieces and start with a positive outlook. Cheers to a clean slate! Cheers to 2012!

Have A Merry KALOYSTER Christmas!

2011-12-25T00:38:00.000+08:00

"This year has been a soft roller coaster ride for some and a space shuttle ride for others. Nevertheless, let's not forget the true essence of this day. It's His day!. So let's pause for a while and thank Him for all the blessings He showered upon us. Have a Merry Christmas, may you be in your homes, on the road, at work, or in evacuation sites. Everything happens for a reason. Cheer up y'all!"

Toms

2011-11-27T23:09:00.001+08:00

At first glance, I didn't expect that I'll be liking this new shoes that hit Manila. It's basic design doesn't really equate with the price. But when I wore it, I fell for it. So comfy! Not to mention its designs and different color and styles. Also, for every pair that you purchase, Toms will give another pair to the less fortunate. Nice!

I was really planning to drop by the Toms event at Trinoma come December 4. There I'll be able to design my very own Toms pair. But when I was at Rustan's Glorietta yesterday for Havaianas shopping, it turned out that there's also a similar event that they're holding. Being the compulsive and impatient person that I am, I grabbed a pair and had it designed. Why would I wait for a week if its already infront of me. So today, I was able to get my pair since I didn't make the cutoff yesterday. Fortunately, I liked it! Loved it! Thanks Toms!

Battle of the Planners

2011-11-19T16:37:00.000+08:00

So here is the 2012 edition of the battle of the planners. Last year, I gave the crown to Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Chose to use it instead and dispose of my 5 Starbucks planners and 1 Bo's Coffee Doodle Book. But this year, I got back with Starbucks (after 15 days!). They finally realized that most people wants a smaller version and not the National Bookstore type planners. Let yourselves decide!

Bo's Coffee's "The Coffee Book"

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's Giving Journal

Starbucks' 2012 Planner

Sore Eyes!!!

2011-11-07T18:30:00.001+08:00

Ok great! CONFEERRRMMEEED!!!

SORE EYES NGA!!! Kahit sa second opinion eh bacterial sya. So ilang araw na naman akong leave from work. Eh mahal na mahal ko pa naman ang work ko. LOL.

So here are my bestfriends for the 2 weeks... Sana next week eh makapasok na....

#Quiztion

2011-11-05T22:33:00.000+08:00

Do you know Professional Heckler? If not then you can call yourself a L-O-S-E-R! His blog is so popular that he won in the category Best Humor in the Blog Awards for 4 straight years! And he's also active in the microblogging site Twitter. Every Saturday evening, he holds the quiz show inspired #QUIZTION where he asks a random question (open category) and his followers will try to answer it by tweeting back with answer and the hashtag #Quiztion. Based on experience, Jeff Canoy always wins! But tonight was different... FINALLY!

FYI: The Professional Heckler is also the famed rusher Loi Pogi (Morning Rush with Chico & Delamar at Monster Radio RX 93.1).

Shared Planet: Sneak Peak

2011-10-28T13:09:00.002+08:00

Come November 3, all roads lead back to all Starbucks branches for the first day of sticker redemption for the 2012 Starbucks Planner! This year's edition comes in 5 designs made of engineered wood with their own pouches. Colors are Poplar, Bamboo, Cherry, Spruce, and Oak (from lightest to darkest).

And this year, Starbucks is giving us 3 options on availment:

Buy 9 Christmas blends + 8 core beverages except bottled drinks = 17 stickers
Buy 23 core beverages except bottled drinks = 23 stickers
Buy P5000 worth of Starbucks merchandise (GC, tumblers, etc.) = free planner

There you go. Hope to get my own soon! I'm torn between Oak and Spruce!

Photo courtesy of Jason King Ong's blog.

You may also visit this or this for more pictures.

Enjoy brewing!

Adidas KOTR 2011

2011-10-26T19:26:00.019+08:00

So the day had come...

Last October 23, Adidas KOTR Philippine Leg was held at the Global City. Fortunately, the 4 scheduled alarms woke me up. By 5AM, was already at the NBC tent witnessing the 21K and 16.8K runners prep up for the gun start. I was really at a loss since it was my very first race other then the Run For Hope. I'm not sure where to go so I asked at least 2 people. 5K was supposed to have 3 waves: 5:50, 5:55, and 6AM. I dunno what wave will I run. Thankfully this daddy told me that he also had no idea. Buti na lang di lang ako yung medyo aanga-anga LOL. So I decided to ran the first wave. The first KM was really a test for me. Feeling ko puputok yung appendix ko. It was good that I went on. Bahala na may medics naman haha.

Just like the time I ran at the UP Acad Oval, I timed myself seeing if I can surpass the 30min barrier that I set for myself. And this was what I got!

I was positive that I officially got a faster time since it took me several seconds after I crossed the finish line before I stopped the timer. And I was right!

Overall, I must say that I really enjoyed my first official run. Looking forward to next year's edition. Way to go Adidas!!! Oh and thanks for these freebies and my finisher's medal! Woohoo!

Havaianas Final Call

2011-10-24T16:19:00.000+08:00

Details

Promo runs from October 24 up to November 30, 2011.
Purchase any (1) pair and avail a 20% discount.
Purchase two (2) or more pairs (any style) and avail a 40% discount.
Purchase any Havaianas Accessory and avail a 10% discount.

Here are the participating retailers implementing 20% dicount only for every pruchase of a pair:

Northern Luzon

Caba

Le Kitch

Marsha’s Delicacies

Red Dot, Tuguegarao

Tootie Footie, Tuguegarao

Cerise

Central Luzon

Toto

Metro Manila

Kidsports

Terminal 3

Gas

Duty Free

Davao

Martish Store

Sunlab Davao

Gensan

Sunlab

Boracay

R2A
Latte Coffee Cafe (Kalibo & Roxas City)

Cebu

Hayahay
7R
It’s A shore Thing
Republik

Below are the retailers implementing 20% discount for 1 pair and 40% for 2 or more pairs:

Metro Manila

All Flip-Flops Trinoma
All Flip-Flops Marikina
All Flip-Flops SM Annex
All Flip-Flops, Mall of Asia
All Flip-Flops, SM Fairview
All Flip-Flops, SM South Mall
All –Flip-Flops, Alabang Town Center
All Flip-Flops, Robinsons Ermita
All Flip-Flops,Glorietta
All Flip-Flops, Greenbelt 5
All Flip-Flops, Bonifacio High Street
All Flip-Flops, SM Mega Mall
Rustans
ROX
Moana
Urban Athletics
Stoked
Saddle Brown at Manila Polo Club
J&S Surfshop
Moana
Orange Juice
Nail Spa
Complex
Celio

Northern Luzon

All Flip-Flops Baguio
Red Dot Boutique, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
Kapuluan Vista Resort, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
DOTS Fashion Novelty Shop, Bangued, Abra

Central Luzon

All Flip-Flops, Marquee Mall, Angeles Pampanga
All Flip-Flops, SM San Fernando, Pampanga
All Flip-Flops, Robinsons Starmills. San Fernando Pampanga
All Flip-Flops, SM City Tarlac
All Flip-Flops, SM City Clark
Royal Subic Duty Free, Olongapo City
Sunkissed Beach Shack, Olongapo City
Anvaya, Morong Bataan

Southern Luzon

All Flip-Flops, SM Dasmarinas, Cavite
All Flip-Flops SM City Lipa
All Flip-Flops SM City Naga
All Flip-Flops SM City Calamba
All Flip-Flops SM City Batangas
Soleil Et Lune
Wardrobe and Me
F2M
Tantrum

Central and Eastern Visayas

All Flip-Flops SM City Cebu
All Flip-Flops Ayala Center Cebu
Republik
Rustan’s
ROX
Abaca Boutique Hotel
Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort
Tshilly’s
Ormoc Villa Hotel
Panglao Island Nature Resort
Amorita Resort
It's a Shore Thing
Sparadise
Hayahay, Dumaguete
Hayahay, Robinsons Dumaguete

Western Visayas

All Flip-Flops SM City, Bacolod City
All Flip-Flops- SM Iloilo City
All Flip-Flops by the Beach
Learning Gallery
Pink Elephant
Seed
Wellness Club At Days Hotel
Fridays Beach Resort
Nami Private Villas
Eustacia Uno Boracay
Boracay Mandarin
Discovery Shores Boracay
Latte Coffee Cafe
Regalo Boutique

Northern and Western Mindanao

All Flip-Flops SM City Cagayan de Oro
Cirrus Lifestyle Haven
Ban Sabai Traditional Thai Massage
Gazebo Home Store
Mallberry Suites Business Hotel
Spruce
Myx Boutique
Shelves & Hangers
My Tiny Closet Too
Solely Yours
The Sidewalk

Southern and Eastern Mindanao

All Flip-Flops SM City Davao
All Flip-Flops Abreeza Mall
Bajunaid Fashion Outlet
Apo View Hotel Boutique
Chimes Specialty Store
Choo Choo Baby
Jill & Co.
Martish
Sunlab
Mia Lee’s Boutique
Pearl Farm Boutique

The Runner In Me

2011-10-16T08:49:00.000+08:00

Who would have thought that I'd be running an official race anytime soon. Not me! But yes, I registered for Adidas KOTR this coming October 23. Not because I enjoy running. Not really. With my weak lungs and endurance, I'd rather stay seated. I don't even like walking! Would rather ride than walk from office to Megamall! I only registered because of this!!!

I'm not after the time, I just wanted to finish the race with a decent time!

For weeks I've been checking on my time at the threadmill. How much time do I take to finish 1K? 2K? 2.5K? With that I just estimate the time if I'll be doing 5K.

But last night I opted to take it to the next level and run 5K at the UP Acad Oval. The oval stretches 2.2K so I need to make 2 rounds and about a third to get that 5K.

And my only target, to finish under 30 minutes. IMHO that's quite decent for a first time runner for an official race. The first that I joined was the fundraising Run For Hope for my Big Boy Jon Angelo. I clocked in above 40 minutes then coz I basically walked half the 5K stretch. But last night, I ran! Ok I walked for about 5 minutes in total coz I felt that I was losing my breath. But for the remaining part, I really pushed myself hard. And my time??!

Damn! 31 seconds out of my target. Should have walked 4 minutes then I could have broken in the 30 minute bracket. Anyways, let's see on October 23 if I can achieve my personal goal. And I'm excited to have that medal around my neck!

Annebisyosa

2011-10-11T15:13:00.000+08:00

Ako na talaga ang fan! Hehe. Sana mapa-autograph ko to. Tsk!

Blonde2Back2Back

2011-09-18T14:22:00.005+08:00

First time since I started watching THE UP PEP SQUAD at the UAAP Cheerdance Competition, I am sure that they have bagged the crown even if FEU and UST have yet to perform. It was mentioned before that if they deliver a flawless routine, God-willing, then they'll have it in the bag. And they did. The UP crowd went wild while those from the other schools fell into silence, awestruck perhaps? Nevertheless I think it was clear that the UP Pep meant business when they performed their Madonna-inspired routine. To the extent of dyeing their hair blonde. Again, "Ang PEP ng bayan" lived up to their monicker of being the pioneer of reinventions and creativity. New formations, tosses, partner stunts, and tumbles were introduced. One male pep was even lifted by another male pep, that's strength at its finest. Less gimmick, more athleticism. That's the secret formula of winning 1st place. Also, UP Pep Squad won the inaugural Group Stunts Competition beating out NU and FEU for the title. And to complete the Grand Slam, UP PEP Nesza Salvador won this year's Samsung Stunner. Way to go girl!

Here's the clearest video I've seen at youtube. Credit goes to the owner.

2011 UAAP Cheerdance Champions: UP PEP SQUAD. Watch it in HD!

As for the rest of the teams, here's my take. Please note that reviews are based on what I've seen LIVE! Order of the teams is based on their final rankings.

DLSU ANIMO SQUAD: I was really surprised when Boom Gonzales called them 1st runner-up. And I believe all schools, except DLSU of course, were surprised too. But then again, maybe the judges saw something that we didn't. For me, their routine was just okay. No toss nor pyramid was really memorable, well except the one time a girl was thrown really far. Just saw it in replay. Costume was okay, ala Robin Hood nga daw. But still, I think their 2nd place finish was questionable. PERSONAL RANK: 6th

FEU CHEERING SQUAD: I always consider FEU as the closest competitor there is for UP. UST has long lost its cheerdance dominance. And before the cheerdance hype even started, FEU has made it clear that they're in it for the crown this year. The start of their routine was really really strong. They lived up to their Indian theme. Their tosses were good, partner stunts were solid. But towards the end of their routine, you can see minor errors until the left side of their last major pyramid fell. That really costed them points and later on the championship. Nevertheless, my respect for them is still there and I know that next year, they'll give UP a good fight. PERSONAL RANK: 3rd

UST SALINGGAWI DANCE TROUPE: UST has been known for their dominance at the UAAP CDC having won 8 titles, 5 of which are consecutive. But lately, they've been showing less eagerness to win by displaying below par routines by Salinggawi standards. This year was no difference. Yes, they can still dance, tumble, fly. But the WOW factor was not anymore present. It's as if they've been sending their team B to compete. And having the same fate as two years ago, they've been booted out once again from the Top 3. I hope UST SDT go back to their drawing boards and reflect how they did it 5 years in a row during the early 2000. PERSONAL RANK: 4th

ADAMSON PEP SQUAD: Adamson was first to perform and they wasted 6 minutes of our time. I dunno whatever happened to the dark horse that is Adamson during the early 2000. They've been knocking on the Top 3 doors every so often and even managed to crack in one time. But the past 3 or 4 years, they've been giving us unimpressive routines. Yesterday's routine was completely forgettable. I just hope they've put back their signature carousel throw. That may bring back the glory days to their school. PERSONAL RANK: 7th

NU PEP SQUAD: Since Henry Sy bought this school, funds went in just to modernize everything including their Pep. Seeing their costumes, ala Rodeo, you know that they were there to win. But costumes are not everything there is to bag the crown. You need to have the skills. And they showed us skills. NU has improved tremendously by giving us a near flawless routine, fast transitions from one pyramid to another, and the skyhigh throws. That's why we were really surprised that they didn't even place. When FEU was called 3rd place, we were already shouting NU for 2nd. FEU even joined us in cheering for them. But we were wrong. I hope NU again show us next year that they are the dark horse to enter the Top 3. PERSONAL RANK: 2nd

ATENEO BLUE BABBLE BATTALION: Ateneo has shown us that they can beat anyone if they put their hearts into it. This year they had a good concept, even if they shared it with FEU. But they failed to sustain it all throughout their routine. But I really like two parts of it, one was the A formation. It was really cool. Then the magic carpet ride. It brought back memories to their 2009 routine when they did the moonwalk. Personally, I still think they were better than DLSU. PERSONAL RANK: 5th

UE PEP SQUAD: Completely forgettable. PERSONAL RANK: 8th

Again, these are just my personal opinions based on what I've seen live. I just hope that next year all schools will level up one notch or more so that they can give us a really good show.

And I would just like to thank all the schools who cheered for UP after they were announced winners. Yes, even UST was cheering for us and even sang UNIBERSIDAD on our behalf. In return, UP cheered GO USTE. It was really heartwarming seeing all schools satisfied with the results. Thanks guys!

Back2Back2Black

2011-09-17T02:15:00.001+08:00

In a few hours all roads will lead to Araneta Coliseum for the annual UAAP Cheerdance Competition. Squads from the 8 member schools will cheer, dance, tumble, and fly for the much coveted title. And this year, defending champions (and heavy favorites ehem!) UP pep Squad goes BLACK for Back2Back!

Hashbrown Burger?

2011-09-09T10:39:00.000+08:00

Looks promising... Filling! I must say this gives us better value for money than KFC's Tower Burger.

Canon 3-Day Sale

2011-09-08T10:13:00.001+08:00

Gonna check on the lenses. Gotta get ready for the UAAP Cheerdance!

New Stores For 2011

2011-09-06T12:44:00.000+08:00

Need to visit these soon...

Team Manila Very Long Weekend Sale

2011-08-26T12:17:00.000+08:00

Free Round-Trip Ticket Baby!

2011-08-13T20:08:00.000+08:00

I'm not really born lucky during raffles. The last time I won a major prize was during PSRC's 2004 Christmas Party where I won the major prize (Sony TV). And after almost 7 years, here I go again. Thanks Cebu Pacific! You're the best!!!

FINALLY!!!

2011-08-12T22:35:00.000+08:00

Congrats to us! =)

UP Professional Schools

2011-07-20T18:15:00.003+08:00

If this is true then I'm in for my masters!!!

BCDA donates land for UP campus in Global City

By Julie M. Aurelio

Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines—The University of the Philippines on Tuesday signed an agreement with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority donating a 4,300-square-meter lot for the UP Professional Schools in Global City, Taguig.

UP President Alfredo Pascual and BCDA president Arnel Paciano Casanova signed the memorandum of agreement, which will pave the way for the construction of the new campus within the year.

Casanova also turned over a deed of conveyance in which the BCDA donated the lot to UP to be used for academic purposes.

The UP Professional Schools in the Fort Bonifacio Global City will offer post-graduate courses initially from the College of Law, School of Statistics, College of Engineering, College of Business Administration, and the Open University.

Bo's 15and50

2011-07-18T17:23:00.001+08:00

In celebration of Bo's Coffee's 15th year and 50th store, they're slashing their prices down. P15 for short brewed coffee (10am to 3pm) and P50 for tall Froccino (3pm-7pm). For 24-hour stores, you can also enjoy the promo on 12am-4am. This runs every Tuesday and Thursday from June 28 to July 21.

Going On 30

2011-07-17T19:51:00.002+08:00

30 is the new 20!!!

Thanks everyone who spent their peso, internet minute, and email space! Really appreciated them.

Facebook:

Mam Nina, Nenz, Honey, Karlam, Lizzie, Pops, Jas, Philip, Teacher Bex, KC, Nhot, Cat-Cat, Carla, Tina A., Pangga, K, Ate Carla, Paolo, Mam Lulu, Tin C., Mam Che, Ate Morriel, Apple, Chona, Carlo, Rachelle, Rai, Tita Juliet, Sherilyn, Mam Judy, Clemence, Berna, Ros & My, Miko, Liann & Ian, Paul, Sally A., RJR, Lorena, Gera, Princess, Grace, Jhae, Michmac, Charisse, Sir Jay, Ate Gina 1, Mam Lanie, Lee Ann, Jane, Lanie, Ruth, Ryan, Anj, Rommel, Claire, Jacque, Leigh, Boy Supermaria, Avy, Ate Emma, Weng, Kim, Dinna, Alyzzah, Aura, Rochel, Charlene, Jermits, Loca, Airol, Renee Rose, Vel, JR, Kath, Yanie, Anna, Adrianne, Ate Gina 2, James, Kar, Levy, Mam VJ, Majo, Jean, Noimie, Mam Jo, Blue, Mae, Ann, EJ, Macris, Pons, KCat, Kelly, Ms. Mabs, Sir Al, Rudy, TinTin, Mam Jen, Roland, Tin M., Aben, Cza & Matt, Emie, Betch, Cha, Ju, Susan, Monique, Ayah, Peewee, Abie, Cla, Onats, Addi, Aidan, Melbs, Beng, Jessie, Marfa, Ariel, Gracey, Diane, Ferdie, Ate Cesil, Maan, Char, Aimee, Carlito, Mike V., Kath, Chin, Rai D., Marygrace, Love, Mam Bing, Ate Thelma, Kyo, Mam Gen, Vinz, Sherelle, Sir Emil, Len, Honeypie, Maricar, Jonitet, Chummy

Twitter:

Ariane, Nenz, Monik, Ayah, Jolee,

Email:

Ate Gina2, Intiang, Matt, Carsha, Sab, Paul, Mitch & Mok, Tracy & Jay, Gigie, Jenny, Marianne, Gyna

SMS:

Jadey, Jay, Ate Lalie, Mam Weng, Michmac, Tin M., Marney, Carsha, Intiang, Sab, Majo, Kar, Ariane, Mam Jo, Ms. Mabs, Matt, Jean, Krissy, Monik, Luz, RR, Mam Nina, Blue, Mam Nizza, Mam Peth, Mikee, Andrea, Sarah, Jas, Kitty, Clarice, Alex of Gold's Gym, Ate Liezl, Wendell, Irene

Birthday Horoscope - 071511

2011-07-15T21:00:00.001+08:00

THE PHILIPPINE STAR

You will detach from unhealthy preoccupations and center your life on what truly makes you happy. You'll work out stress through physical fitness and sports, and you'll love your new shape. Exciting business happens in September. A relationship becomes a main event in October. November brings a windfall. Pisces and Virgo people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 40, 1, 22, 49, and 38.

THE PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER

You have an unusual ability to influence others, and this can help you enormously. You're also very resourceful about using whatever is at hand. You believe in being useful to society. Indeed, many of you are generous! You feel a strong responsibility to family. Your year ahead might be one of the most powerful years of your life -- so dream big!

Love Ko To

2011-07-06T16:22:00.002+08:00

There are a few things I'm loving about McDonald's. No, it's not their product selections. I'm still a solid JB fries, chickenjoy, jolly hotdog, and sundae fan. But these things make me drop by the nearest McDo branch in Pearl Drive (from work).

I commend McDo for starting it off and eventually sticking with paper bags for take-outs. Your deeds will be rewarded for helping our ailing environment. I still say, no to plastics for takeouts! Bad idea lang siguro yung strawless fridays. I remember one time when I ordered Monster Float and all she gave me was plastic spoon. It didn't occur to me that it was a Friday until she mentioned that they don't have straws on Fridays. I was joking around while on our way back to the office that the spoon was intended for sipping Coke (pretty much like soup). For me it was just a bad idea. May paper straws naman eh. But that's just me ok. =)

When the World Cup glasses were released, I bought 8 glasses (all charcoal in color). I just figured that it will work well at home. So even if they break, I won't really feel upset since it's just P25. Now, from 8, we're down to 3. Thankfully McDo released this "can" glass. May bago nang babasagin Dad ko! Thanks McDo!

150 and counting

2011-06-26T20:00:00.000+08:00

It's been four years since I started this craziness. Going around the Philippines and visiting different Starbucks branches is no easy task. Pretty expensive too. But then again, at least I only have this addiction. No drugs, smoking, nor drinking. Or at least drinking caffeine.

So after four years, and 150 unique branches, will I still continue? HELL YEAH! Visiting Davao, Iloilo and those 2 new stores in Cebu are already planned. And hopefully I'll be able to cover every branch there is before I move global...

So to document my 150th store, here are some pictures of my short trip to Starbucks Summit Ridge Tagaytay.

Another Starbucks addiction: collecting city tumblers. 11 and counting...

And lastly, family bonding FTW! (not mine sorry)

For documentation of the 150 outlets (in case you'd want to check), please click on the LINK.

big boy's big three

2011-06-20T16:41:00.001+08:00

It's been several months already since big boy Jon Angelo Viado left us to join our Father in heaven. But his memory and legacy still lives. A few months after he left, we were able to do a charity event at the Philippine Children's Medical Center called "Breathe Hope Cares". It was a complete success. Even avid celebrity supporter Anne Curtis was there to show her support.

And on his 3rd birthday, his parents have decided to spend it with the kids of PCMC again. And we, the BreatheHopers, were still there 100%. Clowns, games, toys, and Jollibee were there to bring joy to those ailing kids. And to the kids and parents' surprise, avid supporter Ryan Bang was there. He read a story to the kids and even sang and danced. He was really a joy to watch. Seeing the smiles on the kids were worth the time I spent out of the office.

Another BreatheHoper, KCat Yarza, published this article at Manila Bulletin.

Some pics of the event caught on my cam:

For complete photos, click HERE.

rizal @ 150

2011-06-20T15:21:00.001+08:00

In celebration of Jose Rizal's 150th birthday, the Department of Tourism has launched a campaign called "Lakbay Jose Rizal @ 150". This a nationwide campaign wherein you get to travel and visit 27 significant sites of Rizal's existence (at your own expense of course). Not only can you relive the life of our national hero, you can also win a prize. Tokens, of different sorts (I suppose), will be given to the first 100 who'll finish the trail by June 19, 2012. All those who'll finish the trail outside the first 100 will get completion certificates.

career #10

2011-06-06T23:16:00.001+08:00

And so history repeated itself. Rafael Nadal beat Roger Federer to cap his record-tying 6th French Open crown. With this win, he's 6 titles shy off Federer's all-time grand slam record of 16! But more importantly, he was able to retain his #1 ranking in the ATP race. Had he lost, Novak Djokovic will climb up to the top of the rankings.

Rafa beat Roger in 4 sets 7-5 7-6 (3) 5-7 6-1. He showed his dominance after working his way up from 3-5 in the first set to actually winning it in 4 straight games. Roger showed a bit of life in the third set by hitting aces after aces. But Rafa was clear in wanting to win by completely dominating Roger in the fourth set and allowing him to win just one game.

Just my two cents. Had Rafa got past the fourth round 2 years ago, will Roger be able to complete his career slam? In French Open finals alone, Rafa is 4-0 against Roger. Let's see in Wimbledon if Roger can avenge this loss. But for now,

VAMOS RAFA!

In other news, can someone tell me where I can get Rafa's Nike jacket?!

child labor

2011-05-30T17:35:00.000+08:00

when HiPpie met Choco Martin

2011-05-30T17:12:00.002+08:00

starbucks' happy hour

2011-05-01T18:05:00.000+08:00

Starting tomorrow, get to enjoy 50% discount for any personalized Frappucino blended beverage from any Starbucks branch.. Enjoy the Frappucino Happy Hour from 12noon til 2PM. Promo is good until May 8.

visita iglesia 2011

2011-04-23T23:21:00.000+08:00

Photoblog of my 2011 Visita Iglesia with PSRC colleagues Mortimer, Queenie, and Jean G. Vitis.

Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA (EDSA Shrine)

Monasterio de Sta. Clara (Katipunan)

Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish (Katipunan)

Parish of the Holy Sacrifice (UP Diliman)

Twin Hearts of Mary and Jesus Parish (Times St.)

Sta. Rita de Cascia Parish (Philam Homes)

Sto. Domingo Church (Quezon Ave.)

National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes (Amoranto St.)

Sta. Teresita Parish (Kanlaon St.)

Santissimo Rosario Parish (UST)

St. Jude Archdiocesan Shrine (Mendiola)

San Sebastian Basilica (Quiapo)

Manila Cathedral (Intramuros)

San Agustin Church (Intramuros)

breathing hope

2011-03-28T12:34:00.002+08:00

Last week, I received a message in my Facebook inbox from JoniTet. Kcat Yarza, an avid supporter of Big Boy and a contributor in Manila Bulletin is doing an article about him. She was asking us how Big Boy Jon Angelo inspired us and touched our lives. Then messages started coming in from people, all with nice things to say about their experience with Big Boy.

Here's my say:

Big Boy has been the brother that I never had, a younger sibling that I was longing for, and now an angel that I wish would guide me in whatever I do. He opened my eyes to the reality that I should always count my blessings and always be thankful for everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen in my life. He inspired me to do good, for myself and for others. He is indeed God's gift to anyone who is facing crossroads in his/her life. I wish that he will continue to inspire people to breathe hope to anyone who's in dire need of it and to understand the true meaning of living.

You may read Kcat's article after the jump...

Breathing hope

KCAT CAN

By MARIA KATHRINA LOPEZ YARZA

March 27, 2011, 1:54pm

MANILA, Philippines -- God has kept on giving me answers these past days, even if I have not really been asking. All I have been doing was to think about it and He would answer.

I told my mom that it was like God was eavesdropping on my mind. Ha ha! Then I realized that God indeed answers in various ways with what He knows is best for us. Come to think of it, we are the ones who do not notice the answers immediately.

I talked to God and told Him, “Lord, please give me an inspiration to write about.” After I logged on to Facebook, I saw the status update from Baby Jon’s page about an upcoming event. Although I already saw it few days ago, after reading it again, I thought, “Thank you Lord” because I remembered how baby Jon and his parents touched my life.

* * * *

Jon Angelo Viado (June 13, 2008 - January 31, 2011) suffered from Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) that caused cell damage in the central nervous system (both the brain and spinal cord) due inadequate oxygen, thus he was hooked to a mechanical ventilator 24/7 to help him breathe.

Aside from having HIE, Baby Jon was also diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy, Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disorder or GERD seizure disorder and he had been in and out of the hospital. But regardless of the obstacles they faced, Baby Jon’s parents, Joni and Tet, never gave up to find ways of breathing hope into Baby Jon’s fragile life.

In order to sustain Baby Jon’s never-ending medical needs and to be able to purchase his own portable mechanical ventilator, his parents came up with a fundraising campaign: Breath Hope, where they sell specially-designed cute bracelets. The “emblem” designed as breathe hope is inspired by the tracheotomy tube attached to the neck of Baby Jon allowing entry of air into Jon's lungs for him to live. Therefore, purchasing the bracelets means “you just bought his hope to breathe!”

A lot of people supported Baby Jon and his family. His fight for survival had touched so many lives from all walks of life including actress Anne Curtis, who was one of the biggest supporters of “Breath Hope” and encouraged her fans to do as well.

A lot of people were inspired by Baby Jon and how brave he was in facing challenges, especially his parents. Through them, a lot of people were able to realize that no matter how big problems may be, we can still overcome them by our faith and the support of people around us.

Daezen Timog is a high school student who used to live a happy-go-lucky kind of life and did not care about anything more than herself, but when she started supporting Jon and did volunteer work for him, she told herself, "Hey, I can do things greater than just existing!" and so, she decided to pursue Nursing in college in order to help and care for the sick.

Raianne Mata, a publishing specialist on Reuters’ Legal Department shares, “Baby Jon, the Angel-O, is God's instru-ment of love. He has shown us that indeed, God can move our seemingly insurmountable mountains. Baby Jon made me a better person and worthy to be God’s child. My helping hands got within reach more and more each day.”

Charisse Anne, who volunteered as Jon's private nurse remembers, "I've seen him in his downs and it was heart breaking, but then you'll just see that cute little boy smiling."

A lot of people claimed that through the Viado family, they learned to appreciate everything that God has given them, even the smallest things, because in His eyes, we are all equal.

I, for one, was touched by Baby Jon because despite all the painful medical procedures he had undergone, he still managed to give warm, gentle and contagious smiles. I experienced most of the things he had like Nasogastric Tube (NGT) and Suction and they were really painful. I truly admire Baby Jon for bravely overcoming them.

On January 31, 2011, everyone who knows Baby Jon was surprised to learn of his passing due to multiple complications in his health. Many people visited him and supported him until the end. Mommy Tet shared, “We did not spend for anything, not even a cent. Everything was donated by Jon’s supporters.”

Although Baby Jon’s battle ended too soon, there was no space for regret because he fought a good fight. Countless good deeds were done, friendships bloomed and the most amazing thing is, many lives have been changed for the better.

"Big Boy (Jon) had been the brother that I never had, a younger sibling that I was longing for, and now an angel that I wish would guide me in whatever I do," shares Carlos Aguinaldo, a blogger and a fan of Anne Curtis.

Even though Baby Jon, the reason why Breathe Hope existed, is already with our Creator, the sharing and caring continues. Because of the Breathe Hope project, Joni and Tet Viado learned the value of giving to charity and reaching out to those who are in need, especially in terms of medical assistance. They continue to sell the specially designed bracelets to raise money for sick children.

The two of them (Joni and Tet), together with some volunteers, personally visit sick people to extend their care and share whatever they can. They also carry along Jon’s urn and inspire people with his story and their journey with him. Let us help Breathe Hope be a source of hope to the lives of other children as well. Please support: http://jonangelo13.blogspot.com. The bracelet is available for P150.00 with different colors to choose from.

nike-adidas sale

2011-03-16T10:46:00.000+08:00

new logo, same old goodness

2011-03-12T14:47:00.001+08:00

Not really a fan of this new logo. Parang may kulang eh...

And my current favorite...

WHOOPIE PIE!!!

coffee in a zip

2011-02-24T23:22:00.002+08:00

Finally, drive-thru is here! You can now have your favorite frappe on the go without even getting off your car or scooter. LOL

Located at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig. A block away from St. Luke's and just infront of Home Depot! Enjoy!

dear jon

2011-01-31T18:27:00.003+08:00

Last summer, I got to know big boy Jon Angelo Modesto Viado through Anne Curtis' tweet about Breathe Hope bracelets. At first I was really not that concerned. All I want is that bracelet which I presumed a collector's item. What hit me was the entries found in his blog. Detailed there was his current situation, his illness, how he's battling all odds to survive, and how his parents never gave up. I was at the office when I found out about it and I cried while reading the entries.

Right there and then I told myself that I will be involved with this baby. I may not be there to help him financially, I'll give him my time. I will let him feel that he's not alone, that they're not alone. So I took effort to rally orders for the Breathe Hope bracelets from my friends and officemates. And it was pretty much a success.

Finally got to visit him on Independence Day, a day before he turned two. It was really a humbling experience seeing him lying there asleep, with the tubes stuck in his throat for him to breathe and nose for milk and water to pass through. Here lay an innocent child, fighting for his dear life. And all I did was complain about simple things in life. I felt ashamed and at the same time humbled. From then on I promised myself that I'll be there for big boy no matter what.

Before I flew for Cebu on my birthday, I visited him at the JRMMC where he was confined. Initially, I really wanted to celebrate my birthday with him. But I was bound for Cebu that same day so I visited him a day earlier instead. It was a nice birthday gift seeing him there, well not on that state. Just seeing him uplifts my spirits.

Since then I made it a point to visit him at least once every month. Even joined the fun run at Camp Aguinaldo. That was also memorable since I wasn't really a runner and my endurance is failing me. But I was able to finish 5k at an impressive 4.45 time, at least in my record.

Through it all, I never got tired visiting him. Not once. Coz I always get recharged when I see him. Though seeing him at his lowest points, siezures and all, really breaks my heart. But seeing him fight makes me want to fight with him. I always made it a point to include him in my prayers. Coz only Him can make all big boy's pains go away. I claimed it. We claimed it. But everything needs to end at some point. And so does big boy's battles.

This morning, January 31, our big boy Jon Angelo joined our Creator. It was really really painful reading that one liner text from Tet/Joni. Never really expected it ending that way. Me not visiting him this month. Yes I got to see him at St. Luke's during one of his check-ups. But for me that ain't enough. Not the thing that I promised him. Baby Jon Angelo's passing created a vast empty space in my heart. We weren't related by blood. But at least we have this connection. And that connection is strong enough that his passing couldn't break.

In life, I have so many regrets. Everyone does. And a number of those involves big boy. I regret not seeing him enjoy Enchanted Kingdom, one of his parents' wishes last year. Imagining him at the Grand Carousel will forever be etched in my mind. I regret not seeing him on my birthday. I regret not being able to join Run For Hope 2. I regret not seeing him in full "Russel" outfit. I regret not joining the Benefit Dinner at Max's. I regret not visiting him during the Christmas break. I regret not seeing him after New Year. I regret not joining the the Thanksgiving celebration for close Breathehopers. Most of all, I regret not writing a letter for Dear Jon. I regret that he won't be able to read all those inspiring letters that fellow Breathehopers had written for him. He was supposed to read them after he gets better. We claimed it. He'll be able to read them all.

I know this is late, but as the saying goes...better late than never...

Dear Jon,

You may not remember me physically since everytime I get to visit you, you're always asleep. But I very much know in spirit that you know me pretty well. Kuya Caloi here, a certified Breathehoper.

I made a promise that I'll always be there for you. I may be absent in a few occasions but please don't ever think that my love and concern for you diminishes. It will always be there, too bad that my schedule really was tight and in some circumstances, my health failed me. I don't want you getting colds also.

If you only knew how much I love you Big Boy. You're like a family already, one of my pamangkins. The bond that we have is so strong. Stronger than blood. Are we related in our past lives?

You gave hope to me just as we Breathe Hope for you. You kept me grounded and thankful for all blessings that come my way. Because of you, I got closer to Him. You're always in my prayers Jon, you will always be. no matter what.

I really hate seeing you in your lowest points, may it be in your mini-ICU or in one of the hospitals. It breaks my heart. But you made me proud. Fighting that condition is not an easy task. Thankfully, Joni and Tet were there 100%. Couldn't ask for any other parents to take care of you.

You are truly an inspiration to everyone. To your family, friends, and complete strangers that joined the Breathe Hope campaign. Though you left us and now enjoying God's company, I am still thankful that even for a short period of time, you were with us. Fighting for us. Showing us how life should be handled. For that I thank you.

Baby Jon Angelo, you'll always be my Big Boy! I LOVE YOU and I'm missing you already. Hope you're enjoying a normal life in heaven. You deserve that. Til we meet again JON ANGELO MODESTO VIADO! Til we meet again...

-- Kuya Caloi

PS: Tonight, reality will hit me. I dunno if I can look at your remains. I don't want seeing you lifeless. But I know you're now at peace and pain-free. I LOVE YOU BIG BOY! Will always do.

stat wars 2010

2011-01-04T15:58:00.001+08:00

May aattend ba?! Kelan to? Go beat 'em StatSoc!

anniversary at SLMC

2011-01-04T15:54:00.001+08:00

About the same time last year I was admitted at St. Luke's Medical Center in QC for meningitis. Stayed there for a week and was on house arrest (LOL) for the next 4 weeks. I ain't missing it though. But I was well rested for the rest of January and first 2 weeks of February only to find out that we'll be stressed out for the next 10 months!

That spinal tap on the night of January 4, 2010 I can handle, but the pain (psychological) of lying down flat on my back without pillows for the next 6 hours was excruciating. Sanay pa naman ako matulog in fetal position.

I won't forget the nurses of the 5th floor (forgot my room number and their names). They were so kind and reliable and didn't disturb my sleep or when I was watching PBB haha. Not to forget having the best neurologist, Dra. Victoria Manuel.

Thanks y'all! Not wishing though of seeing you ever again. Well except for my neuro. May appointment pa kami for my repeat MRI next week. =)

2010 in review

2010-12-31T23:13:00.001+08:00

If you've been closely following (yeah right!) my blog, it's surprising that I wasn't able to make a review for 2009. Well, past is past.

This entry is specifically dedicated to everyone who have been a part of the year that was 2010.

2nd day of January was my first ER checkup due to my frequent headache, fever, and vomiting. No diagnosis given, just meds for the pain.
3rd day of January, I was confined at SLMC for a week. Diagnosis: meningitis. So I was pretty much bedridden for the first 5 weeks of the year.
3rd week of February was my first official work day for 2010. Thank God it fell on the off-peak month of the year.
March - I can't remember any significant happening on this month.
April - Dave. Oh yes DAVE! The mother of all segmentations, meaning, countless overtimes and overnights!
May has been the month that equalize the low point that January gave me. Finally got my promotion.
June - Dave pa rin. And iba pang mabibigat na projects. June also was the time I got to know Baby Jon Angelo and Breathe Hope. And from then on I promised to myself that I'll always be there for Jon.
July - my birth month. And yes, my first time (finally natuloy din) to travel alone. Celebrated my birthday in Cebu, one of the best birthdays I've had. My version of my alone time with myself. LOL
August - more projects, more projects, and more projects
I was supposed to be in Bohol on the 2nd week weekend of September. But since it fell on the same date of the UAAP CDC, I let it pass. Good thing it was worth it.
October was work work work again
Spent a weekend of November in Iloilo...alone! And I'll continue "my" city tour until I've visited all major cities here in the Philippines.
2010 started off with a very very low point in my year. But thankfully, as 2010 comes to a close, blessings kept pouring in. December had been my highest point for 2010. Success of the PSRC Rock party which I headed, Mega-B surpassing the quota set for the year and the "bonggang" yearend/ Christmas party. And best thing that happened was finally getting the W.O.W award. Looking forward to that Palawan trip.

So to everyone who have been a part of my rollercoaster year, my sincerest gratitude. Hoping, wishing, and praying that come 2011, as I draft my review for that year, you'll still be a part of it.

Cheers to 2010!

party #2: Mega B's pimps & whores

2010-12-31T22:39:00.001+08:00

Fresh from the success of PSRC Rock, Mega-B has leveled up its annual department party. And since we exceeded our quota for the year, we can party to the max!

This year was the first, I think, that Mega-B held its party outside the office. And it was really amazing that the bosses and the RATs chose Victoria Court (yes the motel chain) as this year's venue. Pimps and Whores, that's our theme. And yes, everybody needs to dress up or pay P1000 as fine. So I just had a shirt done with PIMP shoutout.

And as expected, it was a complete success. Let's just say the current Mega-B has evolved. And yes, I like it!

For complete pics, just click here.

W.O.W

2010-12-24T17:41:00.004+08:00

I'd be a hypocrite if I say that I didn't wish I get the W.O.W. (Work of Wonders) award. By far this has been the highest commendation given to any PSRC employee. Not to mention the perk of travelling to one of Philippines' tourist destination. Ever since winning runner-up honors for Rookie of the year in 2003, this has been my next target. But to no avail, every year, somebody else wins it. It even came to a point that I got hopeless. Since my bosses (director and manager) left, it felt like no one recognizes our efforts. I was even justifying to myself that I deserve it given that we were standing by ourselves even without a manager supervising us. And that's all I've been doing for the next X years, justifications!

Since I came back in 2006, I've been nominated twice (not counting this year). And given the load that I've had this year, I was thinking that if I didn't get it, then I won't be winning it in this lifetime. And that would be my last string, I thought.

So come December 16, judgement day, I was completely nervous. I kept myself preoccupied by making everything work for the Christmas party. And when MD announced this year's W.O.W. awardees, I got speechless even to the point of crying (good thing I didn't reach that point!).

Again, I'd like to say thanks to those who nominated me. I don't know everyone, but still, many thanks for these comments:

He's very professional when it comes to work, but he's also full of life.
On subjects that he is not familiar with, he takes time to research books/internet so he can explain it to us.
He's just so helpful.
He adds so much energy to PSRC events.
Caloi has also been a model employee for me. I can clearly see his dedication for work. His passion for work is incredible. He always sees a diffiicult task as an opportunity to grow and learn. He has also been an encouraging colleague and friend. Even if it's not his project and/or expertise, Caloi lends his help when we ask for it and volunteers if we do not seek his help.
Very easy to approach for consultation with regards to sampling, questionnaire and stat analysis concerns.
Where would we all be without him? The stat department for years has been neglected and he has kept the boat steady. Maaasahan.
Also, very hardworking. Stat may have been under-appreciated all these years since the team works in the backroom. As the senior in the group, he's led the team to put out and deliver.
A very valuable resource who has helped us in the many complicated projects we handled this year. I really appreciate his eagerness to understand client objectives and provide or experiment with the appropriate statistical solutions that can address these objectives. He's very reliable and is always there to help. Open to suggestions and creative in his approach. He is also willing to help out the Accounts team to explain to clients the science/statistics behind our analyses.

These words really put a big smile in my face after I secured a copy. I wasn't able to understand anything while on stage. Everything was a blur that moment.

Thanks also to the ExeCom for considering me. And thanks to everyone who made my 2010 more bearable. If not for you guys I would have lost it. Funny that it took me almost seven years and six (or seven?) segmentations before fate gave me this moment. Nevertheless, I am thankful and honored.

Quoting what MD said before and what my boss posted in my FB wall: "What will you do if you know you cannot fail? Even more Work of Wonders, I bet." It really takes courage for one to know one's limits. I'm glad that they've pushed me hard, really hard. If not for them, I would have stayed back in my shell and not explore further what I have to offer. Thanks again mga bossing.

Also, congrats to us Ayah, Rudy, Andrea, and my good friend Jean! PALAWAN...here we come!!!

party #1: PSRC Rock!

2010-12-24T16:56:00.001+08:00

Last December 16, PSRC held its annual Christmas party to celebrate the company's success for 2010. And when I say party...I mean PARTY!!! This year's theme was ROCK and the people didn't disappoint us as everybody took their time off to dress up and rock the night out!

We literally rocked Chef & Brewer while Breakaway Band was playing in the background. This year, Mega A has defended their title they won last 2008 (no contest in 2009). Mega B came close second and Qual came in third.

This year was very special for me for two reasons. First, I headed the Christmas party committee which came out a big success. Second, I'll explain in my future post. =)

All in all, 2010 was a big success for PSRC. And we ended the year with a bang through PSRC ROCK!

Some highlights of the night:

For complete pics, just click HERE!

adidas sale part 2

2010-11-19T15:12:00.000+08:00

Better bring your cash since the credit card terminals aren't working...

1 week to go!

2010-11-19T00:41:00.001+08:00

Thanks cyndi for this link...

so proud to be a Kapamilya

2010-11-04T20:49:00.002+08:00

Ngayong Pasko magniningning ang Pilipino!!!

spark of brilliance

2010-11-03T23:42:00.000+08:00

Just a follow-up to my previous post. The promo cards distributed during the first day contains 1 free sticker. So from 17 drinks, you only have to purchase 16. That's 100+ savings already. You can also combine a maximum of 2 promo cards provided you have the minimum number of Christmas blends required (which is 9). So if you're brilliant enough (like me!), you can secure two promo cards during the first day = 2 free stickers meaning a 200+ savings already.

And since I need at least 2 planners, I got four promo cards = 4 free stickers!

'tis the time of the year again

2010-11-03T10:44:00.000+08:00

Hurry up! Drop by the nearest Starbucks and indulge yourself to their signature Christmas blends - Praline Mocha, Peppermint Mocha, and my favorite Toffe Nut. For every christmas blend you buy, you get 1 sticker. Complete the required 9 stickers (Christmas blends) and 8 stickers (any regular drink) and you get their limited edition 2011 planner. Just like last year, they come in 3 designs. Though I'm still checking out planners from Korea and Malaysia.

By the way, if you happen to get yourself a drink today (Nov.3), you get one sticker FREE!

team aguinaldo

2010-10-29T03:30:00.003+08:00

It was really a surprise for me when I learned that Dad is running again. I wasn't consulted nor informed before he filed for his candidacy. Maybe because he knows that I will say no. For me, the more than 2 decades he served our barangay as captain is more than enough public service. But then again, the call for service is much stronger for him that he can't say no to those asking him to run. I think it was 2 days before the deadline that he finally decided to run. He settled for the Kagawad position since he didn't have enough time to form his lineup. Even his former alliances were caught by surprise that they already said yes to another party. So in the end my Dad ran as an independent candidate.

I admit that I wasn't able to join him during his campaigns because of work. So when I was told that we will still have our signature motorcade, I made sure that I'd be there. Indeed, I was there....with these:

The motorcade was a success. We were really surprised by the number of people who joined us. Who believed in my Dad and his plans for our barangay, that is to get back the school that he dreamed our barangay to have. Sadly, with the incumbent's lack of plans, we lost the school that my Dad worked hard for.

Sadly come election day, the number of people who attended the motorcade didn't really translate into votes. Dad ended up #9 trailing by a little over 100 voters from #7. It was really unfortunate that voters chose not to give my Dad a chance to fulfill his legacy. He wasn't given the chance to get the school back. Hope they made the right choice...

REALIZATION #1: Sad that there's animosity with old alliances. Dunno what's the issue but even my sister felt it. Just awkward...

REALIZATION #2: no matter how good your track record is, Iglesia Ni Cristo wont support you if you're running independent. Double sad...

REALIZATION #3: No matter how good I do a poker face, seeing those who betrayed my Dad/Nanay b4 gets me angrier as if it was just yesterday!

oyster spotted

2010-10-18T23:00:00.001+08:00

There you go. I'm the one at the lower right. This is actually a framed wall art that will welcome you at the 21st floor of our Ortigas office. Was really surprised na isa ako sa napiling model. LOL. Yung nasa gitna pala yung big boss namin. Lumelevel up si oyster! Same frame with Bossing! Haha

spot the oyster

2010-10-18T00:26:00.000+08:00

mangan na kita

2010-10-17T23:57:00.000+08:00

What I missed about Stat was our lunchouts. When we were still at Main, we do lunchouts almost every week. Not to mention the bondings and open forums done once a month. These somehow made us bonded not only with work but how we relate with each other. I really miss that. So I'm starting this lunchouts every payday to relive the fire of the bond. Hope it's not too late...

run for hope II

2010-10-12T13:56:00.002+08:00

See you there!!!

5k runners from Run For Hope (Sept.12):

oyster's way of eating fries

2010-10-11T23:49:00.000+08:00

UP PEP SQUAD bagged 6th title

2010-10-06T11:05:00.004+08:00

Ooohhh. Thanks to our workload I forgot to blog the 2010 UAAP Cheerdance results. Tsk tsk. Thanks to my trusted Lumix DMC-FZ35, was able to capture the routines in HIGH DEFINITION!!!

UP Pep Squad - Champion (Fiesta Theme - 440.9 points or 88.18%)

FEU Cheering Squad - 1st Runner-Up (Samurai Theme - 421.4 points or 84.28%)

UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe - 2nd Runner-Up (White Tiger Theme - 407.5 points or 81.50%)

Congrats again UP Pep Squad. I must say everything was worth it. Cheerdance over my supposedly Bohol trip. P1000 Patron seat tickets from scalpers. UP Pride! UP FIGHT!

For complete set of videos, visit my YOUTUBE site.

run for hope - the aftermath

2010-09-14T22:45:00.002+08:00

The Run for Hope was held last September 12 (Sunday) at the AFP Grounds of the Camp Aguinaldo. Organized by Rai and Sol Mata, ardent supporters of big boy Jon Angelo. Even if less than a hundred attended, the event was still a success. It held to its objective of creating awareness towards big boy's condition and what we can do to ease whatever he's experiencing.

Through this fun run, we were able to solidify our commitments to big boy and his Breathe Hope campaign. I decided to take the 5k run (since most of those who chose the 3K were girls haha). It was really tiring. For a minute there I would have borrowed big boy's oxygen tanks coz I really had a hard time breathing. So what I did was I ran the 2k and walked the 3k. Honestly, I did more walk than run. Need to practice more for the second edition of the Run For Hope come October 9. I finished the race in 48 minutes. If and only if I decide to run again, I will make sure that I'll beat this 48 minutes. Maybe shed off a couple of minutes to my time clock. LOL

Tet delivering her emotional speech:

And the winners:

Happy family despite all the lows. Hold on a little bit more JoniTet. In His time everything will be okay. Big boy will recover. And we will be there to witness it.

vamos rafa

2010-09-14T12:09:00.003+08:00

Rafael Nadal won the elusive US Open trophy to complete his career Grand Slam by winning all four majors. He is just the 7th man in history and 3rd man in the Open era to complete such feat. He beat Novak Djokovic in 4 sets (6-4 5-7 6-4 6-2). He now has 9 grand slams in his record, 7 shy of Roger Federer's 16 titles.

Rafa is poised to win next year's Australian Open to complete his Rafa Slam by winning 4 consecutive majors (French 2010, Wimbledon 2010, US 2010, Australian 2011).

VAMOS RAFA!!!

JB and UAAP

2010-09-11T09:54:00.002+08:00

Just double go large any burger meal and get a free limited edition UAAP tumbler of your choice like this one...

UP Fight!

run for hope

2010-09-09T11:46:00.002+08:00

Remember Jon Angelo Viado, the Breathe Hope baby? There’ll be a fundraising project for him this Sunday (Sept. 12) called RUN FOR HOPE. The fun run will be held at the AFP Grounds at Camp Aguinaldo 630am. Registration is P400 inclusive of the Run for Hope shirt and bracelet. All proceeds will be deposited to his account.

If you can’t make it to the fun run, you can still help by donating the P400. You’ll still get the limited edition Run For Hope shirt and bracelet.

Hope you can spend your Sunday with us and help continue Breathing Hope for big boy Jon Angelo.

Good news, he’ll be getting his very own mechanical ventilator soon! Thank you for helping him through the Breathe Hope bracelets. But this doesn’t end with the mechanical vent. He still needs to undergo several operations for him to be seizure-free. And he still needs to undergo several therapy sessions for him to learn how to breathe on his own. So please do include him in your daily prayers. J

For more info, you can visit his sites:

http://jonangelo13.blogspot.com

http://www.facebook.com/jonangelo13

http://www.twitter.com/babyJonAngelo

http://www.twibbon.com/join/Breathe-Hope-Small

adidas sale

2010-09-09T10:47:00.002+08:00

Don't forget to print the invite!

wear white, UP Fight! 2010

2010-09-05T19:34:00.002+08:00

Exactly 7 days from now, all roads lead to Araneta Coliseum for this year's UAAP Cheerdance Competition. So can the FEU Cheering Squad successfully defend their title? Or will our UP Pep Squad bring back the crown to Diliman? Can the Ateneo Blue Babble Battalion prove us wrong that last year's 2nd Place finish was pure luck? And can the La Salle Animo Squad keep up with the competition given that their archrival have already placed last year? Or will UE, AdU, NU break all odds and win this year? Oh yeah, and will UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe continue their streak of being out of the winner's circle? How I wish. =)

My fearless forecast for this year's top 3: UP Pep Squad, FEU Cheering Squad. Last spot is a toss-up among Ateneo, La Salle, and UST. By the way, my top 3 is in no particular order. But I'm praying that it will be.

So if you wanna support our beloved UP Pep Squad...

gold card

2010-09-05T19:21:00.002+08:00

Finally! After more than 3 years naka-gold din! haha. Next step... PLATINUM!

3 and counting

2010-09-01T15:20:00.002+08:00

Today, three years ago, I decided to start a blog. Not really adept in site building and HTML's so I asked a former colleague to help me with the layout. All I have were thoughts to share, grievances to voice out, and memories to ponder. And those proved to be vital in surviving those three years. Last year I decided to have my very own domain name (kaloyster.net) to give my blog a more personal touch. Then I started incorporating different items such as pictures, videos, etc. to simulate a mini-website. But it all goes back to the things I blog about. The very backbone of this site.

And today, I'm celebrating my 3rd year in the blogosphere. Cheers to more thoughts, memories, and even grievances to share! Blog on!

an afternoon with Jon Angelo

2010-08-31T23:03:00.000+08:00

My first visit to big boy Jon Angelo was during Independence Day. It was the first time I interacted with the miracle big boy. Next was on my birthday eve while he was admitted at the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center. Those are June and July in the attendance sheet. So I won't let August pass by without seeing him.

Even if my colleagues backed out the last minute, I still pushed through to Tandang Sora just to see Jon Angelo. Seeing big boy again is refreshing. He's like an oasis in the desert. Even if he's just lying there in his hospital bed, you'd feel his presence. And just staring at him makes me smile and wonder how strong big boy is. He's my idol.

It's just weird that in my last three visits (including this one), big boy is sleeping. Not getting any luck of playing with him. So instead Tet and Joni got me preoccupied with stories from Tet's Fanneatics gigs to big boy's series of seizures lately. Right then and there it happened. Jon Angelo suddenly moved, opened his eyes then his arms started to shake a bit. I was told that he was having a seizure again. At that point I was a bit scared since I know that seizures mean there's not enough oxygen entering the brain. And that's bad. And I wasn't ready to witness it. But they assured me that it's not that serious really. Neuro said that seizures of more than a minute are the more serious episodes which might damage the brain. Jon's seizures usually last about 6 seconds. I got my consciousness back.

On a lighter note, there are big plans for Breathe Hope. Given that the Breathe Hope bracelet was a success, they will follow it through with the release of the Breathe Hope shirts which I'm positive that will also be a big hit. Rai Mata, a big supporter of big boy, is also planning a fun run entitled RUN FOR HOPE to be held this September 12 at Camp Aguinaldo. Hope more and more people will show their support and help breathe hope into Jon Angelo so that he'll be given a chance to experience a normal life.

And I saved the BEST for last. Finally, big boy will have his very own mechanical ventilator. Thanks to everyone who supported Breathe Hope. This is just the start. Let's continue breathing hope for big boy.

congrats stat

2010-08-18T13:03:00.001+08:00

timezone addiction

2010-08-07T17:46:00.002+08:00

If there is one station in Timezone that I won't let pass, that's the shooting range. Everytime I visit Glorietta, I make it a point to shoot several hoops here. It was a long drought for 2010. Not until I shot 532 in Timezone Galleria. Not a career-high but a season-high all the same. LOL

Next to the hoops, I like trying my luck at the stuff toy section wherein you try to transfer the toys to the receiving bin. And if you do, then the toy's yours. Now, this bear is my biggest prize to date. Will reserve this to someone special that would come along. LOL

And after three years, I think, I finally qualified for the Timezone Gold Card. That's 5000 accumulated peso balance. Next stop...PLATINUM!!!

tekken

2010-08-06T23:31:00.000+08:00

Based on the long-running and highly successful Namco video game franchise of the same name. TEKKEN is a high-octane, action-packed thriller.

Set in 2039, the story revolves on an amateur fighter, Jin, who seek revenge for his mother's death under the hands of the Tekken masters. On the process learning that the person he was seeking revenge to is his father.

Oyster's rating; 3.5 tickets
Okay I'm kinda bias since this is the only arcade game that I actually play. =)

samsung 1-day sale

2010-08-06T22:38:00.002+08:00

who is salt?

2010-07-28T22:47:00.007+08:00

Angelina Jolie stars in Salt, a contemporary action thriller from Columbia Pictures. As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt (Jolie) swore an oath to duty, honor, and country. Hey loyalty will be tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture. Salt's efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives, as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains:

"Who is Salt?"

Oyster's rating: 5 full tickets (LOL)

Not your typical spy movie. Full of action scenes, and Jolie was superb! Not to mention the surprise twists...

cebu city tour - day3

2010-07-27T12:50:00.005+08:00

Third day was pretty boring. It was my last day in the city and check out time was 12noon so I pretty have just a few hours to spend. I decided to drop by Paseo Center for my next Starbucks branch. It was way out of the city, maybe 10 to 15 minutes cab ride from the hotel. But it was all worth it given that there, I was away from the bustling city traffic. I was able to meditate. LOL. I just realized that in a few hours, I'll be missing Cebu. But I promise to be back soon.

Told kuya, the cab driver, to fetch me at the hotel by 12 noon. I hired him to drive me to Mandaue City for my next Starbucks branch at Benedicto I.T. But before that, we need to get Cebu's famous lechon. So we went to CnT Lechon at Guadalupe. I ordered 4 kilos of Lechon for just P340 per kilo. With an additional P20, they'll box it for you. So we headed straight to Mandaue for my last Starbucks stop in Cebu. And in just under 30 minutes, I'm already at the Mactan Airport. And in a few hours, I bid Cebu goodbye. Til we meet again come February 2011!

Click here to view Day3 pictures.

cebu city tour - day2

2010-07-26T21:32:00.021+08:00

My second day in Cebu started very very late. It was raining til before lunch so I chose to stay in the hotel. By 1pm, I started my day 2 itinerary. Destination: downtown.

My first stop is UP Cebu. According to my map, it was far. And I realized how FAR it was when I got there...by foot. I chose to walk coz I didn't want to experience language barrier two days in a row. Might reach Mandaue without me knowing! This campus was way smaller than Diliman. Even smaller than UP Manila, I think. One thing that hit me was the gate. Never experienced having a gate in Diliman. The guards didn't even ask for my ID. Weird.

From UP, I hailed a cab going to downtown Cebu. First stop was Casa Gorordo. It was home of a former bishop (?) which was turned into a museum. Many pieces there depicts the way of life during the Spanish time. Weird coz I can see the features of our old house in there. Too bad picture-taking wasn't allowed inside. But I got to take good photos in the terrace and garden. A block from Casa Gorordo stands another ancestral house, Yap-Sandiego. And just across the street is the Heritage Monument. It's like a steel sculpture showing many scenes of Cebu's history including that of the Magellan's Cross. I must say it is Cebu's greatest pride. Astig ding backdrop for pics. Good thing that I brought my tripod this time.

A block away from the Heritage Monument is Colon, oldest street in the Philippines. This is also considered unsafe for tourists because of snatchers. About two blocks from the Colon marker is the Cathedral Museum which houses several Catholic artifacts used in the Spanish era. Camera wasn't allowed in the second floor where prized pieces are kept. Was able to capture the inside of the chapel in the first floor while the curator was touring me.

Across the Cathedral Museum is the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the oldest archdiocese in the Philippines. The Cathedral had undergone several renovations already. It's ceiling is painted white with lots of gold trimmings. The altar is majestic. Would want to experience mass here if I wasn't in a hurry then.

It's common here in the Philippines to have two churches in one area. Example is the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church in Intramuros. In Cebu, the Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino is situated just across the Cebu Cathedral. I was surprised seeing people waving towards the altar when they pass by the entrance even if they stayed outside the church. They just wave ala-El Shaddai.

The landmarks in downtown Cebu were pretty close in proximity that's why it was best to allot at least half a day visiting these places. The historical and world-famous Magellan's Cross is just across the Sto. Nino Church. I got too excited seeing the landmark that I immediately took shots inside the structure having the paintings in the ceiling as backdrop. And these Korean tourists suddenly blocked my view!

While I was setting up my tripod outside the Magellan's Cross, this old American approached me asking why I'm setting up my tripod. I would want to call him stupid but I didn't out of respect. I just politely told him that I wanted the Magellan's Cross as my backdrop. Then he asked me if I was from there coz I don't look like Filipino. I just said I AM FILIPINO. He even mentioned that I looked like an Indian. Would have wanted to answer back that he looks like a pedophile. I should have! LOL. So I just continued setting up my cam then he again initiated an unwanted conversation asking if I wanted him to take my picture. I said no, that I can manage. I guess he got the message so he left me alone. After I took several pictures, he was about to come near again. I just hurriedly folded my tripod and went in the opposite direction.

About 3 blocks from Magellan's Cross is Malacanang de Sugbu. But during my visit it was under renovation. So I just settled taking pictures outside the streets. Just across is the famed Fort San Pedro, a bit smaller than most forts in the Philippines. For an entrance fee of P30, you get to experience Intramuros-like ambiance. A beautiful and well-maintained garden welcomes you upon entering. Nice venue for photo shoots. On the second level you can pose with the canons. And these Koreans kept on following where I'm going! Yes, 3 bus-loads of them! I decided to end my downtown tour with a visit to Taboan Market where I got dried Danggit with lemon zest for just 650 per kilo. A huge variety of dried fish and squids can also be found there.

I decided to get back to the hotel and freshen up before having dinner at the famed STK (pronounced iSTiKI by some locals) just near Hotel Asia in Cua St. At first I thought it was like Dampa in Macapagal but I was surprised to see such a classy yet homey ambiance inside. And since I wanted something different, I tried their fried eel and their Korean version of sinigang. Thumbs up to both dishes.

After dinner, I dropped by SM City Cebu for my next two Starbucks outlets. The first was at the ground floor Reclamation side. It's also there where I left my laptop! Just realized it when I was already at the second floor. And I was also surprised seeing myself run that fast down the escalator. Fortunately, the guard was standing beside my table waiting for the stupid owner of that laptop. Thank God! While strolling, decided to window-shop. And when I left the mall, I was carrying a new pair of shoes from People Are People. Tsk. Oh and another boo-boo. Have you experienced being approached in the malls by agents of insurance companies asking if you already have a credit card? I did and when I signaled her that I wasn't interested, she immediately asked "Sir, Pinoy?!". Great! Cebuanos!!!

Click here to view Day2 pictures.

cebu city tour - day1

2010-07-26T20:55:00.002+08:00

For the longest time, I wanted to visit Cebu. Been hearing lots of good things about the city. The historical landmarks, the beaches, and most especially the 8 starbucks outlets! Too bad the planned birthday trip last year didn't push through because of bad weather. Instead I diverted my trip to the far-flung province of Pampanga! But this year I cast it in stone that whatever happens, I'll visit Cebu. Period!

As early as Feb., I booked my flight even if there wasn't any seat sale offering from Cebu Pacific. Thought that the cost of the ticket will pressure me to push through with this trip. And it did! So come 8am of July 15 (my birthday), I was already in NAIA Terminal 3. But I made sure that I get to visit St. Jude before my flight given that it was a Thursday and I'm 2 visits shy of finishing my first complete novena of the year.

The plane landed at Mactan airport by lunchtime, almost an hour delayed as expected from Cebu Pac. And since the hotel I was eyeing was fully booked that day, I opted to skip Lapu-Lapu Shrine and Mactan Aquarium and instead proceeded to the city to look for available and affordable hotel. I got the last room at Cebu R Hotel, very near Escario St. and the Capitol. For P1050, I got a deluxe room with 1 queen-sized bed and 2 single beds all for myself. Not to mention the free wifi signal inside the room.

Since the sudden change in my itinerary, I started my Cebu City tour a day earlier. I first visited the Capitol along Escario St. It was like a miniature White House which I assumed houses the city government (correct me if I'm wrong). Too bad I wasn't able to bring my tripod that's why I settled with just my arms and angle estimates. Afterwhich, I tried riding a jeep going to Ayala Cebu to visit my first 2 Starbucks outlets. Here I experienced the so-called language barrier. It was hard being Cebuano illiterate.

The Ayala Terraces was IMO bigger than Greenbelt or Trinoma. Too bad I wasn't really able to tour the whole mall which I thought was good since I won't get to shop. So I first visited the Starbucks just beside Fully Booked. Baristas were extra friendly especially after learning that it was my birthday. Too bad they told me that the Cebu City Tumbler was out of stock in all Cebu branches. That was one of the reasons why I wanted to visit Cebu! Damn! After a 20 minute stroll inside the mall, I dropped by the second branch found in the GF of the main mall. Here I received the good news that the branch in Benedicto IT still has 3 tumblers left. I immediately requested them to reserve it under my name and will get it before I go to the airport on Saturday. 2 Cebu City tumblers....CHECKED!

Since I wanted to make this day even more special, I pushed through with my plan to do Sky Adventure at the Crown Regency. For only 600 pesos, you'll get to experience the Sky Walk, Edge Coaster, and even have free Iced Tea and snacks. And since I was a sore loser, I chickened out on the Edge Coaster. I settled with the safer but more boring, to some, Sky Walk. I got to literally walk around the edge of the 37th floor of Crown Regency with just a harness holding me, a friendly guide and a photographer documenting the experience. All in all it was all worth it. One of my birthday wishes granted!

Click here to view Day1pictures.

happy @ 29

2010-07-18T23:55:00.001+08:00

Thanks for making my birthday
a bit more special! Til my 30th!

SMS & Call - Andrea, Mitch, Mam Nina, Ate Carla, Mam Lanie, Mok & Mitch, Mike C., Celina Q., Matt, Kitty, Julien, Amy, Tikya, Loca, Irene, Paul, Clarice, Gina2, Sarah, Mam Judy, Nenz, Carissa, Blue, Miko, Mam Jo E., Intiang, Suzee, Sab & Peter, Mam Nizza, Susan, Ten I., Anjeluh, Mam Weng, Ryan F., Char Williams, Jean-givitis, Diane B.

Facebook - Anjeluh, K Labra, Kitty, Ron Colis, Tina Amboy, Betchay, Zalve, Aben, Mona V., Lovely, Mam Lulu, Sir Emil, Ms. Mabs, Kar, Cookie, Sir Al, Pops, Jerson, Chummy, Shiela B., Jane & JC, Leigh, Ronillo, Jerome, Pena, Gigie, Rochel, Mam Che-Che, Mimi, Reg, KC, Miko, Lejan, Grace, Monik, Yan, Jolee, Buen, Kath C., Sarah, May A., Abie, Catcat, Nerisa, Marfa, Ayah, Aki, Krissy, Gina2, Rein, Monique, Claire Madarang, Len, Ate Liezl, Charity, Jennyvee, Sir Jay, Mam RJR, Peewee, Jasmin, Luz, Levy, Ruth, Roy, Lee-Anne, Iris, Tess C., Jean-givitis, Mam Jo E., Ayco, Melbs, Honeypie, Nina L., Gracey, Jermits, Cecile, Ros, Chona, Cham, Jov, Hector, Chin, Cathy

go green

2010-07-04T16:42:00.003+08:00

Sorry if I haven't blogged in a while. Too many things have occupied my spare time. And those things are work stuff. LOL!

Anyways, last June 19 we were able to contribute something to the environment by having our first ever tree planting at Upper Kilingan in Antipolo. At first, I was really excited since it will also be my first time (I think, unless we've done something similar before in BSP) to participate in this kind of activity. Not until I've experienced the 1.5k trek (more like 5k to me!) up the mountain that I've wished I didn't join. It was really hard. Not to mention na sumabay pa talaga ako sa isang mamumundok! As in krimen ata magpahinga kasabay sya. hehe. So upon reaching the spot where we will plant our seedlings, nagbuffet naman ang mga pesteng lamok! Sinumpa ko talaga ang mga organizers nito. Hindi dahil sa pinagod ako, but they didn't even mention na malamok! Ganda pa naman ng suot ko, shirt, SHORTS!, and aqua/trekking shoes! Kung alam ko lang eh di sana nag jogging pants na ako at long sleeves at bota! Putek, ilang weeks din akong nangati sa mga pantal ko! Kung nagka-malaria ako nun nako talaga! Isusumpa ko talaga ng todo todo tipong LBM for 1 whole month! All in all, it was fun (syempre minus the lamok at minus the times na hindi ko nakasama ang may hawak ng SLR! wala tuloy akong astig na pics!!!).

After the tiring trek, we were able to relax and have lunch at the Boso-boso resorts. So hindi ko na lang ikukwento in detail the things that have happened there. I'll just let the pictures speak...

Click here for the pictures

big boy jon-jon's 2nd gift

2010-06-17T22:09:00.005+08:00

This entry is a continuation of my blog entry "a meaningful independence day". So we got to visit Breathe Hope baby Jon Angelo (I know I promised not to call him baby since big boy na sya) last Independence Day. Mommy Tet surprised me with a footprinted thank you picture of Jon-Jon. But the surprise didn't stop there. I got a PM at facebook from Daddy Joni asking me of my address. Turned out he'll be sending us (yes you! betch, mitch, and sab) limited edition newport Breathe Hope bracelets. WOW!

And here is my collection of Newports!

nike-adidas sale @ megatrade

2010-06-17T20:44:00.002+08:00

Pwede pa kayong humabol...

a meaningful independence day

2010-06-14T19:48:00.015+08:00

While PGMA spent P10,000,000 for the Independence Day celebration, we chose to visit our angel on Independence Day. It was really planned weeks before that I'll visit baby Jon-Jon. But then some of those who said yes before suddenly backed out for different reasons. Anyways, I told myself that I'll still go kahit ako lang mag-isa. Thank God (takot ako mawala) Sab and Mitch said yes. And the last minute, Betchay tagged along.

The plan was, I'll be meeting Mitch and Betch at McDo Philcoa then we'll meet Sab at McDo Tandang Sora. But Mitch's cab chose to pass by Katipunan kaya natraffic so we shifted to plan B. Met them at McDo Tandang Sora na lang. Looking for Sta. Lucia street was hard. But the Rosalia Compound signage was easy to locate thanks to Sab.

At first, nahiya kami kasi parang kami nga lang bisita. Eh likas pa naman kaming mahiyain LOL. Anyways, we finally met Mommy Tet and Daddy Joni. In just minutes, palagay na agad kami sa kanila. It's as if we've known each other for some time. Then there he was, in an airconditioned room. Ang nasabi ko lang eh... Woah! Ang puti pala talaga ni Baby Jon! hehe

Things to remember when visiting baby Jon: First, please take a bath. Para naman mabango tayo pag lalapit kay Baby Jon. Baka biglang ma-allergy eh. Then pagpasok ng room you need to wear lab gown/dress. Don't forget to wash your hands before humawak kay Baby Jon para naman safe sya. If you'll be bringing cameras, please don't forget to turn off the flash. Nagugulat kasi sya sa sudden flash. Please don't kiss him if may sipon or ubo kayo. Please please no no. Please observe these para naman safe din si Baby Jon.

Honestly, when Mommy Tet let us watch Baby Jon's video, I was fighting back my tears. Told myself I won't show them any tear. Hindi dapat iniiyakan ang case ni baby Jon. Dapat pa nga tayong ma-inspire coz he's fighting. He's not giving up. Mommy Tet and Daddy Joni aren't giving up too. Dun ako lalong natouch. After hearing what they've gone through the past year, I've told myself that I won't give up also on my personal struggles. Sobrang babaw pa nga nun compared to what they are experiencing. And I promised this to myself, no matter what happens, I'll always find time for Baby Jon Jon. Coz he inspired me to become a better person even without him knowing.

In return, I'll actively campaign for Breathe Hope. I'll continue spreading the message and Baby Jon's story. I won't stop until he finally can breathe on his own without the tubes. He taught me not to give up on hope. And I won't! In His time I know Baby Jon will be healed completely.

So guys, please spread Breathe Hope to your families, in your workplace, in every way you could.

this is for you baby jon

2010-06-10T11:34:00.000+08:00

Ayan may cake na! Ano pa bang pwede? hehe.

chef kaloyster

2010-06-08T17:08:00.001+08:00

My very own spicy tuna eggplant spaghetti. Ingredients are tuna, eggplant, spaghetti, and some secret spices. Figure that out! LOL

breathe hope

2010-05-31T21:55:00.018+08:00

Baby Jon Angelo M. Viado is a brave 1-year & 8-month old boy suffering from Hypoxic Ischemic Encepalopathy (HIE). He is hooked to a mechanical ventilator 24/7 to help him breathe. Please breathe into this dear little angel by helping us raise funds to buy his very own mechanical ventilator.

The "emblem" designed as breathe hops is inspired by the tracheostomy tube attached to the neck of baby Jon allowing entry of air and oxygen that goes into his lungs-this is for him to live.

You can add him up at his facebook account: http://www.facebook.com/jonangelo13

or at his foundation blog: http://jonangelo13.blogspot.com

Baby Jon Angelo somehow touched me even if I haven't seen him yet. So in my own way I would want to be of help.

You can place your orders in his facebook account or if you're within Ortigas and San Juan areas, you can course through your orders with me. Just in case you'd want to extend help, he's got a BPI account in his foundation blog.

Let's all help Baby Jon Angelo through BREATHE HOPE. And also, let's all include him in our prayers. I, personally, would want Baby Jon Angelo experience living a normal kid's life so all help will be greatly appreciated.

Please also spread the word to your families, workmates & colleagues, and friends.

Click here for designs and price

baby jon angelo

2010-05-23T16:22:00.003+08:00

Last Friday, I came across @annecurtissmith's tweet regarding a H.O.P.E. bracelet. It drove my curiosity and I chose to open the link. Turned out it's a fund-raising drive for @babyJonAngelo who's diagnosed with mild Cerebral Palsy, G.E.R.D (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disorder) Seizure disorder, H.I.E. (Hypoxic Ischemic Encepalopathy). He's mechanically ventilated 24/7 at home. He's been confined at ICU for 123 days (March26 to July28). And did I mention that he's just about to turn to two?

Let me take this opportunity to knock on your hearts for Baby Jon Angelo. He needs our prayers. And he needs our help and assistance for his medical expenses. Please click on the link below for his Facebook account and website. Also, in his website can be found his BPI account in case you'd want to share financial assistance. Let's include Baby Jon Angelo in our prayers that he becomes better and live his life as normal as possible.

http://jonangelo13.blogspot.com

http://facebook.com.com/jonangelo

http://twitter.com/babyJonAngelo

05.10.10

2010-05-10T18:21:00.009+08:00

I woke up late on election day! Opened my eyes around 9am and by instinct opened up my TV. I was surprised seeing the news of long lines in the precincts. So I decided to go down and tell my ate that we needed to vote early. Lo and behold, they left me already! Grrr! And when I called her up, it was true. For the first time in my voting history, I will have to line up for hours. Hindi kakayanin ata ng convincing power ko ang makisingit today LOL.

Thank God I have patience this morning. If not, I would have decided to just let go of my right. Was prepared for battle with my fan, book, and Gatorade. Fortunately may nakausap din ako sa linya. Mrs. Doroin, SJA teacher, was behind me. I just can't believe that I waited in line for more than an hour and just spent 5 minutes for the actual voting process. For the love of my country...

So after 5 minutes or so, I got indelible ink in my right index finger. Masaya ako. Masaya ako kasi I know in my own little way I've contributed to change. Sana lang magbunga ang aking pagboto. Sa mga di pa nakakaboto...

VOTE INTELLIGENTLY!

why noy?

2010-05-10T01:06:00.001+08:00

For the past 5 months I've been undecided on whom I would be voting for president. Among those running, I'm really considering on Noynoy. But his inexperience made me want to go abstain instead. But then again, I would not do so. This is my right and whatever decision I make, Noy or abstain, I will have to deal with it for the next six years. So what made me decide then?

I have no rebuttal on the issue of Noy not passing any laws during his 3 terms as congressman and half term as senator. I also can't defend him on his lack of experience in the executive department. These two issues are more than enough for an intelligent person to not even consider him as a candidate for the presidency. But what really made me chose him? I guess we shared the same drive on giving change to Filipinos. The 9 years of PGMA have been plagued with corruption. I don't need a law degree from Harvard to understand and confirm such acts. What I don't understand is why most Filipinos would choose to be deaf and blind sa garapalang panggagago ng administrasyon and sa garapalang pagharang ng mga kaalyado nya sa pagimbestiga sa mga kaso. And I don't want this to continue with the next administration. By voting someone who I'm thinking is the least likely to align with PGMA, I'm seeing change. As a taxpayer and law-abiding citizen of this country, I would want to see PGMA pay for her corrupt practices. I'm thinking na pag totally nalusutan nya lahat ng mga kaso nya, baka yung mga susunod na presidente eh mas maging kumpyansa na mangurakot kasi nga kaya naman nila itong lusutan sa pamamagitan ng posisyon at tamang alyansa.

Sa usapin naman ng pagiging deserving in terms of track record and intelligence, hands down Gibo should be the president. Sabi nga nya, Galing at Talino. Yan si Gibo Teodoro. Ang sa akin lang, magaling din si PGMA. Matalino si PGMA. Pero anong ginawa ni PGMA? Yes I know it's unfair comparing him to PGMA in the first place. But the moment he accepted Lakas-Kampi's nomination, he'll always have PGMA's shadow lurking beside him. Actually, what turned me off from Gibo was during his first few interviews after his nomination. He specifically said that his administration will not prioritize investigation or at most papanagutin si PGMA. And that scared me a lot. And what scares me more now is having Gibo as president and PGMA as Prime Minister. Given PGMA's congressional run and a sure win, an ally in Malacanang, then Parliamentary change will really be easy. I've read an editorial just this week. And I would just want to quote it here coz I'm sharing the same sentiments with him. This is with regards to alliances with PGMA

Here too is where former Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro falls exceedingly short of what Filipinos are looking for in their next leader. For how can he lead us when he does not even feel our pain, when he cannot even see the world as we do? How can he bring us to a better place if he does not even agree with us about where our country stands today? In Gibo Teodoro's eyes, the GMA administration is one to be proud of with a record he wishes to be judged on come Election Day. So be it.

And this is one of the main reasons why I'm not really keen on going green. I want to end PGMA's long extended stay in power. And I would want to help stop her plans of even extending that stay in a parliamentary form. How can I stop it if my president thinks otherwise. Let's say if Gibo didn't defect from NPC and still run for presidency, I might even consider him as my president. But for me, accepting PGMA's endorsement will be the start of his downfall.

As for Manny Villar, I'd rather keep my mouth shut. Hehe. Honestly, I think Loren Legarda is his downfall. =)

In a few hours, we will be casting our votes for the next president, vice-president, senators, congressmen, governors, vice-governors, board members, mayors, vice-mayors, and councilors. No matter the differences in our choices, let's respect each other. Let's just hope that who ever wins will give us real change. And who ever wins is the real choice of the majority of the Filipino people. Cliche as it may seem, I hope everyone will vote wisely.

I'm also not keen on voting for partylist. Sorry but I still can't grasp the idea of partylists. All I know is they should represent the marginalized sectors. But how can they represent these sectors if the nominees are former political figures. I totally despise Mikey Arroyo's role as the nominee of the partylist that is said to represent security guards. Can we just scrap off this partylist system for now until there is a clear definition on it. Bakit may partylist ang mga regional groups? (AKB, An Waray, etc.) Hindi ba dapat represented na sila ng mga congressmen nila? I just don't get it. But if I decide to vote, I will still go for CIBAC.

adidas porsche design

2010-05-04T16:56:00.000+08:00

Okay, almost everyone knows I'm a Nike addict. But once in a while I also scan through competition. This month, Adidas launched a new line of kicks: the Porsche design. I think there are about 6 designs from this line. And this one I'm having my eye on. Material is mesh-like. But price is on the expensive side. Sayang!

finally reaping the rewards

2010-04-30T21:39:00.002+08:00

After more than a month of Dave, a series of overnights, lunchbreaks with the nightshift classmates at McDo, and three passes of presentations, we're finally seeing light. We're about to reap our rewards!

hi judy! thank u for all the hard work on DAVE so far. that and JOEY will rly be landmark researches for JFC for years to come. wer very fortunate to have psrc as a partner on ths! pls send my gratitude and appreciation to everyone on the team. di pa tapos pero so far very good.:-)

-- SMS from Jay, JFC consultant

It was refreshing to hear. But then again, I still need rest. Coz three weeks of non-stop segmentation work has taken a serious toll on my recovery.

chiz escudero for jojo binay

2010-04-26T23:08:00.000+08:00

Chiz and I currently have one thing in common. We both think that Jojo Binay should be the next Vice-President. Good choice CHIZ! Looking forward to your presidential bid come 2016...

happy birthday ulit NANAY!

2010-04-26T20:56:00.000+08:00

1-tailed or 2-tailed

2010-04-24T16:12:00.001+08:00

Nakakatuwa talaga pag ang mga geeks eh nagdedebate. Labasan ng mga evidentiary (may term bang ganito?) supports! Todo research agad sa internet at labas ng mga nagkakapalang libro. At pag hindi pa rin nagkasundo eh tawag na sa lifeline. Thanks ulit Wendz! Anyways, the question is: ano ba mas strict? 1-tailed or 2-tailed tests?! Thanks Pepsi for giving us the chance to review our rusty statistical test theories. LOL

So ano nga bang sagot? 2-tailed tests are stricter. Why? According to Sir Wendz, 1-tailed tests are just directional. In order to reject the null hypothesis, we have to prove just one scenario: either mu1 is greater than or less than mu2. But in 2-tailed tests, you have to prove both. You have to prove that mu1 is less than AND at the same time greater than mu2. By then it's safe to say that both means are statistically different. Hmm. Tama ba Wendz? Patay baka ibalik ako sa Stat115 nito haha.

If you want to test the difference of two means or proportions at 95% level of significance using 1-tailed, then just test it at 90% level of significance at 2-tailed. Same goes if you want to test parity of two means using 1-tailed test, then test it at 80% level of significance using 2-tailed.

There you go, my very first Stat-is-Geek entry. Will try to post more. Maybe about survey and sampling so that presidentiables like Gordon can shut the hell up! Hindi ako galit. Hindi po talaga!. LOL

hsbc's starbucks promo

2010-04-21T13:41:00.002+08:00

Starbucks tastes better when it’s ON US! For a minimum single-receipt purchase of P2,000 on your HSBC credit card, get any Tall Beverage of your choice plus one add-on from Starbucks, ON US! Promo period is from April 1 to June 30, 2010. Redemption period is from April 15 to August 30, 2010 in any Starbucks branch in the Philippines. For more information, visit the HSBC website.

Also, if you redeemed the 2010 Starbucks planner and kept the promo stubs, you can use it to purchase a Starbucks Coffee Tumbler with 10% discount. Offer good until the end of this month.

sneak peak: the new iPhone?!

2010-04-20T10:29:00.001+08:00

Thanks to German beer, we got a glimpse of the next generation iPhone. Click the image to read through courtesy of GIZMODO.

be a PPCRV volunteer

2010-04-11T17:33:00.005+08:00

Last 2004 national elections, I spent my election day volunteering for NAMFREL. It was so unusual for me but since my friends did the same, I decided to join too. Yes it was tiring. We started around lunch time, I think, and ended during the wee hours in the morning the next day. We even had some rough times with teachers and poll watchers since we made sure that every canvass report tallies with the votes counted. It was volunteer work so no allowances (only snacks in the afternoon) and yet it was really worth it. In our small way we've done our country a favor...

And I'm doing it again this year! Though under PPCRV this time. Hope you can join me and do something for our country. Click here if you want to volunteer!

My mistake. NAMFREL still needs volunteers too. Click here if you want to be a NAMFREL volunteer instead.

pbbte: teen clash 2010

2010-04-11T02:06:00.000+08:00

So nagstart na naman ang kaadikan ko. Though I'm doubting if I'll be supporting this the same way I supported PBB Double Up.

So, any bets this early?! Stay tuned nightly @ ABS-CBN.

babe, i love you

2010-04-06T13:26:00.008+08:00

Differences make

love exciting...

But are those enough

to keep the relationship going?

...a story of how love brings changes out of differences

happy easter

2010-04-04T12:19:00.004+08:00

Easter is considered the most important day for Catholics. Yes, more important than Christmas. 'Coz today marks the rebirth of Christ after sacrificing his life to save us from our sins. So it's just appropriate for us to celebrate this day by renewing our faith.

Today also marks the rebirth of this blog. The past months have been rough on me and my blogging. But today, I will try to get back to blogging and share stuffs like gadgets, views, etc. So join me in my latest quest...

HAPPY EASTER!

farewell message 2005

2010-03-30T17:38:00.009+08:00

Not everyone knows that PSRC is my 1st and 3rd job. Yes, I resigned last 2005. And no, I don't wanna talk about my 2nd job. LOL. Anyways, when I read this message from the powerpoint presentation that Stat provided me before I left, I can't help but smile. This was written by the very person I really look up to, my first mentor, and my idol (in handling clients na makulit at demanding LOL). And I don't know why Susan forwarded me the very email just today...after almost 5 years. And while reading it, I still can't help but smile...

Dear Caloi,

Allow me to say a few words as you say goodbye to PSRC.

First, allow me to recall your interview day. I am aware that I had thrown a barrage of tough questions towards you that day but you certainly handled yourself well and have obviously left a good enough impression for me to have chosen you. I am proud to say that I have made a fine choice in you as you have proven yourself up to all the tasks we had to do in our section.

Secondly, I thank you. I thank you not only for the consistent and efficient support you have extended me when I was at PSRC but I thank you for having extended the same support to Irene when I left. In a way I was worried for Irene when I left not because I doubted she could handle all the work demand but I was worried that there would be new people coming in and you would have to assume some sort of a right hand support to Irene to train the new people in our section. Given that work in our section has some highly unusual peaks, I was just glad to have heard from Irene how helpful both you and Mitch have been.

Thirdly, I wonder. I wonder becuase I have consistently heard from Reg when I was there how raucous (is that too negative a term) or playful you could be. I wonder why we haven't seen that side of you when I was there. I wouldn't have banned you for that anyway.

Fourthly, again, I thank you. I thank you because I know how attractive you had been to the project teams ( I obviously make very fine choices!) yet you have not hastily deserted Irene nor me when some glazy offer was stealthily dangled your way. Thank you.

Fifthly, again, I wonder. I wonder what has happened to your pair of yellow rubber shoes. Do you still have them with you?

Lastly, I wish you well. I wish you well and I wish you all the best as you move on. I hope you find rewarding what you're set next to do.

Good luck Caloi!

Rico Namay

Statistical Methods

Statistics New Zealand,Wellington

Ph: (+644) 9314177

every GULP counts

2010-03-28T16:31:00.004+08:00

I'm a bit late in bloggin' this latest pakulo of 7-Eleven. Just in time for the upcoming elections. People (politicians and voters) are kinda hitting on the surveys and giving idiotic comments about the veracity of it. Not being included in a sample for any survey done since 19 kopong-kopong, or how can a sample of 1200 actually represent more than 90M Filipino sentiments. Well I suggest these people enroll in a statistics class or better yet a statistics program so they can somehow comprehend the theories behind sampling and surveys.

Sorry medyo mainit lang ulo ko sa mga ganyang tao. Anyways, going back to this pakulo of 7-11, in a way they're doing a survey of everyone or anyone who's buying Gulp, or any juice/CSD for that matter. Unahan ko na tong mga lintek na taong to, this kind of survey won't actually reflect accurate results from the upcoming national elections. Why? Because of the following reasons:

not all buyers of Gulp are registered voters (or at least 18 years old)
a person can actually buy Gulp more than once which is not allowed in any elections (unless you're a flying voter)
Gulp isn't accessible to everyone, meaning not everyone have the resources of actually paying for a drink and in turn getting their votes cast.
there's clearly a bias involved in designing the cups slash ballots. only 5 presidentiables have their own cups (Aquino, Villar, Estrada, Teodoro, and Gordon ) while the rest are sharing a cup with Undecided/Abstain
this is clearly for fun. nevertheless can actually give you some trending. but as I've mentioned above, this isn't accurate in terms of predicting results. But the results of this cool survey should be interpreted as: Among buyers of Gulp (single or multiple times, of any age and ecoclass) which have the resources to actually spend at least 20 pesos for a drink, candidate A actually leads by 5% against candidate B but in a way fall on a statistical tie with 10% margin of error. LOL

So which cup did I choose? dum dum dum...

And I checked undecided. Coz I'm still quite undecided whether to go Abstain or go yellow. LOL

home world sale @ megatrade

2010-03-28T16:05:00.002+08:00

Just sharing... Last day today! So hurry up!