Kirktonic

How To Build A Lasting Relationship

2010-12-06T23:04:00.003+08:00

1. Cut on dotted line.
2. Rotate 180 degrees.

Facebook Cartoon Campaign

2010-12-04T21:20:00.007+08:00

I was surprised seeing one person at a time changing their profile photos into a cartoon from their childhood last Wednesday morning. I didn't really get the point behind all these until I saw a status from a friend's account: "Change your facebook profile picture to a cartoon from your childhood and invite your friends to do the same. Until monday there should be no human faces on facebook, but an invasion of memories! THIS IS FOR A CAMPAIGN AGAINST VIOLENCE ON CHILDREN." I immediately re-posted the same shout-out for a good cause.

I've always liked Astroboy and so I chose him for my profile photo.

After a few hours of reading blogs, I discovered the campaign video where it all started. It was kind of lame when I watched it but it turned out heart-breaking after seeing the end-result as well as the campaign message. So, that's basically the reason why I'm writing it here. It would definitely not stop violence on children, but it's the least yet best way of spreading awareness to everyone.

Below is the video I posted in my Facebook profile.

I'm Back to Blogging

2010-11-30T19:15:00.010+08:00

It's been a while since the last time I wrote in this blog. I have had a busy schedule to the extent wherein I spent most of my free time unwinding by either seeing the latest movie or just by simply dozing-off the whole day. Now as far as writing is concerned, I will do a little recap of the things that took place for the current year.

1. New Job
That's right. New year. New job. I've joined a new organization this year located somewhere in Makati city. My designation was Team Leader until I was reassigned to a new role a few months later. I have made several good friends that are worth keeping. Just recently, our campaign is becoming unstable which made me, along with several others leave the company. I will truly miss everyone I left behind.

2. New Gadgets
Just as soon as I hit the age 25, I've no longer attached to a few gadgets. Specifically with cellphones. Apparently, a person close to my heart gave me a Samsung Champ phone last September 23. It's not expensive but at least it can do most of the things I need to be done. However, it's giving me a tough time navigating throughout the system. I guess I'm not just used to navigating other phones other than Nokia.

But prior to my new phone, I got myself a new notebook. It was pretty neat as it comes with a scratch-proof cover. Unfortunately, the Compag Presario CQ40 was not as durable as it supposed to be. The monitor is flickering apart from the pixelated lines that appeared at the bottom of the screen as I speak. Now that's pretty inconvenient. Good thing I still have my service and parts warranty valid until 2011.

3. My Nephew, Kyle Rivas

On October 14, 2010, our family was blessed with a new baby. My only sister gave birth to a healthy 7.9 lbs baby boy at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center. Our family is very thankful for a successful delivery and that my sister was able to overcome her struggles during her pregnancy.

4. A Day To Remember

I organized a team building get-together for my team last November 21, 2010 (Sunday). It was a humid day, which is great for outdoor activities. It was a very happy moment day for me and my team who joined us for fun. Unfortunately, the next day was when I had to leave the company already. I hope they had a great time too.

5. My 26th Birthday

Nothing special happened but it was a still a great day. I brought my team out for a treat at Something Fishy in Eastwood, Libis where they had buffet breakfast. Thanks to Team Ferrari and to all who greeted me on this day.

There are countless things to tell and update on this blog. I wish I was able to blog them all. Oh well, I have the time now to get my fingers scribble again for this blog.

Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream

2009-12-21T23:42:00.000+08:00

The following is a post seen from Clickthecity.com

Christmas usually calls for tummy warming dishes. But in tropical countries like ours, cold desserts such as fruit salads and ice creams are as much favored for a festive treat.

That's why for this week's Chef's Christmas Specials, we sought help from the admittedly geeky chef and molecular gastronomy pioneer in the Philippines, Johann Santos of Zenses Neo-Shanghai Cuisine. He teaches us how to make a Christmasy homemade ice cream -- without needing liquid nitrogen, of course!

Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream

What You Need:

80 grams confectioner's sugar
1 cup (250 grams) milk
1 cup (250 grams) cream
3 egg yolks
2 vanilla beans (or 3 to 4 drops vanilla essence)
1 tsp. cinnamon
crushed apple cookies
1 small Ziploc bag
1 large Ziploc bag
ice cubes
salt

What to do:

1. Pour the milk into the saucepan. Bring it to a boil.

2. While milk is being heated, slice vanilla beans in half. Scrape off the seeds then add both the seeds and pods to the milk mixture.

3. Take out the vanilla bean pods from the milk mixture upon boiling. Let the milk cool.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks and the confectioner's sugar. Beat until smooth.

5. When the milk has finally cooled down, pour in the egg yolk and sugar mixture. Add the cream and cinnamon. Beat until well-blended.

6. Pour mixture into the small Ziploc bag. Remove excess air then seal.

7. In the larger Ziploc bag, combine the ice cubes and salt.

8. Place the smaller bag into the larger one. Seal, then lightly massage the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes, or until the mixture reaches clay-like consistency. You may want to use a towel to help you massage the mixture, as it can get really cold to the touch.

9. Scoop, serve and enjoy.

New Web Host

2008-08-23T14:39:00.008+08:00

I was surprised upon visiting my website earlier. Seeing a "banned" notice. I thought it was for my website. Apparently, my web host (http://www.freewebtown.com), has been reported as an attack site and this was identified and blocked by Google. Ergo, if you have Google toolbar installed in your browsers, then my website goes unavailable.

Here's a screenshot of the notice. You may click to enlarge

If by any case you have clicked on "Why was this site blocked?" button, here's a transcript of the report stated:

Safe Browsing

Diagnostic page for www.freewebtown.com/

What is the current listing status for www.freewebtown.com/?

* This site is not listed as suspicious.

* Part of this site was listed for suspicious activity 126 time(s) over the past 90 days.

What happened when Google visited this site?

* Of the 5316 pages we tested on the site over the past 90 days, 1322 page(s) resulted in malicious software being downloaded and installed without user consent. The last time Google visited this site was on 08/22/2008, and the last time suspicious content was found on this site was on 08/22/2008.

* Malicious software includes 1761 trojan(s), 160 scripting exploit(s), 20 backdoor(s). Successful infection resulted in an average of 6 new processes on the target machine.

* Malicious software is hosted on 68 domain(s), including antivirus-scanonline.com, virus-scanonline.com, infectionscanner.com.

* 39 domain(s) appear to be functioning as intermediaries for distributing malware to visitors of this site, including sharmanka.info, baran-eblan.info, virus-scanonline.com.

Has this site acted as an intermediary resulting in further distribution of malware?

* Over the past 90 days, www.freewebtown.com/ appeared to function as an intermediary for the infection of 85 site(s) including freewebtown.com, mirart.ru, dlfilm.co.cc.

Has this site hosted malware?

* Yes, this site has hosted malicious software over the past 90 days. It infected 92 domain(s), including russiancarolina.net, lindasefamosas.com.br, bnihashim.com.

Next steps:

* Return to the previous page.

* If you are the owner of this web site, you can request a review of your site using Google Webmaster Tools. More information about the review process is available in Google's Webmaster Help Center.

I was left with no choice but to move my website to a new server host (http://www.50webs.com). Same thing would apply to the other website I've developed http://www.arcyonline.co.nr

Please be informed that the web address will still be the same.

The Manila Ocean Park Experience

2008-06-06T21:00:00.008+08:00

One of my favorite photos we took from the Oceanarium

It was a nice Thursday. It was my birthday. I honestly have no plans today or whatsoever. I just wanted to relax from work. It was nice of Arcy to ask me out and do some sight-seeing. He wouldn't tell me where to go at first. He just said "Make sure you bring your handycam with you."

Behold! The map of the Oceanarium!

I suddenly thought of a place within the metro where I would need to bring my handycam. Then I figured out The Oceanarium in Quirino Grandstand.

Well, I was right...

It was a rough ride going there. The cab driver we rode was also not nice. Trying to dupe us. Well, too bad for him as he didn't succeed. Arriving at the Oceanarium, there was a short queue to the entrance.

The entrance part. Showcasing fresh water fishes

We were inside a big dome when we got inside the facility. It was nicely done although it's still not finished. The Oceanarium offers two-storey ocean-themed park which are divided into 7 divisions.

1. Agos (Flow) - In this section you will learn the natural flow of water from land to sea. This area features creatures that are not found in the salt water. You will also find the "Touch Pool" in this area where you can have a hands-on to some creatures like star fishes.

Hands-on with the blue starfish

2. Bahura (Reef) - This section features fascinating creatures found in the Philippine coral reefs.

3. Laot (Fishing Ground) - This area showcases fishes from deep fishing waters.

4. Buhay na Karagatan (The Living Ocean) - You will be able to see creatures found at the ocean.

5. Ang Kailaliman (The Deep) - See deep-sea creatures here.

6. Pagi (Stingray) - A fashion array of different rays.

7. Pating (Shark) - Shark viewing area.

A diver cleaning one of the filters from inside the giant aquarium

It was an educational experience. The place still needs improvement and I believe it'll become magnificent once it's finished. After this, we went to Mall Of Asia to see The Cronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. ^_^

All images are available in my multiply online hub (http://kirktonic.multiply.com). In addition to the photos, I have also prepared a short video clip of our short tour at the Oceanarium. Background music is "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz.

*Update 01-07-2010: YouTube muted the video herein due to copyright restrictions. Will re-upload soon.

Farewell Eudemons Online... Hello Granado Espada!

2008-05-27T15:30:00.021+08:00

It's been like two and a half years experience with Eudemons Online. I have made good friends with people I only met in-game. I have also spent countless money to raise my character to where it's at right now. I've ended level 123 (level 135 being the maximum). It was a nice experience though, at the same time, it's about time to try out another gaming experience.

Granado Espada Poster

Okay! I'm a hardcore gamer and being one takes dedication to whatever we love doing at. I haven't completely left Eudemons Online. I still go online, perhaps every other week and would only stay there for like 5 to 10 minutes. I also haven't seen my good friends recently. Alex, Dylan, Rod, Meg, John_Ken, Eiyesha. I'm not quite sure what the names of the others are as I only know most of them through their in-game characters. ^_^ Oh well, we stay in touch through MySpace though. The last time I hear, Rod is now into Cabal Online. It has also made a debut in the Philippines last May 24, 2008 for the open beta testing. During that time, I’ve also been thinking if I would try out a new MMORPG.I have the following on my list:

1. Rappelz
2. Silk Road Online
3. Perfect World
4. Lineage II
5. Cabal

(In-game photo) Elementalist and Wizard at Port of Coimbra

Those MMORPGs (Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game), are the leading in the market recently. However, knowing me as somewhat a nostalgic person, I am still looking for something that would fit my taste.

(In-game photo) Musketeer, Elementalist and Wizard at Port of Coimbra

(In-game photo) Yes! You can make your characters pose!

Then I was introduced to Granado Espada (Distinguished Sword). Produced by the legendary game producer Hakkyu Kim. Made in South Korea. Developed by IAHGames in Singapore and distributed by E-Games in the Philippines. The game has won tons of major awards on its release last 2007. Too overwhelming for a recently released game. It has won the best game award, including best in graphics. I would have to say the graphics is really exceptional.

(In-game photo) queer pose!

The game features MCC (Multi Character Control) which would allow you to play 3 characters at a time. This reminds me of Final Fantasy VIII. This is also my first time to be introduced to a Musketeer character class. You may also recruit NPCs to join your family and lots more.

(In-game photo) Runway-model type of characters! You won't get these in other games!

Thanks to my friend Ken. All credits to him for introducing the game to me. Not to mention boosting my new character, the tour, and the in-game money he gave me all in order to start well in the game economy. Upon trying the game, I realized how much I like it. It has a Baroque Era theme which means game characters won’t be normally dressed on battle gears. They’re surprisingly wearing fancy masquerade ball type of clothes.

(In-game photo) My scout character. Posing at the Port of Coimbra

It was fun. Majority of the NPCs, mobs, and places are either named in French, Spanish, or Latin. The experience is worth it. I have begun spending money on it. The best part is that it’s way more affordable than Eudemons Online.

(In-game photo) Soho, a playable NPC (Ironic?)!

See you in-game!

Family name: Tonicadvent
Main Characters: Musketeer, Scout, Wizard
Server: Pachelbel
Faction: Liberatus (Neutralist)

LSS Reunited

2007-12-30T05:23:00.003+08:00

Lee with husband Benjie

LSS (Lab Support Specialists), are the support team leading new hire associates transitioning from training to operations. That's where I came from when I was still with IBM looking back two years ago. Two years later, there we are, though we may not be complete, but the get-together was great.

Cindy with LJ

Seeing my old colleagues brings back good memories. Seeing them improve while the others got worse, is still exciting to know. Among whom attended aside from myself are L.J., Jean, Cindy, and Nathalie. Along with us are Jean's husband, Benjie, and Arcy.

Jean with her husband

Rendezvous is in "The Thai Kitchen". Of course, they serve Thai cuisines. They only offer buffet for only Php 245.00 and the experience was quite so-so. With this reason, we are looking forward to seeing the others some time again and hoping that more people would attend!

Casino Royale

2007-12-17T02:15:00.003+08:00

Center stage

We just had our organization's Christmas party. It was held at the SMX Convention Center. It's a gargantuan party held at a humongous place. I heard it's the Philippines' biggest after PICC. It was a fabulous party. We had "Las Vegas" theme. They filled the place with food stations and booze outlet. At the back area there were bet tables and slot machines. It's quite fancy.

Performers

I brought Arcy with me on this event. We honestly felt under-dressed and didn't actually realize that it'll be as fabulous as that. Reg, our neighbor from the 12th floor of our condominium, won a DVD player.

One of the betting tables

Looking forward to the next party!

It's us!

I Got E65!

2007-11-12T21:56:00.001+08:00

My new phone in complete package!

Yes that is so right! I now have Nokia E65. It's the latest addition of the E-series from Nokia. I wouldn't go into details with it's technical specifications but I'll let you know what does it have. First, it's a 3G phone. It is also WiFi capable. It has a built-in 2mp camera. It has office applications and is very business friendly. Stylishly professional looking at a very affordable price.

I was actually trying it out earlier using our office's WiFi access... and it is very nice! It's a one great phone!

A closer look with Nokia E65

The Artist Behind The Sketch

2007-11-11T18:01:00.002+08:00

I was surprised today when I received a mail from an old friend, Benjie Pascua. He said that he has something for me. Though quite unsure, I was happy to find out that it was the sketch he promised for me. It was so nice. Almost perfect! I am definitely happy about it.

The finished product

The original photo

Thanks Benjie for the hard work. I really appreciate it.

Benjie Pascua, The artist behind the sketch

Follow Benjie on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Bench-Christmas/1602158237

My New Home

2007-09-16T18:37:00.004+08:00

The Vicinity map

It was surely a tiring day moving from one place to another. Right! I am so excited about this new place of ours. Thank goodness I raised money in time... and of course, it won't be possible if not for the help of our two dear friends, Lanz, our former boarder who's now in Teletech Bacolod in her new Team Lead role, and of course Kim, my former associate who's now one of the highest paid senior agents in IBM Daksh. Arcy and I would like to extend our many thanks to both of you... well, that is, if you're reading this. Tee hee!

This is the mess we brought when we moved in

Anyway, I am finally moving out from Makati. I'll be totally free from my experiences with frequent flooding. Thank goodness! Now, I'll be moving to Mandaluyong city. Specifically in California Garden Square. What I can say is, it's not as fancy as it is supposed to be. But still, it was a cozy community. I'm glad we moved here.

A small portion of my room

Oh right! Arcy and I decided to get another tenant as a replacement for Lanz. This time, I invited one of my new colleagues, Orchid, to come and join us in our humble abode. Furthermore, Orchid came with her boyfriend, Nico. The initial set-up we had was to ask Orchid pay a month's advance worth of rent. We no longer charged her any deposit at all, so should she decide to move out, she would no longer claim anything from us. Apparently, we allowed her domestic partner to share her rent with the room she occupies. Furthermore, I will shoulder expenses for all utilities. This includes electricity, water, gas, association dues, and broadband connection. How convenient life would be for them. This set-up would hopefully help us cut some losses.

My Zen inspired 4-seater dining table

Now, since we'll have two new boarders under our custody, we decided to call the place "The AKON House". It's simply the acronym of our names combined together. Arcy, Kirk, Orchid, and Nico... I hope it does make sense as I don't want to try harder.

Living room and receiving area, My mom on photo

Moving here is quite some adjustment for me and Arcy. But then again, adjustment is positively amazing as I'll now be 10 minutes away from work which would only require me one ride, I'll also live close to my colleagues from work. Reg is just on the 12th floor (just right above us), and Jae is just from another building (Dayton Tower)...

Floor plan of the Unit

California Garden Square is a paragon in strategic community planning, it rises between the metropolitan centers of Makati and Ortigas Avenue. Taking you right away to where the pulse of business and commerce beats loudest. A stone's throw away from the MRT-III, it is a convenient take-off point to various destinations of the city.

California Garden Square compound map

Thoughtfully planned with two entry points to make moving in and out of your home a breeze. Whether you're looking for a place to shop, dine or unwind, or the perfect school for your child. The options are limitless.

A view from my window (facing lower ground)

California Garden Square presents you with choices from the two bustling cities of Makati and Mandaluyong. You are at the crossroads of the metropolis, in touch with the best of both worlds.

A view from my window (Horizon view)

Watch my video essay below as a tour to my new home. Note that the video was taken on this very day we moved in... More photos available at my Multiply page.

The Jackets Are In

2007-09-07T16:56:00.002+08:00

About two weeks ago, I was asked to provide a design for the Management Team's jacket. I came up with three proposals and they all liked the black ones. With this reason, we all decided to push with making a team jacket under our expense. We had Mommy Pie provide our contact with the tailor. He charged us around Php 800.00 excluding the template for the prints which would cost another Php 800.00 to be divided amongst us.

"Let's clean up these mess"

2 weeks later, voila!... The jackets are in! Only that the "Silver Fern" logo wasn't included due to scarcity of time. On the other hand, the jackets were good. However, there are a few disputes with the tailoring. First, the sleeves were too long, like my arms are completely covered (which includes my two hands), and second, the rubberized design was too thin. I doubt how it would survive a laundry. Hmmm... but it was still cool!

Heroes Season 2 Promotion

2007-09-07T13:50:00.001+08:00

I like this preview so much. Good cinematography. Substantial and nostalgic. There're also spoilers spilled out by watching it! This only means that Nathan Petrelli survived his brother's explosion. Oh by the way, Season 2 is called "Generations" and not "Origins". The latter title is for their 6 spin off episodes which they will introduce 6 new characters. The audiences will then decide and vote for their favorite character to appear in the 3rd season of Heroes. ^_^

See the attached video...

Bio Rangers

2007-09-06T18:42:00.002+08:00

It's funny what happened today. Five of us from the management team are wearing power rangers-colors-like clothes. I was wearing a red jacket, AC was wearing a green shirt, Jae was wearing a blue-collared shirt, Phoenix was wearing a yellow sports jacket, and lastly, Marvee, wearing a pink sleeveless blouse.

A posterized version of the original photo

As soon as we noticed what we're wearing it triggered our brilliant minds to come to think about our childhood heroes, Bioman, and Power Rangers (80's & 90's kid). Well, they both share the same ideas, only that Bioman was made in Japan, unlike with Power Rangers, which is an American-made real-life cartoon. We've tried to mimic their team formations and only came up with a few good shots since the one who's taking the photos has her hands shaking because of laughter. I then tried to add some effects using the ever loyal Adobe Photoshop. It was really funny. Check out the complete photos at my multiply account.

I Got A Cobra!

2007-09-05T17:01:00.001+08:00

That's right! I got a cobra. It's a 2-way radio / walkie-talkie. It's another thing that my company issued to me. I was told that this is one of those brands that leads most. I'll be sharing the other unit with my colleague (Jae) which suddenly made me think of something. If I'll be moving in to California Garden Square next week, I wonder if we will use this in the neighborhood. I hope not. And if in case, i hope it's not work-related. LOL!

Cobra radio in it's cradle

A closer look to a cobra radio

Treat Me Like A Kid

2007-09-03T21:40:00.001+08:00

Nothing much today! A good friend treat me over to Kenny Rogers' Roasters. Right! It has been quite a long time since I've been here in Roasters since I continuously hop over new restaurants very often.

I still ordered what I always used to. A quarter sliced chicken, a java rice, and two side dishes (Chicken Macaroni Salad, and Macaroni & Cheese). It was awesome! We also ordered fresh fruit sald on top of everything! Yumm!

Just Got Issued

2007-08-24T23:48:00.001+08:00

I just received my company-issued phone earlier today. It looks nice and stylish. It sort of mimics the Sony Ericsson design. It's a Nokia 5070. It's not much and I won't go into details about it, but then, what I like most about the phone is the feature where it displays emoticons in real photos. It also has built-in FM radio and it also has infrared and P2T (a.k.a Push To Talk).

We were told that we're a lucky bunch amongst all the other management units since most of them waited for like six months before they even got their phones. I believe that this is one of those small things that we often don't appreciate.

I'll go check out more about the phone.

Meeting, Gweilo's, and The Long Weekend Forecast

2007-08-18T05:33:00.003+08:00

It surely had been a long weekend for all of us at work; especially if you are travelling to Eastwood city daily. We had a short hands-on today with the system we've been learning for the past two weeks on our product specifics training. I would say that all the information had been mediocre. Thank God for a no information overwhelming encounters.

By dinner time, I went with my boss to buy some quick meals. He had told me that he's been keeping some news from us that we might have a long weekend. It was a good thing that I was the first one among others to know about this whereabouts (at least, as far as I know).

By the time we head back, Isay entered the room with some news about next week's itinerary for the management team. And... good news! We do have a long weekend! Yay! By Monday, it'll be a local holiday as it will be "Quezon City Day".

Business as usual, we resume the session without Merryn and Brandon. We, the management team went on with the meeting. I have presented to everyone my proposal for the Management Team's jacket design. Everyone liked it. Thank you very much.

We also ordered 4 boxes of pizzas. I had a contribution to this purchase as our side of the team lost 2 challenging games from our last team building (August 8, 2007). As we proceed with the meeting, it took us some time to recover from our laughters. It was really fun!

As we ended the shift, everyone (except for Phoenix and Jae) agreed to have the usual weekend get together. This time, we had it at Gweilo's, talk about mediocrity, it is one of those bars in Eastwood. I only had a bottle of beer as my stomach had been acting weird for quite awhile.

It's raining hard... and I suddenly felt the sadness I am trying to keep... I hope this will end soon.

Spur Of A Moment

2007-08-16T22:37:00.003+08:00

It's funny how someone can break your heart in a million pieces but still you love them with all the little pieces left. T_T

New Hairstyle?

2007-08-15T14:52:00.001+08:00

Right! Check out my new hairdo!

1000 Photos in Friendster?

2007-08-07T23:09:00.003+08:00

Wow. I'm quite surprised. Earlier when I was online, I just uploaded my latest photos and it says that I may upload up to 100 photos as opposed to the previous 50 photos limit. Now, when I got online, it now reads that I may upload up to 1000 photos. That is just so funny. I thought this was just a bug.

A screenshot of my Friendster account

Anyways, for the benefit of my foreign friends, "Friendster" is an online social network community that is widely known here in the South-east Asia. It's counterpart would be "MySpace.com" for North America, and "Bebo.com" for Australia and New Zealand. Oh, I have accounts on those sites too!

'Till later ^_^

Arithmetic

2007-08-03T19:39:00.003+08:00

For a week, there'd been a song that's haunting my head, and I'm glad to finally post it here and share it. I am moved by the lyrics. It is substantial and in-depth. The song is called "Arithmetic". It was launched by a known Kiwi artist "Brooke Fraser". The said song was released only to New Zealand... So this song is surely one of a kind. I've posted the lyrics and the music video so go check it out.

Title: ARITHMETIC

Music by: Brooke Fraser
Genre: Acoustic

I've been staring at the sky tonight
Marvelling and passing time
Wondering what to do with daylight
Until I can make you mine
You are the one I want, you are the one I want

I've been thinking of changing my mind
It never stays the same for long
But of all the things I know for sure
You're the only certain one
You are the one I want,you are the one I want

I've been counting up my wrongs
One sorry for each star
See I'd apologise my way to you
If the heavens stretched that far
You are the one I want,you are the one I want

I won't find what I am looking for
If I only "see" by keeping score
'Cos I know you are so much more than arithmetic

'Cos if i add,if I subtract
If I take it all try to take some back
I've forgotten the freedom that comes from the fact
That you are the sum
So you are the one
I want

When the years are showing on my face
And my strongest days are gone
When my heart and flesh depart this place
From a life that sung your song

You'll still be the one i want

You'll still be the one i want

You'll still be the one i want

You'll still be the one i want

"Our Song"

2007-07-25T20:09:00.002+08:00

Title: Our Song

Artist: M2M

Origin: "Too Much Heaven" by The Beegees

I'm lying in my bed, all alone
Called you once again, no one is home
It's raining outside, on Saturday night
Turning out the light, again I tried

My friends say I'm too good, too good for you
And maybe that is true, well I don't care
What do they all know? They got it all wrong
This is so unfair, they're playing our song

Nobody gets too much heaven no more
It's much harder to come by
I'm waiting in line

Nobody gets too much love anymore
It's as high as a mountain
And harder to climb

Something's going on, what is wrong?
I want you to be here, why won't you come?
And spend some time with me, can't you see?
Have we come undone?
Is this the end of our song?

How do I deal with how I feel?
How to reveal?
What is real love as another day fades away?
So I say...

Kirk on 23rd

2007-07-18T01:48:00.002+08:00

This is more than a month-old post, however, I just recently had the photos with me. Anyways, my faily has prepared a small get together for my post-birthday celebration. It's nothing much, but it was more than okay.

Ronald McDonald now available in Mascot suit!

Okay, my birthday wasn't held at McDonald's. Har har! I just recently found out that Ronald McDonald is now an official mascot! I remember the old days when Ronald McDonald was always being shown as a guy wearing clown make up. Now, he has finally become a mascot.

Something I edited in Photoshop

That's what I call "Discipline your brother". Kidding!

My sister. Doing a great job in holding her breath!

We also had some series of photo shoots. Most photos are available in my multiply page for viewing. For a complete set of photos, click here.

2007 Elections and My First Day at Work

2007-05-15T08:20:00.001+08:00

Today, I accompanied my siblings, Bevs and Kristofer. We headed home as early as 8:00 am so that I could participate in this year's election for local government and the senate. Arcy went off for Nueva Ecija as early as 5:00 am so that he could come back for his shift later this day (3:30 pm).

Here are the list of senators I voted:
1. Manny Villar
2. Joker Arroyo
3. Kiko Pangilinan
4. Ralph Recto
5. Koko Pimentel
6. Sonia Roco
7. Chavit Singson
8. Migz Zubiri
9. Prospero Pichay
10. Noynoy Aquino
11. Mike Defensor
12. Vic Magsaysay

Anyway, around 10 pm, I had my first night with Accenture Delivery Center. I had a warm introduction to the whole floor especially to the management group. I was given kind attention and everyone was nice. In my observation, the operations floor had a very dry atmosphere. The floor is not hyped with energy as opposed to what we have in IBM. The workstations are so simple... or rather, dull. It is a violation to customize them with photos and all that. I just hope I can adjust in no time with all the changes and the culture we have here.

A Hundred Folds

2007-05-14T15:58:00.002+08:00

I've resigned from work three days ago. The reason? It's uneasiness. You sometimes let yourself into something you don't feel comfortable until you end up dragging your feet just for the sake to be there... Well, I didn't let that happen to me. I've decided as early as possible.

On the other hand, Accenture's been a good place to work. It's just that, it needs to be my kind of place to belong in. Anyway, I've also made good acquaintances with the analysts. Apparently, I was unable to establish good relationship with my co-managers.

Let me know what you think...

Update: June-06-07 I decided to end my employment with Accenture Delivery Center for the "attitude" shown by my co-managers. I was starving the other night but I tried to wait for my co-managers for the purpose of us getting into a small-talk especially since I'm new to the whole department.

I saw that they were already able to set-up themselves on the pantry and began eating. I thought it was the best time for me to join them and hopefully make their acquaintance. As soon as I got there I asked them if they don't mind me joining their table. They said it was okay. As soon as I sat on the chair, they immediately said that they changed their mind eating here and would need to look some place else downstairs. Then everyone left me on the pantry. I was like...WTF?

Having said those, I officially quit from Accenture on this day.

Experiencing Nueva Ecija

2007-05-10T23:27:00.002+08:00

Arcy, Joysie, Marie, and I all went to Sto. Cristo, Nueva Ecija last May 9 and 10, 2007. Arcy was the one who invited us for their annual feast (Fiesta) and at the same time, to check out the untouched local view from around their place.

As opposed to the meeting time of 8:00 am, the girls arrived at exactly 11:30 am. One of Arcy's cousin was supposed to ride with us all along in the trip but went ahead anyways.

We took LRT from Gil Puyat station to Monumento then took a bus from there. The travel time took us approximately 2.5 hours from Monumento to Sto. Cristo.

On our first day, we did nothing but to eat. Arcy's mom prepared us their delicacies that is incredibly delicious. I remember eating this sumptuous "Lumpiang ubod"... That was the best variety I've tried among all others.

A train-like tram used during the parade on their Fiesta

By night time, we decided to stroll along their streets and we came accross a very dark, long and wide rice fields. It was a good experience though. Furthermore, as soon as we head home, I brought out my laptop and began some movie marathon with Arcy's siblings.

Welcome to secret garden!

Skipping down the road

The next day, as soon as I woke up, we had a tiring but enjoying hiking on their local fields. We discovered their nice and cold river. It was clean and the sands were like refined. We also came accross this Mango tree farm and "Patola" farm. Oh! I also learned that Loofas are made from Patola! We were thirsty after our little journey and so we headed back home.

Let's swim in this local river!

One of the views that this place has to offer

Later that day, we head home back to Makati and have Marie stay on our place as she ready herself for her shift that night. All photos taken are posted on my multiply account. To view them, click here.

IBM Goes to Puerto Azul

2007-05-06T19:30:00.001+08:00

IBM went to Puerto Azul last April 21 & 22, 2007. It was very late of me to post this entry just now. I've been preoccupied with things lately. Anyways, we went to PBCom around Valero street to rendezvous for departure. The time of departure was supposedly 5:30 am and apparently, we were able to depart by 8:00 am. It was really a waste of time, if only I knew that it has been planned so unwell.

Checking out the menu by the poolside

Anyway, Arcy's the only person from eBay in the bus we're riding. The rest of the people inside were from the Sprint - Nextel account. There were also 2 management group inside. one is Carlo Tiamzon and the other one is me.

The view that the place has to offer

Nostalgia

We reached our destination at exactly 10:30 am. It was actually a quick ride though as we didn't go through our way down south expressway. We passed through this other route through Pasay going Cavite. Moving forward, the place is quite old as compared to the last time I saw it. It has been maintained poorly and you'll hardly see people coming in especially during this peak season of the year for summer. On the other hand, it was still okay. I could still go and make the place as nostalgic as before. I've uploaded all photos in my multiply account. You may check it out by going to this address: http://kirktonic.multiply.com

Checking out the ocean

The path of life

Since there are only a few heads I know, Arcy and I huddled with some escalations specialist and spent our day together. Since we get tired so quickly, we decided to come back to the bus as early as 4:00 pm. The bus eventually depart by 5:00. We arrived home by 8:00 in the evening and fell asleep immediately.

View the entire set of photos by clicking here.

Labor Day Holiday

2007-05-05T01:14:00.001+08:00

It was really enjoying when local holidays are given with treats. Thanks to Spiderman 3. That's right! I'm one of those movie geeks who stood in a very long queue just to see it on it's first day. Right! I'm as excited as anyone else! right after Arcy's shift, me and my youngest brother, Kristofer, headed to Glorietta to see the movie. Alas! We are gobsmacked as this was the biggest crowd ever for a movie release! Spiderman 3 was screened 3 days earlier here in the Philippines as opposed to the world premiere coming May 4. 8 out of 10 cinemas in Glorietta was alotted for Spiderman 3. Sanely enough, we decided to watch the movie in Festival Mall Alabang.

As we arrived. We noticed similar situations. 8 out of 10 cinemas were also given for Spidey. Excited enough, we entered the movie house an hour earlier just to ensure our seats. It was a smart decision though ^_^.... Seems like I'll do the same strategy for the next Harry Potter film! LMAO!

I wouldn't write any reviews for the movie yet but I think it was a little below expectations for me.... but hey! The movie was good!

Spiderman 3 Poster

Oh, check this one too:

Credit: http://www.deadlinehollywooddaily.com/spider-man-3-smashes-most-asian-records/

The movie had a total gross for Tuesday, May 1 of $29.15 million --- 86% bigger than the same territories opened on Spider-Man 2 ($15.6 million) and 175% bigger than the same territories opened on Spider-Man ($10.6 million).

and mark this:

Philippines – 45.6 million Pesos ($1.1) --- Biggest single day of all time, 39% bigger than previous record held by the opening weekend Sunday of Spider-Man 2 (32.7). Bigger than the opening days of Spidey 1 & 2 combined (42 million.) The 51 million opening day is 1/3 of the lifetime gross of Spider Man 1, which was at the time was the biggest film of all time. First film ever to gross $1 million in a single day.

Anyway, here's the longest movie preview of Spiderman 3 aired last April 23 in NBC during the come back of Heroes from it's season break. Enjoy!

It's A-Kirky-Thing

2007-04-12T02:35:00.002+08:00

After a long and busy week, I am happy to find some time writing a new entry for my blog. So what's up with me? Well, here are some of the latest things I've been up with...

1. Job Offer Confirmation from Accenture Inc.

- "Hi Kirk, alread got the good news from Babs... Expect a call from my team lead, Coleen, within the week for your job offer. I just thought of giving you a heads up already as this may brighten your day. Just pretend to be surprised when she calls you :P" This was the text message I received from Shena Dacasin, a recruitment officer from Accenture Inc. She was the one who ran me through the whole recruitment process and was very very helpful. She has this hobby of spilling out good news which I find nasty and wicked... but cool! On the other hand, Babs Abad was the one who conducted the closing interview for me. She is the project lead of the health and life sciences program which I will be assigned to. The position I got into is of the same level I'm in with IBM, an Assistant Manager for operations. However, Accenture is a completely different industry as they are a BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) center.

2. I Got A "Guru" Account in Youtube!

- Guru accounts are for people who are experts in… something! If you’re a gourmet chef, successful investor, or creative clothing designer, you might want to look into getting a Guru account. Advantages include being able to create a custom logo, genre, and links to your other websites from your Profile. There are two ways you can get a Guru account: (a) Specify the type of account you'd like when you first sign up for a new account. or (b)Convert your account from your Channel Info page. By having such account type, I'll be able to upload videos that would not undergo the 10-minute rule in posting.

3. I Bought A New PDA!

- That's right. I'll be having a new PDA this April 20th. I ordered the package through my former agent, Becka. I was told that it will be delivered on the date I just mentioned. Anyway, I'll be having the new O2 Atom PDA as a replacement for my existing PDA, O2 XDA II.

This is my current PDA, O2 XDA IIi

This will be my PDA by April 20th, O2 Atom

O2 Atom Specifications:

Dimensions:
- Approx. 58(W) x 102(L) x 18.5(T) mm
- Weight with battery: 140g
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0

Display:
- 2.7" TFT LCD display with touch panel
- 240 x 320 dots resolution
- Supports 262K colours (65,536 effective)

Operating time:
- Standby: 150 hours
- Talk time up to 5.5 hours

Note: Battery life may vary depending on RF conditions and actual usage

GSM/GPRS Tri-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE:
- GSM900
- GSM1800
- GSM1900

Bluetooth/Wireless LAN:
- Bluetooth SIG version 1.2 compliant
- IEEE 802.11b compliant

Memory size:
- Flash ROM: 128MB
- RAM: 64MB

Audio:
- Stereo speaker
- Speaker with receiver
- Omni-directional mono microphone
- Support speaker phone operation
- Ringtone support: 64-chord MIDI, MP3,WMA, WAV
- Playback support: MIDI, MP3, WMA,WAV, AMR

Camera:
- Colour 2-mega-pixel CMOS camera
- Preview mirror for self portrait
- White LED strobe flash
- Support still image and video capture

Processor:
- Intel PXA272 416MHz

4. My Public Friendster Account Reached 1000 Friends

- Right, as of April 1st of current year, my public account reached max friend limit of 1000. With this, I opened my second Public account for people who just wish to add me in their list. I do not add people whom I don't know in my private account, so if we're not related with each other, you may add me in friendster through this email address: tonicadvent@yahoo.com.

A screenshot from my Public Friendster account

I guess that's everything about me recently... and oh, my Dad's leaving for abroad this coming 17th of April. Will spend the rest of the week with my family.

How To Boost Up Your Internet Speed (Free Up Bandwidth)

2007-04-11T02:09:00.001+08:00

I was browsing the internet earlier to look for some ad-ons for my website and then I came into this page whereas a trick was taught. I haven't tried this yet but I find it clever and genuine.

WARNING : This trick only works with Windows XP Professional

Before you do this trick, go to this link and test your Download/Upload speed, after you apply this trick test your speed again http://www.speedtest.bbmax.co.uk/

1.Go To Start > Run > Type in "gpedit.msc" > Click Ok (Now, the Group Policy Editor window should be open)

2. Go To - Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > QOS Packet Scheduler > Limit Reservable Bandwidth
3. Double click on Limit Reservable Bandwidth.
4. Click Properties > Enable Reservable Bandwidth > Input "0"
5. Click OK (test your UP/DW again and see the different)

Click this thumbnail for screenshot

This is more like a "counter-what-XP-does" thingy. Furthermore, I conclude that XP seems to be reserving 20% of the bandwidth for itself even when this item (QoS) is disabled. So why not use it for your own advantage? To demonstrate the problem with this on stand alone machines, start up a big download from a server with an FTP client. Try to find a server that doesn't max out your bandwidth. In this case you want a slow-to-medium speed server to test this. Allow it to run for a couple of minutes to get stable. Then begin another download from the same server with another instance of your FTP client. You will notice that the available bandwidth is now being fought over and one of the clients download will be very slow or both will slow down when they should both be using the available bandwidth. Using this "tweak" both clients will have a fair share of the bandwidth and will not fight over the bandwidth.

Disclaimer : This trick is made by someone else that I read from an online source. If you decided to use this so-called "trick", please proceed with caution.

Enjoy...

Heroes on its Season Break

2007-03-18T13:12:00.008+08:00

I've just seen the latest episode of Heroes. Season 1 Episode 18: "Parasite". Linderman is finally seen in "Parasite," and playing him will be none other than Malcolm McDowell. McDowell's extensive resume includes A Clockwork Orange, Caligula, Time After Time, Cat People, Star Trek: Generations, and more.

Nathan pointing gun at Linderman

No word yet on how many episodes Mr. McDowell will be appearing in, but congratulations again to Heroes on this casting coup!

On this latest episode. Isaac painted his worst paint yet and just before the ending, Peter was caught by Sylar at Mohinder's house. I believe that Sylar would finally meet his match. Though Peter will be left with a big scar at his forehead. I remember in Episode 4: "Collision" that Hiro Nakamura from the future visited Peter to inform him about the "Save the cheerleader, Save the world" thingy and that he mentioned this line: "I didn't recognize you without the scar."

Isaac painted his worst painting

So most likely, Peter would survive Sylar's attack but would be left with a scar. Now here's another loophole from the story... Peter can retrieve the abilities he has used. Peter used Claire's ability one time. I was thinking as why would he have the scar if he can rapidly regenerate? Hmmm...

Sylar caught Peter

Anyway, I am sad that the Heroes come to a season break. Theyll be back by April 23 for Episode 19: "0.07%" I've attached the trailer for the next episode. Enjoy!

The Lex and Lana Wedding

2007-03-18T12:53:00.001+08:00

After a month of season break. Smallville has finally returned with it's latest episode. Season 6 Episode 16: "Promise". This episode is surely heartbreaking for the Clark and Lana fans out there as Lana Lang finally exchanged vows with Lex Luthor. In this episode, Lana also learned the shocking truth about Clark Kent.

Chloe matches the flowers

Lana planned not to show up for the wedding as she decided to be with Clark. Unfortunately, she was black mailed by Lionel Luthor and has to immediately choose between the lesser of two evils. It was also from this episode that we learned that something is weird going on with Lana's pregnancy.

Lana as she walked the aisle

Anyway, too bad that Lana finally settled down. What would the next episodes has to offer? I hope they now focus on Clark fulfilling his destiny as Superman!

"I do"

Dreamgirls

2007-03-15T11:53:00.001+08:00

I was overwhelmed by the moment I watched this movie. I must've admit that I underestimated the film. They in fact starred a very powerful cast and I think that J. Hudson was given a very good break despite getting eliminated in American Idol. The Dreamgirls is a successful broadway show in the 80's and had it's remake in the big screen 25 years later.

FACT: Dreamgirls was inspired by a true story adapting the whereabouts of the famous group "The Supremes". The group later on renamed into "Diana Ross and The Supremes". The Dreamgirls movie has a story line similar to that of the Supremes. Hence, it is not the biography of the group The Supremes.

The story was set in 1960s Detroit, a good night onstage can get you noticed but it won't get your song played on the radio. Here, a new kind of music is on the cusp of being born – a sound with roots buried deep in the soul of Detroit itself, where songs are about more than what's on the surface, and everyone is bound together by a shared dream.

Curtis Taylor, Jr. (Jamie Foxx) is a car salesman aching to make his mark in the music business – to form his own record label and get its sound heard on mainstream radio at a time when civil rights are still only a whisper in the streets. He just needs the angle, the right talent, the right product to sell.

Late for their stint in a local talent show, The Dreamettes – Deena Jones (Beyoncé Knowles), Lorrell Robinson (Anika Noni Rose), and lead singer Effie White (Jennifer Hudson) – show up in their cheap wigs and homemade dresses, rehearsing songs and steps by Effie's brother, C.C. (Keith Robinson), with hopes that talent and sheer desire will break them out of the only life that seems available to them.

They're young. They're beautiful. They're just what Curtis is looking for.
All they have to do is trust him.

James "Thunder" Early (Eddie Murphy) is a pioneer of the new Detroit sound, spellbinding audiences all along the "Chitlin' Circuit" with his electrifying blend of soul and rock 'n' roll. Curtis finesses The Dreamettes a gig singing backup for Early, and suddenly, for all of them, the gulf between what they want and what they can have draws closer for the first time.

The Dreams' Launching debut

Curtis launches the girls as a solo act, rechristening them The Dreams, knowing in his gut that success lies not with the soulful voice of Effie, but with the demure beauty and malleable style of Deena – despite their history…and Curtis' promises. Deena is ready to step into the spotlight, even as Effie fades away.

The Dreamettes as they dance to the tune "Stepping to The Bad Side"

As a new musical age dawns, Curtis' driving ambition pushes this one-time family to the forefront of an industry in the throes of music revolution. But when the lights come up and the curtains part, they hardly recognize who they've become. Their dreams are finally there for the taking, but at a price that may be too heavy for their hearts to bear.

Effie White (Jennifer Hudson) as she sings the showstopping song "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going"

The groundbreaking Tony Award-winning Broadway phenomenon comes to life as an all-new motion picture adaptation written and directed by Academy Award®® winner Bill Condon. A Laurence Mark production presented by DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures, "Dreamgirls," is a compelling story of love and loyalty, fame and betrayal that tracks the struggle, sacrifices and triumphs of a group of outsiders carrying their landmark sound into mainstream America in the 1960s and '70s.

I really love Beyoncé's role and the way she acted here!

Prepare For Glory

2007-03-10T01:13:00.001+08:00

I've just seen the movie, 300, earlier this night and I believe that it was a simple-minded but visually exciting experience, full of blood, violence, and read-made movie quotes. It was really entertaining especially for war enthusiasts.

Movie Poster

What I like about the film is that it was made with less color saturation. For this reason, I believe it made the movie perfectly manifested through it's cinematography. There are also scenes that shown unnecessary actions, but that was okay.

Stelios crouches behind his shield as shrapnel tears through

Overall, the movie was substantial, however, the idea of King Leonidas was selfish. Anyway, 300 is based on the epic graphic novel by Frank Miller. It was a ferocious retelling of the ancient "Battle of Thermopylae" in which King Leonidas (Played by Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to their death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Facing insurmountable odds, their valor and sacrifice inspired all of Greece to unite against their Persian enemy, drawing a line in the sand for democracy. The film brings Miller's acclaimed graphic novel to life by combining live action with virtual backgrounds that capture his distinct vision of this ancient historic tale.

King Leonidas fights his way through the first wave of Persian infantry

It had made my work off worth it. Cheers!

Another Day for Shoppaholics

2007-02-25T06:30:00.001+08:00

We woke up at exactly 8 in the morning yesterday. Arcy and I have already set our itinerary for the whole day. I was glad that we've done all our plans except from seeing the movie "Bridge to Terabithia". Anyway, it was really a tiring day.

We first stopped at Park Square 1 to buy the digital watch that Lanz' want. It was quite a bargain though. We bought it for a fairly low price. We headed next to Bio Research. I spent nearly Php 5,000 for a dog's travel cage (which will eventually be used by our 3 bunnies), a Hamster's playground (a cage with attached add-ons that looked like a maze), a pair of Teddy bear hamsters, a pair of rabbits, and a set of feeds. We really are turning our pad into somewhat like a wildlife.

A day before yesterday, we went to visit my parents' place. I lend them my WOW Magic Sing and 4 DVD disks for them to watch. We then headed to Festival Mall and we bought 2 new rubber shoes. We bought And1 and Accel shoes altogether for another Php 5,000.00 it was quite a bargain. It's a good thing we headed there during Sale.

Anyway, we've also seen "Epic Movie", this movie however, doesn't make any sense at all. It has no concrete storyline, quite inconsistent, and a waste of time... on the other hand, I liked it, I laughed at it, and I guess I was quite surprised that I liked a lame movie such as this. "Epic Movie" is like a sequel to the infamous series of "Scary Movies", but since they will no longer create another scary movie, they would of course continue the series with the Epic Movie.

Heroes: A New Addiction

2007-02-13T05:20:00.001+08:00

I am really hooked with this brand new TV Series "Heroes". I heard about this some time last year but I was so hooked with Smallville which is currently in it's 6th season. So far, I find "Heroes" as my favorite TV Series. I've done a marathon from Episodes 1 - 7 earlier and I'm currently downloading episode 8. Anyways, "Heroes" hasn't been introduced here in the Philippines but most likely, we'll have it by 2008, and chances are, it'll be aired in Studio 23... Just getting that feeling, though I'm still unsure.

What is Heroes?

Heroes is a new television series on NBC, created by Tim Kring (also creator of Crossing Jordan). It premiered last September 25th, 2006 at 9:00PM (Monday), it was the most awaited series that launched last year.

What is Heroes about?

The show is about regular people from all around the world discovering that they have special abilities. Not knowing where their powers came from, each of them deal with life changing events.

Who are the Heroes?

This is what I currently know of the main characters:

Mr. Bennet (Jack Coleman), A father who works for the Primatech Paper Company, which is actually a cover operation for an organization that investigates people with superhuman abilities.
Claire Bennet (Hayden Panettiere), Mr. Bennet's adopted daughter, who lives in Odessa, Texas, and whose injuries immediately heal.
Simone Deveaux (Tawny Cypress), an art dealer and gallery owner whose skepticism and complicated romantic life are tested.
D.L. Hawkins (Leonard Roberts), Once an escaped criminal (The charges were dropped), he has the power to alter his physical tangibility and phase through solid objects, both inanimate and organic.
Isaac Mendez (Santiago Cabrera), An artist living in New York who can paint future events during precognitive trances. He also writes and draws a comic book called 9th Wonders! which has also been shown to predict the future.
Hiro Nakamura (Masi Oka), A programmer from Tokyo with the ability to manipulate the space-time continuum.
Matt Parkman (Greg Grunberg), A Los Angeles police officer with the ability to hear other people's thoughts.
Nathan Petrelli (Adrian Pasdar), a New York Congressional candidate with the ability of self-propelled flight. He is Claire Bennet's biological father.
Peter Petrelli (Milo Ventimiglia), A former hospice nurse and Nathan's younger brother. He is an empath with the ability to mimic the powers of others he has been near and can recall any ability he has used in the past by focusing on his feelings for those from whom the abilities originate. He also experiences clairvoyant dreams.
Micah Sanders (Noah Gray-Cabey), D.L.'s son and a child prodigy, Micah has a technopathic ability enabling him to communicate with machines and electronics, and manipulate them.
Niki Sanders (Ali Larter), The wife of D.L. and mother of Micah. A former internet stripper Las Vegas who exhibits superhuman strength when her alternate personality, Jessica, surfaces. Niki as far as we know hasn't shown superhuman strength like Jessica.
Mohinder Suresh (Sendhil Ramamurthy), A genetics professor from India who travels to New York to investigate the death of his father, Chandra. Through his investigations, he comes into contact with people his father listed as possessing superhuman abilities.

What is their purpose?

At this time it is unknown why these people have special powers. Perhaps to save the world?

Romeo Must Die

2007-02-07T06:46:00.001+08:00

And he did...

He was dead.

We found him lying lifeless as soon as we woke up this morning. I feel bad. We just had him four days ago.

Anyway, there are another 2 hamsters joining Juliet. This time, it would make them 2 girls and a boy hamster. Thus, it is imperative that I change Juliet's name.

I've come up with Morgan (Boy), Amy, and Lulu. Right! They are the three bears that stars in the nursery flick "Bananas in Pajamas".

So long for Romeo and welcome to Morgan and Amy.

I'll buy them a customized cage next time. Wait 'till you see it!

Romeo and Juliet

2007-02-04T02:01:00.001+08:00

I guess I'm enjoying having pets around. Yeah, if you're thinking that I bought another set of pets, you're absolutely right. Earlier, we bought 2 cute Teddy Bear Hamsters and a fancy container for barely Php 500.00

I've never seen this kind of hamsters before. They resembled closely to a stuffed bear for kids' toy. Cool! I've been thinking of a famous couple's names while suddenly Romeo and Juliet popped out of my mind. And I think it's perfect for those cute creatures.

Anyway, changing the topic, Arcy and I had some furniture shopping earlier too. We've purchased a computer table enough to hold the desktop PC and the laptop. We also bought a fancy cabinet to add on our tiny apartment's crowd. ^_^

Hey! We also watched Apocalypto written and directed by Mel Gibson. In my opinion, I think it has a lame story but great cinematography. The overall appearance of the movie is absolutely great but if you'll realize how was the storyline... er... well... it was still good though. It was fascinating to see Aztec tribes in the big screen for the first time. And I think that made the movie great ^_^

And The Ladies Got A Name

2007-02-02T01:54:00.001+08:00

Finally, our two cute bunnies has finally got an official name. We named the gray one "Dutchess" while the small one "Bunnylette". You think it's cute? I'm not sure myself though but I'm sure that they liked it!

Just giving an update ^_^

Laptop and Router

2007-01-22T05:07:00.001+08:00

I finally got my laptop!!! Yay! Well, it's not as techy as my desktop computer but I think that the specs are okay with me.

Processor: Intel Pentium M 1.36GHZ
RAM: 256 DDR
Features: WiFi ready, Built-in Webcam, DVD/CD Writer
OS: Windows XP SP3 with Vista

I also ended up buying a "Router". It's a device used to split the broadband connection to multiple computers. Since I want my laptop be connected in the internet, then I got no choice but to buy this. It cost me almost all the remaining money I have in pocket. Geez! Anyways, I am happy that I managed to install the OS to my laptop by myself!

It was really tiring. i barely have sleep. I still got work!

The Latest Bunny Addition

2007-01-18T23:42:00.001+08:00

Our bunny family is unexpectedly growing. I can still remember how Alpheus and Persephone found us in the middle of nowhere. Eversince Persephone left us for good, the bunny family is inevitably growing. Okay, the bugs-bunny-looking rabbit still has no name. Now, another bunny has recently joined Alpheus and Bugs.

Unfortunately, the little bunny is still nameless. It's the smallest among the three. It's a girl. It's white in color with a dash of ash colored spots. It's the most adorable and tamed.

Check out her photos. I'll let everyone know once she has a name.

TONICADVENT.COM LAUNCHED!

2007-01-18T04:20:00.001+08:00

Finally, I've already purchased a hosting plan along with a domain name. I paid like $36 for an annual subscription. You might want to get your own host at www.philhosting.net and see for yourselves.

Version 2. My new layout!

So it's finally launched. 4 links are still under construction so please be patient. See you there!

2nd World Pyro Olympics Finale

2007-01-16T08:55:00.001+08:00

This day was a blast! My family's original plan was to watch a Jackie Chan movie before heading to Mall of Asia to watch the spectacular fireworks show. On the other hand, we are left with no choice but to immediately head to Mall of Asia as we barely have time to watch a movie.

As soon as we parked in the 4th level of the mall, we headed at the Esplanade area to purchase tickets for General Viewing. We entered the viewer's area and as early as 5:30 PM, you would see the crowd beginning to pile up.

As soon as the clock hit 7:00 PM, I went to the entrance to meet my aunt who would join us for the event. This night, it'll be Teams China and Philippines who would do a showdown. After a very long wait, we witnessed China's dragon fireworks. One thing I liked most was their apple-shaped fireworks that even has a leaf on it's side. I think, that was very creative.

People watching China's Dragon Fireworks from above

Colorful Firework

They also showed different figures like strawberry, a butterfly, and I heard that there was a cupid-shaped figure.

People astounded as they view their country's local fireworks

Fireworks fanatics getting close

As the night gets deeper, the crowd also multiplies. I thought, if there were more people waiting, then chances are, there is something to see for Team Philippines.

A view from the General Viewing area

Team Philippines

And I was right. Team Philippines was the best performance around. They showed an exhibition performance as we are the hosting country. Biased aside, we are the best among the rest and it made me proud. Though the country is not competing, I am very pleased to see how great our locally-made fireworks are. This is truly a must-see! Then I learned afterwards that the Philippines actually is a world title holder of supremacy in pyrotechnics. In fact, we won as champion for a competition held two years ago in Hong Kong.

Griffin & Phoenix

2007-01-13T01:56:00.001+08:00

"As day passes, a part of our body is dying. All of us will have the same destination from this journey we called life. The difference is how we spend the remaining ticks of the clock before we grasp our final breath."

- Arcy

I learned from Arcy that "Griffin and Phoenix" was in fact a remake of a 1976 movie and as I watched it, I was moved. For me, the movie would bore you in some scenes. There were also numerous scenes which I find unrealistic. On the other hand, I believe it was a good film.

Alright, it's about Sarah Phoenix ( Amanda Peet ) who has an Ovarian cancer while Griffin ( Dermot Mulroney) has a multiple lesion in his chest. In other words, both of them are in the terminal part of their life. They barely know each other and they have the same thing to make the most.... their remaining time.

Just imagine if both of you knows that your relationship is doomed, thus your days are numbered. What would you do?

Meet The New Bunny!

2007-01-10T22:36:00.001+08:00

Hey! 12 Days have gone since Persephone left us for good. This time, we searched for the perfect replacement. Well, in fact we're not looking for Persephone's replacement as she will still remain the pet that we loved. What we're actually searching for, is a bunny that is as adorable as Persephone.

As soon as we headed for Bio Research, after purchasing ticket to watch Eragon, my attention was drawn to this one and only bunny available for sale. It seems like it was there for us to grab. It's like heaven-sent. The first time I saw this cute creature, we immediately bought it!

Our new bunny. Showing her fur and beauty.

I called her Bugs Bunny. It's not her official name though but she is like a living replica of my favorite Looney Tunes character. She has this ash color that shows different tones as you stroke her furs. She's also healthy and smaller as compared to Alpheus.

Another view

As soon as we head home, we have Alpheus meet her. To our surprise, it seemed like Alpheus like her much! Bingo! He met a hot chick! Oh well, he's sort of jealous with her. He seemed to notice that we cuddle her more than him. There also came a time that he doesn't like to be touched. Poor Alpheus...

But we love him though! He's the most energetic and lively pet I've ever had. ^_^

Eragon

2007-01-10T22:16:00.001+08:00

It's Wednesday. I took another three-days leave excluding my one day off this week. Well, I was planning to go and consider the invitation I had with HSBC as an Assistant Manager for Operations however, something came up which I thought is a better idea.

And so, Arcy and I went to Glorietta 4 to watch Eragon! Anyway, we used this so-called prepaid movie passes valid only in Ayala Malls and I think it's kind of handy when you need it. Anyway, the prepaid is worth Php 100.00 each passes and I got them for only Php 80.00 each. Thanks to Rada for selling me such usable stuff.

Eragon Official Poster

Eragon is about a boy named "Eragon" who found a polished blue stone in the forest. At first, he thinks it's a lucky discovery, something that will bring meat to his poor family for the winter. Instead, it brings a dragon hatchling, and Eragon is soon thrust into a world of magic and power through which he and the dragon must navigate.

Brom, another dragon rider, handling Eragon a legendary sword

Cefiro's first fire breathe

The movie was good but is not likely the kind that impresses me. There is something in the movie that is missing in which I can't even muster to identify as which.

A photo taken from one of the scenes in the movie

Right after the movie, we literally ran towards Bio Research store to pick up the new rabbit that we bought earlier before we went inside the movie house. Details are in a separate post.

2nd World Pyro Olympics [Day 3]

2007-01-08T01:31:00.001+08:00

It's the 2nd world Pyro Olympics. I hurried down at the lobby of the Penn. I met Arcy just around the valet area. We ride a cab on our way to Mall of Asia and the rest is history.

It was really a splendid experience when you watch live fireworks. Most people says that it has psychological effect as it helps release stress, plus it relaxes the mind. Hmmm... I learned that the event was in fact the 3rd day. This night, it'll be Team UK and team Germany who'll do the pyro exhibitions.

UK's Finest

A combination of fireworks from Germany

Germany's final blow

I hardly saw UK's fireworks but as far as I saw them, they're the best so far. As for Germany, they've shown a bunch of new fireworks with creativity. It was really a great experience being there. We really love watching fireworks! I'll have some video clips posted here or elsewhere in my Video blog.

Lunch Out With The Torreses

2007-01-08T00:43:00.001+08:00

I never imagined that after 13 years of residency in Vancouver, my closest aunt would one day come back to the homeland. It was like only yesterday when they arrived and yet they are now heading back to the foreign land they've learned to call their home.

I took a leave for this day to come out right... however, it turned out even better. Okay, this is how it all happened. Three days ago I was told to head to The Peninsula Manila after work so I could come along with my Family along with the Torreses for a scrumptious lunch out.

Walking our way to Glorietta

Alright, instead of a lunch out, it turned out to be a dinner. But hey! I think it's better. Anyway, we headed towards "Recipes". It's a fine-dining restaurant in the middle of Greenbelt 3. They serve native dishes that is quite familiar to the taste of the Filipinos.

Food! Here we go!

After that delectable set of foods, we also had good conversations and a never-ending photo sessions. Right after, we decided to take a short walk from our location, back to The Peninsula Manila. We took the Greenbelt 4 route going there and had window-shopping with some of the finest brands out there. To name some of them, we passed a hallway of stores like Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Burberry's, Celio, Springfield, Banana Republic, etc.

Twins by fate ^_^ My Sister and Cousin

Outfit by Springfield. Part of my wishlist for 2007

That's my sister standing and amzed to Marks and Spencers' display

I had everything taken in video. Just make sure to check my Videos blog since I won't be attaching it along with this post. Anyway, as soon as we reached the Penn, I hurried down to meet with Arcy at the lobby and so we headed to Mall of Asia.

Our purpose?

Find out on my next post!

Noche Espléndida

2007-01-01T23:56:00.001+08:00

I titled this post Noche Espléndida instead of Media Noche. In Spanish, Media Noche means "An Average Night", but is significantly used during the eve of New Year's Day. On the other hand, I find this night a very special night.

Anyway, for some reason, I woke up so late in the afternoon. It was around 2:00 PM more or less. My two siblings, Bevs and Tim, stayed at my apartment for the last 2 days. This made them so hooked into movie and anime marathon. What I'm trying to say is, all of us woke up late, that includes Arcy.

Again, one of the tenants in my apartment (Boggs) is still missing in action. It's a good thing that me and Arcy ended up celebrating the New Year's Eve with my family. Thanks to my mom and Dad for persuading us to stay so. Anyway, since we are short of time for preparation, Arcy and I decided to buy a cake from Red Ribbon, ingredients for Chicken Macaroni Salad, and a bottle of red wine.

Alas, not everything that is planned turned out so well. We might have underestimated the occasion. We can no longer find any shop that sells cakes so we ended up buying a chocolate roll from Goldilocks. Instead of us buying ingredients for the salad, we ended up buying a galon of Cookies and Cream flavoured Ice Cream. On contrary, we bought a very delicious red wine that is extracted from Strawberry and Grapes.

All is well, we celebrated the eve with a toast of red wine, a prayer, and cheerful faces. Hoping for a good year this year.

A Gigantic Birthday Bash

2006-12-28T22:38:00.001+08:00

Hey! It's December 28th and that makes my aunt's birthday today. So since, she hasn't come home for the last 13 years, mom planned a quite impressive megaton celebration for her dear sister.

Alright, here's the deal. I'm supposed to pick up my aunt and her family from The Peninsula Manila, ride a cab all the way through JPA Homes in Susana Heights, drop them there to visit Mrs. Almeda, then come home to drop off several gift bags for Christmas to be distributed to every family.

What came out of the event was rather unexpected but was astonishing and impressive for my aunt. Everyone in the Belarmino clan is present. Though, we are also missing several people, but almost everyone is there. Alright, we didn't realize that I got plenty and even more cousins than I thought. Our clan's production is very progressive. Har har har!

Well, it was really a very exciting and happy day. Too bad, I had no photos taken this day, but hey! I'll wait for my aunt to post the photos asap. I'll post it here right away once I get hold of the uploaded photos.

Joyeux Noël [Merry Christmas]

2006-12-25T22:17:00.002+08:00

It's Christmas day! I hurriedly ran to the office the moment I woke up. I am thankful upon finding out that I had 7 agents present at work today despite the importance of this occasion to every family. Surprisingly, one of my short term goals in my company has been met. Cyrus, one of my team's point person, has now been promoted to Voice and Accent Trainer. I am so happy to have a subordinate get promoted. That is already a good Christmas present for myself.

Anyway, as early as 11:15 AM I finished my quick huddle with my team then immediately proceed to The Peninsula Manila. I met one of my aunts in the lobby. It's nice to know that I arrived just in time. So, moving forward, we set our foots inside the ranger then headed to Sta. Rosa Laguna.

By the time we reached our destination, my family hasn't arrived yet. So, I spent my time with my best cousins blabbering non-sense. As the clock hits 2:45 PM, my family arrived and we immediately fixed the table for our Christmas feast.

On our feast we had baked potatoes, baby back ribs, the ever delicious Mechado, Steak, Ham, sugar-free brownies, and a delicious cocktail. i hate to say this but i won't lose any weight today. Right after lunch, we opened one of the gigantic gifts there was. It's not so surprising to see the content from the wrapping outside. Well, it was a humongous teddy bear. I named it Morgan for my cousin. It was nearly 5 feet tall and definitely bigger than any of my cousins. Har har har! I estimated it was worth Php 8,000.00 from Bear Cuddler shoppe.

Home-made Ham! Yum!

What we got for Christmas

Taken from another view

My cousin Sarah, opening her enormous Christmas present

Hey! I'm almost there! What do we have here?

It's a ... It's a ... It's a MASCOT!

We spent the rest of the day chatting with one another, had a laptop in front of me the whole time and drafting this blog entry online. It was really a nice day. Arcy, on the other hand, had a shift so he quickly went to the office after a party held at their place in Nueva Ecija.

Me with my siblings and cousins at the living room

Cousin Paul, me, and my brothers

(From left to right) My sister, Sarah, and Frances

Family photo

Anyway, everything went so well today. Looking forward for more Christmas days ^_^

Too Fast... Too Furious

2006-12-25T16:09:00.000+08:00

Nothing much important. My cousin, Paul, is just showing off his custom car. It's in fact a red Ford Lynx car custom for mega-music with amplifier and stuffs. I had it recorded in video. I'm planning to have a custom car too in the near future.

Ma Pré Célébration De Noël ::: My Pre Christmas Celebration

2006-12-25T00:30:00.000+08:00

This is one exciting day of the year. First of all, my aunt from vancouver along with my cousin arrived earlier. Next thing, I hardly had time to sleep. One last thing, I'll be celebrating the eve with my family... Well, that's what I thought.

Anyway, I took a nap and asked my sister to give me a ring on my landline so as for me to wake up by 2:30 PM. By the time I woke up, I hurriedly prepared to be fetched by my Dad. Well, my Dad's a little late as he went on to look where he could find my apartment. It was a good thing I saw him first. I went down from my apartment's building then wave a hand at him.

I sat in the front beside my Dad then we drove our way to The Peninsula Manila to pick up my aunt and her family. I didn't expect that finding our way to go to the hotel wasn't as easy as ABC, but instead, we got lost on our way finding the right route to the hotel. We went around Ayala Ave. and Makati Ave. twice before we find our way.

Taken on the other side of the street.

Being inside Manila Penn (The Peninsula Manila) wasn't my first time either. I can still remember the time I spent my holidays here 3 years ago. Now that I'm back, I had no worries of finding my way to my aunt's suite. As my Dad and I hurried our way upstairs, I took a bunch of photos for my blog. Nothing much changed in the place except the gigantic aztec looking vases at the lobby.

Gabriela Monument with Manila Penn at the back

The Hotel Vallet area

The Hotel Lobby

Upon reaching the third floor and right to the suite where my aunt stays, they couldn't believe how much I've grown. It was like their first time here in Manila after 13 years of residency in Great Vancouver. They left the country when I was barely 7. Now, I'm 22. They almost thought I was a stranger. Well, honestly I am now a stranger to them...

Third Level Hallway. On our way to Suite 324

Here's a photo of Suite 324

My aunt brought me a full pack of my favorite Ferreros. I couldn't imagine that Ferreros are not that expensive as what it is here. I also got a new shirt, and some vitamins! Great! Seeing my Mom and my aunt with my Grand Dad was truly a teary moment. Seeing their tears was quite overwhelming. I remember my cousin when she finally got here in Manila. Frances, whom had left the country when she was only 17 months, felt sad for The Philippines realizing how blessed she was when she spent growing up in another country that is truly organized and full of opportunities. However, she also realizes that despite the Filipino people on poverty, everyone seems so happy to celebrate Christmas. But still, shocked with how our country looked like.

One example was when they landed from the plane. She thought that the atmosphere was filled with fog, then realizing afterwards that it was in fact smog. She never even saw a real cockroach in her life. Neither an ordinary ant.

After having our early Noche Buena (Christmas eve Feast), my parents took me home. That's how I got here right now having me spend Christmas eve all alone. Seems sad? I don't think so. I had a quiet time with God. I greet him like a son does to his father... and I like the feeling. I asked for his guidance and wisdom for every path I should take. I thanked him for being a good God... Well, "good" was in fact an understatement but I'd rather say he's the best there is. I am thankful that he gave me almost everything that I wanted. On the other hand, I also thanked him for not giving everything to me... so that I could always have something I could look forward to.

Frances, beside me.

Me, my siblings, and my cousin (I hate sitting in between ultra thin people, making me so fat)

(From left to right) My Mom, Tita Lynne, and Tita Jing

Frances, opening a gift from my sister

I also thanked our Lord for bestowing me a beloved partner in life whom I truly love. I couldn't ask for more (Which reminds me of 1Corinthians 13:4-8).

To God Be The Glory!

Edrei & New Layouts

2006-12-23T23:55:00.000+08:00

I didn't come to work today. I spent my time sleeping all day. What a relief. I haven't had much sleep for 2 weeks. Well, since I got nothing to do, I revised my website layout as soon as i got up from bed. What I have in mind is the Gothic-Carnivale entourage which I was successful in doing so. Another things is that, I found out that Edrei has changed his old website from edrei.tk to edreiarts.co.nr. I wonder what's gotten into his mind but the good thing is that I found a customizable guestbook through his site, and so I made my own guestbook. Thanks to Edrei.

Tonic Advent version 1.0 (The old layout)

Since, I mentioned Edrei, I received a text message a while ago with his recommendation of me viewing his video from VCF Alabang website. So for his benefit and for the church as well, I'll be sharing this video. Please take some time to view it and feel free to post a comment.

VCF Video Announcement (Dec 2006)

The Luis Family, the Crossover, and Arcy Online

2006-12-22T23:27:00.000+08:00

It was another tiring day today. I am, in fact, not in the mood to come to work. Thanks to Arcy for waking me up every now and then. He keeps me going. Har har har! As soon as I arrived to the office, I was pleased to see the people under our OM umbrella wearing our team-spirit shirts. Thanks to Kaye for the creative design at a very affordable price.

My subordinates were on AUX 9 (System Issue protocol) as soon as they came back from lunch. I, on the other hand, just arrived after a tiresome travel. The entire account has been experiencing a tantamount series of drop/ghost calls, in layman's term, they're known as "one-way audio". The entire operations resumed at around 11:30 AM earlier.

As soon as we finished the shift, everyone hurried to the 31st floor for the General Assembly to be facilitated by the Assistant Managers and as well as our dear OM. I was asked to tackle the first two slides which covers the team stats for November and December.

This is Jean's foot. Check out her toe ring!

On the assembly we recognized performers, gave tokens to the awardees, and discussed the hype of our current action plans to boost Customer Satisfaction. Then after the said assembly, we rallied our way to our floor meet with our dear manager. I was also surprised that today's our scheduled night out with my colleagues. We decided to go and eat at the Crossover buffet at Dad's, Saisaki, and Kamayan at Glorietta 2.

Freebies we got from buying a refillable iced tea

Check out the guy in the middle... We don't know who he is!

As usual, we bombed the place with neverending picture takings, hard laughters, and gossip exchanges. We hardly noticed the time. Too bad, my PDA had ran out of power. Too good, Kaye bought her 6 mpx digicam. That solved our day.

Our Indian colleague, Rakhi, with the glutton! Peace!

Who's prettier?

At home, when I came back at around 9:00 PM, I can already feel the pain of being too tired from a long day. I took a shower first to freshen up myself, then finally decided to take my rest. However, I almost forgot that I promised Arcy to upload his site layout that I made for him.

Yes, I am responsible for the makeover of Arcy's blogsite. It was his own idea of style, but nevertheless I, of course, am responsible for everything. Ahem! Peace! Anyway www.arcyonline.co.nr officially launched today (December 22, 2006).

This is the screenshot of Arcy Online's site layout that I made

Now, after I'm done with all the to-do things for today, I am very delighted that I can finally take the rest that I deserve. I've beeen thinking of revising my site's layout by January. What do you think?

Let me know if you have a suggestion. Feel free to post a comment! ^_^

A Tribute To Persephone

2006-12-18T21:20:00.000+08:00

25 Days ago two little angels found us and asked us to take them home. We named them Alpheus and Persephone. They are cute little bunnies and I never regret bringing them home. 25 days later, Persephone has left us forever. I held her in my arm. It was so sudden. As soon as I arrived home from work, I even saw her jumping for joy.

A few minutes later... she's gone.

Her passing is still a mystery and yet a riddle to the mind but understood by the heart. I've never felt this bad when a pet passed away after my favorite dog passed away a decade ago. I was dumbfounded after seeing Persephone lying... lifeless.

Arcy soon knew about the news and we were both silent... yet happy with hope.

It was said that after a life has been shed, a hundred folds of brand new life is returned. That reminded me the "Law of Conservation".

As for now... Forever farewell to you Persephone.

My Celebrity Look-alikes

2006-12-11T19:08:00.000+08:00

I wasn't able to attend our company's Christmas party. Too bad, it's flooded outside -Again! Anyway, despite the unfortunate event, I enjoyed staying at home since I'm so hooked in my Smallville Series marathon. Yes! I'm finally at Season 5. We bought the complete seasons 1 - 5 DVD collection when we got our 13th month pay. I can't wait to see the latest episode!

While doing nothing, I find this website cool enough. It would allow you to upload your photo and have analyze it by a computer A.I. Hence, the results will give you your celebrity look alikes! Go ahead and try this link:
http://www.myheritage.com/FP/Company/tryFaceRecognition.php

See my own results below:

Common Work Off For The Gang

2006-11-24T19:29:00.000+08:00

Finally, the three of us have a common rest day from work. I still haven't gone to work as I have been suffering from severe insomia. Believe it or not, I haven't slept for three days. Too bad for me. On the brighter side, there comes good times like this where we could hang out together worry-free from work. Our main agenda is to buy an indoor cage for our new pets (The Bunnies). For that reason, we headed immediately to Bio Reasearch at Glorietta 1 via cab.

Me. Riding a cab. On our way to G1

We finally settled for a medium multipurpose indoor cage. It cost us Php 650.00 including the water container and the wood shavings for their mat. As soon as we have everything we needed for the bunnies, we headed to Chubby China at Greenbelt 1. This restaurant offers a great deal over a variety of chinese cuisines. The good thing is, you can have a buffet meal for only Php 88.00 (Tax exclusive) and an additional Php 20.00 for a refillable iced tea.

1st round of our meal. Getting ready to eat

2nd round getting full

Lanz is too worried on having leftovers

As soon as we're done eating we immediately headed inside Greenbelt 1 to purchase some Christmas decoration for our apartment. We browsed over a hundred ribbons, laces, and finally agreed to have an "All Blue" motif.

Greenbelt 1. On our way to National bookstore

Lanz is trying on a Christmas ribbon

Our last destination is for Arcy to get his hair done and for me and Lanz to get a clean manicure. We headed our way to the salon. Alas! Their service is getting way beyond my expectations and didn't bother to have my nails get a manicure. We immediately headed home without Lanz with us so as we can begin decorating the apartment for Christmas.

Arcy, still contemplating on a new hair style

Lanz, waiting forever for her turn.

New Bunnies For Keeps

2006-11-23T17:09:00.000+08:00

I went to my parents' home this morning. I brought Arcy with me and as we are crossing our way along the sidewalks of Alabang, we accidentally laid our eyes on some cute little creatures. We noticed that they were little bunnies around 2 months old. Without any hesitations, we bought it from the vendor. It was originally priced Php 350.00 each and ended us bargaining for only Php 350.00 pair!

What a great deal!

As soon as we headed home, we immediately name the pair of bunnies after some of my favorite greek gods. Alpheus and Persephone respectively. The white bunny is the female and while the brown chipmunk looking bunny is the male.

Alpheus being held in captivity ^_^

Mega Shopping Spree!

2006-11-17T13:40:00.000+08:00

Finally, our 13th month pay along with our salaries had been given. I received it last night and as I went back home, Arcy and I (as planned) prepared for purchasing a new mobile phone as soon as the clock ticks 9:00 AM.

Alas! We fell asleep and woke up at 1:00 in the afternoon. Such a waste! obviously, Lanz was nowhere to be seen as she went ahead of us. Anyway, we took the first cab outside our apartment and headed to Greenhills Shopping Center (Formerly known as Vira Mall).

We were contemplating on buying either a brand new or a refurbished phone. FYI, Arcy already had the nokia N90 three weeks back and got stolen 2 days after we purchased it. What a waste! This time we'll make it sure that it doesn't get stolen... or was it a wise buy?

Thank God, after 2 hours of roaming around the whole establishment, we found a stall that offers the lowest price for a refurbished N90. They only offered it for a price of Php 12.5K. What a great deal!

Obviously, we grabbed the offer. On the other hand, I also purchased accessories for my gadgets. It's a good thing that there had been a number of kind friends who advised me to buy accessories here instead of buying it from a store in a mall.

I bought a very fancy metallic case (black) and earphones for my iPod video, protector shield (black) and USB cable for my O2 XDA II PDA. Arcy, on the other hand, had the black protector shield for his Nokia N90 mobile phone.

We saved a lot of money just by being here. Everything's going cool!

Home Sweet Home

2006-11-15T21:28:00.000+08:00

I arrived at home at exactly 3 in the afternoon. I didn't come to work just to be at home. Dad's finally coming home after 3 years. It's been a long time. Well, my father is as practical as ever. He didn't bother us to fetch him at the airport but decided to take a cab ride home. He arrived with a wasted look. He's drenched with his sweat, wearing a queasy smile, pale cheeks, etc. Mom noticed and she was right with her assumptions. Dad was ill.

It's nothing really bad. He just have fever and colds. He eventually took a medicine by the time he settled to rest at home. There's only three of us inside. Well, everyone's still in school.

My Dad gave me some hand-me-down clothes. I got his jacket and a sports shirt. I liked it very much. To top them off, he even handed me the eye pads he had on plane. Thank God I really need it, most especially when I do quick naps in the office... We are more comfortable calling this moments "Power-Nap".

By seven in the evening, we headed in Alabang Town Center to have a simple dinner to celebrate Mom's birthday too. Yes! It is her birthday on this date too. I covered the expenses for the dinner since I just received my 13th month pay today. Whew!

After some time, we headed for home, everyone asked me to stay at home and spend the night with them. I didn't hesitate to say "Yes" but I am also thinking about the people in my apartment. They're also waiting for me. Anyway, they'd understood that it's such a big risk going home most especially my favorite gadgets are with me. It would be a great lost if I get mugged.

Wondering what's gonna happen next ^_^

My Dilemma

2006-10-27T20:07:00.000+08:00

When i was a little kid, I was left hanging on a tree. But I managed to hold on to a branch. I was up there for a long time and waited for help. The deafening silence, the pain in my arms, the blood pumping in my ears. I heard my heart beating... then I fell. I couldn't remember what happened when I hit the ground.

ALL I COULD REMEMBER WAS THE AGONY OF HOLDING ON AND THE WONDERFUL FEELING OF LETTING GO.

I'm feeling queasy of what I'm feeling right now... It's ironic that I'm a little but greatly disappointed.

A Very Lonely Day

2006-10-16T11:57:00.000+08:00

There comes a time in your life wherein you regret the passing away of a special person. You begin thinking "I wish I had..." or "I wish we could've...". But when the person's not here anymore... It's like the end of the world. Especially if the person had passed away.

In my case, this already happened twice. Dwayne and Charles both died from an accident. They were both my bestfriends as everyone knows. Monday comes (October 16, 2006), I found out from Othan that Leonard, whom I consider a brother and not just a bestfriend, had already passed away. Worse than that news is that Leonard died last year before Christmas. I feel sorry for his family. He got killed by a stab somewhere in Alabang. How stupid I am for not knowing this news. I blame myself for keeping distance with my old friends. I just hoped we could've been together before that fateful day... So sad... So lonely.

So lesson learned. I am now again gathering my old friends whom I built myself. I built them. Our friendship. Right there and then, I disappeared. Now, I was able to manage to gather them through my friendster account. What a cheesy way... but that's the easiest I can get through them. My mom had already spoken with Leonard's mom. Now I know why isn't he responding to my messages. There was a reason... A dark reason that I, myself, doesn't know.

I am now a successful person -and he wasn't able to see that. That hurts me a lot. The last time we've been together was the time we watched the movie "If Only".

Wherever Leonard is right now, I am sorry for not being there. Though, despite what happened, we will still see each other. My life, it's for you. God bless you.

This was his last photo taken. (Notice the deep sadness in his eyes?)
Leonard Montillano
1985 - 2005

Boneless Girl

2005-11-26T06:17:00.000+08:00

I find this link very funny and disgusting. Pointless Fun! You can click your mouse to the girl and throw her to any direction. Have fun!

Can This Be Love?

2005-08-14T15:47:00.000+08:00

I just got here at the office from Astoria Plaza. I hurriedly turned my computer on and since there was a system downtime, I just surfed the internet. While browsing my friendster profile, I read my horoscope for the day. I'm really not into this but for some reasons, I ran through it, read it, and it caught my attention. This is what I got.

Is this some kind of a message for real. Well, I do really hope that a wonderful person has entered my life seriously. I don't want to be alone anymore.

Kirk Speaks About Male Vanity...

2005-08-03T15:42:00.001+08:00

When I was still a little boy, I was like a street kid. I didn't like baths. I didn’t like combing my hair. I didn’t appreciate being powdered by my personal maid. Colognes that my mother pours upon me seem to evaporate instantly after I stepped out of the sun. I start to smell funky. Blotchy legs never faze me – I prefer the satisfaction of scratching mosquito bites until they bleed. I wanted to beat the living hell out of the girls in my kindergarten class who had hair that didn’t move or the boys whose fingernails has always kept by their mommies clean. Boys who are so clean annoy me. I thought that boys who are very neat are the Momma’s-boy-type. Boys who didn’t come back to class sweating like pigs after recess made my teeth itch. The fact that I could never be (or perhaps, never really wanted to be) as dainty as these creatures haunted me until high school.

I thought I would never change, and I never thought that one day, I’d be people’s role model because of just being neat and being vain –In my hygiene, and fresh-looks. It started when my two uncles of a not so far age-gap made me immune with the trend.

Dwayne spends more time in the bathroom than I do. He scrubs, trims and polishes parts of himself that only porn stars probably bother with. He never forgets to bring a handkerchief. He doesn’t stink after a sweaty workout.

While Charles, on the other hand, religiously applies lotion on his body after bathing. He consumes a lot of baby powder and cologne – a hell of a lot. He insists on changing his shirt immediately after class. He carries hand-sanitizing gel in his pocket.

I was only twelve that time, a kind of a happy-go-lucky boy who is still unaware of love, crushes, and teen stuffs. All I know is, I enjoy what I needed to enjoy. We strolled at the mall one Sunday morning with my friends. Wherever we walk, girls can’t help to have a second look with them. I wonder. They weren’t that good looking for me. Neither have they had a gorgeous body. I envy them that very moment. We spent the whole day at the mall, and I noticed that even adults stare at them. They were two gigantic head-turners.

I began appreciating my cool friends when I reached the age of thirteen. Personality does really count. I contemplated about how would I change myself, because pimples started to pop out of my face. That’s the only time I realized I don’t look good anymore, and why does girls don’t admire me.

Glad to have my parents with me. They were both vain. I asked for their help on what should I do. My Dad just smiled and said to my Mom, which is something like, “Our son’s growing up”. Mom answered, “He’s already a teenager, so what else do you expect?”

Whatever… I hate it but I can’t help it…

I began to have a crush on the second quarter of my first year. She’s astoundingly pretty. Boys admire her too. I like her so much –the only problem is –she doesn’t like me. She used to snob me and will just appreciate me for being a bright honor student. It kills me. She thinks I’m a nerdy geek. My whole clan boasts a good attractive personality since we came from a mixed race, while me? I’m darn out of date!

She challenged me. I immediately ran errands over something that would make me better. I cried out of disappointment in a corner one day. My best friend comforted me. He said I don’t look bad at all, he just said I just need to be a bit organized. He told me that a lot of girls admire me but won’t attempt to be with me because I’m a disorganized person. Goodness! Is that what they think? It’s a relief; I thought I look that bad.

After gaining my confidence back, I asked for my mom’s help. She brings me at Dr. Belo’s clinic at Town Center every Sunday since mom got a special discount from Dr. Vicky because they were colleagues before.

First year passed and the second year came. I had a major makeover the past summer time. I went in the class. My mates mistook me for being a new student. They told me I look nice. I told them thanks. I never noticed that I changed a lot, by the way I look, by the way I speak, and by the way I behave. Maybe I really become matured enough. My crush came to me and sits next to my seat. It felt so good especially that she opened up a conversation with me. After some time, that girl became my girlfriend. From that moment onwards, guys envy me, or pick fights with me, not because of my improved looks, but because I have their crush with me as my girl. It really felt even better actually.

I always keep myself down to earth. Humble and quiet. But what I brag here is that, people can change for better. They’ll just have to do some tricks.

So it seems funny - almost poetic - that while I’ve grown into a hygienic, nice-smelling young man with a reasonable arsenal of cosmetics and a dozens of assorted perfumes and colognes.

Now that I’m already twenty one, I spend an hour and a half in the bathroom with my different daily rituals. I use four kinds of soap.

The mirror seems to be my new best friend. Especially when I lost my best friends. Wherever I am, I usually mirror myself in the car windows, and in public toilets in the malls. I always check my face if it’s already oily. I always carry my vanity kit around with me.

For your information, my vanity kit contains baby powder, a lotion, a facial wash, a lip balm, an oil control film, a mirror, an alcogel, isopropyl alcohol, toothpaste, toothbrush, leave-on conditioner, hair stick, and cologne. Whew, you’ll get used to it… Now I’m far vainer than my friends.

It feels good to be vain esp. when girls appreciate your consciousness and other people make you as their role model. It would gather you some respect from others. People will always think you are very clean despite of the disadvantages. At least, it’s so much fun! I’m already Twenty one and I’m an adult now. I hope I could make it through. There is only one thing I can say about myself… I never stop changing. Even for yourself, you can’t stop changes. I hope this article inspired you. I’m not trying to brag about something here. I’m speaking about changes here that would bring us something great. Hoping to have a better world that should start within us. Remember that the only constant thing in this world is change.

Boys' Night Out

2005-07-05T10:12:00.000+08:00

Hey! It's a Monday and it's my off for work. I finally had the time for myself. It's a good thing that my friend, Lucien, invited me to hang out with him. Well, we've met at around 10:30 PM beside the Starbucks Coffee near my office. We immediately ride a cab going to Greenbelt. So far, we have nothing in mind what to do or where to go next. Well, at least, I'm glad I got a nice pal with me that evening.

The moment we reached Greenbelt. We've finally decided to watch a movie. We settled for "Monster-in-law" starred by Jennifer Lopez (as Charlie) playing lead role for the future bride of Michael Vartan (as Kevin). Jane Fonda plays as Viola Fields, who is a well-known talk-show host and is not in favor with her son's fiance.

We actually had a great time together... Seated at seats number 10 and 11 within the letter "K" row of the movie house. Right after the movie ended, we hurried outside Greenbelt. Stood there for a while, until we've finally decided to walk our way towards my office.

We went to the 30th floor and I signed up for my credit card form through an agent. After that, we settle down at the retiring area of the office. We had good conversation and in fact, we've decided to hang out again next week. It's so unfortunate that I got work by 6:00 AM that's why he has to leave the office before that time. Anyways, we had a great time together.

Well, Lucien, just in case you've come accross this post, this is for you pal. Thanks and God bless us all.

Wave 3 Party

2005-06-05T23:43:00.001+08:00

It's the Wave 3 Graduation party. Right after the friday shift, I immediately go home and just changed clothes and headed all the way to the mall. At the mall, I bought new set of clothes (A jacket, a shirt, pants, shoes, belt, etc) that I will use at the party. Right after that, I bought 2 pairs of contact lenses (brown & light brown). I also got my hair did at the nearest Fix Salon. It's really a tiring day most especially I had no time to sleep.Just imagine that I wasn't able to sleep for the last 24 hours.

On my way to the Ayala MRT Station, the heavy rain began to fall. It rained so hard that I almost got drenched. I arrived to Annapolis station at around 6:00 PM. Since the rain is not over. I tried waiting for a cab right down accross the elevator. It took me like an hour waiting for nothing not until Freud came down at the same station and coincidentally, a bus went by.

The party was held at Dad's Restaurant. Me and Freud arrived there at around 8:00 PM. We ate and watched for several performance by the wave 3 participants. I'm proud that people from my team received an award.

When the clock hits 12:00 MN, I immediately went home because I'll be celebrating my birthday early in the morning.

Leading For Results

2005-05-20T14:47:00.000+08:00

May 18 was the third day of our quick training before the wave 3 comes in. As early as 6:00 am, we hurried along 6750 building for our Leading For Results seminar. The session was held headed by Ms. Joy Jusayan, which is our company's voice and accent training manager. The event lasted for two days at the 14th floor of IBM office at 6750 building, Ayala Avenue, Makati city.

The whole training program was actually fun. At the beginning of the program on the first day, we were asked to introduced ourselves. On the second day, we were asked to write something positive for all of us in the room. We were also joined by the wave 2 team leads (Hans, Karl, Leo, Del, Malou) and our O.M. Luis Gonzales and a Wave 1 Team Lead, Francis Ann Cutillon. What we've learned from the program are the factors of becoming an efficient and effective leader, how to handle and manage people, how to do giving of feedback and monitorings, etc. We also have undergone a psycho-analysis examination. I was classified as a Melancholic person aside from the other three characteristics. It was really surprising that I was classified as a deep person. Hmm... Kinda cool huh?

Team Lead

2005-05-17T01:14:00.000+08:00

Promotion... Promotion... Promotion!!! I'm so happy to belong to the short list of successful candidate for promotion. I'm now a certified Lab Support Specialist! Hurrah! That's effective today. My Operations Manager now would be Luis Gonzales. Deepak Kumar would be my Director. We'll begin training today. We'll take calls for four hours then after an hour break, we'll take the last half for training. The said training will only last for a week. Then after that, wave 3 comes in then we begin managing people. We will be the Team Leads for the Labs of every waves. I'm actually pretty excited with all the incoming waves that we'll be handling. There were 20 of us who got promoted and here's the short list:

- Larijean Estrada
- Carlo Tristan Calingasan
- Ma. Cristina Jimenez
- Jemmuel Bacsa
- Siegfried Teo
- Earl Dalton Sales
- Kathleen Georgette San Agustin
- Mae Ann Veloso
- Debra Ann Luna
- Michael Martinez
- Niño Carlo Tiamzon
- Cristino Toledo
- Nathalie Dayo
- Christopher Malong
- Lee Marvin Hormillosa
- Rockford Sebio
- Eliza Dizon
- Danilyn Calderon
- Jean Renneth Alfonso
- Erik Jhonn Damaso

Same Ground

2005-04-26T02:16:00.000+08:00

I should've posted this photo before but then again, I had no time uploading this photos. I never knew Kitchie not until I was introduced to her at VCF. Some people says, she's the local version of Avril Lavigne. I'd say, she's a one hit wonder. Most of her songs touches and inspires. Apparently, I can relate to one of her songs today. Same Ground. That's her latest single. It's a song about a person who unwillingly let go of a person and eventually wonders why is it that everything seems to move on except for himself. I feel the same way when I've heard the song. It reminds me of the day I lose the most special person in my heart. Until today, that feeling haunts me. Oh by the way, check out the song lyrics below.

Same Ground
by Kitchie Nadal

My love, its been a long time since I cried & left you out of the blue
It's hard leaving you that way where I never wanted to
Self denial is a game it's strange I never would've wanted until if, there was you

Because I have learned that love is beyond what I can imagine,
The more it clears the more I have to let you go

Chorus:
But I don't understand
Why I'm feeling so bad now
When I know it was my idea
I could've just denied the truth and lied
Why I'm the only one standing
Stranded on the same ground?

My love, its been a long time since I cried & left you out of the blue
It's hard leaving you that way where I never wanted to
Self denial is a game it's strange I never would've wanted until if, there was you

Because I have learned that love is a word, gets thrown a little bit too much,
The best excuse to fill the infinite abyss I never have to

If all else tail would you be there to love me
When all else fail, would you be brave to see right through me?

Shoppaholic Day

2005-04-22T13:07:00.000+08:00

It's my scheduled work off today. I woke up around 11:00 AM earlier today. After a while, I've decided to go out with my Mom and my little bro. I've decided to shoulder all expenses as I wanna give them a simple treat at the Town Center. We went first at Rustan's department store and I made some window-shopping scenario. After 10 minutes, I've decided to purchase the clothes I'll be needing for work. The clothes weren't that expensive after all. I was choosing between the Oleg Cassini outfit or the Van Heussen. It's really hard picking.

At around 4:00 PM we're done with shopping. I was happy because I still manage to find sometime in the mall and do some shopping after a very busy week from work. Apart from the things I bought today, the one that I had a hard time choosing... I finally ended up with the Van Heussen polo. It was orange in color and a little cool in fitting. The three of us now headed to Starbuck's Coffee and had some cream-based Caramel Frapuccino. I told Mom not to drink it here but instead we headed again inside to have dinner. Mom asked me to take some Cinnamon rolls at home. It was a great day today after all.

Power Hour

2005-04-14T00:08:00.000+08:00

During my shift today, we had a power hour on the first three people who will make a sale during the wee hours of 2:00 am till 3:00 am. I was the lucky one who made the first sale. It was an Add-A-Sub sale. Ms. Redge gave me a token for being the first one to hit the target of the spiff. She gave me one of my most favorite chocolate ever. It's obviously a Cadbury (although I don't like the "Nut" ingredient)... but who cares anyway? It's still my favorite choco. I wonder what's in store for me the next time around.

Launch Party

2005-04-03T23:14:00.000+08:00

Today's the day after the last day of Lab Live. We're aware that on Monday, we will be divided into new teams and new Team Leads. Some of my companions on my team were Mike and Lawrence. I saw on the board that we will be handled by Aaron. Now, I wonder what our team will be like and what's our team name will be... hmmm. I asked LJ about our Team Lead for the fact that she happens to be under Aaron's lead during the Lab Live. LJ said that Aaron was a nice guy.

I woke up around 11:00 AM today. I wonder what's gonna happen at the Launch party later this evening. Around 4:00 PM... I get myself prepared. Most of the Charlotte Team agreed that we'll set Chowking as our rendezvous area. Jonah was the first one to arrive at the meeting place... Apparently, she doesn't have enough patience and decided to directly go to Dusit Hotel by herself. Next in the scene was me. I arrived at around 6:35 PM. Chowking's crowded that's why I decided to walk a little farther and wait for the others to arrive. When I spun around, I saw Mike at my back. We stood there and waited for LJ for like a thousand years. LJ arrived at exactly 8:15 PM.

By the time that we reached Dusit, we registered at the lobby and proceed to Ciao Room. Everyone's wearing a cool outfit. In fact, each has his own kind. From modern to Retro.... from Hip Hop to Punk. It's like the 70's meets the 90's environment inside. The Launch Party ceremony took the cool music over. There was the Awarding ceremony. Among my close friends who won an award this night were LJ (Ms. Congeniality for Richa's class), Chona (Ms. Congeniality for Abby's class), Sam (Team Jester for Richa's class), Ian (Mr. Congeniality for Briggs' class), Eric (Mr. Congeniality for Richa's class). For the Major awards, my good 'ol friend Oliver won the Best in VA Awards, while Ian got the Highest Maximize award... and then of course I bagged the BEST IN LAB LIVE Award!!! Yeah!

** Here is my final stats for the Lab Live...
- AHT - 425 secs
- Hold Time - 9.8 secs
- ACW - 0
- Transfer Rate - 5.8%
- Adjustment Rate - 0.48%
- Maximize Rate - 8.4%
- QAM - 90%
- Assessments Average - 98.5%

Process Training

2005-03-06T12:17:00.000+08:00

Process Training began a week ago. Our assigned Trainers were Juan Miguel Relosa and Richa Sabharwal. We call them Jim and Richa respectively. Our schedule begins at 6:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM. We end our daily shifts by pluses and deltas. Process training is more serious compared to Voice & Accent training. In this point, we had a chance to be a part of different people. Some of my VA friends were also with me (Cheng, LJ, Sam, and Glen).

On our first day, we introduced ourselves to one another. We even had the chance to be familiarized with the system we'll be using for the rest of our stay on the floor. We were walked-through the environment of Star (which happens to be one of our training system module). The Star, reminds me of Bobby 'coz he sounded like the guy whose been discussing the whole principles and laws of our job.

As time passes by, we were asked to finally access the Premiere system. The Premiere is a customer database of our program. At first it was quite confusing, but in the long run, we're getting comfortable with it.

Some of my classmates were VA Trainer (Randall), Sales Trainer (Dens), Workforce Manager (Ronnie), and Team Lead (Brags). Brags never had a VA team since she started on the day of our product training.

Finally, the most exciting part of the training program aside from the assessment is the Sivox Simulation. It was a system-based application that has a real-time environment and run by a computer-moderator called Samantha.

The Last Day of V.A. Training

2005-02-20T13:11:00.000+08:00

Everyone else is wearing the company's shirt. Each of us has our own way of manifesting our fashion statement depending on how will you present the company's shirt. Al of us looked like a bunch of bowling players. What my co-workers don't know about me is that I play bowling.

My pants sucks. I never thought that the pants I'm wearing was a sweat pants. Anyway, most of my friends think it's cool. Some of my friends from the night shift liked my outfit that day. But they never thought that my pants really sucks. Har har har!

LJ, surprisingly brought a spaghetti for all of us. Her spaghetti reminded me of my Mom because they both have the same taste. It was 7:48 PM when we left the office. We are not going home this time. It was the last day of our Voice and Accent Training. We've planned this a week before. We wanted to celebrate this day because we know that this will be the last day that we would be together as a team. On our way outside the office, I was with Renz, Glen, Leah & her boyfriend, Chris, Mike, Chona, and Jona. Half-way before Ayala MRT station, we've bumped with the second batch. LJ, Cheng, Cherry, and Dinz. The third batch will just follow afterwards.

There was a long queue in the MRT Station. We were even divided into groups. During this time, I was left with the second batch together with 2 guys of my age and Cherry. Together, we slammed in the tight space of MRT. I can hardly breathe inside. There were lots of people and it's been hard for us to get off train. At Cubao station, we've met the first batch and we all went to Renz's place.

It's been a long time since the last time I got drunk. I had a great time with my friends. I fell asleep around 3:00 AM. I feel tipsy and dizzy. I never realized I was sleeping not until I woke up and everything was dark. Everyone else was outside and having a small talk. We all ride the jeep together going Cubao. This time, I was left with Mike and we ride the bus together. He got off the bus at Sucat exit and I went down at the other end of the road before the toll gate and I took a cab along the west service road. I went down at Hillsborough and got most of my things from Ned to bring home with me.

Valentine's Day Bombing

2005-02-15T15:14:00.000+08:00

February 14, 2005. It's Dwayne's 5th Death Anniversary today and Valentine's Day as well. I got work today. I woke up at around 7:08 AM and I'm so happy to see all the 15 unread messages in my phone. To my surprise, most messages came from my old friends. I am so glad that they remembered me today. They all greet me a Happy Valentine's. It was thoughtful of them to spend time to send me some messages.

I immediately went to the office as soon as I got dressed. I arrived in the office at around 9:40 AM this day. I had a great class. We were happy with all the activities that we've done. Late in the afternoon, during my lunch break, Jerell dropped by to the office just to say "hi" and "Happy Valentine's". He also handed me three pieces of my favorite "YEMA". Yipee! We went back in the training after the break. My friend, Cheng, suddenly fainted and we were like in a sort of panic. We have no idea what happened to her. It was the reason why it took so long to dismiss the class whereas our training was supposed to be until 7:00 PM only.

It was 7:25 PM when we were dismissed. It was a little late. I had a satisfactory grade results when I last viewed it. My co-workers, Renz & Glenn, accompanied me to walk along Ayala Avenue up to MRT Station. By the time we got there, an unexpected thing happened...

My memories suddenly flashed. I eventually appreciate my life. I am really blessed to be alive... but what if it was really my time today? What if it was meant to be? I was there in the bombing. I saw bodies from almost everywhere. I even saw dead bodies. Three buses were burning. The whole place is in chaos. Am I lucky to be alive? I know for sure that I am supposed to be in that RRCG bus with a route going to Alabang - Pacita. Is it just coincidence that I didn't ride the bus? Am I really just lucky or did I just managed to escape a very near death experience? I don't know. All I know is that... I am blessed. I will never forget this day. If ever I died this very day... Then Dwayne and I would've died in the same day - February 14

:: THE NEWS ::
MANILA, Philippines - Three bombs jolted Manila and two other Philippine cities Monday, killing at least nine people and wounding more than 100 others, police said. The Muslim extremist group Abu Sayyaf claimed responsibility for the blasts.
The group said the bombings were retribution for a major military offensive against Islamic militants in the southern Philippines, where 60 people have been killed in recent clashes.
"You can attribute this to us," an Abu Sayyaf leader, Abu Solaiman, told DZBB radio 20 minutes after Monday's first two blasts.
"There is one more to come," he said before the Manila bombing.

In a second telephone call, Solaiman said the bombings were a Valentine's Day "gift" to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

National police head Gen. Edgar Aglipay ordered the 114,000-member police force to tighten security in vital installations and commercial establishments nationwide.

"These are despicable acts of terror, and we ask the people to brace themselves against these attacks on our freedom and security," presidential spokesman Ignacio Bunye said.

"We're not going to sleep tonight," added national security adviser Norberto Gonzales.

The Manila bombing occurred about 7:30 p.m. on a bus along a busy highway just below a station for an elevated train and near the Intercontinental Hotel. Police said three people were killed and at least 60 others injured as the bus exploded in flames and sent debris that hit two other buses.

The back of the bus was destroyed by the blast and all of its windows were blown out. The charred body of one passenger was still seated with a hand holding the seat railing. President Arroyo later visited the site.

A blast outside the Gaisano Mall in southern General Santos city about an hour earlier could be heard one mile away, witnesses said. Police said at least five people were killed and at least 36 others injured.

National police chief Edgar Aglipay said the bomb was believed to have been placed in a bag at a stand for three-wheel taxis about 30 yards from the mall entrance.

Another bomb, believed to have been made from a mortar shell, killed a 12-year-old boy and injured at least eight people when it went off almost simultaneously at a bus terminal in Davao, also in the southern Philippines, home to a restive Muslim minority, terror groups and criminal gangs. Mayor Rodrigo called it "the handiwork of terrorists."

Abu Sayyaf leader Solaiman promised more attacks in the future.
"Our latest operations - planned and executed with precision by the gallant warriors of Islam - is our continuing response to the Philippine government's atrocities committed against Muslims everywhere," Solaiman said.

"We will find more ways and means to inflict more harm to your people's lives and properties, and we will not stop unless we get justice for the countless Muslims lives and properties that you people have destroyed."

Officials had expressed concerns over the prospect of a terrorist attack as the military carries out an all-out assault on Jolo island against a group of gunmen who recently attacked troops in the region, sparking clashes that have killed at least 60.

The gunmen are believed to include followers of jailed Muslim leader Nur Misuari, backed by Abu Sayyaf members.

First Day Of Work

2005-02-06T12:20:00.000+08:00

I woke up early today. I was kind of excited on my first day at work. Well, it's only an orientation day but I'm still feeling lucky today. I arrived at Daksh at exactly 7:00 am. The seats were already been occupied by a bunch of people who happens to be my wave batch. I stood in the corner for 15 minutes before the workforce even gave us an extra seat to accommodate all of us. The orientation didn't began as promised. It was like, we've waited for about an hour or two before the people from the HR began calling our names. Earlier this day, right before the orientation started, we were handed the Company's Code of Conduct Manual. We are asked to read it so as to be familiarized with the policies, etc.

The orientation began at exactly 08:27 am. Everyone was arranged in an alphabetical order. As soon as we've found our seats, we've been handed our agreement papers, some other requirements to fill-out, and other company paraphernalia. The speaker have entered the room afterwards. It was Marie who happens to be my aunt's co-worker way back in their former company [Integrated Machines Inc] which is under Ayala Corporation's supervision.

The Orientation lasted for a couple of hours. Right after the orientation, we were asked to proceed to the 30th floor and have our pictures taken for our IDs. Afterwards, I was invited by five people to come along with them to have our lunch while waiting for our IDs. It was my first time at THE PATIO.

A couple of hours later, we hurried to get our IDs. I was surprised that we were also given some training kits such as a file envelope, a steno notebook, ball pen and pencil, and our very own Daksh shirts. As soon as we got our things, we've decided to go home

February 3 is Official Special Day

2005-02-04T14:20:00.000+08:00

A month ago, I had a great time enjoying the Film Fest movies. I tried to watched at least two movies in a marathon. First is "Aishite Imasu" and the second is "So Happy Together". These movies were heart warming and entertaining although I had a hard time catching up on the languages. Har har har! After watching these movies, me and my pal decided to play some arcade games. And as usual, we played my favorite Time Crisis game. They have the third installment already. It's really fun!

Earlier this day, I went to Humana Clinic at King's Court in Makati city. I had my medical examination. I took a blood test, stool and urine examinations, physical examination, and X-Ray. By the time I was done. Me and the same person I was with a month ago went to Alabang to celebrate this special day. Once we arrived at Festival Mall, we had our lunch at Wendy's, then had a window shopping, and finally settled to rest in the usual place we went in a month ago. As soon as the time reached six in the evening, we've decided to go home. We exchanged letters. Exchanged smiles, and even exchanged hugs... Is this a sign of a new commitment? Yep! It's our first monthsary!

Interviews & Job Offers

2005-01-29T14:42:00.000+08:00

I woke up at around 1300 HRS today. I checked up my phone and I found that I got a message from the company I was chancing for. The message was from Daksh, an IBM subsidiary. It was an Indian company that caters American inbound sales for telecommunications company. The message was asking me to be in the office at exactly 1600 HRS for my final interview. Whew! People may wonder why am I chancing up on this offer whereas I'm currently connected with the company I'm working for right now. Well, the answer was so simple. I was just taking chances on the good opportunities that the company offers.

At around 1530 HRS I reached Ayala Avenue. Jerell was waiting for me right in the outskirts of MRT. I was 30 minutes late on the time I've given him but it was alright since I haven't even got any nap since my work last night. Jerell and I hurried to the Jeepney Terminal wherein we took a ride that routes to Washington Avenue. We passed The Peninsula Manila and it reminded me of the events that happened there a year ago.

Five years ago, the Asia's Songbird, Regine Velasquez, sang on top of this hotel's grand fountain during the pre-millennium celebration. A year ago, I've spent the holidays here along with my best cousins. We reached PBCom tower within 5 minutes. I've had my final interview and it lasted for 40 minutes. It worked out very well and the lady who interviewed me asked me to wait at the lobby for my job offer. I've waited until 8 in the evening but I still haven't signed up my job offer. What could be the reason of taking so long? I decided to leave.

Jerell and I decided to have a quick dinner at the fast food nearby. After that quite filling meal, we walked our way to Makati Avenue. I took some snap shots of the street post, to make sure I'm at the right place har har!

As soon as we've reached Makati Avenue, we decided to part ways since Jerell has a long way back home. I took a cab there and went straight right to Export Bank Plaza to have my final interview with the other company that offers me a good compensation. I was scheduled for a 2130 HRS interview and by the moment I had it, I think I've made it again. Since it was way too pass regular office hours, they've assigned me to call them back and ask for the schedule of my job offer.

Who Will Be The Next Idol?

2005-01-21T06:07:00.000+08:00

I'm on the television all day long. It's because I've been monitoring the whereabouts of the fourth season of the American Idol. As usual, it had been a great hell lot of fun and tons of excitements and heartbreaks as it used to be. I've actually got certain picks but they weren't the finals after all. Well, we'll see about how everything goes as the show continues. It's been a great show this week. I've provided some reviews about the auditioners, the judges, etc.

BIGGEST PREMIERE OF THE SEASON... 54 MILLION VIEWERS!
American Idol's fourth season got off to a tremendous start, with nearly 54 million viewers tuning in to see the auditions in Washington, D.C. and St. Louis! Be sure to watch the concluding episode on Tuesday the 25th for more of what we love as Idol heads to New Orleans!

MARY ROACH SPEAKS...
Veni, singi, wowie. She came, she sang, she left us speechless. Mary Roach is... special. Very, very special.

Seven cites. 100,000 auditions. Age limit is raised to 28 years old. How did they do it? What kept them going in the face of huge obstacles? How could they face Simon, Paula and Randy?

Well...At first, they were afraid.. Petrified, in fact. Chances are, they didn't think they could survive. Unless they grew strong... they learned how to get along. American Idol is Back!

A Walk To Remember

2005-01-11T15:50:00.000+08:00

It's a sullen day earlier this morning. I woke up as early as seven and prepare myself as I once again check up on my former company. I dressed up quickly as I went to Makati city.

As soon as I've reached Ayala, I went down the bus I was riding. I took another ride at the jeepney going into a 'Washington' route. I went down at a bus stop in front of Robinson's Summit Center and decided to walk my way towards my old office. On my way along the walks of Paseo de Roxas streets, I took some photos of the park I always walked along daily.

I reminisced as I walk and take pictures. I believe that these pathways had been a part of my life as I pass these ways after a tiring day at work. This is the usual sceneries I see in my daily strolling. The pathways were bordered with Acacia trees which is a very good shade whenever the sun is up. There were even only a few number of people who uses this way as their walk ways.

On my part, there comes a time wherein we would miss a certain place, wherein we even want to take a picture of it whenever possible. After a ten minute walk, I've reached Citibank Tower 1. I entered the building and head my way through the lifts lobby. I've ridden one of the lifts there, took another photo, then headed my way on top until the 9th floor. Ah! Finally! I've reached the office... I reminded myself that this would take me a while before I could be with these long walks again.

Happy New Year!

2005-01-02T00:50:00.000+08:00

It's the much awaited event of the year next to Christmas day. I've been excited how does time flies so fast. I was at work before the celebration took over. I dropped by at Ayala Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas streets to check out the street party that will be held later that night. I've seen so many lighting materials, freebies, and booths. My cousin, Cris, was at the Peninsula Manila during these times and she was the one who took these photos at the walks across the streets. There was a stage prepared along at the corner (I guess there will be some popular live bands performing later on).

It was too bad that I never witnessed the celebration here. I hurried along Alabang to get home before the night even falls deeper. I had a very bargain shopping with some fire display paraphernalia because during the last-minute shopping, you'd be able to buy stuffs about 80% less than their original prices. Isn't it cool?When I got home, everyone else is making a rush. Most especially with the foods. We never thought that we'll be spending the new year's eve at home and we even didn't realize that we'll be having company later that evening.And so It happened...

As the night falls deeper, our visitors arrived one by one. My Mom's Dad arrived as well as the two other oldies with him. It was actually a silent celebration staying home... but, nevertheless, it was splendid. We had our late-night dinner after the fireworks display, plus, the neighborhood began a street-party outside. You should've seen it! Well, I never did go out of the house during midnight because I was too scared that I might get it this time again. You know what I mean...

NEW YEAR CELEBRATION ALONG AYALA AVENUE

NEW YEAR CELEBRATION AT OUR VILLAGE[ THIS IS HOW WE DO IT ]

Let's Party!

2004-12-31T08:27:00.000+08:00

It was a wonderful night last night. My old friend Sam invited me to hang out with him at G4. I arrived there at around eight in the evening and I was surprised that he was with a number of friends. He introduced me to some. One of them was Timmy, Jaypee, Blue, etc... etc... We hung out at Starbucks G4. We had some nice Fraps, while the others are taking a sip of Rumba and just smoking their lungs out. It wasn't a boring night at all. Everyone's brain storming over different topics.

As soon as the clock hits eleven. All of us headed our way to Malate, Manila to party but as we're walking our way along Greenbelt, Sam and his gang of friends came across this friend of theirs who got wheels and voluntarily hopped us in. We went in one of the famous bar at Malate and met more friends since Sam and his friends introduced me to different people. We went out at around four in the morning. It's still dark outside and all of us decided to have our breakfast in a fast food nearby. My new friend Xavier, invited us to stay at their place since it's already late. We came along with a friend. We slept there, and I woke up at around two in the afternoon today. We had a great night. It's been a while since the last time I've been in a disco bar. It's only two days before the New year, I can't wait anymore. I bet, I'll have a good year ahead. Well, I just hope so...

Noel 2004 :: [ Christmas 2004 ]

2004-12-27T17:26:00.001+08:00

It is the Christmas season and I've been into a lot of gatherings so far. On the eve before Christmas, I've spent my holidays with my family at home. We went to church approximately 5:00 in the afternoon. We've watched the Christmas Cantata (A special on-stage musical presentation) and I really like the part wherein they've revived the song finale chorale song at 'Sister Act 2' movie. By the time we went home, we had our early Noche Buena (Christmas Eve Feast) and most of my family members had to sleep early because we still have a gathering to attend to the next day.

Early in the morning, we hurried to the old Manila to get in-touch with the rest of my Father's clan. As usual, we had our major exchanging of gifts to every member of the family. In fact, we had to carry a lot of bags of presents for everyone. The next day, which is today (Sunday/ December 26, 2004) we had to rush to Sta. Rosa Laguna to attend my Mom's clan gathering. This is the exciting part because most of my favorite cousins came from my mother's side.

What was that? Nah! It was me with my cousins

I kinda moved that's why I look pixelated

With my cousins from my mother's side

From left to right [ Tita Cris, Mom, Tito Rollin, & Tito Jun ]

Sera-t-ce Noel blanc pour moi ? [Will it be a white Christmas for me?]

2004-12-19T15:45:00.000+08:00

Christmas is coming. I'm still missing a special someone in my heart. It's been two months since I last saw that person. I wonder what could that 'someone' be doing right now... I've decided to go out this night. I cannot get over the feeling of loneliness. I never thought that moving on was this hard. I hope God help me with this. I decided to go out alone this night. I just need time to contemplate upon things. I can hear a familiar sound around while I was in the car. The familiar song was "All My Life" by KC and Jojo.

I've found myself along Sucat road. I don't even know what was driving me here. I hate this kind of feeling. It's such bothering and irritating. I could never concentrate on the things that I'm doing. I never thought that it's really hard to survive a break-up. I remembered about how I tried to fix the commitment again... but I didn't get the chance. It's one of the worst feeling in the world. I am so lost...

After sometime, I've decided to stop and think for a while in this new coffee shop I haven't tried. It was Figaro along South Super Hi-Way at the Bitanny Bay. I was fascinated with the large Christmas tree they've placed in the middle of the parking lot. The tree also has a gigantic star on top of it. I suddenly remembered my favorite star.

I've had enough. The feeling still haunts me. I felt like I have a restless soul inside. How pathetic... It was 10:30 PM when I've decided to come home. Well, at least I had a great time. I've had a nice decaf, a sweet cake, and a great view. I'm still thinking on what I could've done to deserve these. There was a sudden regression of things I didn't do. What could've went wrong?...

L'Arc-en-ciel Humain :: [ The Human Rainbow ]

2004-12-11T13:18:00.000+08:00

Published on Sunday, September 19, 2004 by the Manila Bulletin Students Form World’s Largest Human Rainbow. Over 31,000 students, faculty, staff and alumni of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) gathered last September 18 at the Luneta Grandstand in Manila wearing colorful shirts, caps and flaglets and danced to modern pop tunes in a bid to make it to the Guinness Book of World Records as the “World’s Largest Human Rainbow.” Record rainbow : Some 31,000 students, faculty and alumni of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines create a "human rainbow" in a move to boost the image of the school and a bid to set a new record for world's largest human rainbow in the Guiness Book of World Records. (AFP/Str) The PUPians attempted to beat the Guinness records of the Malta Archipelago and the Hongkong Polytechnic University (HPU) which organized 11,750 individuals in November, 2003 and 11,500 in 2002, respectively, for the same purpose. PUP acting President Samuel Salvador said that PUP’s numbers will still be validated by representatives from the Guinness Book of World Records to confirm if it broke Malta Islands’ and HPU’s records. "So far, this is the longest human rainbow formation in history." Aside from breaking the world record, Salvador said their "human rainbow" also aims to unite all PUPians now celebrating its centennial year (1904 to 2004). It also intends to raise funds to finance the projects of the PUP Centennial Foundation geared towards the improvement of its facilities. "PUP is among the state universities in the Philippines with the lowest tuition, but has produced professionals and leaders who are now working hand in hand with the government in uplifting the quality of lives of the Filipinos. Given the fiscal crisis, we have to raise funds if we are to provide our students with a conducive learning environment," he said.

The event was highlighted by the signing of the Declaration of Peace. It will be submitted to the United Nations to enjoin all universities in the world to integrate in their curricular programs a comprehensive subject that will study and address the problems of global violence, poverty and exploitation, and develop good citizens for world peace. "The human rainbow will not only place the university on the world map. It will also convey a timely message to the rest of the world that, as a National Comprehensive University, we are sincere in taking up an international agenda that will pursue along the widening global patch dedicated to lasting solutions to violence, inequality and exploitation," said Salvador. Among those who witnessed the event were Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, his wife Bheng, religious leader Bro. EddieVillanueva, and Philippine International Trading Corp. Chairman Roberto Pagdanganan.