OÑIN skin: INVINCIBLE

Three Years Hence*

2010-04-15T20:00:00.002+08:00

*In reference to A Year Hence and Another Year Hence.

My third year at HP (April 2009 - April 2010):

MAY09 - Gebze go-live was postponed.
JUN09 - Memory gap.
JUL09 - PD held its last event.
AUG09 - PD was dissolved.
SEPT09 - Gebze RTCIS went live. Celebrated my silver year. Ondoy wreaked havoc.
OCT09 - Loan.
NOV09 - Was introduced to MusicMatch. Back to Asia shift.
DEC09 - Traveled to Singapore and India for Mandideep RTCIS. Venite Party. La Luz.
JAN10 - MusicMatch weekly addiction began.
FEB10 - Mula SAPuso. Traveled again to Singapore and India.
MAR10 - Potipot. Promotion.
APR10 - Mandideep RTCIS go-live was postponed.

Season's Greetings Here, There, Everywhere

2009-12-25T00:00:00.000+08:00

Philippines - Maligayang Kapaskuhan!
Singapore - Kung His Hsin Nien bing Chu Shen Tan!
UAE - Idah Saidan Wa Sanah Jadidah!
Turkey - Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun!
India - Shub Naya Baras!
USA - Happy Christmas!

Perfect Symmetry

2009-09-09T09:09:00.001+08:00

Bente Singko

2009-09-06T00:00:00.000+08:00

September Madness

2009-08-31T19:44:00.002+08:00

The First of September means the end of something and the beginning of another.

The first of two steps towards the end of a journey happens on the Fourth.

The Sixth brings me to my 25th.

The Fifteenth is 100 before 12.25.

09.09.09 09:09:09.

The second of those two steps occurs on the Twenty-first.

The Twenty-second is 100 before 2010.

I should have at least 8 by the Twenty-fifth.

Thirtieth.

9.

Social Networking Everywhere

2009-07-20T11:04:00.001+08:00

Blogger <--> Multiply <--> Facebook <--> Twitter cross-posting!? Why not?

Because...

2009-06-27T01:29:00.000+08:00

...I don't want to break my streak of posting at least one article per month, so here it is.

Am I too busy that I couldn't take a break and write something here? Or was there just nothing for me to write about all month long? Maybe the latter... Nadal lost at Roland Garros and opted not to play at SW19, my project cutover was postponed to July thus prevented me from watching the Turkish Grand Prix live, and yeah, I was glad that Lakers won their 15th NBA championship trophy but I chose to post updates through my facebook and twitter accounts. Even the photos of my "summer escapades" with my relatives, elementary and college friends - they are all uploaded either in friendster or facebook.

But I miss multiply... So here it is. June 2009, you can officially end now. Hehe.

====

PS: I just might as well promote my twitter account, follow me at https://twitter.com/onindje.

PPS: RIP to the 216 passengers and 12 crew members of Air France Flight 447, 76 people in Harmony Gold's Mine in South Africa, 52 people in combat in the Amazon Rainforest, Neda and other Iranians, David Carradine, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson - who all died this month.

PPPS: Happy birthday to all June celebrants and congratulations to all June brides and grooms.

Salamat sa iyo, Nanay

2009-05-10T01:08:00.005+08:00

Happy Mothers' Day!

Another Year Hence*

2009-04-16T03:00:00.000+08:00

*In reference to A Year Hence

My second year at (or with) HP is way way better than my first one. Why?

1. I was pulled out of QR and got engaged in an RTCIS project. No offense to QR haha.
2. From being on Asia shift previously, I am now on EMEA (Europe/Mideast/Africa) - which means I can now sleep late and wake up late - and get paid extra for that. Bwahahahaha.
3. I got to travel outside of the Philippines - I have been to Istanbul/Gebze (and Singapore/Dubai on the side) - TWICE! One more coming up. Bwehehehehe.
4. I was part of the SAP-ADSI INGXAKI ESCAPE Committee which organized the September 2008 team building offsite at Chateau Royale in Tagaytay/Nasugbu - as co-head of Logistics.
5. I co-managed the June 2008 - Caliraya Summer Escapade for the PD team. Thanks to the whole PD Events!

...and many more.

Maybe these are the reasons why I still enjoy being with the same group of people I have been with for the past couple of years - despite the recent economic crisis and ludicrous contingency measures our senior management is currently implementing.

Now I realize, I am still contented after all. Good for me.

==========

I am looking forward to a better and definitely more AWESOME third year in (or with) HP. I will surely love to CZECH that out!

==========

HAPPY 2ND ANNIVERSARY
HP ALL-STARS!

Father-er

2009-03-12T23:46:00.001+08:00

Hmmm... Now I know why/how he injured his back even though he did not play any competitive match since losing (and crying) last February 1.

=====

Roger Federer says girlfriend is pregnant

BASEL, Switzerland (AP)—Roger Federer is going to be a father.

The second-ranked Swiss tennis player says on his Web site that girlfriend Mirka Vavrinec is pregnant with the couple’s first child.

Federer says: “This is a dream come true for us. We love children and we are looking forward to being parents for the first time. Mirka is feeling great and everything is going well.”

The 13-time Grand Slam champion is in Indian Wells, Calif., for the Masters tournament, which starts Thursday. He also says his injured back is “feeling better.”

=====

Off-Court - Great News

Dear Fans

I arrived in Indian Wells earlier this week and I am eager to get back out on court. My back is

feeling much better and I am ready to go.

I also have some really awesome news to share with all of you: Mirka and I are excited to let you know that we will be parents this summer! Mirka is pregnant and we are so happy to be starting a family together. This is a dream come true for us. We love children and we are looking forward to being parents for the first time. Mirka is feeling great and everything is going well.

Speak soon and thanks for all your continued support!

Roger

=====

Retirement, anyone?

Maybe, if he wants to be a full-time dad...

Well, anyway, congrats Rodge!

Innocence Nowhere

2009-02-16T20:51:00.001+08:00

Baby-faced boy Alfie Patten is father at 13
By LUCY HAGAN Published: 13 Feb 2009

BOY dad Alfie Patten yesterday admitted he does not know how much nappies cost — but said: “I think it’s a lot.”

Baby-faced Alfie, who is 13 but looks more like eight, became a father four days ago when his girlfriend Chantelle Steadman gave birth to 7lb 3oz Maisie Roxanne.

He told how he and Chantelle, 15, decided against an abortion after discovering she was pregnant.

The shy lad, whose voice has not yet broken, said: “I thought it would be good to have a baby.

“I didn’t think about how we would afford it. I don’t really get pocket money. My dad sometimes gives me £10.”

Little family ... Alfie, Chantelle and baby Maisie
Lee Thompson

Alfie, who is just 4ft tall, added: “When my mum found out, I thought I was going to get in trouble. We wanted to have the baby but were worried how people would react.

“I didn’t know what it would be like to be a dad. I will be good, though, and care for it.”

Alfie's story, broken exclusively by The Sun today has sparked a huge political storm with Tory leader David Cameron saying: "When I saw these pictures this morning, I just thought how worrying that in Britain today children are having children.

"I hope that somehow these children grow up into responsible parents but the truth is parenthood is just not something they should be thinking about right now."

Secret

PM Gordon Brown refused to comment directly on the story but said it was important that the Government did all it could to prevent teenage pregnancies.

Alfie’s dad Dennis yesterday told how the lad does not really understand the enormity of his situation — but seemed desperate to be a devoted and responsible father.

He wanted to be the first to hold Maisie after the hospital birth. He tenderly kisses the baby and gives her a bottle.

And Dennis, 45, said: “He could have shrugged his shoulders and sat at home on his Playstation. But he has been at the hospital every day.”

Maisie was conceived after Chantelle and Alfie — just 12 at the time — had a single night of unprotected sex.

They found out about the baby when Chantelle was 12 weeks pregnant.

But they kept it a secret until six weeks later when Chantelle’s mum Penny, 38, became suspicious about her weight gain and confronted her.

Devoted ... Alfie holds and cuddles Maisie
Lee Thompson

After that Alfie’s family told only those closest to them for fear he would be “demonised” at school.

Chantelle gave birth to Maisie on Monday night after a five-hour labour at Eastbourne Hospital, East Sussex.

Last night she told The Sun: “I’m tired after the birth. I was nervous after going into labour but otherwise I was quite excited."

Chantelle told how she discovered she was expecting after going to her GP with “really bad” stomach pains. She said: “Me and Alfie went. The doctor asked me whether we had sex. I said yes and he said I should do a pregnancy test. He did the test and said I was pregnant. I started crying and didn’t know what to do.

“He said I should tell my mum but I was too scared.

“We didn’t think we would need help from our parents. You don’t really think about that when you find out you are pregnant. You just think your parents will kill you.”

But Penny figured out what was going on after buying Chantelle a T-shirt which revealed her swelling tum.

Chantelle admitted she and Alfie — who are both being supported by their parents — would be accused of being grossly irresponsible. She said: “We know we made a mistake but I wouldn’t change it now. We will be good loving parents.

“I have started a church course and I am going to do work experience helping other young mums.

“I’ll be a great mum and Alfie will be a great dad.”

“He said I should tell my mum but I was too scared.

“We didn’t think we would need help from our parents. You don’t really think about that when you find out you are pregnant. You just think your parents will kill you.”

But Penny figured out what was going on after buying Chantelle a T-shirt which revealed her swelling tum.

“I have started a church course and I am going to do work experience helping other young mums.

“I’ll be a great mum and Alfie will be a great dad.”

Caring ... Alfie bottle feeds his little daughter
Lee Thompson

Chantelle and Maisie were released from hospital yesterday. They are living with Penny, Chantelle’s jobless dad Steve, 43, and her five brothers in a rented council house in Eastbourne. The family live on benefits. Alfie, who lives on an estate across town with mum Nicola, 43, spends most of his time at the Steadmans’ house.

He is allowed to stay overnight and even has a school uniform there so he can go straight to his classes in the morning.

Alfie’s dad, who is separated from Nicola, believes the lad is scared deep down.

He said: “Everyone is telling him things and it’s going round in his head. It hasn’t really dawned on him. He hasn’t got a clue of what the baby means and can’t explain how he feels. All he knows is mum and dad will help.

“When you mention money his eyes look away. And she is reliant on her mum and dad. It’s crazy. They have no idea what lies ahead.”

Dennis, who works for a vehicle recovery firm, described Alfie as “a typical 13-year-old boy”.

He said: “He loves computer games, boxing and Manchester United.” Dennis, who has fathered nine kids, told how he was “gobsmacked” when he discovered Alfie was to be a dad, too.

He said: “When I spoke to him he started crying. He said it was the first time he’d had sex, that he didn’t know what he was doing and of the complications that could come.

“I will talk to him again and it will be the birds and the bees talk. Some may say it’s too late but he needs to understand so there is not another baby.”

Lovely

Chantelle’s mum said: “I told her it was lovely to have the baby but I wish it was in different circumstances. We have five children already so it’s a big financial responsibility. But we are a family and will pull together and get through.

“She’s my daughter. I love her and she will want for nothing.”

Last night Michaela Aston, of the anti-abortion Christian charity LIFE, said: “We commend these teenagers for their courage in bringing their child into the world.

“At the same time this is symptomatic of the over-sexualisation of our youngsters and shows the policy of value-free sex education just isn’t working.”

Today Sussex Police and the local council's children services said they have investigated the case and pledged continued support for the young parents.

Britain’s youngest known father is Sean Stewart. He became a dad at 12 when the girl next door, 15-year-old Emma Webster, gave birth in Sharnbrook, Bedford, in 1998. They split six months later.

Best Job in the World

2009-01-13T15:41:00.001+08:00

========
From CNN:
========

Life's a beach with dream Australian island job

By Glen Scanlon

(CNN) -- It sounds far too good to be true: a salary of more than $100,000, a free home on a palm-fringed island and all the snorkeling you can be bothered with.

The successful applicant will have plenty of time to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

However, it is true and a very clever marketing ploy to boot.

Australia's Tourism Queensland has garnered worldwide media coverage by advertising the "best job in the world" -- the post of caretaker on Hamilton island in the Great Barrier Reef.

The six-month contract, according to Tourism Queensland, comes with flexible working hours and the successful applicant's "key responsibilities" include exploring the area to discover what is on offer and to report back weekly via blogs, photo diaries, video updates and media interviews.

Sounds taxing doesn't it?

The group said other responsibilities would include cleaning the pool, which comes with your free home, feeding the fish and collecting the mail (this would be done by joining the aerial postal service for a day or two to get a good view of the neighboring islands).

You might also take time out from your busy schedule to check out the turtles and passing whales.

On top of the six-figure salary you'll get return airfares from your nearest capital city, transport on the island, travel insurance, computer and camera gear and travel to other islands in the Great Barrier Reef.

No academic qualifications are required but you must be a good swimmer and enjoy snorkeling, be adventurous and have good communication skills.

Where do I sign up I hear you ask?

Tourism Queensland is asking for a 60-second video explanation of why you'd be great for the job and that you fill out their online application form at www.islandreefjob.com

Applications close on February 22, by which time you may be able to get on the Web site -- unsurprisingly it is proving very hard to load at the moment (not that I'm trying... that often).

To apply for this job go to http://www.islandreefjob.com/en/.

Aching Knee, There, Everywhere

2009-01-10T21:45:00.002+08:00

After playing tennis in Meralco Ortigas this afternoon, I decided to visit Gold's Gym which is just walking-distance away from the tennis court. I ran a couple of KMs and lifted a few weights to at least shed the remaining pounds I accumulated during the holidays. I didn't finish my target 3K run on the tread mill because I felt a prickling pain on my left knee. I can tolerate the chronic pain on my right big toe joint (may be caused by uric acid - haha ayaw pa kasi mag-pacheck-up), but the one on my knee is excruciating (yes naman, excruciating daw o, hehe).

So I just went to Megamall to canvass prizes of latest sportswears, winter clothes and luggages and to buy groceries and stuff my father told me to purchase for him. While strolling, the hurting was aggravated by the low temperature inside the mall and the fact that I was just wearing a knee-level shorts.

Now at home, the weather is causing more severe pain and if this should become worse tomorrow, I might follow Cholle's advise to ask for Alaxan's help. Harhar.

====

P.S.
To-do's for 2009:

1. Improve serve and groundstroke shot.
2. Heal this aching knee before the 5K run on January 25.
3. Focus on Gebze and on Gebze alone!

Every Month of 2008

2009-01-01T00:43:00.001+08:00

January

Crude oil prices surge past US$100 per barrel. Benazir Bhutto is assassinated. 6.5 earthquake hits Greece. Hillary Clinton wins first US primaries held in New Hampshire. Sun Microsystems acquires MySQL AB. Millions are stranded ahead of Chinese New Year. Neil & Moanna tie the knot. Actor Heath Ledger dies of medication overdose. Novak Djokovic wins maiden grand slam at Melbourne as Maria Sharapova bags 3rd distinct major title.

February

New York Giants upset New England Patriots 17-14 in Superbowl XLII. UP Fair stages Loverage 2. Blu-ray replaces HD-DVD. Kosovo declares independence from Serbia. Egypt wins Africa Cup of Nations over Cameroon 1-0. Fidel Castro retires and resigns as Cuban president and is succeeded by his brother Raul. Academy honors No Country For Old Men as best motion picture and the Coen Brothers as best in directing. Leap year day is observed.

March

Forbes names Warren Buffet as world's richest man. Wales achieves Grand Slam by defeating France 29-12 in their Rugby Union RBS Six Nations match. Tibetans claim 80 people killed in the continuing unrest. Manny Pacquiao scores a split decision over Juan Manuel Marquez for the WBC super featherweight crown. Corazon Aquino is diagnosed with colon cancer. Liechtenstein, Norway and South Korea recognize Kosovo as a nation.

April

Protesters confront Olympic torch in Paris. I celebrate my first year anniversary in HP and as an electronics engineer. Trevor Immelman wins The Masters ahead of second-place Tiger Woods. Danica Patrick becomes the first woman to win in IndyCar's 2008 Indy Japan 300. Joe Calzaghe earns a split decision victory over Bernard Hopkins for The Ring light heavyweight belt. HP Labs announces the creation of the memristor - the fourth basic electronic element.

May

George Bush calls for US$700m relief aid for global food crisis. Cyclone Nargis devastates Myanmar. Dmitry Medvedev assumes Russian presidency. Olympic torch reaches peak of Everest. Over 70,000 killed by 7.9 quake in China's Sichuan province. Nel & OJ tie the knot. HP buys EDS for US$13.9b. Bloodiest bank robbery in the Philippines claims 10 lives. David Cook wins Idol. ManU pulls a 1-1 (6-5 p.s.o) victory over Chelsea to grab UEFA trophy.

June

Barack Obama wins Democratic nomination. Ana Ivanovic secures first major as Rafael Nadal earns 4th Roland Garros. Limping Tiger Woods ends season prematurely after US Open triumph. Boston Celtics defeats old rivals Los Angeles Lakers for their 17th NBA ring. UP@100. Typhoon Fengshen leaves 155 dead in the Philippines. Manny Pacquiao KO's David Diaz to become the first Asian 4-division titlist. Spain beats Germany 1-0 in Euro 2008 final.

July

Inquest on the MV Princess of the Stars disaster continues in the Philippines. Venus Williams thrashes sister Serena for her 5th Wimbledon crown while Rafael Nadal dismisses Roger Federer in the longest men's final in The Championship's' history 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-7 (8), 9-7. Pope Benedict XVI celebrates World Youth Day in Sydney. Dayana Mendoza of Venezuela is Miss Universe 2008. Carlos Sastre of Spain wins Tour de France.

August

Magnitude 6.0 tremor once again strikes Sichuan. Conflict in South Ossetia worsens. The Bird's Nest hosts the start of the Summer Olympics on 08-08-08. ARMM holds first electronic voting in the Philippines. Michael Phelps sets 7 world records and bags 8 gold medals in swimming as Usain Bolt goes 3-for-3 in athletics in Beijing. Rafael Nadal supplants Roger Federer as world number 1 tennis player after triumphs in Toronto Masters and the Olympics.

September

Serena Williams wins her 9th slam; Roger Federer salvages year with 5th straight US Open. I celebrate my 24th birthday. Civil war erupts in Bolivia; power-sharing pact in Zimbabwe calms the situations. World remembers 9/11. Russia claims Fed Cup. Sebastian Vettel becomes youngest F1 grand prix winner after topping the Italian GP. Milk scandal further intensifies China's bad year. USA wins Ryder Cup. Mortgage crisis triggers US recession snowball.

October

Dow Jones records biggest intraday drop finishing below the 10,000-point mark. European markets fall steeply while Asian stock exchanges tumble. Nobel Prizes are awarded to the discoverers of papilloma and HIV viruses, among others. Macedonia, Malaysia, Montenegro, Portugal and UAE recognize Kosovo. Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson's mother and brother are murdered. Philadelphia Phillies edges Tampa Bay Rays 4-1 in 2008 World Series.

November

Lewis Hamilton edges Felipe Massa 98 to 97 becoming the youngest F1 Drivers' Champion. Sebastien Loeb wins WRC for fifth consecutive time. Barack Obama is USA's first African-American president. Chrysler, Ford and GM testify before US Congress for bailout package. Peru hosts APEC Summit amidst global financial crisis. Protesters lock up Bangkok airports. Spain wins Davis Cup. Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams prevail in yearend championships.

December

Zimbabwe cholera outbreak claims 425 lives. Micronesia recognizes Kosovo. Manny Pacquiao ends season as Fighter of the Year with 3 victories in 3 weight classes after a lopsided win over Oscar Dela Hoya. Toyota announces first operating loss in 70 years. Israel launches offensive strikes against Palestine in Gaza Strip in the middle of holiday season. Glenn and May tie the knot. CKT01 reunites. Eustaquio Family welcomes 2009 together.

One Second Here, One Second There

2008-12-31T00:03:00.001+08:00

From AFP:

New Year on hold: leap second makes time stand still

PARIS (AFP) — Eager to see the back end of 2008? Be forewarned: the world's official timekeeper has decided to prolong the year -- by one full second, to be precise.

Which means a Champagne-soaked countdown to 2009 something like this: "...THREE, TWO, ONE-AND-A-HALF, ONE... Happy New Year!"

The extra second was mandated by the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) in Paris, and is not to be taken lightly.

Satellites that orbit at speeds calculated in kilometres (miles) per second, the Internet, global positioning systems -- all depend on knowing exactly what time it is.

IERS head Daniel Gambis announced the time-stretching measure in July in a letter addressed to "authorities responsible for the measurement and distribution of time".

That would be the white-robed guardians of the 200-odd ultra-accurate atomic clocks scattered in national time temples around the globe.

"The last adjustment dates to 2005, and the next could happen in 2012 or 2013," Gambis told AFP.

Leap days occur once every four years because it takes 365 days plus six hours for our planet to complete an orbit around the Sun.

But leap seconds are added strictly on a case-by-case basis, depending on need. This year's will be the 24th bonus second since the practice was initiated in 1972.

The sleight-of-clock is necessary to reconcile two different time scales.

One is established by the atomic time pieces, which are accurate to billionth of a second per day.

The other is based on Earth's imperfect rotation on its own axis.

The two get out of sync because the planet's spin is affected by a host of slightly fluctuating variables, including solar and lunar gravity, the movement of the tides, solar wind, space dust and magnetic storms.

Even global warming has gotten into the act because melting ice caps have an impact too.

And so, at exactly 23:59:59 Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) -- or Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), to the scientifically literate -- on December 31, the world's clocks will add a beat to their metronomic tick tick tock.

==========

For more information on leap second, visit my friend Wiki.

Thanks Cholle for the link.

Every Day of 2008

2008-12-30T21:00:00.001+08:00

Where did you begin 2008?
== At home with family and relatives.

What was your status by Valentine's day of 2008?
== Busy? Away? Idle? Ah, single. Hehe.

Did you have to go to the hospital?
== Yes. Dental checkups and internal medicine consultations.

Did you have any encounters with the police?
== Nope.

What did you purchase over $500?
== The closest to $500 is the wedding gift worth US$250 (or CND$350) I bought for Glenn&May. Since that was a group gift, divide that amount by 23. Haha.

Did you know anybody who got married?
== Neil, Nel&OJ, Kristine and my bestfriends Glenn&May. Did I miss anyone?

Did you know anybody who passed away?
== None in my family or close friends.

What sporting events did you attend?
== F1 viewings, The Aquino Cup, Bowling, Tennis and Volleyball games.

What concerts/shows did you go to?
== Loverage @ UP Fair and Incubus Pacific Rim Tour

Where do you live now?
== Taguig

Describe your birthday.
== Same as last year. Haha.

What's the one thing you thought you would never do but did?
== Witness my two bestfriends getting married to each other. Aaaawwww.

Any new additions to your family?
== None.

What was your best month?
== None of the 12 months stood out from the rest. Wala akong maisip e. Haha.

Who was your best drinking buddy?
== Pugoy and Cholle! Haha. Puwede rin si Randy. Or si Domz... at si Apollo hahahahaha.

Made new friends?
== A lot! Check my FB. Hehe.

Any regrets?
== Yeah, quite a few.

What do you want to change in 2009?
== If change is equal to improve, then my answer is CAREER!

Overall, how would you rate this year?
== 9.42477795/10 --> this is basically 3pi.

Have any life changes in 2008?
== Meron naman.

Get a new job?
== In 2009? I sure will think about it.

How old did you turn this year?
== 24

Did anything embarrassing?
== All the time.

Be honest - did you watch American Idol?
== Why should anyone deny it if he did? Labo men! And yeah, I know not just one, not two... but three Davids. Haha.

Start a new hobby?
== Why not?

Are you happy to see 2008 go?
== Who isn't? Move on guys!

Drank Starbucks in 2008?
== A lot. I have 1 1/2 planners - haha I mean, I was able to fill up 1 1/2 cards with stickers.

Been naughty or nice?
== More naughty than nice haha. Pero I'm still the same nice guy you know. C'mon, I'm serious. Hehe.

What are you wishing for in 2009?
== World peace. Seriously...

Done something you've regretted?
== Natanong na 'to ah. Yes, yes, yes! Kulit mo!

Lost someone?
== I thinks so.

Cut class?
== N/A

Was involved in something you'll never forget?
== Many times.

Cooked a gross meal?
== I don't cook. Haha. I mean, I don't cook gross meals.

Lost something important to you?
== I think so.

Got a gift you adore?
== I think so.

Tripped over a coffee table?
== I don't think so.

Dyed your hair?
== Never.

Came close to losing your life?
== Not yet. Haha. Knock on wood.

Went to a party?
== Partey! Tugs tugs tugs tugtugtugs tugs tugs!

Read a great book?
== No, 'cause I'm a loser. Hehe.

2008: FRIENDS AND ENEMIES

Did you meet any new friends this year?
== E natanong na rin 'to eh.

Did you dislike anyone?
== A few people.

Did you grow apart from anyone?
== Maybe.

Do you have any regrets when it comes to your friendships?
== No! I love my friends.

2008: YOUR BIRTHDAY

Did you have a cake?
== Yup.

Did you get any presents?
== Yup.

2008: ALL ABOUT YOU

Did you change at all this year?
== Just a bit.

Did you change your lifestyle?
== Just a bit.

Were you in school?
== Nope.

Did you have a job?
== Yup.

Did you drive?
== See (Read a great book?).

Did anyone close to you give birth?
== Zasha and Pam (?).

Did you go on any vacations?
== Short ones, yes.

Would you change anything about yourself now?
== Change is a constant thing. Bring it on!

2008: WRAP UP

Was 2008 a good year?
== Yes.

Do you think 2009 will top 2008?
== It can only get better.

My Bestfriends' Wedding

2008-12-25T19:22:00.001+08:00

Yup, the apostrophe was appropriately placed after 's'. My two college best friends John Glenn Kilayko and Maydeline Que are getting married today.

I am part of their entourage as the Cord Sponsor. I can hardly put into words how happy I am to witness a very special moment in my friends' lives.

May God always nurture their bond with His blessings and guidance, and I wish them peace and happiness throughout their married life...

Okay, I need some rest now.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Everywhere

2008-12-24T16:06:00.001+08:00

It has been a year since this post.

So let's all wish the world again a very merry holiday season!

==========

Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon
Geseende Kerfees en 'n gelukkige
Edo bri'cho o rish d'shato brich'to!
Selamat Hari Natal dan Tahun Baru
Seng Dan Fai Lok, Sang Nian Fai Lok
Bon Nadal i feliç any nou!
Glædelig Jul og godt nytår
Hyvää Joulua or Hauskaa Joulua - 0nnellista uutta vuotta
Kala Christougenna Ki'eftihismenos O Kenourios Chronos
Mo'adim Lesimkha. Shanah Tova
Shubh Naya Baras
Shinnen omedeto. Kurisumasu Omedeto
Sung Tan Chuk Ha
Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo
Fröhliche Weihnachten und ein glückliches Neues Jahr!

==========

One way to spread the Christmas spirit around the world is through art - specifically, dancing. I got the link of the video below from my friend Roy. This is from wherethehellismatt.

Pacman will soon be nowhere in boxing, but everywhere in politics...

2008-12-19T20:57:00.002+08:00

Pacquiao retiring next year; to run in 2010

MANILA, Philippines -- Boxing champion Manny Pacquiao on Monday said he is retiring from the ring next year and will be running again for public office in the 2010 elections.

“Sigurado na, na tatakbo ako [It is sure, I am running],” said Pacquiao at Camp Crame, headquarters of the Philippine National Police, where he was sworn in as member of the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi, Partner of the Free Filipino), by Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno, who is also president of the party founded by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Pacquiao, who said he is retiring August next year, made boxing history in June when he became the first Asian and first Filipino to win four world titles by knocking out David Diaz to take the WBC lightweight belt.

He is scheduled to fight Oscar “The Golden Boy” De la Hoya December 6 in Las Vegas and will be flying to the United States on September 14 to prepare for the bout.

“Isang malaking karangalan talaga na makalaban ko si Oscar. Hindi ko akalaing makasasagupa ko siya, [It is a great honor to fight Oscar. I never imagined I would go up against him,” Pacquiao said, adding that he would fight, at most, two more time before hanging up his gloves for good.

Pacquiao said his parents want the De La Hoya fight to be his last. The two will slug it out at the 147-pound welterweight division.

“My parents wanted me to retire after the De La Hoya fight. But I feel I can still fight two more fights,” Pacquiao said.

Puno said although there is no decision yet on what position Pacquiao will run for, “malaki ang maitutulong niya kung tatakbo siya bilang [he will be a great help if he runs for] congressman or as a local government official.”

In the May 2007 elections, Pacquiao contested the congressional seat of the first district of South Cotabato but lost by a landslide to Representative Darlene Antonino-Custodio.

Puno said the one year lull between boxing and the elections should not be a disadvantage for Pacquiao.

“Magpapahinga siya, maglalaan ng isang taon para maghanda sa halalan. Siguro naman hindi siya makakalimutan ng tao sa loob ng isang taon. Baka sa isang dekada pa [He will rest [and] will have a year to prepare for the elections. Surely, people will not forget him in just one year. It might take a decade for them to do that],” Puno said.

Alcuin Papa, Phil Daily Inquirer

==========
Source:
http://sports.inquirer.net/breakingnews/breakingnews/view/20080901-158009/UPDATE-Pacquiao-retiring-next-year-to-run-in-2010

Collectibles Here, There, Everywhere

2008-11-16T17:21:00.001+08:00

It was few days before I graduated from UP, I recall myself withdrawing my remaining DOST stipend from the PNB ATM terminal inside the campus and, as luck struck me, the machine dispensed a dozen of the infamous ARROVO BANK NOTES (100-peso legal tender). I was with my thesis partner Ivy at that moment and she asked me to sell to her half of the collectors' item bills that I got, so only 6 stayed with me. Then my uncle bought another one of the remaining six for 200-pesos. As of the moment, 5 ARROVO BILLS are in my possession and these 5 are marked with consecutive serial numbers (AM461894 to 98).

Then, this evening, after hitting the gym, I decided to withdraw some cash from a BPI terminal at Robinson's Corporate Buiding in Ortigas. And... surprise! Ten University of the Philippines Centennial commemorative bills (100-peso legal tender) appeared in front of me. I was tempted to withdraw more cash to see how many of those collectibles were inside of the machine but I knew I would just drain my funds empty if I did that. So, I just pressed for another 2000-pesos to cover me for at least a week - and, the machine gave out 4 500-peso bills this time. By the way, these bills also have successive serial numbers (ET366161 to 70).

I am trying my best to keep them in good condition - no crease, no dog-ears - and hopefully, I will be able to sell them at higher value in the future. If you are interested or you know someone who collects rare (well, I think, they aren't that rare yet) items like these bills, just tell me - we can negotiate the price. Bwahaha.

Lewis and Felipe are still here, Kimi and Fernando nowhere

2008-10-16T21:11:00.001+08:00

Last year, the World Drivers' Championship was won and lost by only 1 point - involving Kimi Raikkonen of Finland, Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Fernando Alonzo of Spain (pictured below). Now that Kimi and Fernando are out of the picture, Lewis finds a new nemesis in Felipe Massa.

Who will win this year's WDC? The penultimate Grand Prix at Shanghai this Sunday will give us a clearer picture of the race to the finish - with 5 points separating Hamilton and Massa. Join us at Phi Bar on October 19 3pm (Manila time) for the free viewing.

Facts Here, There, Everywhere

2008-09-06T19:59:00.001+08:00

September 6 is the 249th day of the year (250th of this year and of every leap year). There are 116 days remaining until the end of the year (and 110 days before Christmas). British tennis stars Greg Rusedski and Tim Henman plus Prince Hisahito of Japan were all born on this date while Luciano Pavarotti succumbed to pancreatic cancer also on this same day last year. Swaziland celebrates its independece from the British Empire whereas USA and Canada observes Stillbirth Remembrance Day on September 6 every year.

1984 was a leap year starting on a Sunday. The XIV Winter Olympic Games were held at Sarajevo, (Former Yugoslav Republic of) Bosnia and Herzegovina in February while the XXIII Summer Olympic Games were held in Los Angeles, USA in July-August. The first MTV Video Music Awards Night was held September 14 and 36 of Britain's and Ireland's top musicians formed Band Aid and recorded the song "Don't They Know It's Christmas" to raise funds for Ethiopia famine relief.

==========

Since 1984:

There have been 5 Philippine Presidents (Marcos, Cojuangco-Aquino, Ramos, Estrada and currently, Macapagal-Arroyo), 4 US Commanders-in-Chief (Reagan, the older Bush, Clinton and the outgoing younger Bush), 4 UN Secretaries-General (Pérez de Cuéllar of Peru, Boutros-Ghali of Egypt, Annan of Ghana and Ban Ki-moon of South Korea), and 2 Popes (John Paul II and Benedict XVI). [1]

Olympic Games have been staged 14 times (7 Summer, 7 Winter).
1984 Sarajevo Winter
1984 Los Angeles Summer
1988 Calgary Winter
1988 Seoul Summer
1992 Albertville Winter
1992 Barcelona Summer
1994 Lillehammer Winter
1996 Atlanta Sunner
1998 Nagano Winter
2000 Sydney Summer
2002 Salt Lake City Winter
2004 Athens Summer
2006 Turin Winter
2008 Beijing Summer [2]

==========

World Population in the 80's is at 4.4 billion, today it has surpassed the 6.5 billion mark; there were only 53.35 million Filipinos in 1984, in July 2008 the latest census shows we currently stand at 92.68 million. [3]

The Peso-Dollar exchange rate in June 1984 was at PhP18.00/US$1.00, yesterday it closes at PhP46.12/US$1.00. [4]

==========

Yeah, this is how I celebrate the last one minute of my 24th birthday. Playing DotA and doing boring (and nerd) stuff.

Greet Me Here, There, Everywhere

2008-09-05T23:36:00.001+08:00

Another year has come and gone.

Wait, this resembles my post last year. So, tamang-tama, another year has come and gone... But wait, there's more - do you know that Facebook has something like this:

Thank you to the Facebook Team (haha) and to the following people who greeted me just in time, after the clock struck 12:

Cholle, Winston, Topher, Chris, Martz, TJ and my DotA-mates (cleric0730, hunk123, denhizz, tasky_earl, ecemike, jokiz, hellboie, hell_boie, and a dozen more hehe).

Food Here, There, Everywhere for Phelps

2008-08-24T10:10:00.001+08:00

Would you believe it, 8000-10000 calories a day? See it for yourself.

The food that fuels Michael Phelps.

====

Courtesy: CNN

8 Here, There, Everywhere

2008-08-08T10:34:00.001+08:00

The opening ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics 2008. The 27th birthday of outgoing tennis #1 Roger Federer. The will-be wedding anniversary for many superstitious couples.

And then, the perfect symmetry - 08/08/08 08:08 AM.

They say this is a lucky day? Perhaps... but, I guess, only for the lucky ones.

Chuck Was Everywhere

2008-08-06T22:44:00.001+08:00

In line with HP's Year of Engagement, I was assigned to be the "ICON" of one of the many initiatives (in laymen's term: extra-curricular clubs/organizations) of our company - Life@HP (also known as Fun@HP). This initiative promotes Work-Life Balance to the whole HP workforce. This afternoon (August 6, 2008), I dressed up as CHUCK - the guy who virtually has every access to classified and sensitive government information. Consequently, Life@HP is giving everyone access to join any of the 9 clubs under it namely Shutters (photography), Invent Productions (video making), Jam@HP (music), Groove@HP (dance), hOOps (basketball), Badminton Club, Bowl@HP, Inpire@HP (outreach programs) and J-Club (Japanese culture).

We had a floor-to-floor (7th, 11th, 14th, 18th @SMPC Ortigas) campaign encouraging people to sign-up and join the group of their choice. Though it was embrarrasing at first, the whole experience was fun because, mostly, I dealt with folks I already know. Besides, I know that other initiatives (like Recruitment Team which I am also a part of, haha) will also push someone to do exactly the same thing that I did, hehe. In the end, one ICON will be declared as winner. I hope that the prizes are worth all the "humiliation" I encountered earlier hehehe.

So, if you're an HP employee who wants to have work-life balance - REACH OUT and BE ENGAGED. :)

Legendary Everywhere

2008-07-11T22:23:00.001+08:00

What are the odds? I was just asking a minute later, and here I am, posting the result of my test regarding "Which HIMYM character are you?" quiz.

Obviously, I am Ted... the hopeless romantic guy who is quite a very good story teller.

Which How I Met Your Mother character are you?
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Ted

congratulations, you are Ted! Ted is a sweet, romantic kind of guy, and always tells amazing stories. Hi Five!

Ted

70%

Barney

55%

Marshall and Lilly

50%

Robin

45%

Gossip Everywhere

2008-07-11T22:16:00.001+08:00

Do they have a "Which HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER character are you?" quiz? I wanna know if I'm LEGEN-wait-for-it-oh-it's-comming-there-it-is-but-I-hope-your-not-lactose-intolerant-DARY. Anyway, I think I have to be content with GOSSIP GIRL for the meantime. The result is still AWESOME.

WHICH GOSSIP GIRL SERIES CHARACTER ARE YOU?
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Nate Archibald

You are Nate Archibald, intresting...

Nate Archibald

56%

Dan Humphrey

56%

Vanessa Adams

56%

Blair Waldorf

44%

Chuck Bass

44%

Jenny Humphrey

38%

Gossip Girl

31%

Serena Van DerWoodsen

31%

Spontaneity - Everyday, Everyway

2008-07-11T13:53:00.002+08:00

Your Personality Type: The Spontaneous Idealist

Posted using ShareThis

Badge From Out-of-Nowhere

2008-07-04T22:29:00.001+08:00

Nakita ko kay Cholle eh, e di gayahin... Haha.

University of the Philippines... A Century Hence

2008-06-17T20:28:00.001+08:00

est. June 18, 1908

Where art thou, Liberty?

2008-06-12T09:43:00.001+08:00

Are we really free?

Are we enjoying genuine independence?

Liberty, where art thou?

====

Things may be uncertain, things may not go our way, but let's enjoy the moment, let's celebrate a century and half a score of our so-called "Independence".

Losses Here, There, Everywhere for Federer

2008-05-19T11:57:00.004+08:00

Is the "King" abdicating?

An image of frustration...

Last year, Roger Federer lost just 9 matches against 68 wins, taking 8 titles including 3 Grand Slam trophies, the Tennis Masters Cup and 2 ATP Masters Series shields. This year, four and a half months of the 2008 ATP Season has already passed, he has just managed to win a relatively minor clay tournament in Estoril - losing 7 battles already along the way.

1. Australian Open SF (vs Novak Djokovic) - 5-7, 3-6, 6-7 (5)
2. Dubai Tennis Championships 1R (vs Andy Murray) - 7-6 (6), 3-6, 4-6
3. Indian Wells Masters SF (vs Mardy Fish) - 3-6, 2-6
4. Key Biscayne Masters QF (vs Andy Roddick) - 6-7 (4), 6-4, 3-6
5. Monte Carlo Masters F (vs Rafael Nadal) - 5-7 5-7
6. Rome Masters QF (vs Radek Stepanek) - 6-7 (4), 6-7 (7)
7. Hamburg Masters F (vs Rafael Nadal) - 5-7, 6-7 (3), 3-6

Who will take over?

So, are we crowning a new "King"?

A picture-perfect moment...

Rafael Nadal has been ranked #2 for a record 148 consecutive weeks, and has now won 108 of his last 110 matches on clay, including 81 straight from 2005-2007. He made a hat-trick in four different clay tournaments - Monte Carlo (2005-2008), Barcelona (2005-2008), Rome (2005-2007), and Roland Garros (2005-2007). He will try to tie Bjorn Borg's record of four-successive French Open victories next week. He was won 11 AMS shields, at least two each year, since 2005. He has been in the finals of all ATP Masters event except one - in Cincinnati. He has denied Federer a career Grand Slam three times already and sports a 10-6 (8-4 on ATP Finals and 8-1 on clay) lifetime win-loss record against the current #1.

Is Rafa the sole heir to the throne?

Or will the "Djoker" steal the limelight?

A shot filled with ecstasy...

He might not be the King nor the Ace, but this Joker from Serbia is a Jack of all trades. Novak Djokovic currently leads the ATP Champions' Race by grabbing his first career Grand Slam at Melbourne and 2 more AMS shields in Indian Wells and Rome. Last year, he made a great improvement climbing up from #16 to #3 in the world with AMS triumphs in Miami and Montreal plus a finals appearance in the US Open. Last week, for the first time in 147 weeks, Nadal's grip of the second-spot was in clear threat. He surely adds a little more spice to the epic rivalry Federer and Nadal have already established - making it a three-way fight.

But does he have what it takes to be the next-big-thing in men's tennis?

These questions will be answered as the next wave of ATP events unfolds with Roland Garros, Wimbledon, Toronto and Cincinnati Masters, the Olympics and the US Open taking centerstage from May to September 2008.

Nike Everywhere

2008-05-17T20:43:00.002+08:00

First, it was the Air Zoom Vapor IV "Federer Wimby07" edition...

Now, the City Court III Metallic...

Next, the Air Max Breathe Cage II "Vamos Rafa" edition.

I love Nike.

Just do it!

Metrowalk Everyday

2008-05-12T22:08:00.001+08:00

Well, not really everyday, but I must admit, Metrowalk has been my crib for the past couple of weekends because of my current addiction to F1 race - an addiction rekindled by my good friend Cholle.

My first time at Phi Bar was during the free viewing of Spanish Grand Prix 2008 last April 27. According to Cho, the attendance that night was considerably low - at 26. Anyway, Cho and I won a lot of prizes from the organizers (headed by Pinoy F3 and rally driver Mike Potenciano) including UNO and C! magazines (Cho actually received a free one-year subscription of C! for winning a totally honest trivia game hahaha), car cleaners (which are so useless), Toyota caps (woohoo!), BMW pouches (which my father loves), Phi Bar VIP Card (10% discount card), and 50 pesos. It was Andy (the US expat on the right) who won the money for us - he predicted the correct combination of the top 3 finishers in the right order (Kimi, Massa, Lewis). Zaldy (the guy to the right of Cholle) made a deal with us that whoever came up with the right guess should willingly split the prize money among the four of us. Too bad, Andy's bet was identical with those of 12 other people. So instead of getting the whole PhP2600 pot, we settled with just PhP200 - thus, 50 bucks for each of us. It was a great night not just for the F1 fans, but also for Scuderia Ferrari and its drivers who we were rooting for - Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa. They gave Ferrari a 1-2 result that brought the team in front of the constructors' championship race.

Two weeks passed, it was May 11, the race day for the Turkish GP. Okay okay, it was Mothers' Day... so before I went to Phi to attend another free viewing, I made it sure that my whole day was spent with my mother and my family. I also managed to greet as many people, especially the moms in my phonebook, as possible through SMS - and of course birthday boy CL. Alright, back to F1... Ralph was able to join us this time (congrats, for graduating from the UP College of Business Administration). We were not so lucky this time in the raffle draws, but hey, I won in the fantasy game. I bet that Massa would win the race, Lewis would be the runner-up and Kimi coming in third - and that was the exact order of the podium finishers after they completed 58 laps of the circuit. I won PhP300... again, I did not get the whole pot of PhP2700 because 8 other contestants guessed the same combo. The prize somehow subsidized our bill for the evening - we had a bucket of beer (I think, we ordered a couple of bottles more) and a platter of thank-heaven-for-this-oh-so-yummy-nachos. Also, we all got free F2020 fuel saver (which again, is not so useful 'cause I don't have an effin' car!) and the same issue of C! mag which Cho and I got during the Spanish GP. Baduy!

Another twin-podium appearance for Ferrari - if I haven't mentioned it above, I must tell you that I am a Ferrari fan - notice the red shirts? And a Kimi fan, as well. So we headed out of Phi smiling. Scuderia Ferrari is now 19 points clear of its closest competitor BMW Sauber and 21 points ahead of long-time rival McLaren-Mercedes; Raikkonen has already amassed 35 drivers' points while Massa and Hamilton are tied in second with 28 apiece. Then we spent an hour in El Pueblo eating ice cream and fries while reminiscing the good old times and planning future gimiks/outings where hopefully, more Barkadahan peeps will be able to attend. After some deliberations, it's final - we'll be in Galera on the 30th of May until the 1st of June. Details to follow my friends. Hehe.

I was also in Metrowalk last Saturday, at Elbow Room specifically, for OJ and Nel's pre-wedding party. Vernon & Mshel, Daniel & Felise, Philip & Dae, Cheson, Elaine (OJ's sister) and other friends of the bride were there to celebrate the couple's last few days of singlehood. The food was insane - it was terrific! Got some booze, played some billiards and joined in fun games that fit the theme of the party - shower/stag party in one hahaha.

I can't wait for OJ and Nel's wedding which will be held on Sunday, May 18th at the Fort Bonifacio Officers' Clubhouse. I, too, can't wait for the Monaco GP race day on May 25th. I invite both F1 and non-F1 fans out there for another free viewing at Phi. The race commences at 8pm.

Hopefully, this week, I'll be able to watch Speed Racer, Indiana Jones and Harold and Kumar.

That's all from me tonight... until then!

====

PS: Thanks Cholle and Mark, for all the pictures. I am still waiting for Mike's pictures. For more F1 viewing images, visit this link. :)

PPS: To all grammar police out there, please proofread my article 'cause I composed it during the wee hours of the night (which is getting more usual these days) while my brain was already ready to shutdown. :P

A Year Ago

2008-04-16T19:04:00.001+08:00

... around 11:46pm, Marien texted me, "Congrats!"

Since then, I am useless... a useless engineer, at least.

A Year Hence

2008-04-15T21:41:00.001+08:00

...and nothing's changed.

Or has something?

BMW Sauber here, Scuderia Ferrari there, McLaren-Mercedes Everywhere... plus Williams-Toyota on the side.

2008-04-10T21:21:00.001+08:00

The 2008 Formula One Season has just recently kicked-off and the races for both driver's and constructor's championships are just as intense as the summer heat in Asia. With the first three of the scheduled eighteen Grand Prix's this year already completed, three teams found themselves separated by only one point from one another in the scoreboard.

While defending champ Ferrari has claimed two of the three victories via first place finishes from likewise defending champ Kimi Raikkonen in Sepang, Malaysia and Felipe Massa in Sakhir, Bahrain, it is McLaren-Mercedes sophomore driver Lewis Hamilton who drew the first blood in Melbourne, Australia where 13 out of 22 cars failed to complete the whole course under the blazing sun down under. Nonetheless, it is BMW Sauber leading the charts with 30 points - with three for three podium finishes from Nick Heifeld (2nd - Australian GP) and Robert Kubica (2nd - Malaysian GP, 3rd - Bahrain GP). Ferrari is in second with 29 (Raikkonen also ended up as Massa's runner up in Sakhir and 8th in Melbourne) and McLaren in third with 28 (Heikki Kovalainen was 3rd in Sepang and 5th in both Melbourne and Sakhir while Hamilton was 5th in Sepang). The only other podium appearance comes from Williams-Toyota's Nico Rosberg who placed 3rd in Melbourne.

As the circuit enjoy a three-week hiatus from competition before engaging again in three successive races staring April 27, many teams and drivers alike may want to regroup themselves and assess each other's performance in order to stop the domination of this year's Big 3 teams early in the season. One driver who has to re-evaluate himself is Fernando Alonso. After severing ties with both McLaren and former teammate Hamilton, whom he was tied for second place in last year's driver's championship race, Alonso went back to Renault where he is now experiencing a slumping showing. He is currently on a dismal 9th spot with 6 points after placing 4th in Melbourne, 8th in Sepang and 10th in Sakhir. FYI, he had a minor collision with Hamilton in the early stages of Bahrain GP causing Hamilton's car to lose its nose cone. For more team assessments and preview of the European series visit the official site of F1.

On April 27, the Gran Premio de España will kick-off in Barcelona, Spain. Two weeks later, it will be Turkey's turn in Istanbul and then Grand Prix de Monaco in Monte-Carlo after another two weeks. Massa, Alonso and Raikkonen were the past 3 winners of the Spanish GP and Ferrari is the undisputed top constructor with 10 wins, but we may witness a comeback from Hamilton after a career-low 13th place finish in Bahrain. This may also serve as the best venue for him to vindicate himself in front of all his Spanish critics who are either driven by racial biases and/or the fact that he is their countryman Alonso's adversary. But leave all the controversies behind, and concentrate on the race track for you might not notice how far the Big 3 would pull away from the rest of the field after this European series.

Massa (2 wins for Ferrari in 2006 and 2007) and Raikkonen (1 win for McLaren-Mercedes in 2005) hold the only 3 stages of Turkish GP held so far - so Istanbul may also be considered as Ferrari's turf. FYI, the Istanbul Park Circuit is only one of the three anti-clockwise circuits in the F1 calendar - the other two being Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, Italy and Autódromo José Carlos Pace in São Paulo, Brazil - where Ferrari has a good record as well. Alonso and Raikkonen were the last winners in Monte-Carlo with McLaren-Mercedes leading the constructor's tally at 14 wins. This will be a free-for-all race but McLaren will emerge as conqueror of Monaco yet again.

After the Bahrain GP, here are the latest tabulations for driver's and constructor's championship races:

The 2008 F1 Season has just begun and the mercury is quickly rising. Let's wait for the next three races to unfold and then, we will see if my predictions are correct. FYI, I am a Ferrari fan and I root for Kimi.

----

Sources: Formula1 and Wikipedia

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Next Issue: NBA Regular Season - The Best of 2007-2008 in review.

Federer here, Nadal there, Djokovic everywhere... plus Davydenko on the side.

2008-04-07T21:23:00.003+08:00

For more than three years, Roger Federer and somehow Rafael Nadal dominated the men's draw of the professional tennis circuit. From 2005-2007, they won 11 straight grand slams between them and their #1 and #2 rankings were never threatened by anyone. Early last year, a 19 year old Serbian named Novak Djokovic made an introduction of himself via a finals appearance at Indian Wells and a championship at Key Biscayne - the first two ATP Masters Series events of the calendar. That is the beginning of his ascent up in the charts, leaping from 78th place in 2005 to 16th in 2006 and finally to a career-best 3rd position in the ATP ranking system during the first half of 2007 - bypassing Andy Roddick and other perennial top five players.

After Nole's (Djokovic's nickname) phenomenal year, the race for the top ranking has never been this closer. In the late 1980's and the whole 1990's, having 5000+ ATP points could already secure you of being #1 in the world. But after the results of Australian Open 2008 - where Djokovic defeated Federer in straight sets in the semifinals en route to his first grand slam win, and Dubai ATP Tour event - where Federer exited in the first round while Nadal reached the quarters and Djokovic the semis, came in, Federer (6330) led Nadal (5980) only by 350 points, the closest ever since Federer led Roddick by the same margin back in May 10, 2004. And Nadal (5705), interestingly, led Djokovic (5280) only by 425 points after the latter defeated Mardy Fish to collect his 3rd AMS shield in March 23, 2008.

Okay, before we get drowned with too much statistics, let's not forget Nikolay Davydenko, the consistent yet unlucky player from Russia (he is always in Federer's half of the draw) whose ranking since October 30, 2006 has never been lower than no.5. He reached no.3 spot a week after and is now the constant 4th-seed at every tournament he plays. Have I already mentioned that he recently upset Nadal in the Sony Ericsson Open 2008 (Miami AMS), 6-4 6-2? Now you know...

Going back to the numbers, the Big 3 of Fed, Rafa and Nole is now called the Big 4 - adding Davydenko to the list of potential heirs to the throne of King Roger. All in all, the Big 3 has a combined output of 16 grand slam titles under their belts - 16 out of the last 19 (only Roddick - US Open 2003, Gaston Gaudio - Roland Garros 2004 and Marat Safin - Australian Open 2005 won the remaining 3). Adding Nikolay to the limelight, at least one of the Big 4 contested each of the last 13 AMS final matches since Madrid Masters of 2006 - 11 of which they actually won (only David Nalbandian managed to get the other two - Madrid and Paris Masters 2007 - defeating Novak once, and Rafa and Roger twice).

This week, ATP released its latest ranking (see table below).

It has been a long time since the #1 player led the #2 by less than 1000, and though it's usual that the differences between the nos. 3, 4 and 5 are also more or less 1000 points, the race to the top has never been this exciting. In months' time, or even in weeks', we may welcome a new world no.1 in tennis. It may be Rafa, it may be Novak - more likely Novak.

By the way, almost four months came and went, but the top 2 players have gone without a single title. This just shows that the Big 2 - or even the Big 4, are now vulnerable to the insurgence of the likes of David Ferrer, David Nalbandian, Mikhail Youzhny, James Blake, Andy Murray, Jo-Wilfred Tsonga, Philipp Kohlschreiber, Mardy Fish, Janko Tipsarevic and of course Roddick who all want to spoil the dominance of the Roger, Rafa, Nole and Nikolay.

----

Sources: ATP and Wikipedia

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Next Issue: Formula One 2008 Season - Australia, Malaysia and Bahrain GPs in review.

Dirt Here, There, Everywhere

2008-03-17T15:08:00.001+08:00

I got this from Nhiza.

Your Mind is PG-13 Rated

Your mind is definitely a little dirty. You're naughty, but not trashy.
You don't shy away from a dirty joke, and you're clearly not a prude.

Do You Have a Dirty Mind?

Incubus Here, There, Everywhere

2008-03-17T14:54:00.001+08:00

Name Here, There, Everywhere

2008-03-01T08:56:00.002+08:00

Got this from Jim.

----

What Onin Means

You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life.
You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you.
At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.
You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.
You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.
You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.
You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

----

I totally agree with most of the qualities my name supposedly conveys especially with these ones:

1. You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

2. You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

3. You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

Leap Year, There, Everywhere

2008-02-29T11:40:00.001+08:00

Wala lang, I just want to have a blog entry that is dated 29 February. Hahaha...

Anyway, to make this entry blog-worthy, okay, let me share with you the link of Wikipedia's definition of leap year. You might find it interesting to know that leap year doesn't occur in all years divisible by four, and there is also such a thing as leap week and even leap second.

Leap year

Are they still Here, There, Everywhere?

2008-02-26T11:18:00.001+08:00

I miss my friends...

Wicked Here, There, Everywhere... Somehow

2008-02-23T08:16:00.001+08:00

I got this from Marien, Guj and Jim.

My interpretation - I can be your best friend or your worst enemy. You just have to choose on which side you want to be. Ika nga ni Anakin Skywalker, "If you're not with me, then you're my enemy." Hahaha.

How evil are you?

HD-DVD Nowhere, Blu-Ray Everywhere

2008-02-20T08:07:00.000+08:00

I got this from Cheson's blog.

Toshiba Announces Discontinuation of HD DVD Businesses

19 February, 2008

Company Remains Focused on Championing Consumer Access to High Definition Content

TOKYO--Toshiba Corporation today announced that it has undertaken a thorough review of its overall strategy for HD DVD and has decided it will no longer develop, manufacture and market HD DVD players and recorders. This decision has been made following recent major changes in the market. Toshiba will continue, however, to provide full product support and after-sales service for all owners of Toshiba HD DVD products.

HD DVD was developed to offer consumers access at an affordable price to high-quality, high definition content and prepare them for the digital convergence of tomorrow where the fusion of consumer electronics and IT will continue to progress.

"We carefully assessed the long-term impact of continuing the so-called 'next-generation format war' and concluded that a swift decision will best help the market develop," said Atsutoshi Nishida, President and CEO of Toshiba Corporation. "While we are disappointed for the company and more importantly, for the consumer, the real mass market opportunity for high definition content remains untapped and Toshiba is both able and determined to use our talent, technology and intellectual property to make digital convergence a reality."

Toshiba will continue to lead innovation, in a wide range of technologies that will drive mass market access to high definition content. These include high capacity NAND flash memory, small form factor hard disk drives, next generation CPUs, visual processing, and wireless and encryption technologies. The company expects to make forthcoming announcements around strategic progress in these convergence technologies.

Toshiba will begin to reduce shipments of HD DVD players and recorders to retail channels, aiming for cessation of these businesses by the end of March 2008. Toshiba also plans to end volume production of HD DVD disk drives for such applications as PCs and games in the same timeframe, yet will continue to make efforts to meet customer requirements. The company will continue to assess the position of notebook PCs with integrated HD DVD drives within the overall PC business relative to future market demand.

This decision will not impact on Toshiba's commitment to standard DVD, and the company will continue to market conventional DVD players and recorders. Toshiba intends to continue to contribute to the development of the DVD industry, as a member of the DVD Forum, an international organization with some 200 member companies, committed to the discussion and defining of optimum optical disc formats for the consumer and the related industries.

Toshiba also intends to maintain collaborative relations with the companies who joined with Toshiba in working to build up the HD DVD market, including Universal Studios, Paramount Pictures, and DreamWorks Animation and major Japanese and European content providers on the entertainment side, as well as leaders in the IT industry, including Microsoft, Intel, and HP. Toshiba will study possible collaboration with these companies for future business opportunities, utilizing the many assets generated through the development of HD DVD.

Holiday Confusions Everywhere

2008-02-18T12:35:00.003+08:00

After declaring February 25 as a working holiday of observance, Malacañang Palace recalled its previous press release and made Monday next week a special non-working holiday. This is in line with the 22nd Anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution that ousted former President Ferdinand Marcos and installed the country's first ever woman president Corazon Aquino.

----
Malacañang has declared February 25, the 22nd anniversary of the 1986 People Power uprising that restored democracy in the country, as a non-working holiday.

President Arroyo, in signing Proclamation No. 1462, said the entire nation should be given the opportunity to observe the “milestone" in the country's history, which has a theme this year of “Kapayapaan at Pagkakaisa Tungo sa Kaunlaran."

“The historic event, which restored and ushered political, social, and economic reforms in the
country, serves as an inspiration to Filipinos everywhere as we contnnue to chart our collective
course as a nation and as a people," the president said.

President Arroyo also signed Proclamation No. 1463, which lists the regular holidays and special non-working days for year 2008.

The order is in compliance with Republic Act 9492, which rationalizes the celebration of national holidays. The law provides that holidays, except those that are religious, would have to be move to the nearest Monday unless otherwise modified by a law or presidential order.

Under Proclamation No. 1463, the regular holidays are: Maundy Thursday (March 20); Good Friday (March 21); Araw ng Kagitingan (April 7, which is the nearest Monday to April 9); Labor Day (May 1); Independence Day (June 9, the nearest Monday to June 12); National Heroes Day (August 25, last Monday of August); Bonifacio Day (December 1, nearest Monday to Nov. 30); Christmas Day (Dec. 25); and Rizal Day (Dec. 30).

President Arroyo said Labor Day would still be celebrated on May 1 because it has been a “long cherished tradition of workers...which trade unions fought very hard for to institutionalize in the country and an international event that workers want to celebrate on the exact date."

She also said the special non-working holidays are: Ninoy Aquino Day (August 18, the nearest Monday to Aug. 21); All Saints Day (Nov. 1); Dec. 26 and 29, as special non-working days; and Dec. 31, because it is the last day of the year.

President Arroyo said Dec. 26 and 29 were declared as “additional special non-working days" so that Filipinos would have a “more meaningful observance of Christmas and New Year to strengthen their ties with one another."

She said the observance of Eid Il Fitr, which is the end of Ramadan, would be declared upon the recommendation of the Office of Muslim Affairs based on the Islamic calendar or Hijra.
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Read the whole article discussing this declaration at gmanews.tv.

Punctuations Here, There, Everywhere

2008-02-16T09:54:00.001+08:00

Another personality test, this time from May and Marien.

You Are a Comma

You are open minded and extremely optimistic.
You enjoy almost all facets of life. You can find the good in almost anything.

You keep yourself busy with tons of friends, activities, and interests.
You find it hard to turn down an opportunity, even if you are pressed for time.

Your friends find you fascinating, charming, and easy to talk to.
(But with so many competing interests, you friends do feel like you hardly have time for them.)

You excel in: Inspiring people

You get along best with: The Question Mark

What Punctuation Mark Are You?

Everytime

2008-02-12T17:01:00.000+08:00

Jim and then Cholle took this quiz, so I might as well go with the flow. Haha.

----

Your time of day has a split personality -- sometimes it's sweat-streaked and loud, and you're on the dance floor, getting your third wind, and shouting lyrics like you'll never run out of energy. You are the time of night that carves itself into your memory forever, because you'll never forget how much you love these people and this moment and this song. It's not always about unforgettable parties, though. Sometimes your late night (err… early morning) burst of energy happens when you're home alone. Those are the times when you say, "I flat out refuse to go to sleep until I finish reading this book, or typing this page, or reorganizing my entire closet." In either case, you are the time of night when it feels sort of forbidden to be awake, but you love accomplishing something special long after everyone else went to bed. And hey -- you can always catch up on sleep tomorrow, right?

10% of the people who took this quiz got the same evaluation.

2am is my usual bed time haha.

Then, Bamboo was everywhere... Now, BamBOO is nowhere.

2008-02-12T11:52:00.000+08:00

Look at the difference...

I almost strangled him two years ago. He was just hanging around with the VIPeeps backstage. Now, everything's changed. He is out of our reach already. Actually, there was no problem with him or even Ira last night, it was just the obnoxious bodyguard who kept on pushing us (or them) away. Still, I managed to capture a video clip with them waving to the camera and Dyan managed to sneak a shot of me with Bamboo trying to get out of the venue as fast as he (or his damn bodyguard) could.

Ala-Eli Buendia talaga. Haha.

Their itinerary last night: CAR --> DRESSING TENT --> STAGE --> CAR.

Tae.

Bands Here, There, Everywhere

2008-02-10T16:19:00.000+08:00

(Copied from Cholle's blog entry)

MONDAY - LOVERAGE 2: OUTLOUD! (Adelfe Enu Crea Sorority and Pan Xenia Fraternity)
Bamboo, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, 6Cyclemind, MYMP, UPdharmadown, Itchyworms, Kitchie Nadal, Imago, Chicosci, Stonefree, Moonstar88, Silent Sanctuary, Mayonnaise, Soapdish, Shamrock, Gloc 9, Cookie Chua, Queso, Treadstone, Blue Ketchup, Protein Shake, Ciudad, Fuse, Paraluman, Manibela, Chubibo, Tha-R, Zelle, and many more...

TUESDAY - RAKESTRA 2008: LOST IN OBLIVION (Beta Epsilon Fraternity)
Sandwich, Urbandub w/ Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, 6Cycle Mind, Sugarfree, Itchyworms, Moonstar88, Chicosci, Silent Sanctuary, Callalily, Hale, Imago, Mojofly, Rocksteddy, Mayonnaise, The Dawn, Slapshock, Radioactive Sago Project, Kiko Machine, Pedicab, Hilera, Pinup Girls, Ciudad, Chilitees, Taken by Cars, Cambio, Manibela, Zelle, Boy Elroy, Oi Wag D2, Bembol Rockers, The Dorques, Angulo, Too Late The Hero, Duster, Aizo, Bagetsafonik, The Ronnies, Concrete Sam, El Mercurio, Peryodiko and many more...

WEDNESDAY - ROCK-LOVE-AN: SANDAAN: KAMI N'APO ULIT (Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity)
Sugarfree, Spongecola, Typecast, Callalily, Silent Sanctuary, Urbandub, Barbie Almalbis, Imago, 6cyclemind, Itchyworms, Hale, Greyhoundz, Proteinshake, Pedicab, Kjwan, Soapdish, Stonefree, Mayonnaise, Fuse, Mojofly, RockSteddy, ChicoSci, Check, Melanie, Hilera, VinceNoir, Paraluman, Manibela, Ciudad, Blue Ketchup, and many more…

THURSDAY - SISFIRE 6 (Sigma Beta Sorority)
Kamikazee, Urbandub, Rivermaya, Sugarfree, Chicosci, Imago, Stonefree, Up dharma Down, Mojofly, Radioactive Sago Project, Silent Sanctuary, Juana, Giniling Festival, Moonstar 88, Chubibo, Session Road, Purplechickens, Pumping Pluto, and many more...

FRIDAY - (University Student Council)

SATURDAY - EUFAIRIA: 100 YEARS AT THE EDGE OF SANITY (Delta Pi Omicron Sorority)
Urbandub, The Dawn, Pupil, Slapshock, Kjwan, Queso, Greyhoundz, Chicosci, Kiko Machine, Stonefree, Acel, Sugarfree, Moonstar 88, Mojofly, Paramita, Hilera, Cambio, Chubibo, Giniling Festival, Datu's Tribe, The Wudz, The Jerks, Radioactive Sago Project, Aizo, Cathexis, Sunflower Day Camp, Threadstone, Fuse, Ursaminor, Nickty Nasty, Kampai, and many more...

----

"Many more..." is very much in demand. Haha. I wonder how great a performer he is.

Swipe Here, There, Everywhere

2008-02-04T09:38:00.000+08:00

I have been my sister’s CITIBANK Master Card supplement since 2005. So every time I use my card, I earn her points. Two weeks ago, my very own HSBC Mabuhay Miles Visa Card application got approved. I activated it right away and planned to use it to purchase Incubus concert tickets. Mabuhay Miles has a promo – for an accumulated initial spending of PhP5000.00, I will get a round trip ticket to anywhere in the Philippines (except Mindanao). And from now on, I will finally get the hard-earned points in exchange of my own expenditures. Haha.

Earlier this evening, I went out with my college friends, Carlo, Cholle, Fil, Ige, Neil&Daphne, Roma, Ron&Kelly, and Teejay. We met at CTBL Gateway; though, I opted to buy coffee from Starbucks because I have a hundred bucks worth of GC. Ige and I then went to the Ticketnet outlet just in front of the main entrance of Araneta Coliseum to purchase 7 concert tickets. I gave my new Visa card to the cashier and alas, the machine flashed “CARD ERROR”. I didn't know what to do because the total price I owe the lady is around PhP14000.00. Phone booths are nowhere in the vicinity and when I asked the guard about where phone booths are, I was directed to a far place. To make the long story short, I was lucky to make a call to my bank and the service agent assured me that my card is functioning well – she instructed me to go back to the ticketing outlet and ask the saleslady to swipe my card again, this time slowly and surely. Holding my breath while she was trying to make the transaction again, I was finally relieved when I saw two sheets of receipts coming out of the card reader – meaning, my card was accepted. What a way to make “binyag” of the first credit card under my name.

We then moved to Dencio’s to dine. We had 5 sizzling plates of sisig, 2 servings of krispy kangkong, a dozen and a half of baked tahong, 200g of blue marlin, a plate of asparagus in garlic, sizzling mushroom and krispy hipon. Wow! As always, I was tasked to collect each and everyone’s contribution to the bill. A bright idea popped out of my head – I could use my new credit card to pay our bill, then I just have to pay my credit card bills using the money I collected from my friends. In return, I get more mileage. Bwahaha. Imagine, I consumed PhP16351.00 in one day? How many miles have I converted with that spending? I just need to pay my bills before the month ends so it won’t incur any interest.

Anyway, the night ended there. We parted ways around 9pm and as we headed to Gateway’s parking lot, Ige and I realized that no one took pictures of our night out. But this morning, I visited Cholle’s multiply site and saw that she and Teejay had a couple of shots taken in front of CBTL. Haha. Sila lang ang may picture.

So there… I can’t wait for March 9 – Incubus will be coming to Manila for their Pacific Rim Concert Tour. But before that, the gang planned to attend Monday and/or Tuesday nights of UP Fair (Loverage 2 and Rockestra 2). See you guys there!

Maria's and Nole's Stories Everywhere

2008-01-27T16:51:00.000+08:00

Maria Sharápova wins her 1st Australian Open Championship

Maria Sharapova of Russia collected her third major tennis trophy - the Australian Open 2008 (adding to her Wimbledon 2004 and US Open 2006 wins) at Melbourne Park Saturday afternoon after dispatching Serbian sensation Ana Ivanovic in straight sets 7-5 6-3.

On her way to the finals, she never dropped a single set nor got engaged in any tiebreak. Seeded fifth this year, she defeated Jelena Kostanic Tosic 6-4 6-3 in the 1st Round, former world #1 Lindsay Davenport 6-1 6-3 in the 2nd Round, fellow Russians Elena Vesnina 6-3 6-0 and Elena Dementieva 6-2 6-0 in the 3rd and 4th Rounds, top seed and current world #1 Justine Henin 6-4 6-0 in the Quarterfinals and third seed Jelena Jankovic 6-3 6-1 in the Semifinals.

Read more of the stories of her successful comeback here.

Novak Đoković wins his 1st Grand Slam Championship at Melbourne

Serbian Novak Djokovic ended Jo-Wilfried Tsonga's suprising run at the Australian Open 2008 by defeating the Frenchman at Rod Laver Arena Sunday evening 4-6 6-4 6-3 7-6 (2) to grab his first ever Grand Slam trophy.

On his way to the finals, he never dropped a single set and even managed to conquer current world #1 Roger Federer in straight sets 7-5 6-3 7-6 (5) during their Semifinal showdown last Friday - ending Federer's run of 10 successive Grand Slam finals appearance and freezing his hopes to match Pete Sampras's record of 14 major championships. Seeded #3, he thrashed German Benjamin Becker 6-0 6-2 7-6 (5) in the 1st Round, Simone Bolelli 6-1 6-2 6-2 in the 2nd Round, Sam Querry 6-3 6-1 6-3 in the 3rd Round, local bet and former world #1 Lleyton Hewitt 7-5 6-3 6-3 in the 4th Round, and #5 seed David Ferrer 6-0 6-3 7-5 in the Quarterfinals.

Read more of the stories of this fast-rising tennis star here.

Survey Here, There, Everywhere

2008-01-11T08:51:00.000+08:00

1. Student number?
01-26719

2. College?
Engineering

3. Course?
BS Electronics and Communications Engineering

4. Nag-shift ka ba o na-kickout?
Neither.

5. Saan ka kumuha ng UPCAT?
Palma Hall aka AS

6. Favorite GE subject?
Kasaysayan 2

7. Favorite PE?
Camping

8. Saan ka nag-aabang ng hot chick sa UP?
BA or Tourism

9. Favorite prof(s)
Ma’am Orillos (Kas 2), Dean Gev (EEE 35, DSP Founder), Sir Templo (ES 21)

10. Pinaka-ayaw na GE subject.
STS, okay sana yung subject kaso terror yung prof haha.

11. Kumuha ka ba ng Wed or Sat classes?
Yup, usually PE and/or ROTC saka nung graduating year ko – EEE 190/198.

12. Nakapag-field trip ka ba?
Hindi yata… Na-cancel yung Corregidor namin eh.

Considered field trip daw yung Company Tours sa Globe, Canon, at ASTEC.

13. Naging CS ka na ba or US sa UP?
Oo naman. Haha. First and last semesters. :P

14. Ano ang Org/Frat/Soro mo?
SAVER, Circuit, FORCE, etc.

15. Saan ka tumatambay palagi?
Circuit Tambayan and DSP Lab

16. Dorm, Boarding house, o Bahay?
Own house

17. Kung walang UPCAT test at malaya kang nakapili ng kurso mo sa UP, ano yun?
ECE or Civil Engg.

18. Sino ang mga pinaka-una mong nakilala sa UP?
Jen Regua and Ralph Miranda – both HS classmates and former EEE colleagues; Ghe del Rosario, Marien Dy, Larisse Garcia, Glenn Kilayko, May Que, Liz Sagucio – EEE Berks; and UP SAVER Bloc Handlers

19. First play na napanood mo sa UP?
Nalimutan ko title eh, basta sa Guererro Theatre sa AS ko siya napanood noong first year with May.

20. Name the 5 most conyo orgs in UP
OBEM, JMA, CE, IE Club, Circuit

21. Name 5 of the coolest orgs/frats/soro in UP.
Circuit, IE Club, APO, Tau Alpha, Beta Epsilon

22. May frat/soro bang nag-recruit sa yo?
Nag-alok, yes.

23. Saan ka madalas mag-lunch?
CS Canteen or pa-deliver sa DSP Lab.

24. Masaya ba sa UP?
Syempre.

25. Nakasama ka na ba sa rally?
Nope. Call me apathetic…

26. Ilang beses ka bumoto sa Student Council
Almost every year naman yata… Though, mas madalas yata sa ESC kaysa sa USC.

27. Name at least 5 leftist groups in UP
LFS at Stand-UP lang naaalala ko eh. Saka subjective yung leftist, mas okay yata kung idealist. :)

28. Pinangarap mo rin bang mag-laude nung freshman ka?
Of course.

29. Kanino ka pinaka-patay sa UP?
Pinaka-patay na patay? Wala naman…

30. Kung di ka UP, anong school ka?
Baka hindi na lang ako nag-aral haha. Kasi sa UP lang ako nag college entrance exam eh. Ika nga natin, “The two top universities in the Philippines are UP and others.” Hahahahaha. :D

Celebrations Here, There, Everywhere

2008-01-07T10:54:00.000+08:00

The University of the Philippines' Centennial Celebration starts tomorrow January 8, 2008 with the UP@100 Kickoff to commence the 162-day countdown to UP's 100th Foundation Day.

Here's the schedule for tomorrow's events (click the image to visit the UP Centennial Website):

Killing Here, There, Everywhere

2007-12-28T15:31:00.000+08:00

They say that Iraq is the most dangerous place for soldiers and the Philippines for mediamen, but Pakistan is now the most dangerous place for civilians.

Pakistan's former Prime Minister and opposition leader Benazir Bhutto has been shot dead, Thursday after a political rally, by an unknown man who instantly blew himself up - killing no less than 20 others.

Visit CNN to know more on this brutal attempt to end democracy in this country in turmoil.

Let me quote a line from Band Aid's song, "Don't they know it's Christmas time?".

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2007-12-24T21:03:00.000+08:00

Parties Here, There, Everywhere

2007-12-21T15:27:00.000+08:00

Christmas Parties everywhere, everyday.

Dec 13 - HP SAP-ADSI Christmas CoffeeTalk at the Peninsula Manila in Makati
Dec 14-15 - HP SAP-ADSI-PD Christmas Offsite at Tom's Resort in Montalban, Rizal
Dec 18 - HP GDPC Christmas Party at One Esplanade in Pasay
Dec 19 - New Hires' Grand Pakain at SMPC
Dec 20 - PD-MMCS-IM/3PL Ultimate Party at Ordoñez's Place in Antipolo
Dec 21 - HP SAP-ADSI-PD Food Trip at SMPC

Buhay baboy na naman...

I'll upload all the photos soon. And I really mean ALL. Haha.

Facebook Here, There, Everywhere

2007-11-26T13:03:00.000+08:00

Facebook is literally everywhere, I have networks in UP, HP, P&G, Philippines, Singapore, US/Canada and my application toolbar gets greater and greater in size each day. It's so addictive; though, I think this fad will just simply fade away few months from now. Friendster and Multiply will still prevail - because of their simplicity and easiness to use.

In any case, sign-up and add me in your friends' list.

Violations Not Here, Not There, Nowhere

2007-11-09T13:01:00.000+08:00

I don't have a car but most of my friends have so I might as well help them avoid MMDA enforcers' apprehension on the road - or getaway with it in case they got engaged in one. This may also be a useful reference for me in the near future. Hahahaha.

So check this out: (Forwarded email message from my officemate Patrick Glen Go)

SUBJECT: TOOLS AGAINST MMDA OFFICERS

I just reached my limit last weekend, and decided to take action against the abusive MMDA enforcers. I basically called up the MMDA head office and inquired from the Personnel Officer, Antonio Pagulayan, to clarify their policies. Here is what I got.

If any of these abuses seem familiar to you, Mr. Pagulayan has asked that you call either the MMDA hotline (136) or call the METRO BASE at 09209389861 or 09209389875 and ask for an Inspectorate. They will send inspectors to the place where these MMDA officers are extorting, even while you are arguing out of your apprehension.

1. MMDA officers are not allowed to group together in order to apprehend. They are not even allowed to stand together in groups of 2 or more. The only time they are allowed to work together is for special operations (probably when they apprehend groups of buses for smoke belching).

2. Swerving IS NOT a traffic violation. Moving one lane to the left or right is not swerving, no matter where on the road you do it. And it is even less of a violation when you do it with a signal. Swerving is defined as shifting 2 or more lanes very quickly. So you can argue your way out of this, and call the Metro Base for help.

3. Sadly, using the yellow lane is a traffic violation and will get you a ticket. However, buses are really not allowed to go out of the yellow lane, so if you see selective apprehension of private cars only, you may complain.

4. MMDA has confirmed that your license MAY NOT BE CONFISCATED at a traffic apprehension. The only time they can do so is if you are part of an accident, or it is your third violation and you have not settled your fines yet. They are only allowed to give you a ticket, which you can contest. He recommends actually receiving the ticket in some instances, so that you can report the officer who did it.

5. Also, you are free to ask any of these officers for their "mission order", which is written by their supervisor. If they apprehend you for a violation that is not in their mission order for the day, you can report them and they will receive disciplinary action.

So go out and enjoy! Just don't drink and drive. :)

Here, There, Everywhere... Six Months Hence

2007-10-16T12:36:00.000+08:00

Six months has passed since I had my last haircut... I had another one last Saturday.

Six months has passed since I took my licensure examination... I am now a licensed non-practicing ECE.

Six months has passed since my first day in HP... I am hoping to be regularized this coming fiscal year.

Six months hence... time indeed flies so quickly.

Power Here, There, Everywhere

2007-10-10T08:58:00.000+08:00

Your results:
You are Spider-Man

Spider-Man		90%
Green Lantern		80%
The Flash		80%
Iron Man		75%
Hulk		60%
Superman		60%
Robin		55%
Wonder Woman		50%
Supergirl		50%
Catwoman		45%
Batman		40%

You are intelligent, witty,
a bit geeky and have great
power and responsibility.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Test

Honor Here, There, Everywhere

2007-09-27T13:04:00.000+08:00

UP LAW BAGS

INTERNATIONAL TILT

Proving once again that the UP College of Law is one of the country’s best, a team composed of its students bested other law schools in Asia at the recently concluded 2007 Asia Cup International Law Moot Court Competition held in Tokyo, Japan last August 20–21.

The team, composed of Janice C. Lee, Anya M. Palileo, Anna Lorem R. Ramos, and Maricel R. Seno, bested nine other law schools from all over the continent in their mastery of public international law, humanitarian law, and human rights and refugee law.

The UP team faced Chulalongkorn University of Thailand in the final round, with Lee and Ramos delivering the oral pleadings to a panel of judges composed of Ambassador Chusei Yamada of the UN International Law Commission, Dr. Umesh Kadam of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Kuala Lumpur, and Dr. Jean-Marie Henckaerts of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva.

----

Chulalongkorn is Thailand's top university and one of Asia's best. My thesis adviser, Engr. Rhandley Cajote is currently taking up his doctorate degree here.

A Night To Remember

2007-09-16T21:39:00.000+08:00

What's a better way to celebrate my birthday (and my ECE Board Exam success which is 5 months overdue already) than to celebrate with my family, relatives, friends, classmates and officemates?

Last night, around 50 individuals who are all close to me gathered in my house to dine, drink, sing the night out, nine days after my real birth date last September 6. From my nuclear and extended family (including my 1-month old nephew Sebastian, son of my Ate Che) to my HP clique (Ria, MarkO and sister Mindy, Warren&Kath, Primo&Odz, AJ, and Kat) to my UP colleagues (Carlo, Liz --> thanks for the hopia Liz, my mom liked it, and Jeff --> thanks for the cake Jeff and Tin) to my high school gang (Jam, Zasha, Gale, Adrian, JC, and bestfriend Arolf) to my cousins and nephews/nieces (Almond&Karen, Beth, Boknoy, Elda, Rica, Kiko, and Ate Leah) to my tropa at home (Motel, Jep, Chester, Loist, Tarapo, Maki, Odong, Kuya Gie, JR, Mhe, Kulot, Emem, Chinnie --> thanks for all the help, and Apple) were there to make that moment a night to remember.

Videoke was the "main event" of the party, and I think everyone has got the chance to sing at least once. There were lots of booze and food, I hope everyone has satiated their taste buds and thirsty throat. I apologize if ever anyone experienced some inconveniences, especially, searching for my place here in Taguig. Next year, I promise a better party and a larger venue for a larger group of friends.

I wish, those who were present last night will still be there on my 24th birthday next year, and those who were not, will be there as well.

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"Mahirap magkaroon ng maraming kaibigan, ngunit walang anumang makatutumbas sa sarap ng pagkakaroon nito." Naks. :)

The Number 23

2007-09-06T19:41:00.000+08:00

Another year has come and gone.

Rain Rain Go Away... Oh, No! Don't.

2007-08-04T21:44:00.000+08:00

At last, Metro Manila is now experiencing frequent rainfall and now, at least, our water reservoirs may reach their normal levels.

The personal trade-off is my and my friend Judith's weekly tennis lessons at Ascott Hotel Makati. Due to afternoon rains, our game-cum-class has been suspended for the second straight week. As far as I know, our session next week will be 15-20 minutes as agreed by us, our respective coaches and the fitness centre's management.

Hopefully next Saturday, it will be a fine day for tennis.

University of the Philippines Hereafter, Thereafter, Ever After

2007-07-28T00:13:00.000+08:00

100 and counting...

As I was searching for a free downloadable mp3 of "UP Naming Mahal" in line with my beloved Alma Mater's centenary next year, I stumbled upon a fellow alumnus' blogsite where I found this overwhelmingly heart-warming post. I ask pardon from those who might find Iskolar-ng-Bayan-pride too harsh on other schools. We won't brag about our school if we don't have the right in the first place. Haha.

So here it goes...

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Last weekend, my husband received a text message which went like this: "U.P. made you in such a way, that when the world is sitting, you would be standing; when the world is standing, you would stand out; when the world stands out, you would be outstanding; and when the world tries to be outstanding, you would be the standard. Isang masaya at mayabang na pagbati sa sentenaryong anibersaryo ng UP, UPian! Pass on..." (For those who did not understand the last part, it translates to: "A happy and proud greeting for the centennial anniversary of UP.")

The University of the Philippines will be celebrating its 100th anniversary by next year, 2008. It's been 100 years of producing so many "iskolar ng bayan." Are you a UP graduate? Are you proud to have been part of UP?

I will always look upon my UP years fondly. I earned my college and master's degree there, got my first job there (I taught at the UP College of Business Administration for four years after graduating from college) -- and I even met my husband there! Education, work, family -- all of these point me to UP, our so-called Republic of Diliman, where you need to constantly remind yourself that with freedom, comes great responsibility. =)

I really liked the text that I shared with you earlier. After reading it, I told my husband: "Ang galing naman. Sino kaya gumawa?" ("I wonder who made that text.") My husband replied: "Ewan ko, taga-Ateneo daw." ("I don't know. They say someone from Ateneo.")

Well, that was a joke but Ateneo is a good school too. =) My bet is that someone from Globe or Smart thought about it -- to increase their revenues from SMS. Would you know if there's a creative team in either company which just comes up with jokes or interesting messages that people will want to forward? That must be one fun job.

[By Angelica Viloria Wednesday, July 18, 2007]

SimpsONIN

2007-07-27T18:14:00.000+08:00

I finally simpsonized myself. One is semi-formal, the other is quite casual. Visit the site and simpsonize yourself...

No good-byes... only see you soon!

2007-07-24T18:30:00.000+08:00

My friends-blockmates-orgmates-01/berkmates Marien and May will pursue their respective masters studies abroad this year. May has left the country few hours ago to take up Master of Science in Electrical Engineering at Ohio State University. Marien, on the other hand, will have her flight tomorrow morning for Singapore where she will take up Master in Engineering. She is a scholar of Asian Universities Network - Southeast Asian Education Development (AUN-SEED) at the National University of Singapore. They organized joint and separate despedidas (Marien at least had her "pakain") this month of July.

To both of you, good luck and God bless.

Visit my multiply account for pictures.

Athlete???

2007-07-04T12:41:00.000+08:00

I have never been this athletic in my entire life. I had been known as a nerdy geek since the day I entered kindergarten, or even before any formal schooling. My mother always boasts that I learned how to read when I was barely three years old and I finished the ABAKADA booklet months before she enrolled me to a public school in 1990. To make the long story short, I had never excelled in, or worse - had never got the chance to learn how to play, any sports discipline during my childhood. It's not that I was lampa, or in more colloquial term - malata, actually I know for a fact that I have an above-average endurance and an acceptable physical strength; it's just that I did not have the time then, and/or I guess, the resources to enroll in sports clinics and learn the basics of those games. The only thing I developed during those years is my mental strength - yes, I was the Valedictorian of my kindergarten, grade school, and high school batches.

Throughout the course of my academic life, I just relied on TV and print materials for me to learn the rules and regulations of the sports that caught my interest - badminton, basketball, billiards, boxing, lawn and table tennis, volleyball, etc. Back then, the only event I mastered was... CHESS! Hehe. I told myself, once I finished my studies or at least stepped into college, I would definitely and finally be able to find time and resources to be physically active in sports and not just be a spectator. During high school, I learned the basics of basketball, table tennis, and volleyball - but just the basics. During college, I somehow did well in billiards, bowling and other Philippine indigenous games and made running and walking a part of my everyday life.

But I know it was not enough. I was starting to grow bigger-and-heavier. I must sweat all my fats out and the only way to accomplish the task is to be more physically active. Thank God, at HP, the mission is far from impossible. I was admitted to Gold's Gym Fitness program starting from my first month in the company. I became more serious in bowling - having been included in SAP-ADSI's roster of players in the OlymHPics. We're practicing twice a week in preparation for our first game on Saturday. In fact, my schedule this week is: Tuesday - bowling and gym, Wednesday - gym, Thurday - bowling and gym, Saturday - bowling and/or tennis, Sunday - DotA. Haha.

Hopefully, months from now, a hunkier ONIN will emerge from these activities.

Tagged Again

2007-07-02T16:24:00.000+08:00

I've been tagged (by JACK!!!), so i guess I have to share 7 habits or facts about myself... Well, actually, since there are so many work loads to accomplish in the office (OWWS?!), I just reposted two old blogspot entries (to satiate JACK haha)- one that reveals ten things most people didn't know about me... until I published the said post, and another that states six random facts about me. Haha.

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Ten Things You Didn't Know About Niño

10. He was supposed to be given the name Richmond, so as to keep the consistency between his name and the names of his siblings which both start with R -> Rafael III and Rochelle. In a lucky turn of events, his Sto.-Niño-devotee-parents christened him with the name of the Child Jesus, instead.

9. This boy carries a very holy name: Niño De Jesus Eustaquio. It is very obvious that the first and middle names are namesakes of our Saviour; what you might not know is that Eustaquio is also a name of a saint -> San Eustaquio or St. Eustace, a legendary warrior of the 2nd century Roman Empire.

8. The first ever school fight in which he was involved was (shamefully speaking) with his girl classmate back in the 2nd grade. This caused him the top academic awards, having good manners and right conduct as one of the criteria for choosing the top student. He later realized that the girl he quarreled with then is now a beautiful lady. (Style pala yun... Haha.)

7. In 2001, senior high school student Niño wrote his autobiography entitled "Of Falling Down and Getting Up". Half of its contents are composed of pure visual aids -> photographs, in short.

6. Back in 1984, Niño is an unplanned (but not unwanted -> those are two different things!!!) child of a 40-year old tricycle driver and a 36-year old housewife. His brother and sister are 11 and 9 years older than he is, respectively.

5. He doesn't eat chicken... Sounds weird? It is more of a personal choice and preference rather than a matter of allergies and pet peeves.

4. He is a self-confessed person with memory gap and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Much have been said...

3. He has once filed a legal case against two individuals, a 20-something family man and a minor guy. He sued them for slight physical injuries within the halls of Pasig Regional Trial Court. The case was eventually settled through the mediation of the fiscal/prosecutor lawyer.

2. This hottie is indeed a hottie! He won 1st Runner-up (and 3rd Best in Talent) in a "campus hunk" competition at his alma mater La Immaculada Concepcion School -> 1999 (3rd year high school). Do I hear girls screaming???

1. With his outspoken personality and spontaneous humor, the tip of the iceberg is just what you see from the outside. Come and explore his inside mysteries that are yet to be discovered -> know him more by frequently visiting this blog.

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Tagged

Once tagged by this entry, write a blog entry of some kind with six random facts about yourself. In the end of it, pick six of your friends and tag them! (No tag backs). This explanation must be included, of course.

So here it goes:

1. At any circumstance, I can manage to sleep or take a short nap (even when riding a jeepney, when bombarded by loud noise, when the lights are ON, under extreme heat or during a "standing-room-only" scenario inside the MRT). I can be described by the phrase "masandal tulog".

2. Ironically, I can stay awake for around 48 hours straight.

3. I am an E-AJI addict. (EDITED: I was. I am no longer now. Health reasons. 140/90 is not a safe blood pressure.)

4. I have recently doubled my appetite as compared to what I had a couple of years ago. I currently weigh 145 lbs (...and counting). (EDITED: I am currently at 155 lbs. -> even though I frequently visit the gym now.)

5. I love taking a bath.

6. I sing whenever I am in the bathroom (except in EEE). (EDITED: EEE is my college department building in UP where we "lived" during our thesis days.)

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Visit my multiply entry to see who I tagged.

Fiesta!!!

2007-06-25T18:36:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, June 24, was the Feast Day of St. John the Baptist - patron saint of my barrio Tipas. For the first time in many years, the fiesta fell on a Sunday - which means I spent the day without playing hide-and-seek with people who annually wait for, aim, and throw water onto helpless passers-by as a custom of celebrating the day of St. John. Instead, I got to be one of those pranksters.

And as far as I can recall, it was also the first time that houses nearby, including ours, prepared food and drinks in line with the village-wide merriment. The Hermana Mayora, Mrs. Mary Ann Opeña - a familiar name among TV and movie stars today because of her connections to Lolit Solis, Boy Abunda, Unang Hirit hosts, et al, - brought even more color to the festivities by inviting Kapuso artists on the eve of the the feast.

I also enjoyed the morning parade that traversed almost every street of the four barangays comprising Tipas. I think, it was also the first time I toured our village after being a home buddy for a very long time. I got to see old friends and former classmates. The procession was not exempted from the people who from nowhere suddenly splashed water on our faces using hoses, buckets, water guns, and water balloons. It was fun!

The fiesta reached its peak with a 15-minute fireworks display and ended with bottles of Red Horse. Haha.

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Yesterday, too, my cousin who happens to be a nurse, measured my blood pressure after I complained to her that I feel pain on my chest and nape. The sphygmomanometer read at 140/90. In short, high blood ako. Lagot.

Multiply

2007-06-20T12:56:00.000+08:00

Add me, if you know me...

Dynasty

2007-06-15T13:58:00.000+08:00

The San Antonio Spurs claimed its fourth NBA Championship in as many NBA Finals appearances after defeating NBA Finals first-timers Cleveland Cavaliers 83-82 in Game 4 of their best-of-seven series Thursday night (Eastern Time). They are now ranked among other franchises that have multiple trophies such as Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, and Chicago Bulls. Tony Parker was named as Finals MVP.

For more stories regarding the sweep of Spurs over the Cavs, visit Yahoo! Sports.

Fun Here, There, Everywhere

2007-06-12T16:45:00.000+08:00

Fun /'f&n/ (noun) 1 : what provides amusement or enjoyment; specifically : playful often boisterous action or speech fun>; 2 : a mood for finding or making amusement fun>; in our team, Physical Distribution and ABAP, I am one of the pioneers of Fun@PD/A.

Fun@PD/A, a smaller spin-off of Fun@HP and Fun@ADSI, is a group of fun-loving individuals who do nothing but laugh and laugh in the office. Well, nothing, of course, is an exaggeration.

Last Friday, PD/A held its own offsite-cum-team-building-cum-birthday-party-cum-happy-hour at the penthouse of One Wilson Place Condominium where Jim Cheng's family stays.

Fun Fun Fun Friday!!!

To see the pictures and videos, just visit my multiply site.

Idle Here, There, Everywhere

2007-06-06T17:07:00.000+08:00

Idle /'I-d&l/ (adjective) 1 : lacking worth or basis : vain ; 2 : not occupied or employed: as a : having no employment : inactive b : not turned to normal or appropriate use c : not scheduled to compete ; 3 a : shiftless, lazy b : having no evident lawful means of support.

Idleness is what we, HP new hires, experience here at the office. Some say it's a usual happening especially when one is in an entry-level position. But somehow, I feel a bit guilty just sitting down, surfing the net, and blogging/chatting to kill time. On Friday, another payday comes. I will once again enjoy a salary for attending trainings once in a while and for bumming around the office halls. To tell you the truth, upon arriving to my cubicle, my batchmates would instantly invite me for a coffee break and after a brief email checking, lunch break na! WTF!?!? Haha.

Anyway, to lessen my guilt, many of my upperclass officemates told me that once I assume the responsibility that I would suppose to takeover and once our assigned project kick-off, I would definitely miss these idle moments of my HP life.

So, Onin, enjoy the moment while it still lasts.

Offsite Here, There, Everywhere

2007-06-05T18:39:00.000+08:00

Offsite /of-'sIt/ (noun), not located or occurring at the site of a particular activity; in HP terminologies, an offsite is a team building seminar, outing/swimming, or any out-of-town leisure/vacation activity that caters relaxation and recreation for its work-force.

The HP GDPC's SAP-ADSI Team (Applications Development and Systems Integration) held its Summer Offsite at Subic's Grande Island last June 1 and 2, 2007. It was my first HP offsite since being hired last April 16.

Almost 300 people - divided into 5 teams, appropriately named after five (in)famous Pirates of the Caribbean (Hector Barbossa, Edward "Blackbeard" Teach, Cruikshank, Jack Rackham, and Spiredyke) battled for the ultimate championship through accumulated golds earned by winning pirate games, fashion shows and team combat competitions.

New hires, like me, presented another dance number also known as "The Baptism of Fire". Our stay in Subic also saw us enjoying the buffet, indulging with free flowing SanMigBeer, girl-scouting/chick-sight-seeing, having photo-ops, playing in the "Stanley Ho" poker tourney, and celebrating the birthday of our dear PD/A Manager Mylene.

Even with insufficient sleep or no sleep at all, this offsite is one hell of an out-of-town trip.

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Want visuals? Visit my multiply site.

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This Friday, June 8, the Physical Distribution + ABAP (PD/A) Team will conduct another offsite aka Team Building at One Wilson Place Condominium in Greenhills. See you there!

The Week(NEVER)ends

2007-05-28T12:44:00.000+08:00

Thursday:

HP Global Delivery Philippines Center held its quarterly Coffee Talk at the Makati Sports Club last May 24. I got to see my friends who are also working at HP like CL, Marien, Mhyko, Tupe, and others. Also, as a new hire at HP, I am required to join my fellow newbies in a dance presentation/competition where we showcased our hidden talents (or the lack of those).

After the said conference, our team in HP, Logistics and Warehouse Solutions (or Physical Distribution and Advanced Business Applications Programming) had a dinner at Dads/Saisaki/Kamayan in Glorietta. Again, as a new-hire, I experienced being on the hot seat as the "old" ones barged us with questions regarding our personal lives. Haha.

Friday:

One whole day of programming examination in SAP-ABAP.

Saturday:

I went to the office on a Saturday morning to have another practice for the dance the new hires will have to present on the SAP-ADSI Offsite at the Grande Island Resort in Subic, Zambales on the first two days of June. At 3:00pm, I readied myself to yet another weekend happening with my college friends.

Glenn arrived from Canada more than a week ago; to welcome his presence, May and Liz organized a Tagaytay Highlands getaway for the whole Barkadahan. Because of tight budget and busy schedules of most of the 01's, only eight of us showed up. Arpee, Glenn, Marien, and May met at the EEE Building and then went on the road to fetch me at Ortigas and Norman at Ayala (Jim was with Norman but he chose not to join us because of a last minute text message from one of his siblings). Danes and Liz came together to Tagaytay Rotonda where we met them a few minutes past midnight.

We bowled and attempted to swim at the Tagaytay Sports Club, dined and enjoyed (did we?) the live band at Cafe Lupe, had a road trip around the Cavite with Glenn's Land Cruiser's roof open, and then played and chatted and ate and slept all night long at Glenn's pad at Belle View.

Sunday:

As Arpee, Glenn, May, and Marien headed to attend a mass and have an early breakfast, I, Danes, Liz, and Norman indulged into the luxury of staying at Glenn's very comfy place. Preparing for a trip home, we decided to stop over the Hillside Tower where we munched a couple of french fries platters and took several pictures with the picturesque scenery behind us. We passed by Sta. Rosa for a late lunch and then headed straight home at around 4:00pm.

My two cute pamangkins (a niece - Teriz, and a nephew - Wacky) welcomed me home with tight hugs and kisses. They are having a vacation at our house until Teriz's schooling starts in June.

Monday:

Another work week starts... and will never end either.

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To see the Tagaytay images, visit Glenn's MULTIPLY account.

One Vote = My Voice

2007-05-15T12:57:00.000+08:00

Exercising the right to vote is our only way to speak out our grievances against or admiration towards the current Philippine government. Yesterday, about 45 million Filipinos were given this chance to practice suffrage; according to the Commission on Elections, about 70-85% went out and casted their ballots.

As for me, I voted for 7 GO, 3 TU and 2 Independent senatoriables. I also elected Kabataan in the party-list polls. I hope you have done the same way, I mean, choosing the candidates your mind suggests and your heart dictates.

This is our right, enjoy it while it still lasts...

Moolah

2007-05-11T16:46:00.000+08:00

I got my first pay from HP yesterday. Unfortunately, it's diminishing in a very fast rate, like an exponential decay...

chocobutternut! :D

2007-05-09T09:14:00.000+08:00

That was Elma's text to me last night at exactly 11:40pm. She promised that if ever she would make sagot Argel, I will be the first one to know through a text message of Argel's favorite donut variant.

So I guess that's it, every 8th of each month, we can now greet them "Happy Nth Months-arry". Let's all pray for their new found love. Sana manlibre sila. Haha.

LGN

2007-05-03T17:16:00.000+08:00

I was admitted to HP's Gold's Gym fitness program. The benefit came in perfect timing as the HP SAP-ADSI umbrella group (one of the two HP teams in San Miguel Propeties Center Ortigas) goes to Grande Island Resort in Subic, Zambales on June 1 and 2. I must look good naked (Ige's terminology) before that summer event.

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I watched Spider-Man 3 last night with my fellow new hires at Shangri-La Mall's Cineplex. Like its two prequels, the film is high-budgeted (advertised as the most expensive motion picture of all time) and overflowing with special effects. For me, it is the best of the three Spider-Man movies or even the best superhero movie ever. I admit that I am a huge fan of Spidey and his love story with MJ, that's why I was carried away by the dramas featured in the movie.

The third installment's storyline was the best of the three, not to mention the inclusion of three villains, tag-team fight scenes and unexpected twists. The conclusion was a combination of tragedy and happy-ending and my favorite director, Sam Raimi, lets us imagine our own final scene for the two protagonists.

I guess, it's all I can say so as not to spoil my readers who have not yet seen the movie.

*Do you recall the wrestling ring announcer in Spider-Man 1 and the obnoxious theatre usher in Spider-Man 2? He once again appeared in Spider-Man 3 as the Frenchman waiter/receptionist of Restaurant Constellation. He is none other than Bruce Campbell a.k.a. Ashley Williams of Sam Raimi's Evil Dead trilogy. He also appeared as Liam Neeson's alter-ego in Sam Raimi's Darkman. Haha. I am really a fan of Sam Raimi.

*Stan Lee, one of the two creators of Spider-Man, also had a cameo as the pedestrian who talked to Peter Parker in front of one of New York's theatres.

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On May 7, I, with 888 other ECE board passers, will be officially inducted to the Board of Electronics and Communications Engineers of the Philippines. The oath taking will be held at the Fiesta Pavilion of The Manila Hotel - that is why, the admission tickets are sold at a whopping PhP900 each.

From then on, call me Engineer Eustaquio, ECE # 39710...

...Signing On!!!

Engineer by Title (title courtesy of Dyan)

2007-04-26T19:27:00.000+08:00

I registered my name as one of the country's new Electronics and Communications Engineer yesterday morning. I am now officialy ECE # 39***. Don't worry, as soon as I have confirmed that there is no way another person can possibly use my license number to do illegal activities, I will disclose the last three digits right away. Haha. Anyway, I, myself, will not need to use my license in the near future.

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I just started working at Hewlett-Packard Asia-Pacific last April 16. I received my brand new HP laptop yesterday and so far, I am loving my "work", or the lack of it as of the moment. However, many warned me that once my responsibilities start coming in, there's no stopping them. So I am still enjoying my free days while they last. Haha.

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I attended the Batch 2007 Engineering after-party, a privilege I enjoyed for being part of Inhinyero 2007. That the event was a blast is an understatement. Free-flowing bar drinks, LEVI'S® fashion show and crazy (in a positive sense) people were the highlights of the night. That night was indeed one of the best events I have been part of.

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On June 1 and 2, the SAP-ADSI umbrella group of HP Ortigas will have an off-site event in Subic, Zambales (at the Grande Resort). I am now very excited and looking forward to that date. Subic will finally beat Clark Field, Pampanga as the northernmost place I have been to (so pathetic, ain't I?),

Salamat at Congrats!

2007-04-17T06:58:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to all the new Electronics and Communications Engineers of the country!

See the complete list of exam passers here.

The Future Engineers

2007-04-13T19:51:00.000+08:00

"Future" Until When?

Guys, help us in praying for the best results!

Sts. Jude and Patrick, intercede for us.

1st Birthday

2007-04-05T00:53:00.000+08:00

After 107 posts, 2811 clicks, 235 comments, US$0.22 earnings and a new haircut for me, my blog celebrates its 1st Birthday today, April 5.

Looking forward to a better blogging this coming year!

OWWS?

2007-04-05T00:16:00.000+08:00

One Week and counting down...

Six more days to go before the board exam. Too many materials to read and study, too little time...

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Wondrin'?

I went to UP Church of the Holy Sacrifice with May and Carlo this evening for a Holy Week confession. When I told the priest (who I personally know because of Kaps) that my last confession was four years ago, he was shocked and awed! He also said that maybe I have mistaken of the fact that confessions must be done at least once in four years and not once a year. Haha. Anyway, I cannot tell much more than that or else, I would break the vow of secrecy, so let's just stop there.

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With Glenn's permission.

I'll be spending about three days and two nights at May's house so that we can study together and solve problems together. We also invited other co-reviewees so that we can share notes with each other and ask each other questions regarding the board exam topics. Tomorrow is a hectic day for review.

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Should be studying!!!

Hey Mister! You should be studying!

Turbulence

2007-03-28T12:43:00.000+08:00

That's what my mind is experiencing right now. Two weeks before the dreaded board exam, TrendMicro handed me in a counter-offer that is so hard to turn down. A tender contract worth around PhP400,000 a year (or approximately PhP29,000 monthly) to match with HewlettPackard's PhP***** deal. Lord, help me make up my mind before the decision time a week from now.

May this recent "development" not affect my concentration towards the licensure test that will take place a couple of weeks from now.

And so be it...

Haay...

2007-03-20T20:21:00.000+08:00

Finally, after 5 Ayala interviews and 2 Ortigas, I finally received a job offer from Ms. Mylene Aquino of HP SMPC Implementation Group earlier this evening. I will start working on April 16, right after the board exam.

A lot of thanks to everyone who helped me with my application and to those who prayed for my success.

I hope this commences a string of good luck for me. License, here I come. HP, here I come as well!!!

The Number 23... Nah, just "number".

2007-03-15T18:32:00.000+08:00

300

I and my co-reviewees watched 300 last Sunday when Excel Review Center experienced power interruption and classes were cancelled. As I see it, the movie based on Frank Miller's graphic novel about the Battle of Thermopylae Pass has storyline more or less faithful to historical facts and the movie The 300 Spartans except of course in the aspect of portraying the Persians and the addition of mythical beings. It has a similar cinematography and editing to that of Apocalypto, Passion of the Christ and Gladiator. Its stunts resemble those in Troy, or better. The special effects, though most of the time are unbelievable, are comparable to the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The thrill of watching it matches the one I felt when I saw V for Vendetta for the first time. Overall, the movie is not just good but great as well and I sure will buy a copy of it when VCD/DVD versions are released.

13

Last Tuesday, my cousin Roma and her boyfriend Frederick migrated to the US for good. Our family accompanied her to the Centennial Terminal where they had their non-stop flight to Los Angeles's LAX. They are the second couple of home-friends I somehow lost in a matter of year. A pair of siblings, Israel and Almira, also left the country last September to pursue their studies and join their dad who is based in London for almost a decade. The farewells and goodbyes were tearful, all of them are part of a bigger barkada we have back home. We have a very tight extended family and parting indeed leaves us with sweet sorrow. We promised one another that someday, we will all be present in a clan reunion showcasing our individual successes and triumphs in life. On that very special day, we are all already BIG TIME people!

26

This number represents the number of days before the much anticipated April 2007 ECE Licensure Examination. All good souls out there, please pray for all the examinees.

X

I received a call from Globe last night regarding a scheduled exam I have to take tomorrow morning. The HR person sounded familiar on the phone. She told me that her name is REGH (pronounced as "rej"), which is also a familiar nickname to me. I sensed something I can't explain. A few moments after our conversation, my phone once again rang. Now, it was just a text message that read, "Musta? Regina 2. Rmbr? Bhay k b? Pd tau usap?" My intinct was right, the lady I was talking to a while ago was indeed my ex-girlfriend. What a moment!

Anyway, she's now married to a wealthy civil engineer from La Salle and they now have a baby girl named Rianne Carla.

Okay, that's it!

Suggest a title for this post.

2007-03-01T15:11:00.000+08:00

This post will complete the first one-year cycle of my monthly archive. I started posting April last year, and so far, I have already created 103 articles, news features and/or simple stories - products of my idle moments whenever an internet connection is available.

Since Valentine's Day and until today, I was not able to update this blog because of the left-and-right job exams/interviews, review/refresher/coaching classes for the board exams and the limited computer usage for the past weeks. My personal computer at home crashed before my thesis defense last October so my only access to the information gateway is only through my cousin's PC and those in the DSP Laboratory. It's lucky for me that I'm still capable of producing at least three posts per month.

Anyway, many events transpired since February 14. Few of these events may not necessarily involve me. Some of these events include Winston's fruitful stint in Japan, CL's first day at HP, Danes's successful hosting, organizing and staging of at least two UP Fair nights, Tin's new Honda CRV, Elma's hidden agenda (lol!), May and Fil going gaga over "Music and Lyrics" (hehe), Yugs' blooming lovelife, Jeff's active job hunt, and many more...

But let's talk about my own experience, specifically my second childhood or puberty (pick one). Haha, what I mean is the fact that I am strangely into a situation comparable to the one experienced by high school students. There is this pretty chick in my review classes who I think is girlfriend-material. I assume that you know that my last serious relationship ended April last year so it's been almost a year that I never courted a girl. Let's just say that I'm a little bit rusty. And my confidence is at it's all-time low.

CL and Paul also have crush on this chick but they both gave way for my favor. Actually, I think that there is a so-called "unwritten rule" that each one of us (the meaning of us here is all reviewees from UP EEE) should have at least one crush among the limited number of girls from our section. So whenever one "prospect" walk pass through our gang, we tease her guy by calling out his name loudly a million times. I am not exempted to this kind of prank. It's really so HIGH SCHOOL-ish. Haha.

Nevertheless, this coming weekend, I promise myself to finally make a move. I am currently looking for my guts around the house in case I didn't notice that they detached accidentally from my being during my single-days. This is really so HIGH SCHOOL-ish. Haha.

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On more serious note, after being jobless for almost a month now, HP Ayala has offered me a SUPPORT job but I told them that my priority is IMPLEMENTATION or DEVELOPMENT. These two departments have yet to contact me since February 1. During this period, I received calls from Line Seiki, Safeway, Soluziona, and TrendMicro (again!) for exams and interviews but here I am, still unemployed... and... broke.

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I am currently addicted to the following TV programs: Heroes, Friday Night Lights, Fashion House, okay Grey's Anatomy (pa rin!) and Friends (old school the best! haha).

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I am glad that "The Departed" took the Best Picture award at the Oscars^® last Sunday; I have seen the movie and I agree that it is indeed the best motion picture of the year. | Roger Federer celebrated his 161st week as the world number one tennis player beating Jimmy Connors's record of 160 consecutive weeks at the top. | The Amazing Race All-Stars has just begun and the duo of Rob and Amber has already won two out two legs. | Election fever started last week; mudslinging still more prominent than the candidates' own platforms - ONLY IN THE PHILIPPINES. | Barangay Ginebra Kings are PBA Philippine Cup Champions once again - NEVER SAY DIE! | Dallas Mavericks are still on top of the NBA standings - GO MAVS!

Nth Time

2007-02-14T15:49:00.000+08:00

Before anything else, HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to all!!!

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I'll be having my 5th interview at HP Ayala tomorrow morning. Apart from the four previous interviews I had at Robinson's Summit Center, I also had one at San Miguel Properties Center in Ortigas.

I hope, now that I am out of Trend Micro, I will finally land an acceptable position (and compensation) in Hewlett-Packard. Wish me luck guys!

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Saying that last night's LOVERAGE Rock Concert (UP Fair's Tuesday show) was a blast is an understatement. It was my org's first UP Fair stint and we kicked asses!!! (Especially those of the other orgs... Haha!) Bamboo was the main and exclusive performer of the night and other notable bands such as Calla Lily, Sugarfree, Itchyworms, etc. literally and figuratively made some noise.

More about this on my next post. 'Til then...

Mixilog

2007-02-06T19:50:00.000+08:00

Have you ever received a very good news but you felt a certain guilt and sorrow after receiving the said news? Well, this week, a mix of different emotions fell unto me after passing the second examination at TREND MICRO.

To further elaborate, I really did not give my full heart when I took the exams at TREND during the past two weekends. I have even missed a couple of days of my usual shift in the office. In short, TREND is not on top of my preferred companies. I find it unfair to those who really want to work at TREND and yet did not make it all the way to week three. Nevertheless, since I made it this far, I will give my best shot this week. Gordon, anyway, has just started week one yesterday and soon, EJ, Ivy and Paul will also enter TREND next week or so. I hope they will eventually join me after their own apprenticeship program.

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More good news...

HP Ortigas told me earlier during my first interview there that they will possibly hand me a separate offer apart from HP Ayala's future offer. It's all up to me, according to my interviewer, which department I would like to be part of.

Sounds cool, eh?!

Express

2007-01-28T21:39:00.000+08:00

Federer beats Gonzales, wins his third Aussie Open

Roger Federer has claimed his third Australian Open crown and tenth Grand Slam overall, sweeping aside #10-seed Fernando Gonzalez in three outstanding sets on Rod Laver Arena. The Swiss tennis master outscored the Chilean, conqueror of Nadal and Haas this year, via a 7-6(2) 6-4 6-4 victory. Federer remained at the top of the world rankings after winning last year's Australian, Wimbledon and US Open cups and the yearender ATP Masters' Series. He has yet to win a single French Open title.

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To all UP Circuit Barkadahan members, here is our PHOTOBUCKET account.

Demolition

2007-01-27T20:19:00.000+08:00

Serena crushes Sharapova to take her 3rd Aussie Trophy

Serena Williams, recovering from her injuries and the death of one of her siblings during the 2006 seasons, smashed her way towards winning her third Australian Open Women's Singles title and eighth Grand Slam trophy overall by routing World #1 and topseed Maria Sharapova in the finals, 6-1 6-2.

Sharapova had no answer to Williams' booming serve and blistering returns as the American completed a fairytale return from injury with a third Australian title to join her 2003 and 2005 trophies.

Coming into the final as the underdog, the 25-year-old made a mockery of her world ranking of 81 to humiliate Sharapova and become the first unseeded player since 1978 to claim the Australian title. She finished the match in just an hour and three minutes.

Williams won the tournament in 2003 and 2005; in 2005 she defeated Sharapova in the semifinals with a score of 2-6 7-5 8-6.

FEDERER-Express soars anew in Melbourne

World #1 Roger Federer also had his demolition job in Melbourne Park done after an emphatic 6-4 6-0 6-2 semifinal win over sixth-seed Andy Roddick. He will face tenth-ranked Fernando Gonzales in the finals where he will target his third Australian Open Men's Singles title.

Gonzales also trashed another semifinalist Tommy Haas 6-1 6-3 6-1 in the other semis duel.

Within every PATTERN, there is a TREND

You got it right! I am currently on a job-training stint at TREND MICRO in IBM Plaza Eastwood City. These coming weeks will determine the career path that I will take for the next couple of weeks.

By the way, I and Jeff are on the same level of apprenticeship at TREND MICRO. Gordon will also be with us soon.

The Amazing Race All-Stars

2007-01-17T12:57:00.000+08:00

CBS has formally announced the eleven teams vying for the US$1million prize in the eleventh installment of the Emmy^®-winning reality show The Amazing Race.

Here are the teams:

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Kevin O'Connor and Drew Feinberg (SEASON 1)
Relationship: Lifelong Friends
Hometown: Kevin (Bayonne, N.J.); Drew (Staten Island, N.Y.)
Age: Kevin (40); Drew (41)
Occupation: Kevin (Forensic Accountant); Drew (Senior Court Officer)
Results from Season 1: 4th Place

America's favorite fraternity brothers are all grown up and married. They fell just short of the million dollars the first time around and are eager for another shot.
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Joe Baldassare and Bill Bartek (SEASON 1)
Relationship: Life Partners
Hometown: Laguna Niguel, Calif.
Age: Joe (56); Bill (53)
Occupation: Joe (Owns his own Minerals Trading Company); Bill (Realtor)
Results in Season 1: 3rd Place

"Team Guido" from Season 1 returns for another attempt at the $1 million prize. Claiming they've had their bags packed since they returned home from the first season, they are ready to go!
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Ozwald Mendez and Danilo "Danny" Jimenez (SEASON 2)
Relationships: Best Friends
Hometown: Ozwald (New York, N.Y.); Danny (Miami, Fla.)
Age: Ozwald (36); Danny (41)
Occupation: Ozwald (Advertising); Danny (Paralegal)
Results from Season 2: 4th Place

These best friends from Season 2 had a falling out several years ago, but have since mended their relationship and claim to be better friends now than they've ever been during their previous 12 years of friendship.
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John Vito Pietanza and Jill Aquilino (SEASON 3)
Relationship: Formerly Dating
Hometown: John (New York, N.Y.); Jill (New York, N.Y.)
Age: John (32); Jill (29)
Occupation: John (Trader); Jill (Product Controller)
Results from Season 3: 5th Place

Season 3's John Vito and Jill are back for another chance at winning the $1 million prize. What's different this time around? These former lovebirds are no longer romantically involved.
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Teri Pollack and Ian Pollack (SEASON 3)
Relationship: Married Parents
Hometown: Palm City, Fla.
Age: Teri (53); Ian (54)
Occupation: Teri (Homemaker); Ian (Private Investigator/Retired Police Lt.)
Results from Season 3: 2nd Place

Second place in Season 3 just wasn't good enough for this dynamic duo. Teri and Ian are still the oldest players to ever finish in second place in the Amazing Race and they are back to show that they haven't lost a step.
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Charla Baklayan Faddoul and Mirna Hindoyan (SEASON 5)
Relationship: Cousins
Hometown: Towson, Md.
Age: Charla (30); Mirna (30)
Occupation: Charla (Real Estate Investor); Mirna (Attorney)
Results from Season 5: 6th Place

Charla and Mirna captured America's hearts the first time around. They are proud of the way they played the game and look forward to another trip around the world together.
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Rob Mariano and Amber Mariano (SEASON 7)
Relationship: Married
Hometown: Pensacola, Fla.
Age: Rob (30); Amber (28)
Occupation: Rob (TV personality/host/pursuing a career in TV); Amber (TV personality)
Results from Season 7: 2nd Place

America's Sweethearts met, fell in love and got married...all in front of the cameras, beginning with the filming of Survivor: All-Stars, where Rob finished in second place to Amber. They finished as the runners-up to Joyce and Uchenna in Season 7. To what lengths will Rob and Amber go to avoid finishing as the runner-up yet again?
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Uchenna Agu and Joyce Agu (SEASON 7)
Relationship: Married
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Age: Uchenna (42); Joyce (46)
Occupation: Uchenna (Land Developer); Joyce (Sales)
Results from Season 7: Winners

Uchenna and Joyce are one of the most beloved teams from any season of Race. The winners of Season 7, Uchenna and Joyce were relentless and stopped at nothing to win the $1 million prize... including shaving their heads.
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Eric Sanchez and Danielle Turner (Dee) (SEASON 9 - Separate Teams)
Relationship: Dating
Hometown: Eric (Deerfield Beach, Fla.); Danielle (Staten Island, N.Y.)
Age: Eric (28); Danielle (23)
Occupation: Eric (Waiter); Danielle (Bartender)
Results from Season 9: Eric (2nd Place), Danielle (7th Place)

This unique duo met while racing against each other during Season 9. During their travels, they developed a bond which evolved into a romance and the two have been dating for the past year. Will the combination of big-city girl and self-proclaimed "beach bum" be a force to reckon with or will the other Teams discount this new pair who has never raced together as Team?
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David Conley, Jr. and Mary Conley (SEASON 10)
Relationship: Coal Miner and Wife
Hometown: Stone, Ky.
Age: David (33); Mary (32)
Occupation: David (Coal Miner); Mary (Homemaker)
Results from Season 10: 6th Place

Everybody's favorite coal miner and his wife are back for another trek around the world. David and Mary, the lovable, wide-eyed couple from Stone, Ky. are ready to compete and believe they have what it takes to bring home the $1 million prize for their children.
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Dustin Seltzer and Kandice Pelletier (SEASON 10)
Relationship: Beauty Queens
Hometown: Dustin (Seattle, Wash.); Kandice (New York, N.Y)
Age: Dustin (25); Kandice (25)
Occupation: Dustin (Grad Student); Kandice (Student at NYU)
Results from Season 10: 4th Place

These former Beauty Queens are back for a second chance and are more determined than ever to prove to the world that they aren't just pretty faces. Proven to be fierce competitors during the 10th installment of Race, Dustin and Kandice are focused and have their sights set on becoming the first all-female team to win the $1 million prize.
====

Sources:
http://www.movieweb.com/tv/news/31/17031.php/
http://www.cbs.com/primetime/amazing_race11/

More Pics from Dyan's and Jeff's Special Day

2007-01-16T12:48:00.000+08:00

Eragon daw haha.

The late Liz Sagucio. Haha.

Philippines' Next Top Model

Go sip it!

Norman's version of RR's smile.

The coolest peeps.

To the Barkadahan members, visit our Yahoo!Group for more photographs.

An Unweak Week

2007-01-15T14:40:00.000+08:00

(an-an-wik-wik)

The current week is definitely one good week to start the year.

January 13 14 and 15

It was Dyan's birthday last Saturday while it is Jeff's today. What a great idea to jointly celebrate their special day with us in the Barkadahan. Clarwin, Jeff, May and I all skipped our last review session yesterday to meet other "01 and beyond" friends at SM Megamall. Carlo also cut the third class but went to his girlfriend's radio stint at Campus Radio. He told us that they would just go straight to the meeting place after Karlene's shift. The four of us arrived way ahead of everyone so CL suggested that we watch a ballet performance in a program staged at one of the mall's atria - anything just to kill time, although CL and May confessed that they are indeed ballet aficionados.

Around 6pm, one by one, Dyan, Elma, Winston, and Bevan (in chronological order of appearance - haha) started to arrive. I remember the moment we stayed at Seattle's Best^® Megastrip while waiting for them - how one of the shop's crew stared at us noticing we hadn't ordered anything from them. That was when Dyan came and bought the lone proof that we were indeed valuable customers - a LARGE Brownie Javakula^®.

We decided to dine at Sbarro^® as, again, one by one, Norman, Ivan, Carlo & Karlene arrived. Jeff over-estimated our appetite and purchasing skills -> in short - kapal ng mukha pag may nalilibre - joke :), that he commented, "Hindi man lang ako pinagpawisan sa mga orders ninyo!". I noticed Dyan was quiet regarding Jeff's remarks, especially when almost everyone started to ask for additional items. (Haha, peace Dy!). Seriously, I know, no money can match the feelings we had everytime the Barkadahans are together. I know that because after texting Dyan with a thank-you-note, she quickly replied this: "Okay lang yun, LOVE ko naman kayo eh!". Isn't that music to our ears?

CL and May went home early... And as usual, after a choir obligation, Liz, the queen of Barkadahan Gimiks, arrived late... and tired. Few minutes before 10pm, the establishments around us including Sbarro^® were already starting to prepare for closing. We then all agreed to let Liz eat her dinner at St. Francis Square where fastfoods operate 24/7. However, we ended up in Jollibee where closing time is at around 1030pm. In a very stannge chance, Liz ate fast - with less talk on the side. She finished quickly... but sadly, so did our get-together. We parted ways few minutes past 1030pm.

It was a happy day for the happy celebrants and happy friends. Haha!

Here are some of the pictures Norman captured with his digital camera.

The place to be.

Notice the two yellow arm bands? They are from that cute lady in pink stripes.

Hahahaha.

ton, onin, panorms, may, cl, bevie

The two on the far right are our birthday boy and girl.

jeff, elms, ton, onin
Jeff: "No sweat"; Dyan: "I'm sweet"

may, cl, dy, jeff, elms, ton, onin

Notice the empty plates? That's how big are appetites are.

Who's that lady beside me?

Three isn't a crowd, especially with that nice background logo.

Ganda man sa Miga! Ibang-iba sa porbinsya!

The couple in front of me is the Carlo&Kyle duo.

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The 14th of January was also my parents' 34th Wedding Anniversary. Although the family just had a usual day, we cherished that 34 years our parents stood strong for my brother, my sister and me. They are still standing strong for us to ensure that we will not break and fall apart as siblings and as heads of our own family (ako na lang pala walang asawa haha).

Today is also my Aunt Virgie's birthday! Happy birthday Auntie!!!

January 16

Tomorrow is the deadline I set for myself to decide what career move to take for the next few years. Accenture has an offer, HP promised to give me one this week, NEC already deferred ny application for a few months due to lack of trainers, and TrendMicro assured me a slot last week. I think, I should give myself at least one more week. This is a life-changing decision so I better pick the best option. My fingers are crossed...

January 17 18 19 and 20

On the 17th, it will be my nephew's 3rd birthday. His name is Sameer F. Al-Bugami, a son of a Saudi Arabian Air Force pilot and my cousin who is a nurse in KSA. He has never been to KSA; my cousin arrived last Saturday from KSA to organize her son's party on the 20th. Tsibog na naman ito!

On the 18th, it's Jonat's birthday. He is one of my friends outside the "01 and beyond" batch.

On the 19th, it's my Kuya's 33rd birthday! He is the father of my very cute pamangkins Teriz and Wakki.

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Happy Birthday to all of you!!!

New Beginning

2007-01-09T15:13:00.000+08:00

The year has just started. It's high time for trying new things and doing everything twice as well as I used to.

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Bad Habit

While waiting for the job offers from HP and NEC (I already got one from Accenture), I usually stay at home every single day of the week. It's only at review classes during Saturdays and Sundays that I have the chance to go out. Unfortunately, instead of studying at home, I usually can't help but spend precious hours in front of the TV watching almost all of the programs and movies shown on Animax, Cinemax, ESPN, ETC, HBO, JackTV, and StarNetworks.

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'Good' Friday

Meanwhile, last Friday, I and Clarwin accomplished a multitude of tasks plus more. We already got the official copies (in NSO SecPa paper) of our birth certificates. We also toured Ayala to hunt for job vacancies late in the morning; he was interviewed on-the-spot at NEC Philippines. We. then, visited Lizelle at Safeway in RCBC Plaza. Early in the afternoon, CL obtained his SSS number. Late in the afternoon, we dropped by EEE building and pretended to be MS students. (That was fun!!!) ... And the greatest part of the day - we went to Kapuluan to renew our faith that we somehow neglected for the past year(s). Later in the evening, we parted ways - he went to meet a batchmate for business reasons and I went to May's house to meet some 01s (Danes, Dyan, Fil, Ghe, Liz, and May) for a videoke night. I ended the night at home playing with my very cute 6-year-old niece and 8-month-old nephew.

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Smart Start

Hopefully, before the month ends, I may eventually start working in and working with a company where I can apply all the knowledge I learned from UP and enhance my skills that will surely make my market value soar higher.

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Cheers!!! :)

010107

2007-01-01T19:00:00.000+08:00

This year, I am looking forward to reaping the fruits of my hardwork last year.

And as usual, our clan's New Year's/Reunion party was a blast - I almost lost my voice after a day of singing my lungs out and screaming cheers of celebration.

I'll post our pictures as soon as possible.