YAMBURGER CHRONICLES

Philamlife Christmas Concerts

2011-12-05T15:57:00.011+08:00

The Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company (Philamlife) maintains the Christmas tradition of conducting, at its Head Office in U.N. Avenue, Ermita, Manila, a series of nightly concerts featuring some of the country’s best chorale groups.

Here is the schedule for this year:

December 5 (Monday) – Philippine Madrigal Singers
December 6 (Tuesday) – UE Chorale
December 7 (Wednesday) – UST Singers
December 8 (Thursday) – University of the Visayas Chorale
December 9 (Friday) – Kilyawan Boys Choir & Voces Aurorae

Admission is free. Programs start at 6:00 PM.

Filtering What's Important

2011-05-20T09:06:00.005+08:00

Youngblood : Forgetting

By Raoul Felipe, M.D.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: May 03, 2011

“How do you measure a year in the life?... Measure in love.”—“Rent”

IT WAS your usual Monday morning: the hustle and bustle of patients, papers and clinical abstracts that needed to be written, spilled coffee—you know, that kind of Monday. In fact, you would have missed it if you were too busy texting or going about your business. (And indeed, most people did.) There was no fanfare after all, no parade or entourage or flower girls or sweet music, and yet there we were in the middle of Ward 1, a huddle of doctors slowly gathering for the culmination of a most captivating love story. You could feel the charm flitting about the place, a contagious energy infecting a group eager with anticipation yet hushed by the sacredness of what was happening.

Lola had been diagnosed with stage 4 nasopharyngeal cancer (a brutal disease), and doctors had given her only weeks to live. The mass had grown beyond normal proportions (it was the size of a football) and it didn’t take long to know that her prognosis was beyond awful. She was unable to stand anymore, crippled and bedridden by a sickness that not only drains you physically but mentally and emotionally as well. She had become dependent and needy, relying on Lolo for pretty much everything, including going to the bathroom.

Throughout all this, I never heard Lolo complain. Not one bit. And he never left her side. In the months that I had been rotating in Internal Medicine, I never saw a more committed bantay—running around like a headless chicken, trying to cope with whatever orders we gave: “Lolo, paki lakad po itong dugo sa laboratoryo. Lolo, kailangan po natin bumili ng gamot. Lolo, dalhin niyo na po siya sa X-ray.”

It didn’t matter how demanding the task or how intimidating the Philippine General Hospital can get (I actually still get lost here) or how expensive the medicines were, Lolo never failed to deliver. I didn’t know how he managed to make ends meet but every time we needed something, it was Lolo who supplied it.

So there we were in Ward 1, underdressed in our scrub suits, trying to contain our kilig. The other patients paid no attention—they had, after all, their own sicknesses to worry about. And the other doctors didn’t mind us too, being too busy doing what was important for them. The nurses were apathetic as well: a celebration like this didn’t need attending when you are too busy doing your job and what-not. But those of us who came, those of us who thought that we couldn’t let the event go unwitnessed, we all learned a lesson we will never forget.

And so on Sept. 13, 2010 at 10 o’clock in the morning, Lola and Lolo got married after spending nearly 50 years together. They had spent every waking hour together—literally in sickness and in health—and now it was time to end it together, too. It was Lola’s last request, her dying wish.

In a world that values resumés and bank accounts and positions and accomplishments, Lola had nothing to offer. She was beyond poor, had no resumé to brag about, and certainly had no position except what she was by choice: a humble mother and wife who spent her afternoons doing laundry and frying kamote-cue on the street. She had done nothing out of the ordinary, either. She never played in a band or reigned as prom queen or appeared on TV. But when she smiled, she smiled like she meant it. The edge of her eyes were creased with the lines of age and wisdom and her laugh penetrated through you, making you wish that you could smile like she did and laugh like she did—with sincerity and substance. Her bald head, long battered by bouts of chemotherapy, was always covered with a bonnet (the ones you find along Minesview Park, with “Baguio” embroidered along the edge, which never failed to make me smile because like hers some of my best memories were of Baguio).

Lolo was as unassuming and normal as Lola. He was a fisherman. His dark skin had been baked by the sun, his hands callused by hauling nets all day, his thin body no longer framed by taut muscles because they could barely afford one meal a day now. When I looked at Lolo I was always reminded that what I was doing was nothing compared to what he did.

In spite of all they had done—or rather all they had not done—they taught me what I had known all along but chose to disregard: that life is not about remembering or even re-learning what is important, but about forgetting what is not.

I believe that deep in our hearts we already know what is important. We were created with that truth and beauty in us. Yet along the way, distracted by a world that places value on what is seen and measured, we have replaced what is important with what is not.

We need to develop the habit, we need to develop the skill of forgetting. We need to because every waking day is a constant battle between what is valuable and what is not. We already know what matters, but we need to forget what doesn’t.

In the twilight of her life, as the sun set and the end of her journey neared, Lola had already forgotten what was unimportant. After 80 years worth of living and working and smiling and laughing, she knew love is all there is to it. That money lasts weeks, positions last years, careers last decades—but relationships are forever.

(Raoul Felipe, M.D., 25, is a graduating medical student at UP-PGH.)

Can you Dig’ Bus Disasters?

2011-02-03T13:25:00.009+08:00

The "Can You Dig’ It?" series is this blogger’s attempt in hitting the ratio decidendi of a particular case decided by the Supreme Court of the Philippines. This series of self-authored compendiums is this blogger’s way of suppressing the rigorous life in law school.

BATACLAN v. MEDINA
G.R. No. L-10126 October 22, 1957
Montemayor, J.

"In case of death of or injuries to passengers, common carriers are presumed to have been at fault or to have acted negligently, unless they prove that they observed extraordinary diligence."

Facts:
A bus operated by its owner defendant Mariano Medina was on its way to Pasay City. Among the passengers was Juan Bataclan. While the bus was running, one of the front tires burst and the vehicle began to zig-zag until it fell into a canal or ditch on the right side of the road and turned turtle. Bataclan and three others could not get out of the overturned bus.

After half an hour, came about ten men, one of them carrying a lighted torch made of bamboo, evidently fueled with petroleum. These men presumably approach the overturned bus, and almost immediately, a fierce fire started, burning and all but consuming the bus, including the four passengers trapped inside it. The lighted torch brought by one of the men who answered the call for help set it on fire.

"Come to think of it, my tenure is filled with bus disasters eh?..."

By reason of his Bataclan’s death, his widow brought the present suit to recover from Mariano Medina compensatory, moral, and exemplary damages and attorney's fees in the total amount of P87,150. After trial, the Court of First Instance of Cavite awarded P1,000 to the plaintiffs plus P600 as attorney's fee, plus P100, the value of the merchandise being carried by Bataclan to Pasay City for sale and which was lost in the fire. The trial court was of the opinion that the proximate cause of the death of Bataclan was not the overturning of the bus, but rather, the fire that burned the bus; that at the time the fire started, Bataclan was still alive, and so damages are awarded, not for his death, but for the physical injuries suffered by him.

The plaintiffs and the defendants appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals. The latter endorsed the appeal to the SC because of the value involved in the claim.

Issue:
Whether or not defendant is liable for the death of the victim

Held:
Yes. Pursuant to the provisions of the civil code, in case of death of or injuries to passengers, common carriers are presumed to have been at fault or to have acted negligently, unless they prove that they observed extraordinary diligence.

The SC disagrees with the trial court’s ruling. Proximate cause is defined that cause, which, in natural and continuous sequence, unbroken by any efficient intervening cause, produces the injury, and without which the result would not have occurred.

In the present, the proximate cause was the overturning of the bus, this for the reason that when the vehicle turned not only on its side but completely on its back, the leaking of the gasoline from the tank was not unnatural or unexpected and that because it was dark, the rescuers had to carry a light with them. In other words, the coming of the men with a torch was to be expected and was a natural sequence of the overturning of the bus, the trapping of some of its passengers and the call for outside help.

Moreover, the burning of the bus can also in part be attributed to the negligence of the carrier, through is driver and its conductor. According to the witness, the driver and the conductor were on the road walking back and forth. They, or at least, the driver should and must have known that in the position in which the overturned bus was, gasoline could and must have leaked from the gasoline tank and soaked the area in and around the bus, this aside from the fact that gasoline when spilled can be smelt and directed even from a distance, and yet neither the driver nor the conductor would appear to have cautioned or taken steps to warn the rescuers not to bring the lighted torch too near the bus.

YAMBURGER CHRONICLES in GMA7's Misteryo

2011-01-16T22:48:00.005+08:00

A very popular entry of mine got featured in GMA7's Misteryo, a horror documentary show hosted by Ryan Eigenmann, last 01.01.11.

Ford Expo 2010: Meeting the Fiesta and the Shelby

2010-11-16T11:16:00.016+08:00

Last October 16-17, Ford Group Philippines staged the largest ever Ford Expo at the SM Mall of Asia open grounds. Since Mechanical Engineering is a class of its own, I decided to drag my Mapuan brother to witness Ford’s lineup of vehicles.

The Ford Fiesta

The event featured Ford’s newest baby and the most anticipated car in the Philippines, the Fiesta. For European peeps, the Fiesta needs no introduction since it has been plying their roads for years already. Very unique about this car as compared to its competitors is its Voice Control Technology which is available in the Sport version. You can literally talk to your car to control your mobile phone (via Bluetooth) or your music. It’ll also make a pretty good surfer’s car if you ask me.

Although it bears some external resemblance with the Mazda 2, the Fiesta has the upper hand because of its engine power (121 bhp at 6,000 RPM and peak torque of 15.1 kg-m at 4,050 RPM in the 1.6-liter version). Also, the best part is the price. It starts at Php. 670,000 for the 1.4L sedan with a manual transmission and goes at Php. 816,000 for the top of the line Sport version. This is the Fiesta’s advantage over the Honda Jazz. In comparing it with the Chevrolet Cruze as to fuel efficiency, the Fiesta is our winner because basically the former weighs more.

A replica of the Ford Fiesta DC-Ken Block Rally Car was also available for special display. Ken Block hails from the U.S.A. and is widely known for his amazingly insane stunt driving. He is reported to be visiting Manila this early December (Update: His visit will not push through.). I was stunned after watching him do donut tricks with the Fiesta. Try searching “Ken Block gymkhana video” at youtube to see what I mean. Pity the tires.

The Ford Shelby

The event also showcased the 2009 Mustang Shelby GT500. Expect 540 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque with this muscled-up car’s 5.4-liter 32-valve Quad Cam V-8 engine. This eye candy also sports a set of 18-inch alloys aside from the racing stripes. Of course, don’t forget the requisite Cobra badge.

Test Drive & Racing Simulators

All vehicles were available for scrutiny. We were supposed to check out the Fiesta in both its sedan and hatchback variants for ourselves but unfortunately the test drive was only until 6PM.

Visitors were also treated to test their pro driving skills through the Focus-TRS Racing Simulators. Winners in the challenge received prizes from DC apparel and Ford Philippines. I did not participate and only tried the simulator because my gaming skills are already too rusty for competition.

Vroom!

In total, the Expo was a huge success and a great weekend alternative for the driving public. Aside from parading the usual steaming models, Ford Group Philippines did a great job in introducing the Fiesta. The marketing guys are also worth commending because of how informative they went in presenting the product while maintaining client interest all throughout, as compared to other dealers.

Farewell Message: JPIA Region 3 Council 2002-2003

2010-10-21T10:15:00.004+08:00

As I write down this message of mine, I can’t stop from taking a glimpse of my experiences with the council. I placed a photograph of the group in front of me so that each stroke of my pen resembles a fond memory I had with these loving individuals.

The council reminds me of the game Chrono Cross. This game gave significance to the Threads of Fate. It says there that every person possess a special and unique kind of thread. Serge, the main character, has a very strong thread. As he embarked on his adventures through time, this thread of his engulfed the threads of his comrades whom he met along his journey. His thread is so strong that whenever Serge makes decisions for himself, the results of his decisions magically affect the fate of his friends, each being different and suiting for that particular individual. This fusion of threads of fate by his team not only made them victorious at the end of the game, but also accomplished each member’s goal by linking their fates together as one.

A year ago, the council engulfed my thread the same way Serge did in the game. Conventions, meetings, and gatherings became tonics of togetherness and elixirs of unity. Our term became a sphere of camaraderie.

My thread of fate grew stronger in each of our gatherings as it interconnected simultaneously with the others’. What made it more special is that by being a part of the team, my relationship with my two college buddies grew stronger and into the most shining part of my thread.

Since our threads of fate became bonded together just like in the game of Chrono Cross, we can now face the challenges that bound us as future Certified Public Accountants and emerge victorious.

God Bless us all!

Author: This is a partly edited version of this blogger’s farewell message published in the second issue of The Disclosur3 for the School Year 2002-2003. The aforementioned issue featured the 9th Grand Annual Regional Convention held at the Subic International Hotel in Subic Naval Base last January 24-26, 2003.

How To Report Internet Scams In The Philippines

2010-07-17T09:59:00.003+08:00

If you think you have received a fraudulent spam email, forward it to the National Telecommunications Commission at (+632) 926 7722 or e-mail at ospac@ntc.gov.ph .

Pisamban: Church of St. James, Bolinao, Pangasinan

2009-04-25T13:33:00.009+08:00

"Pisamban" is Church in Kapampangan. Philippine Catholic Churches has always been fascinating not just because of its historical significance, but also because of its grand structures which symbolize the strong foundation of the Catholic faith. Come and join this blogger as he documents the Catholic Churches all over the Philippines.

The Church of St. James was built by the Augustinian Recollects in 1609. Located at the town’s center, it also served as a fortress for protection against pirate attacks.

The church’s façade has positioned columns alternated by windows with arches on the side. You can see wooden statues of saints properly positioned on the façade.

The church features a special antique side altar which contains sculptured faces which are Aztec-like in nature. Its monolithic wooden door was beautifully carved with floral designs.

Bolinao is 348 kilometers north west of Manila.

Law School Partying: Curiously Awesome

2008-12-22T16:47:00.012+08:00

Last December 18, 2008, my friends from SBC Law & I went to attend a party sponsored by the Law School Government. It was a Gossip Girl themed party. The male to female ratio was really surprising, deflecting from the fact that the law profession is purely dominated by the male species. Besides, what’s the use of a Gossip Girl theme if all the attendees were bro’s. Big Bry was also spinning that night so we’re also there for support.

I never expect this side of law school to be so much fun. Events such as this give us more than just a break from studying and case digesting: these enable us to get to know the fun side of the community we thrive in as law students. Hey, we can’t be serious all the time.

Study hard, party harder!

Can you Dig’ Boorish UP Products?

2008-08-29T21:49:00.006+08:00

Atty. Melvin D.C. Mane vs. Judge Medel Arnaldo B. Belen
June 30, 2008
Carpio Morales, J.

“An alumnus of a particular law school has no monopoly of knowledge of the law.”
–Supreme Court of the Philippines

Facts:
This case involves a Calamba City regional Trial Court judge who told a lawyer that since the latter is not a product of the UP College of Law, they could not be equals.

In the court proceedings last February 27, 2006, Belen boorishly asked Melvin Mane, the petitioner, if he graduated from the UP College of Law. The petitioner replied that he graduated from Manuel L. Quezon University and was proud of it.

The judge then responded: “Then you’re not from UP. Then you cannot equate yourself to me because there is a saying and I know this, not all law students are created equal, not all law schools are created equal, not all lawyers are created equal despite what the Supreme Being [said] that we all are created equal in His form and substance.”

During the subject hearing, not only did the respondent judge make insulting and demeaning remarks to the petitioner but also engaged in unnecessary lecturing and debating. Belen even directed a court employee to show Mane the judge’s statements of assets and liabilities, among others.

Mane filed an administrative complaint shortly after the incident, and the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) found cause to file an administrative case, although the lawyer later withdrew the complaint, admitting his “impulsiveness.” The OCA declared that the withdrawal or desistance of a complainant from pursuing an administrative complaint does not divest the Court of its disciplinary authority over court officials and personnel.

Issue:

The issue at hand here is plainly whether or not the statements and actions made by the respondent judge during the subject hearing constitute conduct unbecoming of a judge and a violation of the Code of Judicial Conduct.

Held:

The Court held Judge Medel Arnaldo Belen GUILTY of conduct unbecoming of a judge. Respondent clearly went out of bounds.

An alumnus of a particular law school has no monopoly of knowledge of the law. By hurdling the Bar Examinations which this Court administers, taking of the Lawyer’s oath, and signing of the Roll of Attorneys, a lawyer is presumed to be competent to discharge his functions and duties as an officer of the court, irrespective of where he obtained his law degree. For a judge to determine the fitness or competence of a lawyer primarily on the basis of his alma mater is clearly an engagement in an argumentum ad hominem.

The Court cited Belen’s violation of Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which mandates that a judge should be courteous to counsel, especially to those who are young and inexperienced and also to all those others appearing or concerned in the administration of justice in the court. He should be courteous and civil, for it is unbecoming of a judge to utter intemperate language during the hearing of a case. He should not interrupt counsel in their arguments except to clarify his mind as to their positions. Nor should he be tempted to an unnecessary display of learning or premature judgment. He may utilize his opportunities to criticize and correct unprofessional conduct of attorneys, brought to his attention, but he may not do so in an insulting manner.

A judge’s official conduct and his behavior in the performance of judicial duties should be free from the appearance of impropriety and must be beyond reproach. He must at all times be temperate in his language for the noble position in the bench demands courteous speech in and out of the Court.

Respondent judge’s insulting statements which tend to question complainant’s capability and credibility stemming from the fact that the latter did not graduated from UP Law school is clearly unwarranted and inexcusable. Respondent opted for a conceited display of arrogance, a conduct that falls below the standard of decorum expected of a judge. If Belen felt that there is a need to admonish complainant Atty. Mane, he should have called him in his chambers where he can advise him privately rather than battering him with insulting remarks and embarrassing questions such as asking him from what school he came from publicly in the courtroom and in the presence of his clients. Humiliating a lawyer is highly reprehensible. It betrays the judge’s lack of patience and temperance. A highly temperamental judge could hardly make decisions with equanimity.

The Court also reminded Belen that judges should always be aware that disrespect to lawyers generates disrespect to them. There must be mutual concession of respect. Respect is not a one-way ticket where the judge should be respected but free to insult lawyers and others who appear in his court. Patience is an essential part of dispensing justice and courtesy is a mark of culture and good breeding.

Respondent Judge was REPRIMANDED and was further warned that a repetition of the same or similar act shall be dealt with more severely.

Can you Dig’ Piracy?

2008-07-16T17:13:00.008+08:00

The “Can You Dig’ It?” series is this blogger’s attempt in hitting the ratio decidendi of a particular case decided by the Supreme Court of the Philippines. This series of self-authored compendiums is this blogger’s way of suppressing the rigorous life in law school.

People of the Philippine Islands vs. Lol-lo and Saraw
G.R. No. L-17958 February 27, 1922
Malcolm, J.

Facts:
On or about June 30, 1920, two boats containing Dutch subjects sailed from one Dutch island to another. After navigating for a number of days, the second boat, while still on Dutch East Indies territory, was surrounded by 6 Vintas containing 24 armed Moros, which includes Lol-lo and Saraw. The Moros pretended to ask for food to board the boat. Once on the boat, they attacked some of the men, violated two of the women, and took all of the cargo. The Moros took the two women to the island of Maruro and repeatedly violated them. The two women escaped afterwards. After returning to the island of Tawi-tawi, both Lol-lo and Saraw were captured and charged with the crime of piracy.

Issue:
Whether the Philippine Courts have jurisdiction over a crime that happened in the high seas

Held:
Guilty. Pirates are in law hostis humani generis. Piracy is a crime not against any particular state but against all mankind. It may be punished in the competent tribunal of any country where the offender may be found or into which he may be carried. The jurisdiction of piracy unlike all other crimes has no territorial limits. As it is against all so may it be punished by all.

Piracy is robbery or forcible depredation on the high seas, without lawful authority and done animo furandi, and in the spirit and intention of universal hostility.

Precious Adona's FHM Autograph Signing

2008-05-19T09:33:00.011+08:00

Slim Oriental Morena Chick with Curves at the Right Places = AWESOMENESS

I attended the FHM Autograph Signing of Precious Adona at Robinson’s Movieworld in Robinson’s Galleria last May 9. The line was long and it was filled up by nerds like me (yeah right! :P).

Presh was really nice to her fans and she was the exact opposite of everything that is snobbish. She was “kalog” enough: she gestured a peace sign like a Japanese Girl whenever her picture was taken. Presh hugged and kissed her female fans. I think that was very sweet of her. And yes she was hot… she wouldn’t be a cover girl if she wasn’t noh? I don’t know what the judges of Be Bench were inhaling when they eliminated her, but hey Presh got up when she fell and right now she’s in front of a huge standing ovation. Pun not intended…

I really think she’s that type of girl you can introduce to your Mom that’s why it saddens me whenever I recall that she did “this movie” to elevate her career in showbiz. What’s even more saddening is that she had scenes in the movie with this asshole. Sigh…

"So Are You..."

Pilipinas: Laoag City & The Heritage Town of Paoay

2008-04-14T13:58:00.034+08:00

The “Pilipinas” series is this blogger’s way of expressing how beautiful the Philippine Islands are. This is a detailed account of his experiences while backpacking through the majestic islands of The Pearl of the Orient.

I have always wanted to go to Ilocos Norte. The province is very rich in culture and heritage. Good thing I was able to avail of Cebu Pacific’s P1 fare. While Senator Trillanes was busy in his latest A-Class Hotel hopping, I was busy preparing for my own personal vacation. This would also be the first time I’ll be traveling with Wiks.

My flight was delayed for an hour (yes, they still get delayed). That gave me an opportunity to see what kinds of people are in the passenger waiting area. I noticed that most of those bound for Laoag City were Chinese businessmen. It seems that the article I read about Ilocos Norte as a casino haven was right after all. After flying for an hour, my plane landed on very rough tarmac.

Laoag International Airport was built from red bricks giving tourists an idea how old school the province is. Also, Ilokanos are known for crafting really nice pottery.

I boarded a jeepney after getting my baggage. Making things a little spontaneous, I decided not to book a hotel beforehand therefore missing an opportunity for a free airport transfer. The jeepney driver and his son provided me assistance in locating my preferred hotel. The driver was so nice he addressed each passenger as either “madam” or “sir.” This strengthens the notion that Ilokanos indeed are one of the nicest peeps here in the Philippines.

It was a good 15 minute ride from the airport to Laoag City proper. Before entering the town proper, you’ll be welcomed by a huge arc before the bridge. The town proper is not that huge but very urbanized compared to other provincial cities.

Because most reviews I read promoted Tiffany’s as the ideal place to stay in downtown Laoag, I decided to book there. Its proximity to the plaza is a plus. Also, there is a Jollibee nearby which is open for 24 hours. I was also excited to have breakfast there… because breakfast at Tiffany’s is always cool. >

Tiffany’s interiors were frolicked with old Hollywood pictures. The rate for an overnight stay in a single room was P675. My room rained with blue, orange and purple spots. It somehow looked like a hospital room to me though.

After parking my things in the hotel, I was off to Paoay Church. On my way to the terminal, I noticed that Calesas here are quite wide. I boarded a jeepney and paid a fare of P25 to Paoay. I discovered that jeepney passengers in Ilocos Norte pay only upon arriving to their stop that’s why drivers here make sure they have enough coins for change. The ride to Paoay is approximately 35 minutes with stops at Batac Public Market, which I heard was the largest in Ilocos Norte, and General Ricarte Park.

Paoay Church is heavenly! No wonder it was classified as a heritage treasure by the UNESCO.

At the side of the church are benches made from original Paoay bricks. Behind the church is a tennis court (Ilokanos sure love to play tennis) and a basketball court. I even took a picture of Paoay hoops!

Across the road fronting the church is a souvenir shop. I bought some Ilocos Wine and tried some of its famous empanada. I found out that they use the same breading for Kwek-Kwek. I tried tuna. It took them 10 minutes to cook my order but it was all worth the time.

On my way back to Laoag, I met Vicente Ocol. He was kind enough to make a stop in front of Immaculate Conception Church in Batac for me to take a picture. He also shared a ranting about our country’s current political system and how abundant life was in Ilocos Norte during Macoy’s time. I find him very educational and will share his story on another blog post.

Manong Vicente dropped me in Laoag’s “Barangay Liga Gym” located beside the city hall. I witnessed the championship game between St. Joseph and the team wearing FEU Tamaraw-ish uniforms. I can tell you that they got game. The fans were also very supportive yet very organized. I miss that type of fan support in Pampanga.

I visited St. William’s Cathedral after the pre-Sunday mass. The lighting was superb inside which very well supported the church façade. I saw some of the passengers from the morning’s flight visiting the cathedral.

Outside the church were talented skateboard junkies. The kids were about the age of 7. They reminded me when I got my first skateboard. It was then that I also realized how peaceful it is in Laoag City. If you do those skateboard stunts in the streets in Manila, you’ll get ganged up.

I was excited to try Macy’s Diner below the hotel. Unfortunately, it was too late for me to discover that restaurants here close at 8PM. I had no choice but to grab my Chickenjoy. It was a first for me to have Jollibee on my breakfast, lunch and dinner. Before I went to bed, I watched the Suns burn Superman and his Superfriends. It was an awesome first day for me.

Cleaving Myself to Photographs

2008-03-14T11:40:00.012+08:00

I love visiting malls on weekday evenings because you don’t get stressed out from the crowd. SM Mall of Asia (MOA) is no exception. Actually, it would be a perfect time to visit MOA these days because the Philippine Institute of Architects is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and is sponsoring a photo exhibit from March 12 to 15, 2008 about the rich history of Pasay City. Some of the photographs being exhibited are of Juicy’s sister, Jennifer.

I am a photo hobbyist myself so seeing some old photographs provided me tips in improving my angles. There were also pictures of Pasay City’s current structures such as MOA and One Esplanade. Wonderful stained glass shots of catholic churches were also featured.

Sanukness

2008-02-29T16:34:00.002+08:00

Last night, I got myself a pair of Sanuk shoes uhmm… I mean sandals because these are not shoes.

Sanuk sandals are very comfortable and very easy to wear. These are perfect since summer is just around the corner. Plus, I get to wear some surfer merchandise. Sweet!

ROAR!!!

2008-02-20T11:14:00.004+08:00

The results are in and it’s now official: I’m returning to my Benedictine roots.

I received a superior rating with only a couple of points shy of an excellent rating. This news may be nothing for you but it is a big deal for me, especially when the other law school denied my admission last year although I know deep inside that I passed its admission tests.

The Big Guy Above always has His reasons. “Salamat po!”

Fine Time at San Fabian

2008-02-18T16:14:00.007+08:00

My Pa is an ardent devotee of the Virgin of Manaoag. Last year, after he got this cool job in an oil company, Pa drove us to the famous pilgrimage site in Manaoag, Pangasinan to give thanks for all the blessings the family has received from The Big Guy above. After hearing mass and lighting our candles, we went to the nearby seaside town of San Fabian.

I have been to San Fabian before and my memories of that trip are somewhat bleak. It was during my kindergarten years when Angel Mama tagged my sister and me along in this pilgrimage trip sponsored by the Golden Babies, a parish group for ladies above fifty years of age. ‘Ma Sisa (RIP), my Grandma’s younger sister and our neighbor, invited us to join the trip. ‘Ma Sisa was also one of the prominent members of the Golden Babies. I think we went there during the rainy season. I remember this because we visited typhoon ravaged churches, one of which had its roof totally destroyed. All I can recall of San Fabian is me building sand castles and catching crabs with other kids along this long stretch of beach.

Our trip last year made me anticipate the enjoyment of coming back to a place I almost lost in my memory. Pa brought us to this spot perfect for reminiscing: San Fabian PTA Beach Resort in Barangay Bolasi.

SFPTABR was established during the time of former President Ferdinand Marcos and was formerly known as “The Presidential Resthouse.” It served as a place for the first family to unwind whenever they were in the area. Because of its obvious native characteristics, the main building of the resort is much like a Bahay Kubo Hotel. I was also informed that SFPTABR also has a Presidential Suite. It’s always fascinating to imagine getting pampered in a room fit for a President.

SFPTABR also has a good share of the tourist market which is quite impressive for a simple town resort. I spotted some Caucasians having coffee at the resort’s spacious veranda. I also saw this American lady playing with the local children by the beach. At the beach entrance, there are two markers, shaped like tombs, commemorating the landing of the Japanese Troops at San Fabian Beach during World War II.

The resort also has a swimming pool near its beach front rooms. Its picnic sheds are ideal for relaxation and comfort. I took a nap in one of these. The addition of the sea breeze blowing right through your face and the soothing sound of sea waves just made napping more special. The picnic sheds are also a good venue for studying alone. I saw a girl reading her books in preparation for the Philippine Nursing Board Examinations in one of the sheds.

My return to San Fabian is just as special as the sparkle of its clear blue waters under the summer sun. It would always be nice to escape the city hustle once in awhile to enjoy the serenity of San Fabian beach. My felicitations to Pa for the experience.

The City Hall of San Fernando, Pampanga Employs Lebron James & Dwyane Wade Wannabe’s

2008-01-25T19:52:00.001+08:00

Before 2007 came to an end, I went to our city hall to voluntarily pay our real property tax due for 2007 & 2008. As I entered the city hall, I saw cashiers staring blankly towards space. I can’t blame them for being completely useless since people usually go to the city hall to ask for help rather than to pay taxes.

I went to the helpdesk and asked for directions. The girl behind the help desk required me to log my name for every question I asked. I guess she needed proof for her quota or else she won’t get paid.

I went to the real property tax window for my payment but the guy behind it, after being disturbed from his conversation with his peers, requested me to proceed to the real property assessment office because he doesn’t have access to the official receipts issued for real property tax payments from 2006. So instead of making payments easier for the taxpayer, the city hall actually wastes taxpayer time by having an awful, or should I say terrible, document management.

In the real property assessment office, I stood in a small line to wait my turn. I was accommodated by a nice old lady whose name I forgot because she was not wearing any ID. I was there patiently waiting for my turn when D-Wade, aka The Flash, bumped me hard as he drove his paper ball to the makeshift basketball ring inside the assessment office. He was followed by King James who hit my knee as he hurriedly followed The Flash. After driving to the hoop, the former screamed "Dwyaaaaaaaannneee Waaaaaaaaadde!" I was a witness! I was pissed!

The mayor has always been criticized for hiring too many people, not to mention incompetent ones, to do redundant jobs. Witnessing such lunacy is too much for me. If these two douche bags think that playing basketball inside a government office will raise them to NBA glory then the mayor must be a real crack to hire these people. If only they had any form of identification, I swear their names would be posted in this blog entry larger than their butt-fucked assholes.

Faro De Cabo Bojeador is Haunted!!!

2007-12-06T16:28:00.002+08:00

The rumors were true after all. Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte is freaking haunted!

I ignored tales about the old Spanish lighthouse. It was on a TV documentary (I think it was ABS-CBN’s Nginig, I’m not so sure) when I first learned about the famous Faro. They were doing a Halloween special featuring the scariest places in the Philippines. I thought it was all a hoax since it has been a yearly presentation and that my guess was they were running out of Halloween stories. Man, was I dead wrong! Let me share my story…

I was coming from the Bangui Windmills when I decided to stop by the Burgos Lighthouse. Actually, I already removed the lighthouse visit from my Ilocos Norte itinerary because the guy from the hotel told me it is inaccessible without an automobile. It all changed when the preacher I met at Bangui told me it was only a kilometer away from the main road. Later, I discovered it was a kilometer of uphill hike.

Before I boarded off the bus, I had the following conversation with the people in the bus:

Me: “Pakibaba ho ako sa may papuntang lighthouse.” (Please drop me off the road to the lighthouse.)

Konduktor, a bit surprised: “Ikaw lang?” (You’re alone?)

Lady at the backseat: “Bakit ikaw lang? Malayo ang lalakarin mo papunta sa itaas.” (Why alone? It’s a long climb to the top.)

Me: “Kaya ho!” (I’ll be fine!)

Irritated over the lady’s obvious eavesdropping, I hurriedly went off the bus. I was surprised to see all the passengers looking at me with the same look of concern like that of the lady eavesdropper. They were all seemingly worried and uncomfortable.

Elderly Lady: “Balong, mag-iingat ka sa itaas. Mag-iingat ka…” (Son, be cautious at the top. Be very cautious…)

Before I had the chance to react, the bus sped off.

I was very clueless about what the passengers were trying to say for I knew all along that I’ll be fine since there’s a caretaker above the hill. It was too late when I found out.

I started my hike towards the lighthouse. The forest was largely wild making the journey a little hotter than usual. I was all sweaty because of the steep climb. In spite of my condition, I started to have goose bumps. I think that was a sign that forest elves were spying on me while I was ascending.

I arrived at the concrete stairs connecting the lighthouse to the road. The place was scenic. I took my 1st picture of the lighthouse midway through the stairs. Before I reach the entrance, I heard voices of children getting scolded by an elder. Upon hearing the voices, I was somehow relieved of my anxiety knowing that the caretaker was around. I called for the caretaker but he didn’t answer. My guess is that they were about to have their siesta. So as not to bother them, I decided to enter the courtyard and took my 2nd photo there. This courtyard view of the lighthouse has always been featured in many articles and magazines.

I entered the corridor leading to the entrance of the main tower. After I took my 3rd photo, I discovered that the door to the tower was locked. I walked back to the corridor to call on the caretaker. When I was about to knock, I was surprised to see that all four old wooden doors at the corridor were locked. I asked myself “Where the hell is that caretaker staying?”

I stood at the terrace to see the two buildings at the side of courtyard. I then discovered that those were actually storage rooms.

“If those were storage rooms, where did those voices come from?”

I gazed towards the lighthouse’s old gate and saw a huge chain vaulted over it. I realized there was nobody in the place except for me. I then felt a gush of cold wind blow over my left ear. Seconds later I was having goose bumps all over my body. I’m serious! Down to the last hair!

“Damn it! I’m all fucked up!!!”

Just as I was freaking out, I started to hear voices again. This time, the voices were right on my ear. I was hearing them all simultaneously. I can’t understand what they were saying. It was like those whispers being heard on Lost. The children’s voices were filled with pain. They were as if blaming me for something. The elder’s voice was purely madness!

I wasted no time in getting my butt out of there. As I was rushing to get down, I tripped on my tripod and there flew my digital camera. When I was picking the camera, there went the voices again. I hurriedly grabbed my damaged camera and ran like crazy, screaming “Sorry po, sorry po! Hindi na mauulit!”(I’m sorry, I’m sorry! It won’t happen again!) all the way to the bottom of the hill.

Picturesque isn’t it? Don’t let its beauty fool you.

Actually, it freaks me out to write this article because I have to imagine myself experiencing the whole misfortune once again. I just don’t think I’ll be returning to this place anytime soon, more so without a group.

I never thought there will come a time that my digital camera will get damaged, not to mention by supernatural beings. It saddens me to think that it got scratched on my very first travel to document lighthouses here in the Philippines. I hope not all lighthouses in the Philippines are haunted. I really do hope so.

A Day After The Glorietta 2 Explosion...

2007-10-20T14:35:00.000+08:00

Angel Mama: “Anak, nabili mo na ba yung pantalon na gusto mong isuot sa darating mong kaarawan… yung Guess?”

Little Yummy: “No Mom, they blew up the mall yesterday.”

Angel Mama: “Susmaryosep!”

Assuming that it was an accident and that it was all shit gas killing eleven people, I still think that the negligence behind this disaster should be looked into and dealt upon accordingly. It is the responsibility of the management to look after the well being of its patrons. Shopping should be fun, not fatal.

25th Anniversary: Philippine Martial Law

2007-09-21T14:21:00.000+08:00

Never again...

One Hundred Years of Scouting

2007-09-14T14:57:00.001+08:00

I recently grabbed the stamp sheet above at the Makati Central Post Office. The stamps were beautifully painted by Nemi Miranda Jr.. It was great to have the proceeds from the sale of the stamps given to the Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc.. It was like hitting two birds with a stone: you get to do charity while pursuing your hobby.

Plus, I was once a Scout.

Revitalizing my Benedictine Blood

2007-09-02T19:11:00.004+08:00

Yesterday, I had the beautiful opportunity to meet Maureen, an old friend from Palawan. Actually, it was just our first time to hang out with each other since NFJPIA’s 20th Annual National Convention held last 2003 at Puerto Princesa City where her school acted as host. I also wasn’t able to see her during our CPA review days.

Mau is currently studying Law at San Beda College. She invited me to hear mass at San Beda Chapel since Fr. Africa, her Seminar Professor, was the presiding priest. Mau mentioned to me before that Fr. Africa’s sermons were very good (Later, I found Mau’s story about Fr. Africa very true since his homily did not disappoint me.). She also stated that Fr. Africa is the spiritual director of the San Beda Red Lions, the school’s basketball team. The Red Lions are required to attend mass every first Sunday of the month that’s why we were lucky enough to see the likes of Pong, Yousif, and Sam.

San Beda Chapel was designed by the Swedish architect George Asp, whose works include the first buildings of Holy Ghost College (now College of the Holy Spirit) on Mendiola Street and St. Theresa’s College on San Marcelino. The church was completed in 1925 and dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus on January 13, 1926.

The chapel was described vividly in San Beda College’s web page:

“The monastic community calls it the Abbey Church while the school population calls it the College Chapel, for it serves the Abbey and the college, and is a source of pride for both. The monks sing the Divine Office and celebrate the Conventual Mass daily in the sanctuary, and students, teachers, administrators, and workers gather for Masses that celebrate various events in the life of the school.”

It was described that once a person enters the nave, he experiences the sudden expansion of space and an unexpected profusion of color. Cool huh?

The paintings are also the most famous and most admired feature of the church. The paintings are the works of Fr. Lesmes Lopez, OSB, while the decorations around the paintings were done by Bro. Salvador Alberich, OSB. Both are Spanish monks.

On the walls of the sanctuary are representations of The Nativity, The Circumcision, The Holy Family at Nazareth, Jesus with the Teachers in the Temple, The Adoration of the Magi, The Presentation in the Temple, The Flight to Egypt, and The Annunciation.

Outside you can see the abbey gardens.

After hearing mass, my desire to attend law school flamed once more. I hope, with God’s blessing, I can achieve my dream of becoming a lawyer soon.

Cristine Reyes' FHM Autograph Signing

2007-08-02T12:30:00.000+08:00

After reportorial deadlines barred me from seeing Bianca King and Iwa Moto in the flesh, nothing will keep me from attending Christine Reyes’ FHM Autograph Signing. I grabbed a copy of FHM Philippines’ August 2007 issue and rushed down to Robinsons Galleria.

Setting up an FHM Event in front of a supermarket was terribly wrong by all means. I think that the FHM Staff should have browsed some statistics on how many people shop in supermarkets at rush hour. Cristine sure drew some crowd. The line could have been shorter if not for the Uziseros taking pictures with their mobile phones.

Cristine was very beautiful, by the way, with the dress that she was wearing. Her dress was fashionable yet very sexy. She balanced everything up with a rosary necklace. Her legs were also a sight to behold! She also smiled frequently that made her even more glamorous.

When my turn came up, I said hi and Cristine greeted back with a smile. She was very warm and accommodating. After signing my mag, my un-chivalric nature asked her to stand up for a photo with me. As usual, the FHM Staff who took our picture bungled the shot (see the hand?).

All in all, Cristine was really scorching hot! I can’t wait to see her upcoming movie.

Wag Ka Nang Umiyak

2007-07-25T20:45:00.002+08:00

Sugarfree sure does make good music.

Kudos, as always, to Sugarfree!

LeBroom!

2007-06-21T11:28:00.001+08:00

Well, Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers were swept in the 2007 NBA Finals. I wouldn't even write about how awful he played in his first Finals appearance. I guess his funeral business at Bulaon Resettlement in San Fernando, Pampanga took a lot from him.

Paella Masters & Bull Murderers

2007-06-08T19:44:00.000+08:00

The Bull on the left is Morito, aka Toro No.25. Last May 5, 1978, M25 was very unfortunate to have met a guy named Jose Luis Gallosa.

J-Lu, as his peers call him, went on a duel with crowd favorite Morito. M25’s fancy for anything red turned out to be the cause of his demise when J-Lu pierced sharp spears into Morito’s shoulder after the proud bull went crazy upon seeing J-Lu wave his red underwear.

Now, Morito’s head is proudly displayed in Casa Armas. Please be aware that I am neither a fan of animal maltreatment nor gay matadors. I just would like to point out that I am very thankful that we visitors can still appreciate some Spanish Culture here in beautiful Greenbelt.

Ask me about the food and I’ll go straight to the point. Casa Armas serves the best Paella! 10/10!

Add up some Spanish Sardines and some of those Oil-Soaked Barbeques and you’re all set up. No wonder Spanish people sport facial oil that much.

Casa Armas is located at Greenbelt 3 in Makati City with branches in Malate and Tomas Morato.

I'm Evil!

2007-04-24T19:05:00.000+08:00

This made me laugh. I hope I don't get thrown in hell.

Take the Magic: The Gathering 'What Color Are You?' Quiz.

Thoughts of an Accountancy Student

2007-04-03T10:41:00.001+08:00

I needed a degree.

I had a PhD in mathematical drinking.
Count the glasses on your left, one… two…
Now on your right, three… four…

My sister warned me about my tummy. After checking her measuring tape, she advised me to either lose some flab or add inches to my chest.

I imagined being pulled by wild horses in all directions.
Nah…

"I'll try Accountancy."

“Why not take up Engineering?” my father asked. Well, with Accountancy you don’t need a set of P1,000 pens. A P50 calculator from Recto will do. Besides, I heard Accountancy is a “mild” course. At my young age, low concentration is much preferable.
(Of course, nobody warned me then about “Higher Accounting.”)

On the first week of my sophomore year (the fun started here!), CPA required me to read theories—rolling my eyes forward and backward until you know what it feels like to be a referee of a tennis game.

Time out! Breathe in… Wait for both eyes to focus on one topic… Breathe out…

I took this time to observe my classmates. I watched a particular pair. One was a girl, who looked like she’d fit in a golf bag; & the other was a boy who looked like ONE LEG would fit in a golf bag.

Girl scored more on theories than boy.

Wow.

I remembered my Accounting 1 days (flashes back).
“Sir Mike,” I asked, “Why do you admit girls who seem to take life so seriously? Aren’t there pretty ones we can chat around with?”
“Sorry, hijo” he told me, “No room for petite accountants. Me likes bookworms.”

(Flashes forward)
How can a girl score big on Accounting over a guy?
Choreographed? Like a Pro-Wrestling match?
I found out as days passed by.

AAAAAYYYOOOOOKKKKKKOOOOONNNNAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!

“No, read the problem all over again when you’re having a hard time. No screaming, please.”

CPA advised me to relax throughout the computations. This lessens the pain of accepting an error, he said.

“Sir, I gun long jumpers to earn some playing time whenever I play basketball. I find it hard to relax when these Accounting Problems double the pressure on my shooting arm.”

I tried a “weaker” problem. The girl that beat me in topping our preliminary exams might show a little compassion. The technique is the anticipation. “As you read & study,” CPA said, “answer the chapter problems for effect."

YYEEEESSSHH!!!!!

“No, no. Raise your PEN, not your voice…”

On my first two years, I lost a couple of inches, 50 gallons of sweat & every sensation on the upper part of my body.

Curious, my friend visited to watch one session.
“Am I in the wrong class?” he asked. “This looks like Sister Act 3—Nuns with Calculators.”

“That’s how graceful Accounting Subjects are.” I explained. “You flow with the rhythm of your class.”
“Looks like a sissy subject to me.” He teased.

“HHOOOOYYYY!!! Not all accountants are with questionable chromosomes, Lokong ‘to!”

After a few months he appreciated what the course has done for me upon meeting a mutual female friend of ours. (“His fingers remain stiff even when he’s not using his calculator…”)

I’ve been “Solving Accounting Problems” for over 3 years now. I have regained most of what I have lost because I didn’t quit. I realized I’m into it for an entirely different reason now. Accounting taught me a lot about patience and resilience. The competitive attitude it preaches taught me to be a better person.

My friends say the best virtue I got from accounting is humility. "Aba, marunong ka nang mag-“SORRY” ‘pag may kasalanan ka ha?”

I said hey, that’s what we practice Auditing for.

Note: This article was written by Yam during his Senior Year in College. It was submitted for publication in the Official Gazette of the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants Region III. Unfortunately, the incumbent Region III President at that time thought it was unfit for publication.

Speech-All-You-Can

2007-03-29T23:27:00.001+08:00

My new employer puts so much emphasis on its values. It also makes sure that we treat our foreign guests with every ounce of hospitality by taking them to dinner. This is why my team & I decided to dine at Dad’s in Glorietta.

Dad’s is not your ordinary Eat-All-You-Can joint. It features the Crossover Plate where you get to stuff your plate with delicacies from both food sections, Native Filipino and Japanese.

When looking for a place to dine with your date, you cannot go wrong with Dad’s. The prices are not high. Plus, you get to receive a cool stuffed toy you can play with afterwards.

Dad's stuffed toys are so cute...

...you can even ask your date to play with you!

On to the Land of the Dam

2006-12-08T21:01:00.006+08:00

Working in an auditing firm leaves you little room for perks. However, these perks come in amazing forms. Most notable among these is the chance to travel and see different places.

Actually, I got the chance to travel during my stint as a trainee back in 2003. I was blessed enough to be assigned to the Hospitality Group of that particular firm. That is when hotel-hopping became a household name for me. I used this as a motivation to pursue a career in auditing.

When I came to my preferred firm, I chose to join the Tax Division for less work. I mean traveling wouldn’t be that enjoyable if you carry the stress of work along with you. Unfortunately, the law of audit economics applied: the lesser the duty, the lesser the need to travel.

It became a dog-eat-dog world for me because the opportunity to travel became very rare. I usually settled for nearby provinces (Cavite, Laguna) just so that I can jump aboard something that moves and hear the soothing sound of “Where to?” Never has it come to my attention that engagements such as those are cheap. Well, I discovered everything soon enough. The worst part is that there was no accommodation included in those engagements hence I traveled my ass back and forth for consecutive days just so I can finish before the deadline.

My friends got the chance to travel one by one: Joseph in Cagayan de Oro, Chie-Chie in Siargao, Robin in Naga City. Since I already tendered my resignation, I never though I would be given the chance to experience something I have always wanted. Last November 16, Fred informed me that we will be going to Pangasinan for an engagement with San Roque Power Corporation (SRPC).

Okay, Pangasinan it is.

At first I thought is as one of those cheap PEZA companies I have often visited in Laguna and Cavite. Oh man was I dead wrong! Allow me to share the details of my experience:

The team consisted of me, Eugene, Jonatz, and Jake. Fred also tagged along to accompany us during the first few days. On our first day we met Irwin, the driver assigned to us. This guy is flaky. He knows a lot of things from college whores to dead people walking. He also boasts of his ability to drive while watching porn.

During the ride, we kept ourselves busy listening to Eraserheads music. We kept still as Irwin flew from one town to another. We turned right just before we hit the lengthy bridge at Rosales, Pangasinan. That is how we arrived with Irwin’s alias, the 15-Minute Man! He raced our van about 12 kilometers towards the mountains in the span of 15 freakin’ minutes!!

The 15-Minute Man is awesome!!!

At the entrance of the compound, we were greeted by Ilocano security guards. Some of the guards were actually giving training lessons to camouflage-wearing men who actually look like CAFGUs (Civilian Armed Forces Group Units I think…) ready for battle. I later discovered that these were actually ethnic people given jobs by the company after being driven out of their native homelands during the early phase of the dam’s construction. Security sure was strict.

The road to the site was rough. Simply put, the Company doesn’t want to shoulder any expenses for constructing roads since the place will eventually be turned over to NAPOCOR.

Yep, NAPOCOR…
.. the country’s top debt bowl.

SRPC treats its guests well as we were welcomed to its grand villas. SRPC’s villas are just like that of Fontana’s, though much simpler for it caters more to the needs of the individual rather than that of a group. I was given a room extremely big for myself, plus a personal fridge to cap off any stress-filled nights of work. My team was practically drooling over the possibility of acquiring whores to accommodate more of their needs. I can’t blame them for fantasizing for the room was really huge though it’s not perfect since the cable TV just plainly sucked. We got more channels on free TV than from our resident reception.

Food was pound for pound!
That is in terms of points, not calories.
Prawns in sweet sauce, steaks galore, beef extraordinaire!
Name it, SRPC has it! Dining Extravagant!

What makes the meals extra special is its health factor. Veggies served were always in A1 form! Fresh from the Best! This is due to the fact that Benguet, our country’s primary vegetable factory, is just some miles away from Pangasinan.

Irwin also gave us some jackass tips in scoring drinks. He explained that drinking water instead of the juices served will get you a pile of canned juices at the end of the day (that sounds familiar, haha). We also got to hit on some Swiss Chocolates & Menthol Teas almost every morning.

Right outside the cafeteria is a swimming pool. The pool’s depth is around 7 feet. SRPC makes sure it gets cleaned and maintained properly. At the side of the pool, right besides the showers, is a gym complete with all the works. We got the chance to check everything out, from running thread mills to dumbbell raises & bench presses. SRPC also has a TV above the equipments so you can choose among five (unfortunately) cable channels. No wonder those SRPC waiters became so buffed!

That’s not all. Within the clubhouse is a bar and a pool hall. Happy hour excitement, you bet! Though the wines are strictly for SRPC people only, it was still amazing that the Company had a wine cellar about ten meters long furnished in good wood. This reminded me of those western cowboy movies were you get to pick up a fight with everyone. Haha!

The bar also featured a huge LCD Flat Screen TV with Dolby Surround! This is the ultimate dream for anyone who likes to play video games in their homes. You just can’t get through the hype with this. It was just so sad that SRPC employees use this only for KTV, downplaying the component’s potential. It is just more saddening that they prefer singing Rey Valera songs.

There were two pool tables for the enjoyment of everyone. Puyat branded pool tables compensated for the lack of cue sticks. We even recorded our game thru Jonatz’ camera phone!

Of course, while we dined, played pool, watched TV, swam, and did some working, Irwin resulted to being bored. That’s why every afternoon he brought us to nearby Urdaneta City just so he can get the boredom out of his system. He frequently told us of this strip club he patronizes. Fred even went bonkers when Irwin decided to watch Batista's sex video in full display of the motorists behind us while he drove our van. Talk about public scandal. Until now, I can still remember the smile in the faces of those tricycle drivers.

The week was everything but complete without a Saturday Night Party. We celebrated with SMB Lights to cap off a week’s hard work. Pulutan served were grilled milk fish and green mangoes with bagoong. Beside our table were SRPC guests, one of whom was a Filipino-American who definitely knew the art of flirting with strangers. Believe me that we never had any intention of gang-banging her whatsoever, though that will be such a celebrated achievement in our profession. I guess she was just an awesome hot alternative for the pretty SGV auditor we were eyeing throughout the duration of the engagement. Yep! There are pretty SGV auditors existing, although unrealistic as it may seem to be.

In the middle of our stay at SRPC, we cushioned ourselves from committing immoralities (aka Porn Marathon) by visiting the Manaoag Pilgrimage Site. I have always thought that it is very important for CPA’s to replenish themselves spiritually especially when they have lingering thoughts of murdering demanding bosses and unsupportive clients. I said my prayers and went to the candle stands to light my own. It was my first time to visit the pilgrimage site at dusk and I was awed to see how beautiful the candle lights cascaded through the darkening sky. The feeling was so soothing.

The most astonishing experience I had in SRPC was our dam visit. Dam! (pun intended) I really couldn’t describe the experience as a whole because I’m at a loss for engineering words to use. You can just visit this site when you get the chance.

We picked up one of the security guards to serve as our tourist guide. The security guard did well as a tour guide and impressed us with his knowledge of the dam’s functions and structure. According to him, the 200 meter high dam was man-made. I asserted this information eventually when I saw that the dam’s wall was purely gravel. As we reached the top of the dam, I regretted seating besides Irwin. The road above was so freaking narrow! On my right is a huge reservoir so deep that its waters supported the color of the bluest among blue. On my left side is a huge ravine. One wrong skid will effectively include us in the faithfully departed section.

Irwin parked the van right on top of the spillway. We were greeted by the security guard manning the station above the dam. I can’t imagine how the guard manages to stay composed in his job when there he was in a “no way out” situation. I wouldn’t even bear think how he copes up in a stormy night. Different chaotic scenarios, like earthquakes and landslides, flew into my mind. In an earthquake scene, Manong guard would be surfing the waves with boulders and rocks towards the ravine. Cool!

As we were busy taking pictures, our guide told us that we can catch giant Tilapias, which are estimated at a yard’s length, in the reservoir. He also told us that if we speedboat towards the shorelines, we may be lucky enough to be impaled by Ibalois with spears and arrows. I declined the speedboat thing.

I also saw this huge truck which was used to carry the huge gravels making up the dam. I once read about these trucks in Childcraft, which termed these as Land Movers, and I never thought I will ever see one. I was so amazed in discovering that its wheels are even taller than me.

The spillway part of the dam was way cooler. It reminded me of Tony Hawk’s Skating Game in the Playstation. I though about the spillway’s edges as merely railings for skating. It would be priceless to see someone go skate from the top of the dam and then catapult himself towards the plains. That would be ludicrous and extremely cool. Dam! (pun intended again) I miss my skateboard.

The whole SRPC engagement was a blast especially at the last day. Before we got out of SRPC’s checkpoint, we had the opportunity to have our picture taken besides SRPC’s helicopter. Everyone posed for his favorite helicopter position. Haha…

To kill time, we decided to visit Baguio before returning to Manila. Let me be clear that it was Irwin’s idea in the first place (he declared this eventually in his trip ticket). Anyways, we had a picnic at Camp John Hay’s grounds then made a trip to Baguio’s dry market to buy some pasalubong. We also got the chance to check out Ukay-ukays and Pirated DVDs (yes, I was actually excited.). Jonatz and I also checked our names featured in ACE Review Center’s List of CPA Board Passers. We had our snacks at nearby Burnham Park before we traveled to the Good Shepherd Seminary to buy some sweets. Irwin took our souvenir photo here while we were busy ogling at a gorgeous brunette.

On our way home, we dropped by the famous Isdaan Restaurant at Gerona, Tarlac. This food place is just along the highway, making it a great option for travelers to park and dine. The restaurant exhibits two giant Mayan sculptures at front so it’s definitely hard to miss. Dining tables are fixed in floating rafts. The pool below contains lots of Japanese Koi. Very cool indeed! These fishes were swimming in various formations, adding more glare to its colors. The continuous rocking of the raft made me dizzy so we transferred to the table near the Mayan fountains. We ordered Seafood Feast, which was a combination of prawns, squid, bass, catfish, and crabs arranged in a manner very common in Filipino Fiestas. We also got ourselves some grilled pork loins and some Sinigang sa Miso. Irwin got a massage as we waited for dinner. Isdaan’s musical group performed a rendition of Yeng Constantino’s Hawak Kamay before us. Jonatz recorded this on his camera phone. Isdaan also featured the “Tacsiyapo Wall.” I’m sure you have heard of this. This wall functions as an anger management therapy. You can hurl all sorts of things, from cups to plates, to the written targets on the wall such as your husband’s mistress, your debtors, and your in-laws. The items being hurled was priced from P5.00 to P1,250, which was the price of the TV set. I suggest that you carry your ass to this place if you really want to hurl a large TV set to your boss. The feeling would be priceless! “Crocodile Grill pala ha?!”

After dinner, we dropped Eugene at the San Fernando intersection. As we were traveling back to Manila, Irwin again lived up to his name as the fast 15-Minute Man. From San Fernando, we arrived in Manila in just 18 minutes. Irwin also had the guts of punking a taxi driver along EDSA. He swerved off the taxi and asked it to pullover, claiming he was an NBI Agent and that he was pissed when the taxi made a cut. Just when the taxi was pulling over to the horror of its passengers, Irwin stepped on the gas and ran off.

The 15-Minute Man struck again!

They dropped me at my pad a few minutes before midnight. Irwin, Jonatz, and Jake still went barhopping, from Jupiter in Makati to Cainta, Rizal to look for whores.

No doubt this was the best engagement (Thanks po Lord!) I ever had.. for now! After a week, we returned to SRPC for another round.

Psycho Siya!!!

2006-11-21T16:02:00.000+08:00

Remember these guys?

Well, good news for you since Giniling Festival just whipped up a nice parody of our favorite sentai's theme!

Let's all welcome... the Bao Men!

Psycho
By: Giniling Festival

umuwi akong putok ang labi
umiiyak at may pasa
ginulpi ako at binugbog ng aking
syota! sobra na! hayop siya!

naglalakad ako nang may nakitang babae
nakatingin sa akin, nagbigay ng flying kiss
sinalo ko at kumindat pabalik
di ko alam nasa likod ko'ng girlfriend ko!

(chorus)
sampal at dagok! (huh)
flying kick at batok! (hooh)
di pa tapos dinagdagan pa niya uli
kagat ng aso! (huh)
sipang kabayo! (hooh)
di ko na kaya, ayoko na (oh yeah)
mahal ko siya ngunit..
psycho siya
mahal ko siya ngunit..
psycho siya

laking gulo ang dulot sakin
di pa nga magasawa
sakit sa bulsa at perwisyo ang aking
syota! sobra na! hayop siya!

nakasakay sa bus nang may pumarang babae
siya ay nakasabit kaya di ko natiis
pinaupo ko sa kanlungan ko
kaya lang kasama ko pala ang girlfriend ko!

repeat chorus

*adlib

repeat chorus again

mahal ko siya dahil...
psycho siya
mahal ko siya ngunit...
PSYCHO SIYA!!!

Photo courtesy of PinkBunnyLove.

My Boss is a Universal Motion Dancer!

2006-08-23T16:26:00.001+08:00

One of the enviable perks of working in a Big Four Firm is the opportunity to have lunch with high-profile people from the business community. Just this noon, I had lunch in a Japanese restaurant with two managers of a leading pharmaceutical company. Of course, my expertise in the arts of using chopsticks failed me, as usual.

Working in a Big Four Firm also introduces you to a drastic community of nerdy superiors. Yes, you read that right!

I cannot deny the fact that most Certified Public Accountants such as I had been very studious back during our college years. I even heard that some accounting majors ate books to digest them thoroughly (I haven’t confirmed this but some of my friends actually witnessed accounting majors gobbling over some Wiley’s. Those guys have extreme brain damage.).

These nerd-type people usually continue on to pass the dreadful CPA Board Exam, and land as respectable juniors in one of the Big Four. What’s unfortunate about this scenario is that a nerd will always remain a nerd, regardless of the position or title (That saves me because I had been cool all throughout my academic years. I have my friends to testify that.) Usually they stay for long years to achieve the goal of being a partner.

What bothers me is the training I get. Imagine me, a cool person, being trained by a nerd. It is as if my nerdy officemates are not punishment enough. Nerd pesters new hires in making some research about imaginary regulations. When informed of its nonexistence, nerd quotes “Nabasa ko na kasi dati yun!”

“Eh tangina, kung nabasa mo na pala yun eh di dapat alam mo kung saang regulations mahahanap yun!!!”

My nerdy superior actually named himself after a Universal Motion Dancer. The reason I do not know. He can’t dance much less look like the person. When asked, he just says he loves the name. Now, how nerdy can that get?!

I am so fired.

Sir Yam: Accounting Professor

2006-06-28T13:31:00.003+08:00

I heard from time and time again that teaching is a noble profession.

Yes, indeed it is noble! I can provide you a very good example right now.

I started teaching Basic Accounting to Management Majors without signing any contract of agreement with the school.

That means right now I don’t know how much I’ll be earning, if ever the school decides not to blackmail me and leave me dumbfounded.

My desire to teach does not include the financial benefits attached to it, if there even is such an attachment. I teach to educate people of the facts that surround reality. I learned these things from an accounting professor of mine.

Professor Liggapedersungacastadotan: “I don’t give a shit if you learned the subject from me or not. That’s your problem!”
“I just want you to see and learn what the world has to offer… and what you need to do to avoid getting crapped on!”

I’m proud to say that I have an invisible "Nobility Badge" on my pecs whenever I teach, despite the possibility of my pockets being filled with crap.

Mossimo Bikini Grand Prix 2006

2006-05-24T23:45:00.000+08:00

Little Yummy: "Thanks for coming! I never thought I will be watching this with you."
Bhabyness: "I couldn’t believe you invited me."
Little Yummy: "This will be my first time to watch a show of this kind. Buti na lang kasama kita…."
Bhabyness: "At least may purpose ang pag-attend natin dito."
Little Yummy: "I’ve thought about it talaga. Now you’ll get to see half-naked men!"
Bhabyness: "And who said I’m here to see half-naked men?!"
Little Yummy: "Aww… That’s so sweet of you. So you’re here to spend some time with me pala…"
Bhabyness: "Nope! I’m here to see half-naked women."

Irrelevant

2006-05-08T13:46:00.002+08:00

I attended mass last Sunday, May 7, 2006, at the Sto. Domingo Parish in Mexico, Pampanga. Aside from having a priest who looked like Boy Abunda, I had idealism lectured upon me in a non-showbiz talkshow manner.

Idealism remains fresh when you are young. Fresh as it may, we cannot deminish the fact that as we grow older, idealism's stages of decomposition creep over, one after the other.

I was idealistic during my younger years. Now, at an enviable age of 22, I could say that being idealistic was sort of a child's role-playing game. Reality does bite. And it sucks blood big time! Nevertheless, idealism remains within us... only because it has been always there in the first place.

I may be wrong in saying that my idealism is long dead & rotting. The Abunda priest may be right in saying that ideas stuck in our heads block those that matters, making ourselves irrelevant.

I may have become irrelevant all these time due to the thought that the things surrounding me are relevant to my existence, to my progress, and to my esteem.

Or maybe I am just being idealistic.

Decisions...

2006-04-12T01:02:00.002+08:00

Decisions require a lot of thinking. Thinking requires time.

In making decisions, it is normal to think in perspective. Personal experience tells me that I always have to make sure that every decision I process must be as flawless as possible. However due to the longetivity of the decision making, some pending decisions become stale & useless.

"Aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ang kabayo" best quips it.

This may be the result of thinking too much, or possibly the result of making too much decisions.

Your guess is as good as mine.

William Ray Manuel: Signing On!

2005-09-08T02:30:00.001+08:00

After all those days thinking for the purpose of blogs, I am now an official Blogger!

Cheers!

(BTW, my surname is not Ildefonso)