This Boy's Life

Yo Momma!

OMG! The Queen just doesn't cease to surprise shock us!!!


Madonna. Kissing. Britney.

We bow down to you!!!

This was during the MTV Video Music Awards last August 28, 2003. More pics
here.

Friday's Quarter of Twenty:


Karolina Kurkova

----------Yeowwww!!! That's HOT!!!----------

HOTTEST STRAIGHT GUY YOU'D WISH WAS GAY:
Local: Jon Hall
Foreign: Colin Farrell

HOTTEST STRAIGHT GIRL YOU'D WISH WAS GAY:
Local: Pia Guanio
Foreign: Karolina Kurkova

HOTTEST MALE/FEMALE FASHION MODEL:
Local: Travis Fimmel
Foreign: Tie: Natalia Vodianova and Angela Lindvall

HOTTEST GAY NIGHTSPOT:
Here in Manila, I?d have to say Malate, for being gay-friendly.

HOTTEST GAY VACATION SPOT:
Whatta toughie! I really wouldn?t know but friends say that Amsterdam rocks!!!

Isn't It Amazing?


Greenjack as a Superhero

The Internet is just full of great stuff!!! I love it so much. I found a cool toy at the blog of funny man, Wayne.

He found this site that allows people who are not as blessed like these great boys in the illustrating department to create a wonderful illustration. The application is flash-based allowing the user to create characters or sports logos.

Above is the product of my tinkering with the program. It's really amusing. It's a bit gay because one feels like playing with dress-me-up dolls. Harharhar!!!

Try it out.

And I'm Back

Hey everyone! The urban yuppie is back in town!!! Woo woo woo!!! While I certainly enjoyed the break from the insanity of work (God! You should have been to the place! It was totally free from all the complications of life, at least that how I felt) and the pollution of the city (Augh!!! It felt so GOOD to be inhaling clean, fresh air provided by the surrounding trees), I certainly missed the urban jungle!

There is so much to tell I don't even know where to begin. The trip in general, the community I visited, the warmth of the people, the amazing waterfalls that I visited, the lessons learned, thoughts on being alone, and the shopping for native goods(!!!), never mind the fact that I had to get off the bus in the middle of the highway, forget the fact that it was raining heavily - this guy has gotta have those goodies.

I wish I could just write an entry in my blog all day but I can't. Five minutes haven't even passed since I walked through the doors of my office and work beckons already!

Waaaahhhh!!!

The two/three days out of Manila was truly refreshing for me. It certainly rejuvinated me so that now, I'm ready to face the travails of work.

It's true what they say. Home is where the heart is. I missed my dear blog. I missed my blog readers and my blog friends. I missed my friends. I missed my family. I missed (very much!) my boyfriend.

I'm just SO glad to be back!

Gone for Two/Three Days



Quirino Province

There will be no entries in this journal for the next two, three days.

Tonight, I am going to board a bus and embark on an eight-hour trip that will bring me to the northeastern province of Quirino. Bound by Isabela to the north, Aurora to east and Nueva Vizcaya to the west, Quirino province is part of the Sierra Madre Mountain range. The province boasts of the Aglipay Caves (which I visited last year) which is known for its peculiar characteristics such as underground spring and well preserved stalagmites and stalactites.

But I am not going to Quirino for a vacation. I’m going to Quirino because it is one of the provinces served by one of our educational assistance programs.

The program deploys fresh graduates of the University of the Philippines to various rural sectors of the country to serve as part of the faculty of the local high school. In addition to this, the volunteers also render some form of service to the community they are living with.

In this case, the volunteers are deployed in a barangay of the municipality of Aglipay. The municipality of Aglipay is classified as a fourth class municipality. Given this, there is surely no Internet in the area. There is no guarantee that I will be able to use my mobile phone since the signal comes and goes. Moreover, I am preparing myself for the huge possibility of not having the basic commodities I have here in urban Manila.

And while the thought of not having electricity or a decent source of water supply may be frightening, I am not even slightly anxious of the situation. In fact, I am very much looking forward to it. In the past three years that I have been working with this institution, the happiest moments that I have is when I go to the far-flung areas of the country. It is in these areas that I feel so unburdened with the complications of the urban life. Whether it be in the mountains of Benguet or the forests of Mindoro, I always get a different kind of high when I go to these places.

I would trade the Internet anytime just to be in the countryside, conversing with farmers, indigenous people and the like. It is from them that I learn about things that one will never learn within the four walls of the University.

So I guess I’ll see you in three days.

Guideline #2

I was surprised when I read one of the guidelines on conjugal visits when I went to the national penitentiary last Sunday. At one hand, I may interpret it as discriminating. It's kinda saddening because even in the confines of the prison, homosexuals are still discriminated.

But from another point of view, I am a bit optimistic that the jail management is just looking after the safety of crossdressers or femmes.

Anyway, here's what was exactly written:

"Guidelines on Conjugal Visits:
No. 2:
Effeminate visitors shall not be allowed entry in the prison compoun, except if he is a brother of the inmate but is not allowed to stay overnight."

Pinoy Trivia for the Week:


Mayon Volcano with the Bell Tower of the Cagsawa Ruins

Early this year, I got an opportunity to visit the province of Albay for my work. During the trip, I was able to finally see the very picturesque Mayon Volcano and visit the historic Cagsawa Ruins.

Mayon Volcano is known to be one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the world, primarily for its cone. It reaches 2,460 meters and is the central feature of the Albay. Until now, the volcano is active (last eruption was year 2000) and is being monitored by the Philippine Volcanology and Seismology unit.

The Cagsawa Ruins, on the other hand, has become a tourist spot in the city of Legazpi. The church ruins are the only remnants of a village destroyed by an eruption on February 1, 1814 that left the whole city covered in lava.

British traveler writer A. Henry Savage Landor says, "Mayon is the most beautiful mountain I have ever seen, the world-renowned Fujiyama (Mt. Fuji) of Japan sinking into perfect insignificance by comparison."

Another Asian Gay-Themed Movie



One of the good things about going on a half-day at the office is that you can stay up as late as you want the night before. You don't have to worry about getting up early. You need not worry that you won't be getting your needed six or seven hours of sleep. You can watch late television shows. You can chat longer with your friends.

And you can catch a movie in the evening, which is what I did yesterday together with Xochi, Mark and Edmar.

Lucky me, I was able to catch one of the few movies with a gay theme at the ongoing Cinemanila Festival at Greenbelt I. Lan Yu is directed by Stanley Kwan and is the entry from Hongkong/China. Hu Jun plays the role of Chen Handong while Liu Ye plays Lan Yu.

Set in 1988 at communist China, the film revolves around the story of Chen Handong, a middle-aged well-to-do banker, and Lan Yu, a country boy who just moved to Beijing to study architecture. The two men cross paths one evening at a pool hall and what follows after a one night stand is a rollercoaster ride of sex and emotion.

Lan Yu began to fall in love with Chen Handong but the latter stresses that he doesn't want to engage in a serious relationship. Handong, furthermore, emphasizes that what he has with the young man is but temporary and that he sees himself getting married to a woman and raising kids. This results in the separation of the two men.

Handong eventually gets married and Lan Yu continues with his studies. However, after Handong's marriage ends in divorce, he finds himself once more together with Lan Yu. And eventhough, the times turn out to be turbulent as Handong is arrested for charges on corruption, Lan Yu comes to his rescue. And just when things seem to be going okay, fate takes the two men in a direction that leads to the final and bittersweet stages of their relationship.

Work... Work... Work...

Monday.

The start of another tedious week. As the inception anniversary of my office draws near, the list of work to be accomplished gets longer and longer and the time I stay at the office becomes later and later. The only thing that keeps me going is the thought of going on a much deserved vacation after the anniversary's over.

Right now, I have to get to work but before I do, I'll just share what happened to me yesterday. I had work yesterday. If you're thinking that what I mean by work is facing the computer and typing documents, calling people, attending meetings, then I have to tell you that it's not.

My work yesterday required me to wake up at my usual wakeup time - 5:30 a.m. but, yesterday, instead of staying at the office the whole day, I had to meet a team of volunteer doctors, dentists and students at the office.

Our Task: Go to the New Bilibid Prison and hold a Medical-Dental Mission.

Just so you know, the New Bilibid Prison is the largest prison in the country. It was my first time to visit the penitentiary and although I've been to a city jail before for a similar activity, I was surprised by what I saw at the New Bilibid Prison. I didn't think that it would be that huge. It was like a small town with a population of 33,000 residents inmates.

The people we will be serving that day were the ones from the Medium Security Camp, particularly, those who have had no visitors for years, and the sick and old ones. On our way to the Medium Security Camp, we passed by the Maximum Security and the Minimum Security. We also passed by the Lethal Injection Chamber and I can't help but shudder at the sight of it.

Upon arrival at the Medium Secury Camp, we had to surrender our cellphones and cameras. It was that strict! As we entered the community, some inmates were approaching us and welcoming us. Others were just suspiciously watching us. I felt scared after one inmate who shook my hand upon welcoming me, suddenly asked for some money and told me he would wait for me. God! Who knows what these men are capable of doing?

But as the day went on, I felt more safe. Several inmates were helping us out and I felt that they will help us should any untoward event happen. Thank God nothing happened. It was nice that the inmates were very grateful for the service that we provided them, even if it's just for a day. On our part, I'm glad that the doctors and dentists were open to the activity and they were willing to volunteer for the activity again.

I think that the people behind bars are the ones that are oftentimes most neglected by the society. The moment that they enter prison, a stigma is immediately attached to them by the whole society. It's just good to know that there are people who still believe that those who are behind bars are human beings and deserve to be treated like one.

Just Before I Hit the Sack

Finally, the feeling of weariness began to set in. I mean really set in. My body is so close to being in a state of being over fatigued (or am I this situation already?). I can literally feel the exhaustion of my energy from my activities the whole day.

But just before I take advantage of six, hopefully, seven hours of sleep before I go to work again tomorrow (I know! It's unbelievable!), I'd like to make a short entry to share with everyone.

Today, I experienced something that, when I think about it, is new to me. It's new because I have never experienced attending two activities that are on the extreme opposites of the spectrum of existence.

This afternoon, I attended the 1st birthday party of the very cute nephew of my Hunski, Mattie. It was held at the very nice clubhouse of Alexandra Condominiums in Ortigas. When we reached Alexandra, the party was already about to start.

It got me thinking when the last time was that I attended the first birthday party of a baby. Unfortunately, I can't remember. Hehe! Forgetful me. Anyway, after helping out set the party giveaways in one of the tables and after fixing the Sesame Street party hats, I looked for my place where I could watch the activities.

More than the energy-filled activities for the kiddies, I found it amusing that the birthday seemed to be a party not just for the kids but their yayas (nannies as well). Almost all of the kids who joined Mattie for his birthday had their own yayas clad in the typical white or blue nanny uniform. (I wonder their mommies and daddies are. Ah! They're all busy chatting with fellow parents.)

Of all the nannies though, Margie was the one who stood out. She is the yaya of Mattie. I was looking at her and she was very game in participating in all the activities. Hehe! Go Margie!

Anyway, the party ended around six. I think the fact that kiddie parties happen only within a set time (meaning, it doesn't take more than two or three hours) is good. Sometimes, I wish that late night gimmicks were like this. Hehe!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATTIE!

From a very lively party that celebrates the first year of life of a special person, I went to an occasion that was the opposite of life. Together with my Mom, we went to the funeral parlor to attend the wake of Ate Iya. It's the last night of her wake. Tomorrow afternoon, she will be cremated.

When my Mom and I arrived at the funeral parlor, the Mass was ongoing. I saw a lot of my cousins and other relatives from my father's side. It's weird that this event has, in a way, turned out to be a some sort of family reunion. The mood inside the room wasn't that mournful at all. Almost everyone in the room was busy chatting with other people, as if they haven't seen each other for a long time.

I found this to be a bit weird also. It was like Ate Iya was forgotten. Shouldn't there be some sort of group sharing about what Ate Iya has done when she was still alive? Instead, what was happening was like any other get-together. Oh well, I'm not surprised. I think what I saw at the wake was very Filipino.

My prayers for the repose of the soul of Ate Iya.

There you go. In one day, I was able to attend one activity that celebrates the life of a person and one activity that observes the exit of a person from the human world. This is something you don't experience every day.

I must go to sleep now for tomorrow...

I am going to jail.

Long and Tedious Weekend

I didn't have work yesterday.

Friday was declared a national holiday in commemoration of the death of Ninoy Aquino. Although it was a national holiday, I don't think there was much celebration for the occasion. In the city of Manila, I hardly saw any banners or activities related to the event. The only visible signs of commemoration that I saw was in Makati City. A number of buildings had yellow banners and huge billboard size pictures of the late Senator. The monument of the Senator had big flower arrangements by it. In addition to that, there were shreds of yellow paper on the streets. Earlier, they served as confetti for the celebration but now, they're just trash, waiting to be cleared from the streets.

On my part, normally, I would be very glad that this was a long weekend. Awww! Finally, three long days of late night sleep and late morning wake up.

NOT!

Since Wedneday night, right after work, I head to the street kids institution to practice them for an hour or so. I have done this schedule for Wednesday and Thursday. I wake up at 5.30, be at the office from 7 in the morning to 6 in the evening, walk to the street kids institution and practice for an hour or two, be home at 9 in the evening, sleep by 10. Thursday night was extra tedious because I had to meet up with college best friends for birthday celebration. I got home by midnight.

And here's what happened yesterday and today and my schedule for Sunday:

Friday:

7:00 a.m. - Wake up

8:00 a.m. - Practice the Kids

12:00 a.m. - Lunch

1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Rest before meeting with Friends for Movie

Driver lost car keys and had to go home to get the spare key.

3:00 p.m. - Lunch

4:30 p.m. - Rest

7:00 p.m. - Dinner and Coffee

11:00 p.m. - Sleep

Saturday:

7:00 a.m. - Wake up

8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. - Practice Street Kids

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. - Lunch and Blogging

3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Birthday Party of Hunski's Nephew

7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (only... I hope) - Visit the Wake of Ate Iya

11:00 p.m. - Sleep

Sunday:

5:30 a.m - Wake up

7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (only... I hope again) - Work (Medical-Dental Health Mission)

7:00 p.m. - Home

12:30 midnight - Catch finale episode of The Amazing Race (Please don't post any spoilers in the comments section)

Whew!!!

Just seeing my schedule was and my remaining things-to-do in my schedule is already tiring enough. Hehe! I dunno what I'm doing to myself.

Hope you all had a great weekend.

Straightacting? Somewhat...

LEVEL 4 -- SOMEWHAT STRAIGHT ACTING

A few people might suspect that you might not be a heterosexual. No one knows for sure, but there are rumors about what you're doing on the weekends. Most of your traits are straight acting but a few traits you have are causing people to wonder, but nothing is so apparent that anyone is sure enough to bring it up.

Farewell Ate Iya

John 5: 24

"Most assuredly I tell you, he who hears my word, and believes him who sent me, has eternal life, and doesn't come into judgement, but has passed out of death into life."

When I woke up this morning, the first thing that my Mom told me was,

"Wala na si Ate Iya. (Ate Iya has passed away.)"

After battling with breast cancer for a number of years now, she breathed her last breath around ten in the evening. Please pray for the repose of her soul. Please include her family in your prayers. I'm particularly concerned about her children who are still young of age. Surely, it's a very difficult time for them right now.

Farewell, Ate Iya...

Another Good and Another Bad

I just arrived home.

I came from a pratice with the children. I went to the children after office because there were new steps taught today. Ross, one of my groupmates, taught it to me this afternoon. I was assigned to teach it to the kids tonight since I'm the only one available to teach the kids. Unfortunately, I couldn't remember all of the steps even if I had notes. But I think I did well. All the smiling faces of the kids were enough to keep me going.

But man, I'm starving right now. All the practice and the slow trip going home because of the horrendous traffic made me hungry. Right now, I'm just waiting for my dinner to be heated up.

In the meantime, two more significant good and bad news reached me today. The good news isn't actually new. I knew about it a week ago but it was only confirmed today. I've been meaning to write it down here but I didn't find the right time until now.

The bad news, on the other hand, was delivered to me before I even got to close the door of my home. My eight-year old nephew, Daniel, tells me the moment I got in,

"Tita (Filipino for Aunt) Iya is very sick. She is in a coma right now."

I doubt that Daniel even knows what coma means. Iya's been battlying with cancer for quite some time now. The last time I visited her, she was still very strong and hopeful, though she was confined in the hospital. And now this. I guess one doesn't really know when his/her time is up. I'm praying for her. And I hope you say a little prayer for her too.

Moving on, the good news that was confirmed today is about my good friend, Jo, who's in the Iowa right now. He's a doctor of medicine currently taking his doctorate degree in Human Genetics, mind you, in one of the universities in the state. In his last email to me, he told me that he wanted to shift careers and it's a complete 180 degree shift.

He decided to enter the seminary. Right now, he is in a seminary in the States. I have yet to email him to ask about further details. Jo first announced this great news to me and for that I feel privileged. I would like to think that I was able to provide some helpful insights to him in this decision.

I'm proud of you, Jo. I'll be praying for you that you succeed in this new endeavor. I know that you will be able to help more people at a greater level in this new road you've decided to take.

There you go folks, the good and the bad news for today. So many unexpected things have been happening to me these past few days that it doesn't seem real anymore. I feel like one of the characters you watch in a TV soap opera. Everything just seems to be fictitious, but it's not.

Oh well, the only thing to do is get on with my life.

The Good and The Bad

As if things aren't overwhelming enough (with the whole marriage and having a baby news), I get another text message yesterday afternoon that surprised me once again. It's not really a good news.

My best friend lost the baby. And today is her birthday.

Happy Birthday!!!

It's rather sad. Together with another friend and Hunski, we visited her at the hospital yesterday evening. Forget the heavy rains. Never mind the difficulty of finding a ride to get to the hospital. Our friend needed us. And we wanted to be there to support her.

When we got to the hospital, she was already looking better. She told us what happened. The doctors, though, haven't told her yet exactly what went wrong. All she knew was that when they did an ultrasound on her, they could no longer find the baby.

To offer some comfort, we were just telling our friend that maybe it's not time yet for the baby to come to this world and that maybe God wanted her to enjoy things one at a time (first her marriage and then having a baby).

I hope and I feel that things will be okay with her.

On a lighter note, when I woke up this morning, I was surprised to see two unread messages on my mobile. It came from my friends Joseph and Richmond. Both were good news.

The two of them passed the Philippines board exams for medicine. Woo woo woo!!!

Congrats Dr. Ramirez and Dr. Salenga!!! We're very proud of you!!!

Pinoy Trivia for the Week:



Okay everyone, I'm posting this week's Pinoy Trivia. Since I have been writing about the world of fashion in my previous entries, I feel that it is only appropriate that the trivia for this week be connected to that topic, at least before I change my topic tomorrow.

I think this would be of much interest to Suki and to Francis. Here goes...

Before Carmen Kass and Natalia Vodianova took over the runways of Milan, New York and London from Gisele Bundchen (who I heard is on a hiatus, right now), and before Gisele Bundchen conquered the runways, there was a Filipina who made it as a supermodel in the international fashion scene.

Her name - Anna Bayle.

More than just gracing the covers of fashion magazine covers, the international supermodel from Manila sashayed down the runways in the 1970s for the designers we love such as Calvin Klein, Chanel, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix Donna Karan, Gianni Versace and Yves Saint Laurent, among others.

WOW!!! You go, girl! This only proves that the Filipina beauty could match those of the Western and European faces.

Get to know Anna more in this article.

Eyes Open, Boy


Agent Tom Sawyer - The Spy


Which Member of the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Augh! And I was secretly hoping to be Dorian Gray. But only for his sense of style and definitely not his attitude. Hehe! I swear, Dorian Gray is gay. Can we change his name to Dorian Gay? Hehe! And what could be his nickname? Dori? Hehehe! Okay. That's enough.

Got to watch LXG last Friday with Hunski and his officemates. My friend warned me that the movie was boring. But after seeing the movie, I'd like to see it again actually. I found it to be totally kick-ass. It was like watching X-Men but set in an early 1900s context.


Peta Wilson as Mina Harker


Stuart Townsend as Dorian Gray

My favorite league members were Dorian Gray and Mina Harker.

Let's Hear It For The Boys

Despite the heavy downpour last Saturday night, my scheduled dinner with eight extraordinary friends pushed through. Nothing could stop us from meeting up that night to catch up on each other's live. Not even the rain. Originally, the dinner was set at comfy World Topps but we decided to move to Recipes by Cafe Metro at Greenbelt III.

Hunski and I were the first to arrive at the venue. We got there a little before eight p.m. meeting time. Naturally, everyone was fashionably late. And yes, Hunski and I are the world's most prompt. Next to arrive were Francis and Zeki.

While waiting for the others, the four of us already began with our lively conversation. Francis and I naturally dwelled on fashion and lifestyle, while Zeki and Hunski talked about...err...I dunno. I was too caught up in my chat with Francis.

At one point, Francis was telling me,

"I was inspired by your post on the tote bag and I just found a great tote bag from Kenneth Cole. But there was also this nice belt bag from Tyler and it looked something like..."

And, as if we had one mind, we both say out loud with a high five and laughter,

"Gucci!"

As the four of us were finishing our sumptuous dinner, Jigs and Suki arrived. Right after they ordered their food, the conversation continued. Last to arrive were Edsel and Roy, and Richard. As people after people arrived, the conversation got more lively and more boisterous. Aside from each one's storytelling, there was, of course, joshing and clowning around.

The topics we discussed were very diverse. Beginning from each other's work, we ended up talking about very trivial ones (well, I guess not in the gay world) such as lip balm, body wash, papaya soap and haute couture.

It was a fantastic evening.

Following the dinner, the eight of us caught the last screening of Finding Nemo. I highly recommend to everyone to watch the film. It's absolutely hilarious and I guarantee you that you will have a grand time laughing out loud watching the film. This is a completely "upper" movie.

We capped the night with some drinks at Hue, a vodka bar located in Greenbelt III as well.

We separated ways at about two in the morning. Although I was starting to feel groggy, I must admit - I HAD FUN. Spending time with eight remarkable gay men will undoubtedly result in a very, very GOOD time. I felt so at home with these guys. I felt free. For once, I can be myself freely.

And quoting Zeki, "I can't help but think that we're more open now with our being gay than before."

I totally agree with you, Comics Boy.

I Found Nemo


What Finding Nemo Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

I caught this movie with my good friends last night. Awww! Ultra-hilarious! Ultra-entertaining! Ellen Degeneres is SO good. :)

Fatherhood Becomes Me (???)

If you think that the earsplitting sound of one kid yelling at the top of his/her voice is enough to drive a father crazy, or that running after just one or two overly mischievous and highly active children is tedious enough, you have yet to experience handling fourteen kids.

For seven Saturdays, my Hunski and I will serve as a Kuya (That's the Filipino term for elder brother), or more like a father, to fourteen street children. Yesterday was our second Saturday, and I should tell you – it is SO tiring, more than I expected.

You must be wondering what I'm talking about. Well, one of the programs that my work has is a Program for the Street Children. This September, we're having a cultural dance competition for children from five institutions. The children will present a cultural dance that depicts peace. Hunski and I got involved in the program after his mom decided to help out in the training of one of the participating institutions. I know – she is the sweetest thing.

So despite the fact that we hit the sack at late 12 midnight last Friday (well I slept at 1 a.m. since I had to prepare the outline of the day's activity), we dragged ourselves out of the bed to wake up at eight a.m. of Saturday. We took a cab and instructed the driver to take us to YWCA.

Yesterday's activity was extra tiring primarily because it was just me and my Hunski who handled the kids. Our other three teammates can't make it and the other one would be arriving really late. When we got to the institution, the kids were already waiting for us. The oldest ones were about thirteen years old and the youngest ones were seven years old.

After starting our activity with a traditional Filipino song, we watched a videotape presenting various Filipino folk dances. I asked the kids to write down their comments on the various dances and they shared it with group after the video presentation. I was just amazed at how most of the kids actively watched the video and almost everyone was eager to share his/ her comment.

Following the video presentation, Hunski and I grouped the kids and began the practice. I took care of the group that would present a Muslim dance. Hunski was in charge of the group to perform the Igorot dance. Our other groupmate who arrived just in time, handled the third group. For about an hour or two, we were practicing the steps of the dance. I am so thankful that the kids were cooperative enough. (All I needed to do was make them understand how important this is for them.)

As we left the institution by 12:30, Hunski and I headed to Pancake House to have our brunch. When we got there, I just slumped on the chair. I was so tired. My throat was hurting from talking at the top of my voice. Over lunch, I shared with Hunski a nice incident that happened during the practice.

Me: "Do you remember Justin? That little seven year old kid who was sitting beside me during our snack break?"

Hunski: "Yeah."

Me: "I saw him just drinking the juice and not eating the cupcake you gave him. When I asked him why he wasn’t touching the cupcake, he told me that he wanted to give it to his younger siblings."

That incident just really struck a chord in me. Here was a seven year old who already knows the value of sharing and offering himself for someone else. It's not everyday I get to meet someone like that, and someone that young. When things like that happen, when I see the smile of the kids we teach, when the kids say Thank You for the small things that we give them, all the weariness and exhaustion just slips away in an instant.

While sometimes I may not be aware of it, this experience is like a pre-fatherhood training for me (should I be blessed enough to be one someday) and it is from these experiences that I gather learnings that would prepare me to be a good father. I realize that to be a father is no joke. I realize that to be a father is a great feeling. I realize that to be a father, I am tasked with the greatest responsibility there is. And one of the most important things, I realize that as a father, it is my responsibility to teach my children the value of being involved in helping others, of not just being another face in the crowd, of making a difference.

So I Guess It's True

I woke up this morning thirty minutes past six. Well, it was actually Andre', my youngest sibling, who woke me up. He was already dressed in his high school uniform, and ready to go. Uh oh. I am late for work.

And this means that what happened last night was really true.

It wasn't just a dream. It wasn't just a product of my overworked, used and abused mind. It wasn't a figment of my imagination. It IS for real.

She is really getting married. And she is also going to have a baby.

She told two other girl best friends and me this piece of information over dinner. The next thing I know, it was as if I swallowed my tongue along with the juicy Buffalo Wings of Don Henrico's. Not a single word came out of my mouth. Except for the occasional Uh Huhs and Yups, I was just there sitting and watching them.

Like what I said, I felt numb. I had a heavy feeling in my chest for what reason, I do not know. While my two friends bombarded the bride/mom-to-be with questions, I just listened. I did not know what to say to her. I would be lying if I say that I wasn't taken by surprise. I was so surprised, even shocked, that I chose to be in denial and skepticism.

I left the group earlier for a quick meet with my boyfriend in the neighboring building. I also waited for one of my girl friends at the building since we would be taking one ride going home.

After a couple of minutes, my girl friend arrived. Our bride/mom-to-be best friend drove her. Before we parted ways, I told my girl friend that I had to talk with bride/mom-to-be bride/mom-to-be.

I got in the car and just hugged bride/mom-to-be best friend. I don't want to look at her because I know what would happen. I started,

"I don't want us to part ways tonight with you feeling that I object to your decision and that I am judging you. I don't want you to feel that you do not have my blessings. I want you to know that I am very happy for you. I'm just scared for you. You are so young. (She’s only turning 23.) I am just concerned about you because you are my best friend and I love you."

And she replies,

"Anj, don't be sad. Mag-ka-ka-baby na tayo.(We (the group) are going to have a baby.)"

The moment she said that, I couldn't hold back the tears anymore and I started crying. (I swear I'm such a crybaby.) I look at her and she was also crying. But I knew that our tears were tears of joy over the good news, and not bitter tears.

I tell her,

"I have nothing more to say to you because what ever questions I have in mind, I'm sure all the people have already asked you. I know you well enough and I know that you are a smart girl and you have thought about things. So you have all my support. I love you."

It was such a nice moment. That five, six minutes was all we had to resolve things. I feel so much better now. I am genuinely happy for her. And I am very, very excited about the wedding, and more importantly, the baby. On my way home, in my head, I was telling myself that I should accept things and be happy.

Besides, I have so much more important things to think about – what to wear for the wedding and find the perfect bag to go with my outfit. Haha!

Friday's Quarter of Twenty

----------Have You Ever...----------

Been mean: Sadly, yes.

Talked to someone you have a crush on: Yup, my heart was pounding like hell.

Hugged someone: Yes. I'm so touchy. I love hugging my loved ones and people dearest to my heart.

Fought with your parents: Argued with them, yeah. I hate it that they still treat me like I were in college.

Watched a sunrise/sunset: Uh huh. I was going alone to the province of Mindoro Occidental for work. There was nothing much to do on board the boat so I went to the deck and just watched the sun disappear from the horizon. It was very nice.

Late Night Entry


Wedding Bells are Ringing

I just got home.

I know. It's two hours past my bed time. Normally, I should be sleeping by now. I would have chose to head straight to my room, take off my clothes, change into a shirt and boxers and sleep right.

But I didn't. I had to write. What happened tonight cannot wait for tomorrow to be posted.

So it's official. One of my best friends is getting married.

It caught me by surprise. No, it did more than that. It made me feel numb all over and I really lost all my words. I had mixed feelings. I was confused. I was surprised. I was happy.

That's it for now. I'll continue writing tomorrow.

Trusty Companions


August 10, 2003 | Afternoon Companions

Okay, guys. For lack of something substantial to write, I'd like you to meet my regular companions when I'm on my own. Meet Drip Coffee, Back Issues of Magazines, and my dearest Thoughts Notebook, with his partner, Black Pen.

It's good to have pen and paper with you all the time. I think Carlo would agree with me. And so does Anna Viadero.

Here's what she said wrote in Writer's Digest:

"The most interesting ideas often surface in unlikely places, so keep a pad and pencil handy to write them down. And don't worry about getting it all written in one sitting. Words and phrases can remind you of the story you want to tell - when you have the time and space to tell it."

Dinner and Two Cups of Coffee


August 12, 2003 | World Topps


August 12, 2003 | Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf

So I had a date with my Hunski last night, with about forty or fifty people I don't know. Hehe! (Just kidding, Hunski. I'm just trying to inject some humor here.) Before our date date, I went with him to their company's bowling tourney. I was just there though. But it was FUN! Hunski looked so cute when he bowls. After he lets go of the ball, he's like this little boy jumping up and down, hoping the ball would strike all the pins.

After the bowling, we had dinner at World Topps. It's a small restaurant serving various local and international dishes. I like World Topps because it has a good food, good ambiance and good prices. Hehe!

Following the good romantic dinner, we did our usual walk and found ourselves at the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf in Greenbelt III. It's the latest alternative to Starbucks and Seattle's Best.

While enjoying my cup of decaf mocha latte, we had discussions on various things - work, marriage (no, just before your mind starts running, we weren't talking about our marriage but marriage, in general), and other stuff. It was a very nice evening. I really had a great time.

Pinoy Trivia for the Week:

Here is Pinoy's Trivia for the Week. In celebration of the first year as a couple, Hunski and I went on a two-day trip to Vigan. It is a city in the northern province of Ilocos Sur.


June 13, 2003 | Paoay Church Sans Its Bell Tower

One of the sites that we visited was the Paoay Church which is located three or four towns away from Vigan. It is a massive structure that is simply amazing because it has withstood time. According to some research I did, the church is built of coral blocks and stucco-plastered bricks.

The architecture is a unique combination of Gothic, Baroque and Oriental. The construction of the church began in 1704 and was completed only in 1894. Situated a few meters away is the coral-stone bell tower which served as an observation post of the "katipuneros" during the Philippine Revolution and again by the guerillas during the Japanese occupation.

I will be posting the photograph I took of the church tomorrow. Here's the photograph I took of the Church.

14 Months and Counting




August 12, 2003 | Retail Therapy

While having dinner last night, I received a text message from my Hunski saying,

"Hunski, it's our 14th month together tomorrow."

Only then did I realize that it is the 12th tomorrow and it is our 14th month together. Wow! It almost slipped my mind. :Bop: Angelo. I've been so pre-occupied with work that I almost forgot the important day. And while some people would think that celebrating a month-sary is something too Dawson's Creek-ish, it doesn't matter to me at all.

One of the most significant things that I experience in this relationship is meeting the family of my boyfriend. Although he hasn't formally told his folks that we are a couple, we both know that the whole family already knows. For this, I am very proud of my Hunski - for being brave enough to introduce me to his family. I feel it is a proof that he really loves me. That's 1,000 pogi points for him.

pogi points n. used on a gay context, it is a Pinoy slang term that refers to the little things that a man earns when he does something sweet for a man he likes, making the person like him just a little bit more.

Hunski's family has been very kind to me. They've made me feel welcome and for that I am deeply grateful. To be respected by your partner's family is a luxury these days.

If there's one incident that really struck me, it has to be the invitation to the baptism of the daughter of Hunski's elder sister. We were visiting her baby and just before we left, she handed the card to Hunski. When I saw the card, it read, "Dear Tito Hunski and Tito Angelo". (Tito means Uncle) I just felt the biggest rush of happiness and it kept me smiling for a long time.

Yes, I am the luckiest gay guy in the world.

Back to Work



August 10, 2003 | Ayala Ave.



August 10, 2003 | Paseo de Roxas

It’s the start of another week.

When I left for work this morning, vehicles of all sorts - buses, taxis, jeepneys, private vehicles, Tamaraw FX, motorcycles - have slowly began to crowd the streets of Manila. Several people seemed to have left their homes early to reach their destination on time. I noticed how almost everyone appeared to be in a rush.

It was so different from yesterday. I was walking along the stretch of Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas and it was very. There were only a few people on the streets. Only a few cars would drive by.

This morning, I saw people – grade school pupils trying to catch up to the quick pace of their parents, college students perusing through their notebooks in preparation for the first class, professionals, young and old, clad in neatly pressed office attire – all trying to avoid the Monday rush.

As for me, I went on with my business without putting any pressure at all on myself. That’s the last thing I need. I reached the office fifteen minutes before my office time. Right after punching in my time card, I made my way to the office and when I was almost there, I just realized...

I forgot my office keys.

Straight Mag or What?!

I'm back home.

I spent the afternoon at Starbucks 6750. Since Hunski had to drive for his mom the whole day, I had to spend the entire day alone. Which isn’t so bad because two magazines, a notebook, a pen, a cup of good coffee and an old-fashioned oatmeal cookie kept me company.

In my earlier entry, I was mentioning about a fresh magazine that has hit the newsstands – Blu Book. Upon seeing the cover of the magazine, a hot black and white photo of local actor Geoff Briz, I thought hoped that it was going to be a magazine catering to the gay Filipino. If there’s one magazine I’m waiting for in this country, I would have to say that it has to be a Pinoy version of Out.

The main feature of the magazine was the interviews of five of the hottest Filipino models/actors right now – Geoff Briz (who’s changed his surname to Rodriguez), Marcus Sainz, Kenji Marquez, Luke Jickain, and Gary Dulatas. I didn’t find anything spectacular about the interview. It was the usual getting-to-know writeup. There was also nothing gay about the interview. No questions on thoughts on homosexuality or gay marriage. The only thing I found about the interviews that would really call the attention of gay men were the photos of the men clad in skimpy denim shorts.

Other than the interviews, there were articles on the male reproductive organ, masculinity 101 (an article talking about proving one’s masculinity in the male world), the music of Daniel Bedingfield, and Pinoy Chef Jay Gamboa and his culinary work, among other things.

Right after going through the magazine, I was left puzzled. What is this magazine? Is it for straight men or for gay men? If it were for straight men, how come the images of close to naked men are gracing several pages? If it were for gay men, how come there was an article that tells the male reader the importance of proving your masculinity to the world?

I was really confused. Even, in the introduction of the magazine, there was no clear definition what the magazine is about. In a gist, all it was saying was that it was a magazine for men.

Uhm, can you please be more specific?

In any case, I’m willing to give the magazine another chance. This is after all just the premiere issue. I’m willing to forgive the typo errors I’ve seen. However, should this magazine turn out to be just another Filipino straight magazine in this country, I guess I will have to keep on reading the Out magazines I get from UP Diliman Shopping Center.

Gay and Catholic

I just bought two magazines that would accompany me and my cup of coffee for the afternoon. One is Blu Book. It's a new magazine and I dunno what it exactly but I have a suspecting feeling that it's gay themed. And the other magazine I bought is MANual, just to find out what straight men are up to these days. Hehe!

Anyway, I was walking around the mall and I heard the familiar song "Purihin ang Panginoon (Praise the Lord)". Ah, the Mass is about to start. And although it wasn't part of my plan, I found myself walking towards the huge crowd gathered for the Eucharistic Celebration.

It's been a month or two since I last attended Mass. When some gay friends find out that I attend Mass or that I still practice my Catholic faith every now and then, I would sometimes get reactions of surprise and confusion. It's like being gay and Catholic don't go together at all, like plaid and stripes. I don't really know why I hold on to my Catholic faith. Eventhough the Church is strongly advocating against gay marriages and homosexuality, I still find my faith alive (well, maybe not as alive as it used to be, but it still is there).

What most people don't know is that I grew up and was educated by Catholic priests. I have been an altar boy for five or six years. The Church where I serve was my second home. As a matter of fact, I almost entered the seminary to become a priest. Many people, relatives and friends, were surprised that I didn't push through with that plan.

It is probably because of this experience that I still hold on to my Catholic faith. Because through my life, I have found strength from it during the times that I felt so weak. I have found some comfort and solace in it knowing that a God is looking after me.

Right now, my Catholic practice isn't as active as it used to be but one thing's for sure, my faith in God will always be there.

Ciao for now! I must go and chow!

What Happens Next?

I sent a text message to my other friend who just came out of a relationship and is now trying to pick up the pieces and move on.

My friend replies back to me:

"Hi there. I'm doing okay. Thanks for the text. Can ex-lovers be friends? That's what I'm aiming for. I don't want to be bitter about the relationship. I'm trying to understand him. Uso pa ba ang martyr? (Is it still okay to be a martyr for love these days?)"

Hmm, lovers as friends.

Is it really possible? How does one do it? What if the other person doesn't want to? How do the ex-lovers become friends? These are just some of my questions.

As for being a martyr for love, I share with my friend a thought that a girl friend told me. (It is written in Tagalog and I just love the way it was said. I love the Tagalog language. It's so romantic, especially the deep Tagalog words.)

"Kailan mo masasabi na hindi mo na siya mahal? Iyong talagang nakalimutan mo na siya? Iyong kahit magmakaawa siya, tatanggihan mo pa rin. Di mo masabi? Dahil ang totoo, makita mo lang siya uli...handa ka ulit magpakatanga." (When can you say that you don't really love the person anymore? That you have really forgotten him (her). That even if he (she) falls down on his (her) knees, you would still say no. You don't know the answer. Because the truth is, the moment you see him (her) again, you are ready to sacrifice yourself for love.)

I couldn't agree more.

Friday's Quarter of Twenty:

----------If I Were...----------

an Animal: I'd be a dolphin, I guess. Or those nice, colorful fishes in the aquariums at home.

a Fruit: I'd be a Watermelon. Yum yum!!!

a Piece of Clothing: I'd want to be a Chanel suit - classic, elegant, timeless.

a Song: I'd definitely be "My Strongest Suit" from Aida.

a Handbag: Man, I don't even have to think about this - Hermes Birkin.

The Store in Shopping Center

I just got out of a meeting with other volunteer organizations. We had a meeting to discuss the plan to form a network that will connect as many volunteer organizations as possible.

It was held in Bahay Kalinaw at the University of the Philippines. But I'm not going to talk about the meeting now. Maybe tomorrow. I'd like to share what I did after the meeting.

As soon as we were free to go, I found myself walking towards the direction to the University Shopping Center. In the Shopping Center, one would find food shops, University souvenir items stores, computer shops, photocopying shops, photocopying shops, and photocopying shops. (Yes! We UP students love photocopying books thanks to the professors who never run out of reading materials.)

Now out of the University, one place I never forget to visit is a small bookstore at the shopping center selling second hand books and magazines. I love the store particularly because this is where I get my gay reads. I'm already thankful that they sell back issues of Out and Advocate. Sometimes, there'd be issues of Genre and Instinct as well.

And if I'm really lucky, there'd be some novels that are gay or lesbian-themed. You can just imagine how triumphant I feel after going through the magazine rack and find copies of Out or Advocate.

Today, I opted to purchase the Pride Magazine 2002 and a special issue of Writer's Digest eventhough I had my eyes on Instinct and Out. (I have to be practical.)

Sigh.

Unfortunately, this country has a very, very few selection of gay literature. Heck, we don't even have a gay/lesbian literature section in the huge bookstores. Just how conservative can we be, huh? I'd be very lucky if I can even find fifteen gay literature titles on the shelves of bookstores.

Man, my copy of The Best Little Boy in the World by Andrew Tobias, I was very lucky to have found it hidden in the back shelves of National Bookstore during its sale.

The Bag-aholic Session Continues

I think I actually have the guts to carry a Hermes Birkin or even the Anya Hindmarch tote I wanted even if it was designed for ladies. I don't really care if it's TOO gay.

So what? I own the bag and I love it. I'm not carrying it to make women envious (At least, that's not my primary intention). I'm carrying it as a statement - "Design better bags for men."

And if someone asks me why I'm carrying a tote bag, this all I've to say:

"Honey, backpacks are so so last season."

The Next Session

Just after reading this, the bag-aholics anonymous meeting continued in my head.

After introducing myself to the other bag-aholics, we hear the door knob being turned and the door opens. In comes a very neat and good looking guy, clad in an immaculately white polo (I'm guessing it' Topshop or M&S), a pair of flat-front pants, and a pair of killer square toed loafers. He smiles to everyone, and takes a seat.

The man begins, "Hi! I'm Francis!"

And before we could even say hi to him, the man upon seeing the woman to his right, exclaims in a loud voice,

"Oh my God! Honey, that bag is so fabulous! Where did you get it? Let me guess. Gucci?"

"Ehem! Thank you for the...", goes the session facilitator.

But the man continues,

" Okay. here's my version of Carson Kressley bio. I was born in 1978 and received my first piece of couture at the humble and tender age of 2. I slowly learned that I was a gifted child by realizing that plaid and stripes never go together and pleats make your butt look huge.

I developed my keen fashion sense on the playground, mixing and matching outfits of all the children in my head and daydreaming of a world where everyone knew it was a cardinal sin to wear white after Labor Day. This constant daydreaming caused me to excel in the fashion world but still made me the first boy chosen in gym class.

In my professional life, I am an closet stylist who spent many years working with local fashionistas, specializing in the design aspect of women's evening wear. I also aided in fashion styling for my current company's dress code."

As he ended his speech, I could see various reactions from the group. Some appear to be shocked. While others were smiling. I, on the other hand, was very happy. Knowing that I wasn't alone there was great and just made me very happy.

I walk over to the guy, give him a hug and say,

"Francis, welcome to the club!"

In My Head Late Afternoon

I'm in a room. In a building I don't recognize, but somewhere in the city of Makati. There are other people with me, mostly women. There number of men who are present do not even exceed the number of fingers I have. More than half are gay. We're sitted in a circle. Everyone is talking to each other. I overhear the words Prada, Kate Spade and Anya Hindmarch among some of the people. I even see one gay man getting tearful over the mention of Hermes Birkin.

I clear my throat and say,

"Hi! I'm Angelo."

Everyone cuts their talking, looks at me and replies cheerfully, "Hi Angelo."

"...and I think I'm a bag-aholic.", ending my statement.

Every single person in the group claps their hands. Their faces become more brighter and cheerful. With their gestures, I could see them saying, "Welcome to the club!".

Haha!

I don't even remember when I started to become so addicted to bags. But don't raise those eyebrows just yet. If you're thinking, I'm a Carrie Bradshaw, then I'm afraid you'd be disappointed.

I just happen to love bags.

I'm a bag man, if there is such a term.

Bag Addict In a Dilemma

I was caught in a dilemma a few minutes ago. I was SO tempted to bid on a brand new, to-die-for "Beach Belles" tote bag from Anya Hindmarch. It's up for grabs at Ebay. Measuring approximately 12" tall by 17" inches across, with two outside pockets and two inside, the bag in blue canvas is simply perfect for everything from the market to the beach.

Man, the bag addict in me has a very good feeling of winning this beautiful piece for less than a hundred bucks. Ah!!! The joy of No Reserve prices. I'm thinking it's definitely a best buy since the original price is $370.

On the other hand, the other part of me is telling yelling at me to not give in to this temptation.

Augh!!!

Thanks to Hunski for helping me reach a decision on what to do...

Darna Does Ballet



Have you ever imagined what it would be like if Darna does a pirouette while in combat? Or if her adversary, Valentina, was a stylish, singing diva?

Ballet Philippines, the country’s premier dance company, brings the Filipina super heroine onstage in a production where you will see flying, kicking, fighting while performing ballet steps and while belting out musical numbers.

Why Darna?

"We need somebody that we can identify as our own, something that everyone can easily relate to. This dance musical will reintroduce a 50-year-old super-heroine. Now she’s a contemporary character, still in the side of good, and most importantly, she’s Filipino.", says Chris Millado, who’s doing the stage direction, book and lyrics of the show.

More than just the combination of techno music, aerial acrobatics, dancers on the walls, and comical characters, the production also brings in personas from the Filipino music, film and theater industry. Diva-on-the-rise Tex Ordoñez and acclaimed film/TV actress Chin-Chin Gutierrez play the role of Valentina. Singing along with Valentina as her boy toys are Mio Infante, Filomar Tariao, Roeder Camañag, Roy Rolloda Raul Montesa and Jay Españo. Party Boy Tim Yap and MYX VJ JM Rodriguez alternate as DJ Dalang.

Playing the role of Darna are Ballet Philippines’ dancers Christine Crame and Krisbelle Paclibar.

See Darna soar at the Cultural Center of the Philippines from August 1 to 17 . For tickets, you may contact Ballet Philippines at (632) 8326011. This is one exciting production that Pinoys can be proud of.

Lucky me, I got to watch the musical last night, for free. YAY!!! Also spotted during the night were Hollywood actor Lou Diamond Phillips and actress Tia Carrere.

THANKS to friends Abi and Kay for the tickets!!!

The Two Year Itch

I think that is what I am feeling right now.

Recent research showed that several working people do not want to stay in any given job for longer than two years. In a study conducted where professionals from 14 countries (I'm not sure if the Philippines is included. Most probably not.) were asked how long they would stay in a job, a third of the respondents replied three years. In the regions of Britain and South Africa, a lot of office workers even thought that two years is such a long time.

There are some countries though that are not as affected by this itch. Included in this countries are Germany, where most German workers thought five years of doing the same job was okay, and in Belgium, Ireland and Japan, where more than 80% of the respondents agreed to the idea.

In my case, the itch has settled in a little later than two years. This coming October, I will be celebrating my third year of working in this company (as well as my big 24!!! Woo woo woo!!!).

Although I still like what I do, I'm starting to feel restless. I get annoyed with some colleagues (although I still maintain that she really IS annoying). I do not have the drive I used to possess when I started working, among other things.

I know where I want to go but it's hard to reach my goal right now, given the economic conditions of the country.

Sigh.

What to do? What to do?

Pinoy Trivia for the Week:

Okay, for the blog readers from other countries, you've probably encountered the word "Pinoy" a couple of times in my previous blog entries. In case you're wondering what the word means, here it is:

pinoy n. a slang word pertaining to a filipino; the word "pinoy" was taken from the last two syllables (fi/li/pi/no) of the original word, affixing "y" at the end thus creating a catchy term used by filipinos to identify themselves from other races.

I've decided to include a Pinoy Trivia for the Week section in my blog so you may know just a little bit more about this country and its people. The Pinoy Trivia for the Week will come out every Tuesday. I've started off this week with one of the country's renowned artists.


Angelus (1954)

Fernando Amorsolo was the first national artist declared by the Philippine government for his outstanding accomplishment in the field of painting and his contribution to the arts. The award was conferred on Amorsolo in April 1972, several days after his death.

The Ex-Factor

What is it about this time of the year that is making couples break up?

Two weeks ago, my Mi Amore Eden and I had dinner with one of our closest friends. It's been awhile since we last saw her. It's been awhile since we last heard from her. And it's been awhile since she broke up with her girlfriend. Things would probably be a little easier for Eden and me if we weren't friends with the girlfriend, well, now ex-girlfriend. The thing is, we're not just friends with the girlfriend, we are best friends with the girlfriend. Until now we still are best friends because we've been a barkada since college. Can you just imagine how difficult it is to set nightouts?

The dinner was a little more complicated, at least for Eden and me, because we had an agenda behind us. We were going to tell our friend that her ex has a male suitor. Ordinarily, we couldn't care less what the ex-gf would do after the breakup. It's none of our business. But since the fate of the group (whether we could still all be reunited as one big happy family) relies on how these two people would relate to each other, Eden and I were trying to salvage the friendship, at least.

But that agenda aside, the dinner was actually a good time to catch up on things. Over dinner, we talked about the usual stuff – the drudgeries of work, the last movies we saw, parties and nightouts we've been going to and the like. Right after filling ourselves at Yoshinoya, we decided to move to Starbucks to talk some more. Inside my head, I was contemplating how we will break the news to her.

I figured the only way to bring up the topic is to ask her directly.

"..., are you dating anyone these days?"

"Nope. Abi's setting me up with this girl. The thing is the girl's gotta kid and is already a widow, and she's only 22!!!"

"What if we tell you that *name deleted* is dating someone right now? And a guy. You met Erik, right?"

"That's okay. I already had an inkling. I bet, they're even a couple of now."

"How do you feel about it?"

"I’m okay with it. No problem at all. Like I said, I already expected that."

Whew! That was easy.

As we parted ways that night, Eden and I were telling our friend to just let us know if she wants to talk about it and if she needs to talk to someone. Once again, she told us that she's perfectly fine and that we have nothing to worry about.

Yeah right!

The next thing I know, I'm writing yesterday's entry. I should have known better. Sigh. It's so hard to take care of your best friends. But you do it not because you have to, but because you want to, and because you love them.

Road to Self-Destruction

Breakups are never a good thing.

A friend of mine has just gotten out of a relationship that lasted for about three four and a half years. While the relationship had its ups and downs, I always thought that the couple could work it out.

I was wrong.

Now, she is treading the road leading to self-destruction, emotionally and physically. Feeling and thinking like a loser, wallowing in depression, downing several bottles of alcohol every night, calling people at wee hours of the morning, and driving 160 at the stretch of C-5. These are just some of the things that she has been doing.

I really feel sorry for her.

But how do you tell a person to sober up and get on with life? How do you convince someone that a breakup is not the end of the world and of life? How do you yank a person out of depression and self-pity?

I wish it were easy but honestly, I really don't know what to do.

Friday Night Musical


What could be a better way to end a tedious and stressful week than to have a date at the theatre?

On a spur of the moment decision, Hunski and I went to watch the lastest musical offering of Trumpets, Honk last Friday. And as if luck was really on our side, we got loge center tickets at half the price thanks to friend and musical director of the show, Rony Fortich. (We also bumped into good friend, Francis.)

Honk is a musical based on the children's tale of Hans Christian Andersen, The Ugly Duckling. Written by Anthony Drewe and George Stiles, the musical has been staged in different countries since 2001. Last year, it won the much coveted Best Musical award at the Lawrence Olivier, beating The Lion King.

The story revolves around the story of Ida, a mother duck, and her young, Ugly, who is being ostracized by the farm animal community for being "different". More than the distinct peculiar physical features, Ugly says "Honk" while the rest of his siblings, "Quack".

The adventure begins when Ugly is lured away from the farmhouse by a tom cat. Realizing that her son is lost and could be in danger, Ida leaves the farmhouse to search for her son. Along the way, the mother and her child meet colorful characters. Ugly also meets the beautiful swan, Penny, with whom he falls in love with. In the end, the mother and son are reunited - this time, Ugly has developed to be a handsome swan. They both return to the farmhouse, together with Penny, where the animal community apologizes to Ugly and the Queen Duck relinquishes the seat of authority to Ugly.

Overall, the musical had a good story and good music. It teaches the audience the importance of accepting others who may be "different" in one way or another. And that to be different is something to be happy about, something to see as okay, something to gladly welcome, instead of being discriminated and expelled. (Why do I sound like I'm talking about being gay in the society?) This is one musical which the whole family can enjoy.

Aside from the great characters, the catchy tunes, and the touching plot, the costumes and the set design were simply amazing. They transport the audience into a world that only exists in a child's mind.

Leading the cast as Ida was Carla Martinez (actress Agot Isidro alternates with her) and Carlo Orosa as Ugly (alternating with him is actor Franco Laurel). Playing Penny is Lana Jalosjos, who is just fresh from Dreamgirls. Noel Rayos (Brad Majors in Rocky Horror Show) played the Tom Cat.

Directing the Filipino production is Chari Arrespacochaga. Musical direction is by Rony Fortich. Set design and lights design were by Gino Gonzales and Gerry Fernandez, respectively.

"Honk!" runs at the Meralco Theater August 1 to September 7. Tickets are available at National Bookstore's Ticketworld at 891-5610 or Trumpets at 633-5010; 636-2842; 633-4387.

I strongly recommend that you catch this musical if you could. This is one musical that will surely make some noise with its honk!

Of Straight Bars and Old Classmates

It was Trengie's birthday party last night.

Happy Birthday Trengie!!!

Trengie is a good friend who I haven't seen for the longest time. Being classmates for four years, we hung out a lot back in college. Trengie is one of the more outspoken people in the class. Filled with ideas and gifted with talk-active skills, she worked as a DJ for Monster Radio. She, along with the rest of the group – Ella, Thea and sometimes, Mel, would bring me along with them to their shopping trips turning me into a bag gentleman and a lover of fashion. Right after college, we were job hunting buddies for a short time until she landed a job at Canon. She was supposed to leave for the States last year for a scholarship (Woo woo woo!!!) but things are postponed indefinitely.

Moving on...

In celebration of her big 24, she, along with two other friends who were also celebrating their birthdays, rented out Flava in Makati. It is a bar along Pasong Tamo Rd., right across Don Bosco. It was my first time in that bar since a.) I rarely visit the bars of Makati, b.) my usual hangout is Malate, and to top it off, c.) it’s a straight bar.

When was the last time I have been to a straight bar? I think it was at Moomba during the Paolo Santos gig that Eden invited us (Hunski, Leah, Charms, and me) to.
Anyway, we - Ella, his boyfriend Gino, Thea, her girlfriend Suzette, and I – (Hunski followed) arrived at Flava a little before ten p.m. After some warm greetings, hugs and cheek kisses, we looked for a place where we could sit while Trengie wandered off to entertain the other guests. We ended up staying at the bar because all the tables were already occupied.

We settled down and I looked around to visually probe the place. Somehow, it felt different to be in a place full of straight people. (I'm sure straight people would feel the same if it was the other way around.) I have been so used to being in a place jampacked with a 100 or so sweaty, gyrating male bodies, that to be in a straight bar somehow made me stiff. In fact, I think the only gay people in the place were me, my Hunski, college classmate Thea, and her girlfreind Suzette. The four of us found ourselves seated at the corner of a bar. Given this, we christened the part of the bar where we stayed as the gay corner. Hehe!

Seeing my old college classmates was really fun. The trip down memory lane is something always good to take. We could talk about the crazy things we did in class, the get-togethers we had, the happy and sad times we spent together. Our class was a small one. There were only 26 people in our block. Small as we are, I find it amusing that we are a diverse group - 1 straight male, 1 gay male, 2 lesbians, 1 bisexual female, and 24 straight females. I would have to say that university life (Yes, not high school.) was the most enjoyable life experience I had, so far. And seeing my college buddies these days is always an exhilarating event for me.

But it gets better...

While I was standing over at the bar, a guy approaches me and says,

"Hey, I know you. Do you remember me? Sal."

I reply, "Sal!!!"

And there he was, still with a scrawny figure, added a mustache, grown several inches, but he still looked the way he did 12 years ago. My classmate good buddy in elementary school, Sal. The last time we saw each other was a million years ago. I was fresh in the workforce, 10 pounds lighter, and still pretending to be straight. Harhar! I wasn't able to come out to him that night. We only got to talk for a few minutes before he went back to his girlfriend. It was good seeing him though. Our other buddy, Carlos, is now living in the States and we both don't know how he is now.

In any case, it was good seeing him. It was good I attended the party. I saw my college classmates,, bumped into an elementary school buddy, and spent time with these people I hardly see.

What could be a more perfect way to end the day?

Friday's Quarter of Twenty:

----------When Was The Last Time You...----------
Bought something?: Last night, got an Extra Virgin Oil 100g soap bar and a Slammer Shower Gel from at Lush Greenbelt.

Did something nice for someone?: Yesterday, bought a school supplies kit for a kid I dunno.

Felt happy?: Today.

Saw your crush?: This morning, just before I went to work. Yihee. Someone's smiling.

Changed the tv channel/radio station?: Wednesday evening. Yes, I don't have a TV life.

Broke something?: I don't remember.