Taken last February 16, 2013.
Showing posts with label ligaya. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ligaya. Show all posts
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Thursday, February 14, 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.
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.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
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.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Monday, February 4, 2013
Saturday, October 27, 2012
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)
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).
Friday, October 26, 2012
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 :)
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 :)
Friday, October 5, 2012
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!
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 :)
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Para Kay INA
It was Traslascion last year that H, E and I decided to document the procession. We didn't know that we had to seek permission from the Archdiocese of Caceres so we could situate ourselves in the nicest spot. We ended up doing ninja moves just to take those photos. But this year, we became part of the official photographers for the entire duration of the Peñafrancia Festival. What made it worth it? We had access to the tower at Metropolitan Cathedral and the view up there was really enthralling!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Friday, August 31, 2012
How Dugong Atenista Saved My Aunt's Life
Today was supposed to be like any ordinary day. Until I got a text message from my mom that my aunt, one of her younger sister, was in Mother Seton Hospital waiting to be checked-in a room and is scheduled to have blood transfusion. Her platelet count was too high and her hemoglobin was too low. My aunt said that it's anemia and that her doctor still has to check if it is because of lupus or malignancy. There was also this anticipation that we might transfer to St. John Hospital if my aunt couldn't get a room at MSH.
I arrived 7:30pm at the emergency room of MSH. I asked the nurse at the information booth and she directed me to Row 9 where my aunt was currently resting while waiting for a room. My aunt looked normal at first but her paleness was quite disturbing. I honestly thought that she was okay; she was chatting with her visitors, she was joking and she was even seated on her bed. However, her bestfriend, Auntie Susan told me that we might need bags of type AB blood for my aunt. Without thinking twice, I started calling the staff of ADNU's Office of Student Affairs.
By practice, whenever a student, an employee or an Alumni would need a bag of blood from the Blood Bank, the first office that they would run to is ADNU's Office of Student Affairs (OSA). OSA has been conducting a bloodletting drive twice a year, one in July and the other is in December. The number of donors has also been increasing every year. I had the chance to donate blood thrice, I think, and it was because of the fact that my blood type, AB, is very rare. I just wanted to make sure that if anyone needs an AB blood type, there is one available. I never really thought that I would be needing the same bag of blood that I once donated, tonight.
It was 9:00pm when my aunt was finally admitted to a room. Her best friend and my other aunt, mama's eldest sister, was trying to talk to the nurse-on-duty at the Laboratory if the hospital could provide the blood tonight. The nurse said that there was none available at BMC but when Auntie Mary called Dr. Litam, we learned that there are two bags available in BMC. The problem was, we need a clearance from the barangay and other requirements that I never took note of. While the nurse was explaining all these requirements to us, I told her that I was a blood donor in Ateneo and I have the same blood type as my aunt. Her face lightened up and instead of putting us into so much stress, she issued us a promissory note and she just asked me to request the letter of endorsement from ADNU tomorrow. Immediately, we went to BMC, told the same information to the nurse-in-charge and in 20 minutes, we were driving back to MSH carrying the two bags of type AB blood. Later by midnight, the blood transfusion will take place.
I am really grateful to ADNU's Office of Student Affairs for making it easy for us to have access on our much needed hemoglobin. If Dugong Atenista was never implemented, it might take days before we could have that two bags of blood. I am also deeply indebted to the anonymous donor who was so selfless in donating his/her own blood knowing that much preparation is also needed before one could really qualify as a donor. Thank you also to my friends who helped me get in touch with OSA and to Tim who stayed by my side and kept me strong.
So to you, who is reading this, if you have an opportunity to donate blood, do so. You will never really know when you might need it back. Your name might be anonymous to the recipient but I swear to you, that person will forever be grateful to you because you, ANONYMOUS DONOR, gave that person the chance to live again, to be with his family for countless days and to be a possible donor in the future.
Please, support ADNU's Dugong Atenista or any bloodletting drive organized by your community.
I arrived 7:30pm at the emergency room of MSH. I asked the nurse at the information booth and she directed me to Row 9 where my aunt was currently resting while waiting for a room. My aunt looked normal at first but her paleness was quite disturbing. I honestly thought that she was okay; she was chatting with her visitors, she was joking and she was even seated on her bed. However, her bestfriend, Auntie Susan told me that we might need bags of type AB blood for my aunt. Without thinking twice, I started calling the staff of ADNU's Office of Student Affairs.
By practice, whenever a student, an employee or an Alumni would need a bag of blood from the Blood Bank, the first office that they would run to is ADNU's Office of Student Affairs (OSA). OSA has been conducting a bloodletting drive twice a year, one in July and the other is in December. The number of donors has also been increasing every year. I had the chance to donate blood thrice, I think, and it was because of the fact that my blood type, AB, is very rare. I just wanted to make sure that if anyone needs an AB blood type, there is one available. I never really thought that I would be needing the same bag of blood that I once donated, tonight.
It was 9:00pm when my aunt was finally admitted to a room. Her best friend and my other aunt, mama's eldest sister, was trying to talk to the nurse-on-duty at the Laboratory if the hospital could provide the blood tonight. The nurse said that there was none available at BMC but when Auntie Mary called Dr. Litam, we learned that there are two bags available in BMC. The problem was, we need a clearance from the barangay and other requirements that I never took note of. While the nurse was explaining all these requirements to us, I told her that I was a blood donor in Ateneo and I have the same blood type as my aunt. Her face lightened up and instead of putting us into so much stress, she issued us a promissory note and she just asked me to request the letter of endorsement from ADNU tomorrow. Immediately, we went to BMC, told the same information to the nurse-in-charge and in 20 minutes, we were driving back to MSH carrying the two bags of type AB blood. Later by midnight, the blood transfusion will take place.
I am really grateful to ADNU's Office of Student Affairs for making it easy for us to have access on our much needed hemoglobin. If Dugong Atenista was never implemented, it might take days before we could have that two bags of blood. I am also deeply indebted to the anonymous donor who was so selfless in donating his/her own blood knowing that much preparation is also needed before one could really qualify as a donor. Thank you also to my friends who helped me get in touch with OSA and to Tim who stayed by my side and kept me strong.
So to you, who is reading this, if you have an opportunity to donate blood, do so. You will never really know when you might need it back. Your name might be anonymous to the recipient but I swear to you, that person will forever be grateful to you because you, ANONYMOUS DONOR, gave that person the chance to live again, to be with his family for countless days and to be a possible donor in the future.
Please, support ADNU's Dugong Atenista or any bloodletting drive organized by your community.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
One Shirt. One Plate.
In ADNU, I have a group of friends where people would often refer to us as LIGAYA. I blogged about LIGAYA in 2011, the same year that our group was formed. I can never forget that day when we strolled along the quiet corridors of Ateneo, taking pictures of people piling up plastic bottles, volunteers gathering inside the Christ the King Church and the solemnity at the roof deck of the Entrepreneurship Building (I was still working for the DAVPO then). Then the five us suddenly became LIGAYA.
What was really overwhelming was that some members of the ADNU community would address us as if we were like a package deal. Like if a department/office needs volunteers, LIGAYA would be enlisted, to the point that some people thought that the commitment of one member of LIGAYA is considered a group commitment. Of course, we also had rough times, we would have dissenting opinions on matters but what really bonded us was our respect for each other's differences.
Early 2012, LIGAYA thought of coming up with a program to support the FEED A SCHOLAR program of the College Admission and Aid Office. We initially agreed to sell shirts and have a portion of our sales donated to the Feed A Scholar program but we were never able to move on with our plans. Our plan remained as an idea. However, during the 3rd quarter of this year, our desire to support the program was finally realized. The group regularly met and had to finalize every detail, from the name, to the design up to the division of functions.
NOW, I am so proud to share that BLUE GENES DESIGNS was officially launched yesterday, August 28, 2012. We came up with two shirt designs in time for the Penafrancia celebration. We were also able to finalize our program entitled ONE SHIRT. ONE PLATE which means that for every shirt that you buy from us, you are already donating one meal to one scholar. We really hope that this program will expand in due time so that we could also try to extend our assistance to the HS scholars.
What was really overwhelming was that some members of the ADNU community would address us as if we were like a package deal. Like if a department/office needs volunteers, LIGAYA would be enlisted, to the point that some people thought that the commitment of one member of LIGAYA is considered a group commitment. Of course, we also had rough times, we would have dissenting opinions on matters but what really bonded us was our respect for each other's differences.
Early 2012, LIGAYA thought of coming up with a program to support the FEED A SCHOLAR program of the College Admission and Aid Office. We initially agreed to sell shirts and have a portion of our sales donated to the Feed A Scholar program but we were never able to move on with our plans. Our plan remained as an idea. However, during the 3rd quarter of this year, our desire to support the program was finally realized. The group regularly met and had to finalize every detail, from the name, to the design up to the division of functions.
NOW, I am so proud to share that BLUE GENES DESIGNS was officially launched yesterday, August 28, 2012. We came up with two shirt designs in time for the Penafrancia celebration. We were also able to finalize our program entitled ONE SHIRT. ONE PLATE which means that for every shirt that you buy from us, you are already donating one meal to one scholar. We really hope that this program will expand in due time so that we could also try to extend our assistance to the HS scholars.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Mishaps & Fortune
I know that they usually associate the month of August with drought, financially. According to my mom, while I was growing up, August is a month where there is lesser income in our business and it seemed like a month's salary is never enough for an ordinary employee. However, if that would be the case, then for some, it's like "August" every month. I guess some of you will agree.
August 2012 is an extreme month for me. It was this month that I receive three job offers from multi-national companies but I ended up declining all their offer. It rarely happened to me being offered the same job from different companies, all with enticing remuneration package. Yet, my heart was telling to say NO and say YES to my mom on her request for me to stay in Bicol.
August 18, 2012, our beloved ex-mayor died in a plane crash. DILG Secretary Jesse Manalastas Robredo, a good man and an exemplary public servant, had an accident while he was on his way home from Cebu to Naga City. He was trying to catch the awarding of his youngest daughter when the Cessna plane that he was on had engine failure. He was found 180 ft below sea and 800 meters from the shore. Yorme's body lies at the Archbishop's Palace now where a number of Naguenos would patiently wait for their turn to see the casket of their beloved 'Pogi'.
August 20, 2012. I almost lost my Blackberry Torch when a stranger tried to snatch the phone from my bag. Good thing an honest lady called my attention so I was able to run after the thief. I really thank the Lord for the two security guards who followed me and never left my side until the thief returned my BB.
August 22, 2012. Finally, Ligaya's dream is coming true. I can't share it yet but it's for a good cause. I will blog about it as soon as everything is final.
P.S. I am sorry if there is no coherence on my blog. I just need to share all these things before I forget them.
August 2012 is an extreme month for me. It was this month that I receive three job offers from multi-national companies but I ended up declining all their offer. It rarely happened to me being offered the same job from different companies, all with enticing remuneration package. Yet, my heart was telling to say NO and say YES to my mom on her request for me to stay in Bicol.
August 18, 2012, our beloved ex-mayor died in a plane crash. DILG Secretary Jesse Manalastas Robredo, a good man and an exemplary public servant, had an accident while he was on his way home from Cebu to Naga City. He was trying to catch the awarding of his youngest daughter when the Cessna plane that he was on had engine failure. He was found 180 ft below sea and 800 meters from the shore. Yorme's body lies at the Archbishop's Palace now where a number of Naguenos would patiently wait for their turn to see the casket of their beloved 'Pogi'.
August 20, 2012. I almost lost my Blackberry Torch when a stranger tried to snatch the phone from my bag. Good thing an honest lady called my attention so I was able to run after the thief. I really thank the Lord for the two security guards who followed me and never left my side until the thief returned my BB.
August 22, 2012. Finally, Ligaya's dream is coming true. I can't share it yet but it's for a good cause. I will blog about it as soon as everything is final.
P.S. I am sorry if there is no coherence on my blog. I just need to share all these things before I forget them.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Favors from God
Ever since I had been attending the Christian Church, I have been consistently receiving graces from the Lord. Everyday, from the moment I open my eyes and feel the rays of the sun touching my skin, I would thank the Lord for giving me another day to live, to be with my loved ones and to do things which will please Him. However, there are days when God would usually go out of His way to make ordinary days EXTREMELY extraordinary. Just like today.
When I got to Bugis, I informed Kuya Ryvin that I won't be joining him anymore since I have been trying to look for the Church but I can't seem to find it. I ended up having breakfast/lunch at McDonalds. I had to eat because I was too hungry that I felt like my world was moving on its own :))
Kuya Ryvin had lunch at McDonalds and we met this cute girl who kept on smiling at us. I called her 'Mutya, the Singapore version'. She is about 3-4 years old and her eyes would literally lighten up whenever she smiles. We waved goodbye when we left and she shyly smiled at us and immediately buried her pretty face in her mom's lap. Then, we started walking towards 'Bugis Divisoria'. There, we found these amazing souvenir items being sold at a very reasonable price (I won't mention the price here though).
Moving on, after our Bugis Divisoria trip, we went to Orchard to meet Uncle Greg. However, they had to go the the Philippine Embassy first to arrange ate's passport renewal and we had to wait for them until 3:00pm. We decided to take a stroll at Isetann since we wanted to check the movies at Shaw Theaters. Kuya Ryvin and I were debating if we should watch the movie given our limited budget. We were already queuing to purchase our movie tickets when some random guy with his friends approached us and asked if we are watching Spiderman. He was giving us tickets that we thought is being sold to us but eventually, it turned out that he was giving two tickets to us for free. We were really caught off guard that we forgot to thank Mr. Stranger. We were still high with the 'favor' when we bumped into them and eventually, it gave us the opportunity to thank them a number of times for their kindheartedness. It also turned out that the tickets include a free meal.
After the movie, we met up with my uncle and we headed for Serangoon to purchase chocolates for his kids. We went to Value Dollar at Nex Mall to scout for the most affordable chocolates. We got the chocolates at a very affordable price. I just hope I won't go over the allowed 20kg baggage allowance.
Later on, uncle brought us to Carl's JR for dinner. I somehow felt awkward choosing our meals because the cheapest meal there is about $6.00. Imagine converting it to peso, it would cost around p200 per person! I decided to order the cheapest meal for me and Kuya Ryvin but our bill still totaled to 45 SGD which is about p1,485. The good thing though is that the drinks are refillable but I doubt if one could still afford refilling his glass because the serving is really big! When our orders arrived, you could imagine the look on our face when we saw the burger. It was bigger than my palm! Look!
Kuya Ryvin and I were supposed to meet up at the Good Shepherd Church to attend the 10:00am mass but something 'extraordinary' happened. I woke up at 8:00am and prepped up immediately. As soon as I was done washing my hair, the water just suddenly stopped flowing! I can't help but grin and be thankful that I woke up early today than usual. I left the house at 8:45am and I started looking for bus 960, unfortunately, I forgot to check where the bus station is. I just assumed when I checked the route in google maps that it will pick up the passengers at the Bukit Panjang Interchange (which is my normal experience by the way) but the bus number is not on the list. I tried asking the owner of the only Filipino store here in our area and she gladly directed me to the bus station. Again, a mistake, I forgot to ask which side of the road I should be on. To cut the story short, I went on the wrong lane and instead of going to Bugis, I ended up going to Kranji. The alloted travel time from our place to Bugis is about 45 minutes and since I wasted at least 20 minutes of the travel time just because I rode on the wrong lane, as expected, I was not able to attend the mass.
When I got to Bugis, I informed Kuya Ryvin that I won't be joining him anymore since I have been trying to look for the Church but I can't seem to find it. I ended up having breakfast/lunch at McDonalds. I had to eat because I was too hungry that I felt like my world was moving on its own :))
I decided to have Filet-O-Fish and orange juice for my brunch. It was quite expensive though. This meal cost me around $7.00. Imagine how expensive this meal is :(
As soon as I finished my meal, I texted Kuya Ryvin that I will try to look for the church again. I passed by the National Library and SMU. When CHIMES caught my eye, I knew I was on the right track. Yes, I found my way to the church but the mass was about to end when I arrived. I decided to offer a simple prayer instead and since it was my first time in the Church, I offered a wish.
We bought 6 sets of these surprisingly nice key chains and I even got the magnets for free. This is the first international magnet that I'd put on refrigerator. Yes, I do collect fridge magnets because it reminds me of the happy memories of a particular trip. I am hoping to collect more :) Too bad, I forgot to buy magnets when we went to Malaysia.
Moving on, after our Bugis Divisoria trip, we went to Orchard to meet Uncle Greg. However, they had to go the the Philippine Embassy first to arrange ate's passport renewal and we had to wait for them until 3:00pm. We decided to take a stroll at Isetann since we wanted to check the movies at Shaw Theaters. Kuya Ryvin and I were debating if we should watch the movie given our limited budget. We were already queuing to purchase our movie tickets when some random guy with his friends approached us and asked if we are watching Spiderman. He was giving us tickets that we thought is being sold to us but eventually, it turned out that he was giving two tickets to us for free. We were really caught off guard that we forgot to thank Mr. Stranger. We were still high with the 'favor' when we bumped into them and eventually, it gave us the opportunity to thank them a number of times for their kindheartedness. It also turned out that the tickets include a free meal.
Upon entering Lido 4, we were given a sweet-flavored regular popcorn and a pepsi bottle for our snacks. I can't help but grin because it was the flavor that I like and I was also kind of hungry that time and I was even thinking of buying snacks since we were already spared of the expense for the ticket. It was also a coincidence that we did not have to rush to the restroom since the theater has one. Yes! Lido 4 has its own restroom inside the theater. See how blessed we are? :)
After the movie, we met up with my uncle and we headed for Serangoon to purchase chocolates for his kids. We went to Value Dollar at Nex Mall to scout for the most affordable chocolates. We got the chocolates at a very affordable price. I just hope I won't go over the allowed 20kg baggage allowance.
We bought enough chocolates for Uncle's kids and he gave me one pack of Mars and Snickers. Yes, I am intending of keeping it to myself :)) I might still change my mind though, I can always share these chocolates anyway.
Later on, uncle brought us to Carl's JR for dinner. I somehow felt awkward choosing our meals because the cheapest meal there is about $6.00. Imagine converting it to peso, it would cost around p200 per person! I decided to order the cheapest meal for me and Kuya Ryvin but our bill still totaled to 45 SGD which is about p1,485. The good thing though is that the drinks are refillable but I doubt if one could still afford refilling his glass because the serving is really big! When our orders arrived, you could imagine the look on our face when we saw the burger. It was bigger than my palm! Look!
But since I was really, really hungry, I finished every piece of the burger :) You must be proud of me Tim! :) We stayed at the restaurant until 8:00pm. We talked and talked about our families, career and plans. We ended up with big bellies after consuming that crazy burger. Overall, I really had a great day and I thank the Lord for it, for the surprises and for the kindhearted stranger :)
Thank you, Singapore! :)
Friday, June 29, 2012
The Untold Story
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted having a big sister. I would imagine my big sister helping me choose the right clothes, giving advice on zit outbursts and sharing her own experiences on how she got through a particular girl dilemma, dealing with boys!
I have always wondered how it would feel like having a sister. Mama, coming from a big family with 8 siblings, has 3 sisters while my papa has two younger sisters. I can imagine a regular 'make over session' where your sister paints your nails while you do her hair and a frequent fashion show where you'd get to wear her hand-me-down clothes. You'd be more lucky if you're elder, I think.
Nevertheless, there was also a sense of fascination when my friends would tell me that they would rather have a big brother instead, that I am so lucky because I have a 'kuya'. I would retort, 'having a sister is more fun, kuya doesn't play dolls', with a matching sad face. I was a kid then, who would have thought that an innocent fascination would turn out to be a real blessing.
My kuya is just a year older than me. He was born on April 9 and I was born on the 5th. I don't know how my parents did it but they must have a purpose why we were born on the same month. Since we are just one year apart by birth, I get to have the same age as his for 4 days. My consistent mischief would be calling him by his first name, besides, we are of the same age right? But I could only do that on the first day, maybe because it was more than getting used to calling him 'kuya' for 361 days but he deserves the respect of the title 'kuya'.
My brother has always been my 'protector'. I remembered the time when we were just little kids and we were used to playing in our neighbors' house. There was this one time when I was bitten by our neighbor's dog, kuya immediately grabbed me and all the way to our house, his small hands were encircling my 'fat' thigh just so the rabies won't go up to my heart :( He was pushing me to go on, to keep on walking until we reach our house so that lola could put something on the wound.
There was also one incident when he had to get some coins at our school's fish pond (it was thought to be a wishing pond) just so he could buy me a fishball. He got the coins while I was on the lookout, trying to avoid our ever strict school guard 'Guard Edwin'. I was so hungry that time and we had no money left on our pockets. We were waiting for someone to fetch us and my kuya tried to find a way to feed us both.
I was a crybaby and he was always there to make things seem okay. As long as I have my brother, everything felt right, I feel like nothing bad will happen to me. However, a protector would also have a time of weakness. I remembered crying when I learned that my brother broke his right arm while he was playing at school. It was my Chinese teacher who told me that my brother got into an accident and I rushed to the room where he was but instead of being strong, I fled because I could not bear seeing him like that. I cried and cried until the second period. What was worst was that I could not see my brother in the hospital until his x-ray is done. I ended up calling in sick the following day just to sit beside him all day, watching cartoons.
Don't get me wrong but we would also quarrel. He would squeeze my hands until it makes me cry and when we were getting old, whenever I did something wrong, he would not talk to me for weeks! Even if I tried to win his apology by doing the chores, he would treat me as if I was not physically there. Yes, I am scared of my kuya and I hate it when he gets mad at me.
Now.
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted having a big sister but having a big brother is way better. I may not share my clothes with him, won't have make-up and make-over sessions but having someone who will stand by you and encourage you to go on even if the whole world doesn't feel like going with your plans, it's more than to be thankful for. My kuya and I don't regularly talk but when we talk, it's worth the days and weeks that we're not communicating. Even if he would often call me 'spoiled brat', he would always see to it that I get what I want, from my goals to my 'wants' (thanks again for the DSLR kuya!) even it means that he has to sacrifice, that he has to work harder.
Now.
I do not know if I could still make it here in Singapore knowing that I only have 3 weeks left to find a job. Nevertheless, should I not be destined to be here, I'd be more than happy to go back. I am more excited to see my brother and share the space with him. I am excited to clean our house, to cook meals for him and to do the groceries, just like the old times.
Even if I failed here in Singapore, I have a bigger blessing that I am looking forward to when I get home :)
I have always wondered how it would feel like having a sister. Mama, coming from a big family with 8 siblings, has 3 sisters while my papa has two younger sisters. I can imagine a regular 'make over session' where your sister paints your nails while you do her hair and a frequent fashion show where you'd get to wear her hand-me-down clothes. You'd be more lucky if you're elder, I think.
Nevertheless, there was also a sense of fascination when my friends would tell me that they would rather have a big brother instead, that I am so lucky because I have a 'kuya'. I would retort, 'having a sister is more fun, kuya doesn't play dolls', with a matching sad face. I was a kid then, who would have thought that an innocent fascination would turn out to be a real blessing.
My kuya is just a year older than me. He was born on April 9 and I was born on the 5th. I don't know how my parents did it but they must have a purpose why we were born on the same month. Since we are just one year apart by birth, I get to have the same age as his for 4 days. My consistent mischief would be calling him by his first name, besides, we are of the same age right? But I could only do that on the first day, maybe because it was more than getting used to calling him 'kuya' for 361 days but he deserves the respect of the title 'kuya'.
My brother has always been my 'protector'. I remembered the time when we were just little kids and we were used to playing in our neighbors' house. There was this one time when I was bitten by our neighbor's dog, kuya immediately grabbed me and all the way to our house, his small hands were encircling my 'fat' thigh just so the rabies won't go up to my heart :( He was pushing me to go on, to keep on walking until we reach our house so that lola could put something on the wound.
There was also one incident when he had to get some coins at our school's fish pond (it was thought to be a wishing pond) just so he could buy me a fishball. He got the coins while I was on the lookout, trying to avoid our ever strict school guard 'Guard Edwin'. I was so hungry that time and we had no money left on our pockets. We were waiting for someone to fetch us and my kuya tried to find a way to feed us both.
I was a crybaby and he was always there to make things seem okay. As long as I have my brother, everything felt right, I feel like nothing bad will happen to me. However, a protector would also have a time of weakness. I remembered crying when I learned that my brother broke his right arm while he was playing at school. It was my Chinese teacher who told me that my brother got into an accident and I rushed to the room where he was but instead of being strong, I fled because I could not bear seeing him like that. I cried and cried until the second period. What was worst was that I could not see my brother in the hospital until his x-ray is done. I ended up calling in sick the following day just to sit beside him all day, watching cartoons.
Don't get me wrong but we would also quarrel. He would squeeze my hands until it makes me cry and when we were getting old, whenever I did something wrong, he would not talk to me for weeks! Even if I tried to win his apology by doing the chores, he would treat me as if I was not physically there. Yes, I am scared of my kuya and I hate it when he gets mad at me.
Now.
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted having a big sister but having a big brother is way better. I may not share my clothes with him, won't have make-up and make-over sessions but having someone who will stand by you and encourage you to go on even if the whole world doesn't feel like going with your plans, it's more than to be thankful for. My kuya and I don't regularly talk but when we talk, it's worth the days and weeks that we're not communicating. Even if he would often call me 'spoiled brat', he would always see to it that I get what I want, from my goals to my 'wants' (thanks again for the DSLR kuya!) even it means that he has to sacrifice, that he has to work harder.
Now.
I do not know if I could still make it here in Singapore knowing that I only have 3 weeks left to find a job. Nevertheless, should I not be destined to be here, I'd be more than happy to go back. I am more excited to see my brother and share the space with him. I am excited to clean our house, to cook meals for him and to do the groceries, just like the old times.
Even if I failed here in Singapore, I have a bigger blessing that I am looking forward to when I get home :)
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The Bucket List
Earlier today, I was trying to recall where I wrote my original bucket list. I am not sure if I was brave enough to share it to my pseudo-readers (if I have any at all) or I just tried to keep it to myself then will just blog about the experience once I crossed out the particular item in my bucket list. Hmm.. I think I would prefer the former :)
To give you a short background, the so called bucket list started with the movie with the same title. It was shown in 2007 which starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. Freeman was a mechanic while Nicholson was a billionaire who also owned the hospital where they are both confined at. They both had lung cancer and eventually they became friends while they were undergoing the treatment. It was Freeman who started writing the 'things that he wanted to do before he dies' while Carter, while learning about Freeman's plans, offered to finance his 'trips'.
I came across the story because of Kuya Egz. Kuya Egz, whom I fondly call 'Gier', is one of the best people in the university whom you can consult about music and movies. When I say consult, it's like if you're looking for a music for a particular formation session, music that has meaning, then he is the 'guy'. As for movies, he may have seen almost all the tear-jerker movies of every decade and he can easily recommend what is best, let's say for a particular session or if you are simply looking for a quality movie that you can watch over the weekend. Yes, he is the king of soundtrack and films.
Back to my bucket list. I tried to remember the things that I originally wrote and perhaps I will be adding more in the near future. What's important is that I was able to document my bucket list this time. So, here goes.
Tintin's Bucket List
1. Learn how to swim (I partly know how to swim now, am just trying to practice the intervals in breathing and the hand stroke during for a freestyle)
2. Travel to one foreign place every year (I did this for the last two years and this year was my first international trip)
3. Be employed in a foreign country (*fingers crossed*)
4. Get married at the age of 26 (Maybe I could make it 27, in case)
5. Learn how to play the guitar (Still thinking when I could do this)
6. Learn how to drive (When? Soon?)
7. Name my daughter Sophia Danielle
8. Have at least 3 dogs in my OWN house
9. Talk to a random stranger and offer him/her a ride home
10. Learn how to cook
11. Have my own website
12. Sing infront of 1,000 people
13. Give my mom her dream shop - her own flower shop
14. Admit to one person that I was crushing on him
15. Learn one foreign language
16. Learn how to surf
To give you a short background, the so called bucket list started with the movie with the same title. It was shown in 2007 which starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. Freeman was a mechanic while Nicholson was a billionaire who also owned the hospital where they are both confined at. They both had lung cancer and eventually they became friends while they were undergoing the treatment. It was Freeman who started writing the 'things that he wanted to do before he dies' while Carter, while learning about Freeman's plans, offered to finance his 'trips'.
I came across the story because of Kuya Egz. Kuya Egz, whom I fondly call 'Gier', is one of the best people in the university whom you can consult about music and movies. When I say consult, it's like if you're looking for a music for a particular formation session, music that has meaning, then he is the 'guy'. As for movies, he may have seen almost all the tear-jerker movies of every decade and he can easily recommend what is best, let's say for a particular session or if you are simply looking for a quality movie that you can watch over the weekend. Yes, he is the king of soundtrack and films.
Back to my bucket list. I tried to remember the things that I originally wrote and perhaps I will be adding more in the near future. What's important is that I was able to document my bucket list this time. So, here goes.
Tintin's Bucket List
1. Learn how to swim (I partly know how to swim now, am just trying to practice the intervals in breathing and the hand stroke during for a freestyle)
2. Travel to one foreign place every year (I did this for the last two years and this year was my first international trip)
3. Be employed in a foreign country (*fingers crossed*)
4. Get married at the age of 26 (Maybe I could make it 27, in case)
5. Learn how to play the guitar (Still thinking when I could do this)
6. Learn how to drive (When? Soon?)
7. Name my daughter Sophia Danielle
8. Have at least 3 dogs in my OWN house
9. Talk to a random stranger and offer him/her a ride home
10. Learn how to cook
11. Have my own website
12. Sing infront of 1,000 people
13. Give my mom her dream shop - her own flower shop
14. Admit to one person that I was crushing on him
15. Learn one foreign language
16. Learn how to surf
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
From Isarog to Singapore Part 2
At last! I finally found the time to blog about my one-week experience in Singapore :)
To start, let me give you a glimpse where I live :)
I live at Maysprings Condominium. It is located on the North area of Singapore, Bukit Panjang. The name says it all, it's the Bukid Area of Singapore. This is where my Auntie Let and Uncle Philip stays. I am staying with them. They used to stay at Holland Road but then they decided to buy a unit here instead because the old condominium was too big for them.
Here is the view from our floor. We're at the 19th floor by the way. Part of the facilities of the condominium is a swimming pool, a clubhouse and a tennis court. They also have a gym but I haven't tried them yet.
When night time falls, which is usually at 8:00pm (7:00pm here is like 5:00pm in the Philippines), the view from our floor is really nice. The lights from the cars passing by and the lights on the pool and the trees give me a serene feeling.
The interior of the house is also gorgeous. This is how it looks like :) (See picture below)
Uncle Philip bought this 3D TV which is about 42". Too bad, I haven't been able to try the 3D feature yet.
They really have a nice house plus the kitchen is so neat :)
Moving on, really, the cost of living here in Singapore is quite expensive compared to the Philippines. Perhaps because I would usually convert the Singapore prices to Philippine prices whenever I would go to the grocery or just buy a top-up card. Eventually, I would end up buying nothing.
Anyhow, for those who would want to try their luck here in Singapore, you may find this helpful, hopefully. Am sharing this out of experience and of course, from the tips that I got from fellow travelers. I hope you would get something from it :)
First is transportation. Transportation is very convenient here in Singapore. The first thing that you have to do is to buy your EZ LINK card.
The card costs $12 with a $7 stored value. The $5 is the actual cost of the card which is non-refundable. You may purchase 'credits' or it's usually referred to here as 'top-up' at General Ticketing Machines at all SMRT Stations and Add Value Machines. The EZ Link Card can be used both on the bus and the MRT/LRT.
Note: Always check the remaining credits of your card. There are cases when the card is not accepted by the machine in the bus or the train if the value is $2 below.
Also, buses have designated numbers here. The numbers reflect the route of the bus. To better guide you, you can use STREET DIRECTORY for the directions (http://www.streetdirectory.com/) and I would also personally advise that you get a copy of the SMRT map, in this way, you can check the line that you should take. You may also check the map here -- http://www.smrt.com.sg/trains/network_map.asp
Second is the purchasing a prepaid sim. The most popular telecommunication company is SINGTEL (am using SINGTEL). The sim card would cost from $28-$50 with a pre-loaded phone credit. I bought the $50 sim and it has a $50 stored value plus a $10 bonus. International text would usually cost 18 cents per message, so it's quite cheap. Singtel also has a lot of freebies like when you top-up a $20 card, you'd get a $3 bonus. Also, incoming calls are not for free here in Singapore however Singtel offers a 10 or 20 day free incoming call if you top-up a particular amount.
As for me, I still have $46 as of today but I decided to buy the $20 top-up in case I ran out of credits. The $20 top-up card looks like this :)
Note: As soon as you get off Changi Airport, look for a store where you can buy a prepaid sim. It would be better if you have exchanged your money to Singapore dollars by then. They would also ask for your passport when you buy the prepaid sim.
Third is the board and lodging. I am lucky that I was temporarily adopted by auntie and uncle, everything is for free. However, if you will try to maximize the one month social visit pass, make sure that you have enough money with you. The usual rate for room rent is about $350-500 then you have to add up your meals per day. A decent meal may cost about $5-10 but a $2 meal is also available. Make sure that you have at least $1000 for you to survive in a month. Good thing if you have friends who can adopt you for the mean time while you're looking for a job.
I think that's all for now. I have to explore Singapore still. I am enjoying the place and am trying to see how it feels like to live here. I also experienced getting lost but GPS is good companion. If you can have a phone that has GPS then you're good to go.
Thank you for reading my blog :)
To start, let me give you a glimpse where I live :)
I live at Maysprings Condominium. It is located on the North area of Singapore, Bukit Panjang. The name says it all, it's the Bukid Area of Singapore. This is where my Auntie Let and Uncle Philip stays. I am staying with them. They used to stay at Holland Road but then they decided to buy a unit here instead because the old condominium was too big for them.
Here is the view from our floor. We're at the 19th floor by the way. Part of the facilities of the condominium is a swimming pool, a clubhouse and a tennis court. They also have a gym but I haven't tried them yet.
When night time falls, which is usually at 8:00pm (7:00pm here is like 5:00pm in the Philippines), the view from our floor is really nice. The lights from the cars passing by and the lights on the pool and the trees give me a serene feeling.
The interior of the house is also gorgeous. This is how it looks like :) (See picture below)
Uncle Philip bought this 3D TV which is about 42". Too bad, I haven't been able to try the 3D feature yet.
They really have a nice house plus the kitchen is so neat :)
Moving on, really, the cost of living here in Singapore is quite expensive compared to the Philippines. Perhaps because I would usually convert the Singapore prices to Philippine prices whenever I would go to the grocery or just buy a top-up card. Eventually, I would end up buying nothing.
Anyhow, for those who would want to try their luck here in Singapore, you may find this helpful, hopefully. Am sharing this out of experience and of course, from the tips that I got from fellow travelers. I hope you would get something from it :)
The card costs $12 with a $7 stored value. The $5 is the actual cost of the card which is non-refundable. You may purchase 'credits' or it's usually referred to here as 'top-up' at General Ticketing Machines at all SMRT Stations and Add Value Machines. The EZ Link Card can be used both on the bus and the MRT/LRT.
Note: Always check the remaining credits of your card. There are cases when the card is not accepted by the machine in the bus or the train if the value is $2 below.
Also, buses have designated numbers here. The numbers reflect the route of the bus. To better guide you, you can use STREET DIRECTORY for the directions (http://www.streetdirectory.com/) and I would also personally advise that you get a copy of the SMRT map, in this way, you can check the line that you should take. You may also check the map here -- http://www.smrt.com.sg/trains/network_map.asp
Second is the purchasing a prepaid sim. The most popular telecommunication company is SINGTEL (am using SINGTEL). The sim card would cost from $28-$50 with a pre-loaded phone credit. I bought the $50 sim and it has a $50 stored value plus a $10 bonus. International text would usually cost 18 cents per message, so it's quite cheap. Singtel also has a lot of freebies like when you top-up a $20 card, you'd get a $3 bonus. Also, incoming calls are not for free here in Singapore however Singtel offers a 10 or 20 day free incoming call if you top-up a particular amount.
As for me, I still have $46 as of today but I decided to buy the $20 top-up in case I ran out of credits. The $20 top-up card looks like this :)
Note: As soon as you get off Changi Airport, look for a store where you can buy a prepaid sim. It would be better if you have exchanged your money to Singapore dollars by then. They would also ask for your passport when you buy the prepaid sim.
Third is the board and lodging. I am lucky that I was temporarily adopted by auntie and uncle, everything is for free. However, if you will try to maximize the one month social visit pass, make sure that you have enough money with you. The usual rate for room rent is about $350-500 then you have to add up your meals per day. A decent meal may cost about $5-10 but a $2 meal is also available. Make sure that you have at least $1000 for you to survive in a month. Good thing if you have friends who can adopt you for the mean time while you're looking for a job.
I think that's all for now. I have to explore Singapore still. I am enjoying the place and am trying to see how it feels like to live here. I also experienced getting lost but GPS is good companion. If you can have a phone that has GPS then you're good to go.
Thank you for reading my blog :)
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Tintin Risked
by: Karl Llorin
Tintin laughed
Tintin wept
Tintin reached out and got involved
Tintin shared her ideas, dreams to each one of us
Tintin loved us and is loved in return
Tintin lives
Tintin believed
Tintin tried
Tintin risked
Tintin is really something
Tintin suffered
Tintin learned
Tintin changed
And if you did not notice, Tintin grew
Tintin is free
(Based from risk poem)
Tintin laughed
Tintin wept
Tintin reached out and got involved
Tintin shared her ideas, dreams to each one of us
Tintin loved us and is loved in return
Tintin lives
Tintin believed
Tintin tried
Tintin risked
Tintin is really something
Tintin suffered
Tintin learned
Tintin changed
And if you did not notice, Tintin grew
Tintin is free
(Based from risk poem)
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Thursday, April 26, 2012
YOU
YOU who made my heart skipped a beat the first time I saw you in the middle of the day as you glided along the pavement towards my school. I knew it, it was attraction at first sight. I'm not sure what love meant then but I am sure, you had one of the brightest smile that could lighten up a dull day. You had one of those sweetest stare that could melt any girl's heart and you had that distinct way of saying R's which makes every word sounds childish yet manly.
I prayed then that you would notice me and you did. God knows that I do not deserve a perfect being like you. We were the exact opposite. You were tall, I was short. You were thin, I was semi-fat. You were good-looking, I had issues then if I was attractive. We somehow had a number of differences. Your school was full of rowdy boys, ok, perhaps a number of rowdy boys while my school was made up of the unknown geeks in town. You were an only child while I was the youngest child. Yet despite our differences, we somehow 'clicked'.
We both shared the same interest on anime, I was your Miaka, you were my Tamahome. I remembered both of us getting a little emotional over the dramatic scenes of a simple tv series. We talked for hours over the phone, it's as if there's no tomorrow. We had endless topics to talk about. You were in my world and so did I. It was August 21, 2001. We officially became a couple. Despite the overwhelming love that we have for each other, we decided to part ways. We were fighting over the same issue and I had to admit, I have hurt you a lot. Our relationship died after two years and a half.
College. I was not sure if I want to be in ADNU. I knew for a fact that I would bump into you. But you know what? What really scares me is seeing you with somebody else. Despite the fear, I enrolled in ADNU. I took Psychology and you were taking up Information Management then later I learned that you shifted to Management. Then my worse fear came true. I saw you, with her, a girl whom I don't really know, she's holding your hands, the hands that used to be mine. I can't explain the pain, I knew that I had to get away. It was on that day that I admitted that I loved you still, that I shouldn't have asked you to let me go.
Second year. I received a call from you. You were drunk. You asking me back. I hesitated. I was not sure if I was ready, ready to take the risk. One thing I was sure of was I still loved you, I have always loved you despite all. Both of us took the risk.
October 7, 2004, we got back together.
Yes, YOU. I know that we still have to work on our ups and downs, we still have our petty 'tampuhans' and childish 'fights' but giving up on each other is not an option. We did that once but we're not doing it again. Our relationship has survived a lot of trials and it kept us strong, it made us love each other more.
YOU. The man who made me a better woman. The man who was always there for me and for my dreams despite the failures. The man who made me want to look forward for tomorrows, for movie dates, for arcade games, for pet shops and for pizzas. The man who unceasingly showed how compassionate he can be for the man he loves. The man who has sacrificed a lot just to see me happy. The man who willingly took the responsibility of taking care of me.
You. My soulmate, my confidante, my bestfriend, my beau, my number one fan and my pet buddy. I love you, until my last breath ♥ I can't wait to become Mrs. Kristine Bernadette D. Mariano :)
I prayed then that you would notice me and you did. God knows that I do not deserve a perfect being like you. We were the exact opposite. You were tall, I was short. You were thin, I was semi-fat. You were good-looking, I had issues then if I was attractive. We somehow had a number of differences. Your school was full of rowdy boys, ok, perhaps a number of rowdy boys while my school was made up of the unknown geeks in town. You were an only child while I was the youngest child. Yet despite our differences, we somehow 'clicked'.
We both shared the same interest on anime, I was your Miaka, you were my Tamahome. I remembered both of us getting a little emotional over the dramatic scenes of a simple tv series. We talked for hours over the phone, it's as if there's no tomorrow. We had endless topics to talk about. You were in my world and so did I. It was August 21, 2001. We officially became a couple. Despite the overwhelming love that we have for each other, we decided to part ways. We were fighting over the same issue and I had to admit, I have hurt you a lot. Our relationship died after two years and a half.
College. I was not sure if I want to be in ADNU. I knew for a fact that I would bump into you. But you know what? What really scares me is seeing you with somebody else. Despite the fear, I enrolled in ADNU. I took Psychology and you were taking up Information Management then later I learned that you shifted to Management. Then my worse fear came true. I saw you, with her, a girl whom I don't really know, she's holding your hands, the hands that used to be mine. I can't explain the pain, I knew that I had to get away. It was on that day that I admitted that I loved you still, that I shouldn't have asked you to let me go.
Second year. I received a call from you. You were drunk. You asking me back. I hesitated. I was not sure if I was ready, ready to take the risk. One thing I was sure of was I still loved you, I have always loved you despite all. Both of us took the risk.
October 7, 2004, we got back together.
Yes, YOU. I know that we still have to work on our ups and downs, we still have our petty 'tampuhans' and childish 'fights' but giving up on each other is not an option. We did that once but we're not doing it again. Our relationship has survived a lot of trials and it kept us strong, it made us love each other more.
YOU. The man who made me a better woman. The man who was always there for me and for my dreams despite the failures. The man who made me want to look forward for tomorrows, for movie dates, for arcade games, for pet shops and for pizzas. The man who unceasingly showed how compassionate he can be for the man he loves. The man who has sacrificed a lot just to see me happy. The man who willingly took the responsibility of taking care of me.
You. My soulmate, my confidante, my bestfriend, my beau, my number one fan and my pet buddy. I love you, until my last breath ♥ I can't wait to become Mrs. Kristine Bernadette D. Mariano :)
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