Si Baste at ang Hatak Group

I am dedicating this blog entry to all those who are misunderstood, misjudged and apparently called 'worthless'.

I instantly became acquainted with Baste when I first stepped in our school canteen. He was a typical student, wearing an off-white polo shirt, overused pants and what seemed to me a 'bedroom' slippers. He was one of the few who courageously asked me if I am the new Guidance Counselor while I was taking my short break at the canteen. I answered him through a simple gesture of my eyebrows. No words were uttered. That was our first encounter. 

What he doesn't know was that I knew him. I knew what he has been doing, what cases have been filed against him and apparently other records which seemed to be unsatisfactory. I had this impression that he will be one of the difficult students that I will handle. However, I was not prepared for the other circumstances that will soon happen.

January 18, 2013, Friday. It was my first activity - the Seniors' Recollection. I invited my closest friends to facilitate the activity. It was risky on my part since I was still trying to adjust to the environment and at the same time, of accepting the reality that this is a 'one-man team', not to mention the scarcity of budget. It was a  total turnaround from what I've been oriented at Ateneo. 

The recollection started at 8:00am. I was nervous. I was hesitant because I had no idea how the students will respond to that kind of activity. I was restless because earlier that week, I had started my exit interview with the seniors and I was already able to pin point the special students. Yes, I call them special or my favorites so as to create a more relaxed interaction. I kept visiting the three sections just to see how the students are behaving and how the facilitators are. I was more worried on the impression that the students might leave on our invited facilitators. Good thing, Ms. D was helping me all throughout the session. 

What surprised me was when it was about time to say their confession, the special students, my favorites were the first in line. Their willingness to avail the sacrament was really overwhelming. Much more when I saw them line up during the communion. It was the time when I can't help but praise God, praise Jesus, that He was able to work through the hearts of these students, through the facilitators. I was happy. I was extremely happy for the students. 

The following monday, a teary-eyed parent barged into my office while I was having my exit interview. She was in a hurry. She immediately sat down on the visitor's chair and started talking to me. She didn't tell me who she was but halfway through our conversation, I came to realize that she was Baste's mom. She was asking for my help because Baste got into trouble and was being summoned by the barangay officials. She said that she needs me to talk to Lando, a fourth year student in a different section, to make sure that he won't take his revenge on Baste. She was explaining that Lando's relatives warned her that they will make sure that Baste will pay for what he has done to Lando. I was alarmed, not because of the threat but by this innate feeling that I cannot fail Baste's mom. She needs my help and I must do something.

It was also through our short conversation that I came to know Baste, as a son. Baste's mom shared that her husband died two years ago and that their savings got depleted because her husband has to undergo a series of dialysis. She said that they used to enjoy a comfortable life but everything changed in an instant. Now, she's the only one working for her three kids. She is earning through her manicure and pedicure service and she's maximizing every business opportunity that comes her way. I asked her about her income and without hesitation, she answered me that her average earning is p100 per day and whenever she's lucky, she'd earn p400. I can hardly imagine how she is able to feed four mouths and still send two of her kids to high school with that kind of income. My heart broke when I heard her story. 

Baste's mom lightened up when she started telling me about her son. She enthusiastically shared that Baste is a good son, that Baste helps her to earn additional income for their family. She even cited that there was this one time when Baste helped his uncle paint his house and got p200 payment for labor. Baste gave the p100 to his mom and kept the other p100. She added that Baste helps her with the household chores and rarely leaves home during weekends. She admitted that Baste is really fond of his friends and she's aware of what his son is doing but she explained to me, with her pleading eyes, that he is a good person and has been reformed. She added that she decided to quit her regular job so as to monitor Baste's activities with his friends. 

After hearing Baste's mom, I had to pat her at the back. I had to reassure her that everything will be okay, that I will do my very best to help her with her concern on Baste and Lando. 

That afternoon, I issued a call slip for Baste and asked him his side of the story. He admitted that he punched Lando in the face because his patience just ticked off since he hasn't eaten anything that day and Lando was provoking him. I expressed my dismay and told him that his mom visited me in the office to make sure that he is okay. I saw how his eyes turned from rage to compassion. In that instant, I felt how Baste loved his mom.

A few weeks later, two students were again referred to my office because of a major offense. They were candidates for expulsion. However, I suggested to our Discipline Officer and the parents to give me time to talk to the students before they decide to endorse them to the principal for expulsion. They agreed and I immediately lobbied that they'd be given another chance and assured that I myself will monitor them and report their progress. 

I asked the two students to regularly report in my office. Everyday, at 7:00am, 12:30pm and 4:00pm, they will report to the Guidance Office and will serve as student assistants. I signed them up for the Peer Facilitators/Counselors group without asking them. I felt that I need to let them be part of a group that will influence them positively. 

It has been two weeks now and these two students have been diligently reporting to my office. They are also attending meetings of the peer group. What's really surprising is that they even recruited their friends to apply for the peer group. That's when I started calling them Hatak Group. When I asked them why they wanted to join the peer group, they unanimously answered that they wanted their image to change, that they wanted to help, that they wanted to become a better person.

As for Baste, I can say that he has changed. His aura has changed. Although he still projects that maangas image, I can sense a nicer and a more kind Baste. I've been hearing him say salamat more often and he hasn't been in office asking for permits so he can enter his class. He would still visit the office but the last time that he did, he was asking for the entrance application form of BISCAST because he intends to enroll in a vocational course on airconditioning. 

However, I would still consider these students as work in progress. They still have to go through a lot for their total transformation but I am confident that they will get through it. I will be with them all the way, whatever path they choose, I will make sure that I will never leave their side.

I just hope that the story of Baste and the Hatak Group will serve as an inspiration to many. These kids, these students do not seem to be the kind of person that they are projecting. Give them time, that is all they need. Time for someone to listen to them, time to let them speak, time to let them defend themselves and time to let them grow. I know that there are a lot of Baste and Hatak Groups in every school. We are judging them because of their appearance, their mannerisms and their misbehavior  But have we ever asked ourselves if we ever took time to talk and listen to them? Yes, they need our open hearts and unbiased ears because they have a lot of stories to tell. Their stories are rich and their dreams are just hidden there, we just need to let them speak. LISTEN. FEEL THEIR NEEDS. Because if we do, our students will never run out of goals, of dreams. Do you think students like Baste and the Hatak Group like what they are now? what they have become? I don't think so.  But we will never understand them if we do not give them our time.

I also hope that whoever will be reading this might also be moved to take that step in order to change someone else's life. THINK. FEEL. ACT. There are a lot of household who would rarely have three meals a day yet there are a lot of us who are quite confused with what to do with their money. I would like to quote my favorite teacher's challenge to us, that if one day, we can already afford to send someone to school, then do so. Helping household by sending one or two of their kids to high school is a big thing. In public schools, you'd only pay less than P1,000 for one school year. See how far p1,000 can go? So please, I am encouraging you to do your part. It is our shared irresponsibility, please act now. It's never to late. You can still ignite the dreams of these students. Don't give up on them, please do your part.

Mga Santong Tao.

Taken last February 16, 2013.

Buhay Gobyerno.

I officially became part of the government when I started working way back in 2007. My participation was the usual remittance of 10-15% of my monthly salary which was forwarded to our government in different forms and in different agencies. It was the time when I came to know who BIR, SSS, Pag-ibig and Philhealth are. It was also in the same circumstance when I gradually accepted that they will STICK with me forever.

Since my starting salary was quite low compared to my batch mates who were working in Manila, I did not really complain on the monthly deductions. I did not really mind how much they were deducting as long as I have enough money to spend whenever my friends and I would dine out or have the usual get together. That was until I started to work in Ateneo.

I was blessed to have a faculty-ranked position when I applied in Ateneo in October 2008. It was a position under one of the busiest or should I say the busiest office in Ateneo. The salary was really beyond my needs, it even supported my ‘frequent wants'. However, that was also the same year when I started to become more aware of my hard-earned money.

I began to question, where does my money go? How come that they are deducting this much? I slowly began to imagine bundles of thousands coming from the monthly obligation of all workers, not to mention the taxes from big companies, multinational companies.

And it all stopped there.

Not until I became part of the work force of the government.

I was hired as Guidance Counselor of the Department of Education, Camarines Sur Division last November 21, 2012. I was assigned at Pamukid National High School, San Fernando, Camarines Sur instead of Pili National High School, my supposedly first work assignment. I have to wake-up at 5:30am everyday and be ready by 6:15am for my 30-40 minute travel. I have to admit that the daily transport is quite tedious on my part considering that my body is not used to long travels.

When I first learned about my appointment in DepEd, I immediately informed my relatives particularly my aunts who were also working in the government. They were both happy and apprehensive. Apprehensive because they know how the system in the government works: the 'usual procedure' and the existing 'protocol'. They basically gave me tips for survival.

Being me, I reported on my first day with excitement. I usually have this kind of disposition whenever there is something new in my routine. My first jeepney ride was quite a thrill, I didn't know where I should say 'para po', how much I should pay and worst, I don't know where Pamukid is in San Fernando. Good thing jeepneys have 'konduktor', they are for me a 'mobile tour guide'.

Finding Pamukid National High School is not that hard, you can easily see the big signage beside the road.  However, you would still need to take a few steps before you reach the gates of the school. Our school houses around 990 students with 35 personnel, 29 teaching and 6 non-teaching personnel.

The moment I entered the campus, I felt awkward. Perhaps because I was overdressed that time. I was wearing my black slacks and a semi-formal top. I wanted to make a good impression to my future boss and I remembered that 'power dressing' is an important factor if you want to make an impression, a good one :) Nevertheless, I continued to dress in the same manner even until now, because if I don't, the students might mistaken me as their classmate.

The days turned to weeks and months. By February 21, I'd be celebrating my third month here in our institution. However, it feels like I've been working here for ages and with my short stay, I was able to note a few things that I should always keep in mind.

1. Our work schedule is from 7:30am until 4:30pm. However, based on my observation, in the morning, some people tend to stretch the 7:30am call time to 7:45am or worse until 8:00am. BUT during dismissal, everyone seems to be in a hurry. 4:30 is 4:30. No extensions if possible. Yes, working overtime is a mortal sin not unless there is a school occasion.
2. Not everyone is given a 'blessing'. If you receive one, better keep it to yourself.
3. Almost all teachers would complain about how low their salary is, to think that their daily rate is way higher than the regular daily rate. I came to understand the reason behind after I saw how impulsive they are whenever there are sales representative visiting our campus. If one teacher bought an item, they must buy as well. Talk about competition.
4. Noise pollution is not new in public schools. It's either you go with it or you just bear the noise that's cracking the walls of your office. Perhaps this is the reason of my frequent migraine attacks.
5. It's really rare for teachers to keep their mouth shut and it's quite impossible for them to speak in low voices except during meetings.
6. When you're preparing meals or snacks for a visitor, always include the total number of employees in your school. It's a habit I think and again, I think this is the reason why some schools have depleting MOOE fund.
7. Always know where you stand. Some practices in the government would really test you and your values. Just stick to your values because you can never go wrong if your principles are clear.
8. Know when to 'read between the lines'. Some people would use sarcasm either as a form of joke or to indirectly tell you how they feel towards you. Be sensitive. Know when to smile and know when to reason out. Timing is very important.
9. Find someone who shares the same work value as you do. This will really help a lot particularly in coping with your working environment.

These only comprises a portion of my mental notes. I will try to add more as I try to remember them.

Nevertheless, I am happy where I am now. The longer I stay here, the more that I am convinced that I am needed here. Working in the public sector is quite a challenge, not because of the task but because of the people around you. Perhaps, I'll allot a separate blog entry for the more inspiring story/stories.

Valentine Pledge

Today, I will commit to love and serve my God unconditionally in every way.

I pledge myself to choose and love the right, the good, the fair and the true.

I will be the light that will ignite a person’s hope to help them cope.

I will be the strength to those who lose their way to keep them back on track.

I will comfort and soothe those who are in pain to restore their smiles.

I will treat everyone with respect, the way I respect my loved ones.

I will learn how to apologize even if it would mean swallowing my own pride.

I will intently evaluate every consequence before I decide to make an action.

I will become a person who takes responsibility over his actions.

I will also learn how to respect the property of others.

I will value it the way I value my things.

I will listen and hear others

And I will never judge them because it is the right thing to do.

I will love others and treat them with kindness

Because after all, they are my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Follow Your Dreams

Source: The Daily Therapy

Work for a Cause

Source: The Daily Therapy

Do What Makes You Happy

Source: The Daily Therapy

ADNU Welcomes San Pedro Calungsod

Random Thought

Honestly, you don't have the obligation to explain to everyone where you are coming from because if they really care, they won't be pitching for questions. They won't doubt and judge you, because they KNOW you. They will be there to LISTEN because after all, that is all you need, someone who will LISTEN. 

Free Travelus Handy

Pink Chamomile's Closet is giving away one TRAVELUS HANDY for free! Please refer to the picture for details :)

Bonding with BFF

My BFF Kristal, whom I fondly call 'Japsee, and I had a sweet afternoon date last Saturday before I attended the launching of Mr. Kengkoy at Moonleaf Naga. We decided to try Hands and Strands' BFF package which includes Hair Spa, Manicure, Pedicure and Foot Spa. As soon as we've finalized the plans for the afternoon, I immediately texted the number posted on their weebly to set an appointment and tadah! we got a slot for 2pm.

Hands and Strands is located at the first floor of ADC Hotel beside Mexicali Naga. You'll easily notice the salon because you will be greeted by an unusual 'blackboard' themed signage, just right outside the salon, where you can see the prices of the services it offers.

Entrance Door

Sweet scents of lemon and mint dominate the salon which makes every client a bit curious of what they are to expect when they avail any of the services. Since my best friend and I were getting the BFF package, the one in charge suggested that we have the hair spa first before they do our nails. They asked us to wear cute golden robes while they prepared all the necessary paraphernalia for the foot spa :)

Hair Spa

We were presented with the three flavors for the hair spa namely beads, strawberry and mint. Japsee chose the one with beads while I opted for mint. 

Super comfy couch :)

After doing our hair, we were seated to this super comfy couch for our foot spa. The best thing about this couch is that it's too comfy that some customers would even fall asleep. 

And when you try to look up, you'll see an interesting interior.

Interior

The first thing that we did was to submerge our feet in lukewarm water for about 10-15 minutes. 

They have service slippers for customers availing the foot spa and pedicure service which I think is cute! :) And they're PINK!

Strawberry Flavored Foot Spa

Similar to their hair spa, Hands and Strands offers different flavors for their foot spa. You can choose from Mango, Strawberry, Lemon Grass and Peppermint, that's all that I can remember :( I got Strawberry while Japsee chose Peppermint. The one colored brown is like a mud wax which gives your feet a cool feeling after application.

Strawberry and Peppermint

Japsee

The entire BFF package lasted for about 2 1/2 hours. We decided to grab a bite at Mexicali to comfort our grumbling tummies :)) We ordered our favorite quesadillas, cheese and garlic for Japsee and grilled chicken for me :)

Cheese and Garlic Quesadillas

Grilled Chicken Quesadillas

I really had a great time bonding with my BFF and we both love Hands and Strands. Who knows, we might avail another package next month. 

Cheers to friendship!

Backpacks for a Cause

Mr. Kengkoy officially launched their new set of backpacks today at Moonleaf Naga. The event started at 7:00pm and was hosted by Raffy Magno, one of Mr. Kengkoy's Community Development Manager.

Scud Dy, the Executive Director, gave an overview of who Mr. Kengkoy is. A video clip unveiling the different people behind Mr. Kengkoy was shown afterwards.

The official webpage of Mr. Kengkoy was also launched this evening. Innovatively, Mr. Kengkoy's new and returning clients may order their favorite backpacks online. The actual prices and designs of the backpacks can be found in their webpage. (Go ahead, just click on the Mr. Kengkoy text and it will connect you to their official webpage)

And of course, their packaging has been revamped as well, a reusable bag that you can use anytime, anywhere. Definitely, eco-friendly!

And here we are, the representatives of LIGAYA and Blue Genes Designs with Arky Dy and Maj Villar, the Production Managers of Mr. Kengkoy Backpacks :) 

Oh, by the way, Mr. Kengkoy generously gave discount coupons to all those who attended the launching. A whooping 15% discount on Moonleaf drinks was enjoyed by everyone who was present. 

Source: Mr. Kengkoy's Facebook Page

Again, congratulations to the Mr. Kengkoy team namely Scud Dy (Executive Director), Raffy Magno and Arcci Relloso (Community Development Manager), Wacky Moreno (Marketing Manager), Maiello Mier (Finance Manager), Arky Dy and Maj Villar (Production Manager) and Cody Dy (Sales and Web Admin). 

Ybalon Resort

Ligaya, together with our friends, decided to have a nice holiday-off in Ybalon Resort, Iriga City. It was a long overdue plan since we have been wanting to visit Adee's place whom she often refers to as the 'City of Springs'. However, instead of having the originally planned overnight stay at Adee's, we opted to have to visit one of their best resorts, Ybalon Resort.

The moment that you enter the resort, you will really notice how clean and how well-maintained the resort is. The well-landscaped areas and the relaxing benches could really entice anyone who visits the resort. They also have a cemented pathwalk so you won't have to worry your shoes would be getting muddy whenever it rains. 

And of course, how can we not notice the gorgeous swimming pool? They only have one pool but it's an olympic-sized pool, enough for a few friends who wants to do a few lapse. 

On the middle left portion of the resort, you'll notice a cemented bridge. When you try to get closer to the bridge, you'd see a breed of Koi :)

Overall, we had a great experience. We were able to maximize the pool because there were only two groups who went swimming, us and a bunch of teenagers. The price was a breeze in our pockets. Entrance Fee was P50 and the cottages cost P300 each, we were even able to bargain getting two cottages for only P500. So, if you're planning to go for a swim, try Ybalon Resort for a change, the place is big enough for a family outing or a barkada getaway :)

Christian Freedom Bible Church

Yesterday, Tim (the boyfriend) asked me if I could help his boss modify the final logo for a particular Church where his boss is the pastor. I was quite hesitant at first since I have never accepted any professional project relative to logo design. I mean, I know that I am not really an expert on that field, I know basic photoshop but the rest, it's all a mystery to me. A proof would be the consistent look of awe whenever I see collections of digital illustration that's really brought to life. Let's just say I'm still trying to master that craft.

But then again, because of LOVE, I said yes. 

I was quite nervous while doing the logo because I know that I am making it for a Church. Imagine the pressure and the feeling of excitement, anticipating the outcome of the logo. I immediately submitted the first design to Tim but he made some suggestions which I gladly took note of :) (see, I'm obedient).

And now, may I present to you the final logo and stationery design of Christian Freedom Bible Church :)

What made it really overwhelming was the simple letter that I received from Mr. Cabrera, the pastor of the Church and also, Tim's boss, the one I was referring to earlier. It was a note that made me feel really appreciated. And although I have not given up my being Roman Catholic to Christianity, he was very comfortable addressing me as if I was a regular in their Church.

Note: I have been attending a Christian worship service since high school. There were a lot of times when I wanted to 'change my religion' but I cannot sacrifice my devotion for INA. I am spiritually happy attending the Christian service but there are practices in Roman Catholicism that I just cannot give up because I, myself, know and understand what these practices are for and I have personally experienced God through these practices.

To the BEST COOK...

I met my Auntie Gie long before I even knew she existed. She was my Aunt Lina's (mom's eldest sister) best friend, her only best friend and I frequently saw her while I was growing up. She was a regular visitor in my lola's house and my mom would tell me that Aunt Gie would always tell her that Aunt Gie really feels uncomfortable passing by their house whenever she sees my mom at the window. Note to Reader: My mom really exudes this aura that people oftentimes interpret as something negative but the truth is, my mom is a very shy person.    

When Aunt Lina left lola's house, she stayed with Aunt Gie. They transferred from one place to another and wherever they go, they bring their 'food business' with them. Both of them were hands-on with their business that they even ended up supplying meals for the employees of Graceland Bake House. I can remember my summer days when my brother and I used to take our vacation at my aunt's place and everyday, we get to have 3 to 4 viands with unlimited rice. The smell of the food would usually wake me up in the morning and make me crave for the day's meals. Yes, kuya and I would really gain a lot of pounds during our stay at their place. 

Auntie Gie was really a good cook. My family would always tap her whenever we have special occasions or just a simple Sunday family gathering. She can really make the occasion memorable because of the food! What I even like about her is that despite the rigorous procedure that she has to do in every menu, she can manage to burst into a heartful laugh. I love her laugh! It's really infectious! 

And for every family gathering, she was there, she was always there because she was part of our family. 

Early this year, months before I decided to try my luck in Singapore, she was diagnosed with cancer. Stage 3 lung cancer. The doctors removed the water in her lungs and one of her doctors found a trace of scar in her x-ray result. She was supposed to undergo chemotherapy but she decided not to, she said her family needed the money more than her. There was no regular medication, medicines were only bought whenever there is enough money and she replaced the medicines with herbal drinks. Our family kept praying for her, that was the best thing that we can do. 

From the moment that she was diagnosed with cancer, she eventually started losing weight. However, the 'infectious laugh' was still there. She could still  afford making other people laugh despite the excruciating pain brought by her illness. When she started attending the Sunday service at Upper Room, I personally felt relieved. I knew it was a good sign, I thought that she was getting well but later on, I realized that it was her way to make us feel her presence. She struggled to attend the service every Sunday until she can no longer bring herself to church. Weeks, months and the echos of her infectious laugh was suddenly replaced by murmurs of pain. 

Two weeks before she said goodbye, we visited her in their house at Dayangdang. She was very thin, she must have lost 40 pounds or more and the look on her face made me wish that she would still remember me. 
During our 3 hour stay, she mostly remained quiet. It was really painful seeing her in that state. I cannot bear seeing her like that.



October 20, 2012, 6:30pm, Aunt Gie gave her last breath. 


I will really miss you Auntie Gie. Thank you for everything. Thank you for being my number one fan. Thank you for making me laugh. Thank you for the delicious meals that you've cooked for us. Thank you for teaching me how to play Bingo. Thank you for treating me like a real niece. Thank you for coming to our family. 

Repost from Herold Pelonio:
May the Angels lead her into Paradise.
May the Martyrs receive her at her coming
and take her to Jerusalem, the Holy City.
May the Choirs of the Angels receive her, 
and may she, with the once poor Lazarus, 
have rest everlasting. Amen.  

HANGAD

BONDING TAYO...Maghihintay ako...Watch the Hangad Concert and support our scholars through the Fr. Bonoan SJ Scholarship Fund Drive. 

Mr. Kengkoy's Comeback Collection

Now, who's ready? :)

Mr. Kengkoy will be in Naga City on October 27, 2012. Catch us at Moonleaf-Magsaysay from 6PM onwards. We will be there for you to get to know who Mr. Kengkoy really is and there, we'll be displaying our backpacks too!

The first 100 people to come will be getting a 15% discount from 7-8PM on their moonleaf drink. What's the catch? All you have to do is bring any Wi-Fi enabled gadget and show us that you have already liked our FB fan page at fb.com/mr.kengkoy and have followed us on Twitter @MrKengkoyPH. We hope to see you there!

Are you ready to wear Mr. Kengkoy? 

Source: https://www.facebook.com/mr.kengkoy

Losing part of YOURSELF

Pencil: I'm sorry

Eraser: For what? You didn't do anything wrong.

Pencil: I'm sorry because you get hurt because of me. Whenever I made a mistake, you're always there to erase it. But as you make my mistakes vanish, you lose a part of yourself. You get smaller and smaller each time.

Eraser: That's true. But I don't really mind. You see, I was made to do this. I was made to help you whenever you do something wrong. Even though one day, I know I'll be gone and you'll replace me with a new one, I'm actually happy with my job. So please, stop worrying. I hate seeing you sad.

8th year

To the person who stood by me through my joys and hardships, the person who kept pushing me to go on despite the uncertainties in my path, the person who made me look forward for tomorrows, the person who made me realize what it means to 'wait', the person who always wanted the best for me even if it means sacrificing his own happiness and the person who made me a better me.

Thank you for never giving up on me, on us.

Thank you for the eight wonderful years and I am looking forward for more years of friendship and love with you :)

I LOVE YOU SO MUCH TIM MARIANO! 

Photo courtesy of Adee Alarcon :)

GYM

Meet my gym buddies :)

Source: Yinyin Bragais