Sunday, May 30, 2004
Weekend with my Teammates
My Saturday was originally supposed to be spent with Hunski. Our plan was to go to Enchanted Kingdom, one of the country’s most popular theme parks, together with his college friends. I was really looking forward to it because I haven’t seen them for the longest time. Michelle and Darwin tied the knot earlier this year and I missed it because of work. Tess, who’s in town for a month or two, also joined them. I miss this lady very much. She’s such a fun person to be with because she has so much energy and life.
Instead, I ended up spending Saturday in another resort with a different group of people - my team mates.
I didn’t mean it to sound like that. I enjoy hanging out with my teammates, especially now that I have just about two weeks to spend with them. It’s just that I haven’t seen much of Hunski the past week because of our schedules. He would sleep late at night and I would be in la-la-land early evening. When I leave the apartment at a very ungodly hour, Hunski’s still fast asleep. Our only communication with each other when we’re with each other is a Good morning or a Good night coupled with a kiss. It is for this reason why I was wishing that I spent that Saturday with Hunski.
But there’s no use complaining now since it’s already another week and that Saturday has already gone by. Let me just tell you what happened last Saturday at the teambuilding activity I had with my teammates.
To be continued...
My Saturday was originally supposed to be spent with Hunski. Our plan was to go to Enchanted Kingdom, one of the country’s most popular theme parks, together with his college friends. I was really looking forward to it because I haven’t seen them for the longest time. Michelle and Darwin tied the knot earlier this year and I missed it because of work. Tess, who’s in town for a month or two, also joined them. I miss this lady very much. She’s such a fun person to be with because she has so much energy and life.
Instead, I ended up spending Saturday in another resort with a different group of people - my team mates.
I didn’t mean it to sound like that. I enjoy hanging out with my teammates, especially now that I have just about two weeks to spend with them. It’s just that I haven’t seen much of Hunski the past week because of our schedules. He would sleep late at night and I would be in la-la-land early evening. When I leave the apartment at a very ungodly hour, Hunski’s still fast asleep. Our only communication with each other when we’re with each other is a Good morning or a Good night coupled with a kiss. It is for this reason why I was wishing that I spent that Saturday with Hunski.
But there’s no use complaining now since it’s already another week and that Saturday has already gone by. Let me just tell you what happened last Saturday at the teambuilding activity I had with my teammates.
To be continued...
Friday, May 28, 2004
Thursday, May 27, 2004
Will be the next American Idol
Who are you voting for?
For the past couple of weeks, millions of viewers from America and thirty other countries around the globe have been tuning in to watch one of America's most successful singing competitions, American Idol. I wasn't able to start the season though. I only got hooked to it thanks to Hunski and Julo, my officemate.
After the night that I watched an American Idol episode, I've been trying my best to catch the show all the time. (I wasn't successful though.) You gotta admit. The show is really addicting. The show offers us everything. We've got the contestants who we get to listen to (and judge...hehehe!) belt it out. There's Ryan Seacrest who has been an eyecandy to the viewers. And of course, there are the judges whose comments, you must admit, add more spice to the show.
Personally, my entertainment comes from seeing Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell lambasting each other. Or should I say, flirting with each other? Hehe! I'm sure I'm not the only who saw those nonverbal gestures of holding each other or teasing each other. Haha! Don't they make a cute couple?
Anyway, tonight the final vote will be in and we will all find out who will emerge as the next American Idol. Will it be 16-year old, goodie two shoes Diana DeGarmo or 19-year old, single mother Fantasia Barrino?
Uhm, I'm rooting for Diana although I think she wouldn't make it. I just like her because she really belts out when she sings. My gawd! I get a rush whenever her pitch already begins to rise, as if it'll break the glasses on the theater. The other two contestants who really wowed me were La Toya London and Jennifer Hudson. Awww! They were just, uhm, in one word - divas.
I got to watch the show last night and I have to say that it was amazing. Both girls obviously were giving out their best in the performances. Too bad only one Idol can be selected.
Who will it be? Well, we all just have to wait for tonight and see which of the two won the hearts, or would it be more appropriate to say the ears, of America and I must also say, maybe even the whole world?
Who are you voting for?
For the past couple of weeks, millions of viewers from America and thirty other countries around the globe have been tuning in to watch one of America's most successful singing competitions, American Idol. I wasn't able to start the season though. I only got hooked to it thanks to Hunski and Julo, my officemate.
After the night that I watched an American Idol episode, I've been trying my best to catch the show all the time. (I wasn't successful though.) You gotta admit. The show is really addicting. The show offers us everything. We've got the contestants who we get to listen to (and judge...hehehe!) belt it out. There's Ryan Seacrest who has been an eyecandy to the viewers. And of course, there are the judges whose comments, you must admit, add more spice to the show.
Personally, my entertainment comes from seeing Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell lambasting each other. Or should I say, flirting with each other? Hehe! I'm sure I'm not the only who saw those nonverbal gestures of holding each other or teasing each other. Haha! Don't they make a cute couple?
Anyway, tonight the final vote will be in and we will all find out who will emerge as the next American Idol. Will it be 16-year old, goodie two shoes Diana DeGarmo or 19-year old, single mother Fantasia Barrino?
Uhm, I'm rooting for Diana although I think she wouldn't make it. I just like her because she really belts out when she sings. My gawd! I get a rush whenever her pitch already begins to rise, as if it'll break the glasses on the theater. The other two contestants who really wowed me were La Toya London and Jennifer Hudson. Awww! They were just, uhm, in one word - divas.
I got to watch the show last night and I have to say that it was amazing. Both girls obviously were giving out their best in the performances. Too bad only one Idol can be selected.
Who will it be? Well, we all just have to wait for tonight and see which of the two won the hearts, or would it be more appropriate to say the ears, of America and I must also say, maybe even the whole world?
Monday, May 24, 2004
A Fairy! Haha!
Faerie:
Faeries are sweet loving beings who love to help people. They are not held back by reality and
love to dream and fly around. You probably are very creative and although not the most popularperson in the world you are probably loved by many for your sweet caring personality.
What Mythological Creature Are You (Many Results and Beautiful Pics)
brought to you by Quizilla
Try it out. Check if you're also a fairy like me. Ha ha ha!
Faerie:
Faeries are sweet loving beings who love to help people. They are not held back by reality and
love to dream and fly around. You probably are very creative and although not the most popularperson in the world you are probably loved by many for your sweet caring personality.
What Mythological Creature Are You (Many Results and Beautiful Pics)
brought to you by Quizilla
Try it out. Check if you're also a fairy like me. Ha ha ha!
Saturday, May 22, 2004
CMC, Here I Come
I'm going back to school at the College of Mass Communication this June to continue my graduate studies.
Remember I passed my letter for readmission a month or two ago? Well, it's a good thing that the committee handling appeals for readmission was kind enough to give me a second chance.
I dropped by the college yesterday to begin processing my papers. The graduate school secretary informed me that I need to speak with the chairperson of the Communication Research department regarding my intention to shift to the MA Comm Res program. The good thing about this is that the current chairperson, Prof. Mateo, was a professor of mine before.
Gawd! I've only been gone for two years and there have already been a lot of changes. My former professor was already the department chairperson. The graduate school now has a new chairperson. The dean and other college head are also new. And even the curriculum also underwent some changes. Wow!
Anyway, Prof. Mateo just asked me what my career plans are. She wanted to know if shifting to the MA Comm Res program will help me in the career path I want to take. The first thing I said was the MA Comm Res program was very closely aligned to the curriculum of my undergraduate degree, Organizational Communication. Both courses are closely related and acquiring a Master's degree in Comm Res will definitely strengthen my OrCom degree. Next, I told her I want to be part of the academe someday as a professor. I also mentioned that the career I really want to pursue is either as a corporate communicator for a top organization or as a program coordinator/information officer for an international non-government organization.
After I told her those things, she already signed the paper allowing me to shift to the MA Comm Res.
Wooohoooo!!!
Now, the first step is done. The next step is to register myself for first semester this June. I still have to think about the number of subjects I plan to enroll in. I only have about four semesters to complete 26 units. That's about nine courses. About the thesis, I can probably just apply for a maximum residence in the University for another two years and hopefully, I can finish everything in two years.
Hmmm, I need to do some planning here.
I'm going back to school at the College of Mass Communication this June to continue my graduate studies.
Remember I passed my letter for readmission a month or two ago? Well, it's a good thing that the committee handling appeals for readmission was kind enough to give me a second chance.
I dropped by the college yesterday to begin processing my papers. The graduate school secretary informed me that I need to speak with the chairperson of the Communication Research department regarding my intention to shift to the MA Comm Res program. The good thing about this is that the current chairperson, Prof. Mateo, was a professor of mine before.
Gawd! I've only been gone for two years and there have already been a lot of changes. My former professor was already the department chairperson. The graduate school now has a new chairperson. The dean and other college head are also new. And even the curriculum also underwent some changes. Wow!
Anyway, Prof. Mateo just asked me what my career plans are. She wanted to know if shifting to the MA Comm Res program will help me in the career path I want to take. The first thing I said was the MA Comm Res program was very closely aligned to the curriculum of my undergraduate degree, Organizational Communication. Both courses are closely related and acquiring a Master's degree in Comm Res will definitely strengthen my OrCom degree. Next, I told her I want to be part of the academe someday as a professor. I also mentioned that the career I really want to pursue is either as a corporate communicator for a top organization or as a program coordinator/information officer for an international non-government organization.
After I told her those things, she already signed the paper allowing me to shift to the MA Comm Res.
Wooohoooo!!!
Now, the first step is done. The next step is to register myself for first semester this June. I still have to think about the number of subjects I plan to enroll in. I only have about four semesters to complete 26 units. That's about nine courses. About the thesis, I can probably just apply for a maximum residence in the University for another two years and hopefully, I can finish everything in two years.
Hmmm, I need to do some planning here.
Thursday, May 20, 2004
Just Before I Go
Image by David Wong
Have you ever seen my team mates? I don't think I've ever posted a photo of my team mates at work.
So here I am posting one now.
Let me introduce the people to you.
First row (left to right): David - he's 28, a Marketing graduate, funny, athletic and drinks a lot of water. Haha! John - new member of the team, graduate of UP Los Baños, looks like a shy guy but I'm guessing he's not, nice voice. Christine - mother of two (doesn't look like she is, huh?), humorous, good leadership skills, her boyfriend's monthly phonebill is enough to send two children to a local public elementary school. Hehehe!
Second row (left to right): June - youngest in the group, almost always disoriented (hehe!), reliable buddy, can handle any irate caller. Ruby - call center veteran, always neatly dressed, very gullible but sweet, needs to carry a city map wherever she goes. Hehe! Mitch - eldest in the team, my team mate since I began working with this company, she's okay.
Third row (left to right): Me - no description needed. Hehehe! Jade - our team leader, only 23, breadwinner of the family, great sense of responsibility and leadership, thinks out of the box. Mac - engaged to a law student, enjoys mountain climbing, always early at the office, has a unique point of view on things.
Not in picture: Raven - single mother, smart, soft-spoken but talks with sense, best buddy of Mac. Michelle - looks like a high school student, another early bird awardee, funny, likes corned beef and is currently in love and happily taken.
Can you tell who's straight and who's not? Hahaha!
At least, before I leave the company, you guys get to see who the people I work with at the office are.
Image by David Wong
Have you ever seen my team mates? I don't think I've ever posted a photo of my team mates at work.
So here I am posting one now.
Let me introduce the people to you.
First row (left to right): David - he's 28, a Marketing graduate, funny, athletic and drinks a lot of water. Haha! John - new member of the team, graduate of UP Los Baños, looks like a shy guy but I'm guessing he's not, nice voice. Christine - mother of two (doesn't look like she is, huh?), humorous, good leadership skills, her boyfriend's monthly phonebill is enough to send two children to a local public elementary school. Hehehe!
Second row (left to right): June - youngest in the group, almost always disoriented (hehe!), reliable buddy, can handle any irate caller. Ruby - call center veteran, always neatly dressed, very gullible but sweet, needs to carry a city map wherever she goes. Hehe! Mitch - eldest in the team, my team mate since I began working with this company, she's okay.
Third row (left to right): Me - no description needed. Hehehe! Jade - our team leader, only 23, breadwinner of the family, great sense of responsibility and leadership, thinks out of the box. Mac - engaged to a law student, enjoys mountain climbing, always early at the office, has a unique point of view on things.
Not in picture: Raven - single mother, smart, soft-spoken but talks with sense, best buddy of Mac. Michelle - looks like a high school student, another early bird awardee, funny, likes corned beef and is currently in love and happily taken.
Can you tell who's straight and who's not? Hahaha!
At least, before I leave the company, you guys get to see who the people I work with at the office are.
Tuesday, May 18, 2004
What's Up, What's Up
Should have posted yesterday but I didn't have the time.
Anyways...
I spent Sunday night with my three of my closest cousins. After being stuffed from my dad's birthday party, we headed to the mall to catch Ben Affleck's latest flick, Jersey Girl. The film was basically about a young PR hotshot who falls in love with a woman, marries her, and loses her when she delivers their first child. Devastated by the loss of his wife, the guy played by Affleck eventually loses his job after saying all the wrong words in a room filled with media people. As a result, the man moves back to New Jersey with his daughter and with all his emotional baggage. This is where the story begins. I'd love to tell more about it but you should just go and watch it.
Moving on, Monday turned out to be a rather easy work day primarily because we were a day ahead and the customers we cater to needed to get an early sleep on a Sunday night. Whooppeee!
Our team leader was on a deserved vacation for three days but she specifically instructed us to be at work, not to be absent, not to be late, and not to go on a voluntary go home while she was gone. However, the substitute team leader offered a voluntary go home as early as eight in the morning and to my surprise, some of my team mates grabbed the voluntary go home.
I dunno. I just felt bad. I expected more of them. And that particular incident just added to my list of reasons why I think leaving the company was a good move.
But anyway, Monday turned out to have a nice ending as I got a commendation from my last customer. He was a very nice man who had a very simple problem, but unfortunately, the last two agents he talked to seemed to have missed a lot of minor details which prevented solving the problem.
The man was very grateful to me, and even asked if he could get my extension number. This is not the first time that someone asked if they could get my extension number but all I could tell them was I had none and we both just have to hope that we'll be the ones to talk again should they have another issue.
Thank you, Brian.
As for today, there were a lot of calls as expected because it's a Monday night but it was okay. I still felt exhausted at the end of the day but today was different, somehow. I dunno why. I got to chat with Bruce and it was a good chat. I don't get to chat as much as before with him ever since I changed jobs but every opportunity we catch each other online is always nice.
Right now, I'm about to begin filling out the exit interview form. I'm not very keen on using a pen to fill it out so I'm just typing my responses and attach it to the questionnaire.
Three weeks to go guys and I'm outta job. But somehow, it doesn't seem as scary as it used to be...
Should have posted yesterday but I didn't have the time.
Anyways...
I spent Sunday night with my three of my closest cousins. After being stuffed from my dad's birthday party, we headed to the mall to catch Ben Affleck's latest flick, Jersey Girl. The film was basically about a young PR hotshot who falls in love with a woman, marries her, and loses her when she delivers their first child. Devastated by the loss of his wife, the guy played by Affleck eventually loses his job after saying all the wrong words in a room filled with media people. As a result, the man moves back to New Jersey with his daughter and with all his emotional baggage. This is where the story begins. I'd love to tell more about it but you should just go and watch it.
Moving on, Monday turned out to be a rather easy work day primarily because we were a day ahead and the customers we cater to needed to get an early sleep on a Sunday night. Whooppeee!
Our team leader was on a deserved vacation for three days but she specifically instructed us to be at work, not to be absent, not to be late, and not to go on a voluntary go home while she was gone. However, the substitute team leader offered a voluntary go home as early as eight in the morning and to my surprise, some of my team mates grabbed the voluntary go home.
I dunno. I just felt bad. I expected more of them. And that particular incident just added to my list of reasons why I think leaving the company was a good move.
But anyway, Monday turned out to have a nice ending as I got a commendation from my last customer. He was a very nice man who had a very simple problem, but unfortunately, the last two agents he talked to seemed to have missed a lot of minor details which prevented solving the problem.
The man was very grateful to me, and even asked if he could get my extension number. This is not the first time that someone asked if they could get my extension number but all I could tell them was I had none and we both just have to hope that we'll be the ones to talk again should they have another issue.
Thank you, Brian.
As for today, there were a lot of calls as expected because it's a Monday night but it was okay. I still felt exhausted at the end of the day but today was different, somehow. I dunno why. I got to chat with Bruce and it was a good chat. I don't get to chat as much as before with him ever since I changed jobs but every opportunity we catch each other online is always nice.
Right now, I'm about to begin filling out the exit interview form. I'm not very keen on using a pen to fill it out so I'm just typing my responses and attach it to the questionnaire.
Three weeks to go guys and I'm outta job. But somehow, it doesn't seem as scary as it used to be...
Sunday, May 16, 2004
A Man Named Tonio
The year was 1934. It was the 16th of May when a wise elementary school teacher gave birth to her fourth child, a bouncing baby boy, as the cliche goes. He was given the name Antonio.
The boy grew up to be a healthy young man. By the time he was ready to go to college, the man, as well as other people, recognized that he had a special talent in drawing and painting. And so it wasn't surprising that the man pursued a degree in Fine Arts from the finest university in the country, the University of the Philippines. (Hehe! Sorry. I'm biased.)
In 1978, Antonio marched the aisle in one of the local churches, and in front of God and man, he promised to be a faithful and loving husband to a very young woman named Maribel. The couple led a good life. Antonio filled their home with his picturesque and colorful paintings. More than the material blessings, they were blessed with three children - Angelo Antonio, Raymond Anthony and Andre Antonio.
Under the guidance and care of Antonio, Angelo grew up and became a attended the country's premiere state university, Raymond pursued a degree in Fine Arts, perhaps inspired by Antonio, and the Andre, the youngest of them, is still pursuing his studies.
A couple of weeks ago, Antonio underwent a major surgery that required the removal of his right kidney. He was diagnosed to have cancer. But this did not stop him from living his daily life. Antonio is still continuing to do his passion - painting. He still performs his duties as a father and as a grandfather to the children of his nephews and nieces. The grandchildren call him Tonio. That was how he wanted to be called.
Today, Tonio turns seventy. His family is preparing a grand in its own kind of way celebration. The family will be celebrating the birth of an artist, a husband, a father, and a grandfather.
Happy Birthday Dad!!! I love you.
The year was 1934. It was the 16th of May when a wise elementary school teacher gave birth to her fourth child, a bouncing baby boy, as the cliche goes. He was given the name Antonio.
The boy grew up to be a healthy young man. By the time he was ready to go to college, the man, as well as other people, recognized that he had a special talent in drawing and painting. And so it wasn't surprising that the man pursued a degree in Fine Arts from the finest university in the country, the University of the Philippines. (Hehe! Sorry. I'm biased.)
In 1978, Antonio marched the aisle in one of the local churches, and in front of God and man, he promised to be a faithful and loving husband to a very young woman named Maribel. The couple led a good life. Antonio filled their home with his picturesque and colorful paintings. More than the material blessings, they were blessed with three children - Angelo Antonio, Raymond Anthony and Andre Antonio.
Under the guidance and care of Antonio, Angelo grew up and became a attended the country's premiere state university, Raymond pursued a degree in Fine Arts, perhaps inspired by Antonio, and the Andre, the youngest of them, is still pursuing his studies.
A couple of weeks ago, Antonio underwent a major surgery that required the removal of his right kidney. He was diagnosed to have cancer. But this did not stop him from living his daily life. Antonio is still continuing to do his passion - painting. He still performs his duties as a father and as a grandfather to the children of his nephews and nieces. The grandchildren call him Tonio. That was how he wanted to be called.
Today, Tonio turns seventy. His family is preparing a grand in its own kind of way celebration. The family will be celebrating the birth of an artist, a husband, a father, and a grandfather.
Happy Birthday Dad!!! I love you.
Saturday, May 15, 2004
Looking for a Job...or Life
On the free days that I had in the past week or two, I've been walking around the streets of Makati giving out my resume to companies. I've also submitted my application online via Jobstreet.com. I didn't really believe in online applications but so far, the two tests and interviews I've been to are companies in which I applied online.
Both positions I applied for are related to Corporate Communications, which is the field where I want to be. One position is for Public Relations/ Special Events Coordinator for a leading car manufacturer while the other one is for Communications Officer for a an Philippine-American conglomerate.
While both positions appear to be promising, I'm not so sure if I'd really want to work for them. The problem with me is I have my heart and my mind set to getting a position as Corporate Communicator for this one company I fell in love five years ago. I'm not sure though if there is any vacancy at all in that company. I passed my resume to them four years ago after my graduation but all I got is a letter informing me that they didn't have vacant position. The other day, I passed my resume again, along with my sample work. Right now, all I can do is wait and pray that first, there is an open position and second, I get in to the company.
If I don't get it this time, then I guess I'll just try some other time again then.
The thing is what I want now is to get into a career that I can call my life rather than my job. I don't want to get into a job that will make me feel the same way that I'm feeling for my job right now. I want a job that's more stable, more financially rewarding, more challenging, and so on.
Oh well, this is it for now. Have a great weekend everyone.
On the free days that I had in the past week or two, I've been walking around the streets of Makati giving out my resume to companies. I've also submitted my application online via Jobstreet.com. I didn't really believe in online applications but so far, the two tests and interviews I've been to are companies in which I applied online.
Both positions I applied for are related to Corporate Communications, which is the field where I want to be. One position is for Public Relations/ Special Events Coordinator for a leading car manufacturer while the other one is for Communications Officer for a an Philippine-American conglomerate.
While both positions appear to be promising, I'm not so sure if I'd really want to work for them. The problem with me is I have my heart and my mind set to getting a position as Corporate Communicator for this one company I fell in love five years ago. I'm not sure though if there is any vacancy at all in that company. I passed my resume to them four years ago after my graduation but all I got is a letter informing me that they didn't have vacant position. The other day, I passed my resume again, along with my sample work. Right now, all I can do is wait and pray that first, there is an open position and second, I get in to the company.
If I don't get it this time, then I guess I'll just try some other time again then.
The thing is what I want now is to get into a career that I can call my life rather than my job. I don't want to get into a job that will make me feel the same way that I'm feeling for my job right now. I want a job that's more stable, more financially rewarding, more challenging, and so on.
Oh well, this is it for now. Have a great weekend everyone.
Friday, May 14, 2004
Thirty-One Words
Entry: DESPISE
Function: verb
Definition: look down on
Synonyms: abhor, abominate, allergic to, chill, contemn, deride, detest, disdain, disregard, eschew, execrate, flout, hate, loathe, misprize, neglect, put down, reject, renounce, repudiate, revile, run down, scorn, shun, slight, snub, spurn, trash, undervalue, wipe out
Wow ! Thirty one words. Thirty one words to describe what I feel towards my so-called job.
The question I've began to ask myself just now is... What the heck was I thinking four months ago?
Entry: DESPISE
Function: verb
Definition: look down on
Synonyms: abhor, abominate, allergic to, chill, contemn, deride, detest, disdain, disregard, eschew, execrate, flout, hate, loathe, misprize, neglect, put down, reject, renounce, repudiate, revile, run down, scorn, shun, slight, snub, spurn, trash, undervalue, wipe out
Wow ! Thirty one words. Thirty one words to describe what I feel towards my so-called job.
The question I've began to ask myself just now is... What the heck was I thinking four months ago?
Vote for Francis!!!
Yeah, yeah, the Philippine national election day is over and everyone is just on the edge of their seats waiting for the results. While you're sitting at home in front of the television, praying, pleading, begging the higher beings to make the right person, why don't you pick up that mobile phone beside you and do a different kind of voting.
What am I talking about?
In case you haven't heard, this guy joined the Philippines' version of American Idol - Star in a Million. And out of the I'm-not-so-sure-number of contestants, he made it to the top ten.
So the real competition begins now...
Show your support to our beloved Boccelli, by watching him this Saturday at 6:30 p.m., on ABS - CBN Channel 2.
For our friends from the US, please watch the show too. Below's the schedule:
On TFC (The Filipino Channel)
North America
EST - Saturdays 6:35AM Replays on Sundays 1:30AM
CST - Saturdays 5:35AM Replays on Sundays 12:30AM
Pacific Time - Saturdays 3:35PM, replays at 10:30PM
Hawaii Time - Saturdays 1:35PM
If you don't get to watch, friends in the Philippines can still show their support by voting for Francis through your mobile phones. It's so simple. All you need to do is text to STAR2 to 2331 if you're a Globe subscriber, and if you're a Smart subscriber, text to 231.
Now, so stop reading this and start texting. :)
Yeah, yeah, the Philippine national election day is over and everyone is just on the edge of their seats waiting for the results. While you're sitting at home in front of the television, praying, pleading, begging the higher beings to make the right person, why don't you pick up that mobile phone beside you and do a different kind of voting.
What am I talking about?
In case you haven't heard, this guy joined the Philippines' version of American Idol - Star in a Million. And out of the I'm-not-so-sure-number of contestants, he made it to the top ten.
So the real competition begins now...
Show your support to our beloved Boccelli, by watching him this Saturday at 6:30 p.m., on ABS - CBN Channel 2.
For our friends from the US, please watch the show too. Below's the schedule:
On TFC (The Filipino Channel)
North America
EST - Saturdays 6:35AM Replays on Sundays 1:30AM
CST - Saturdays 5:35AM Replays on Sundays 12:30AM
Pacific Time - Saturdays 3:35PM, replays at 10:30PM
Hawaii Time - Saturdays 1:35PM
If you don't get to watch, friends in the Philippines can still show their support by voting for Francis through your mobile phones. It's so simple. All you need to do is text to STAR
Now, so stop reading this and start texting. :)
Tuesday, May 11, 2004
First Step...
I'm passing this today.
May 11, 2004
Dear,
Please accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation from as a Technical Customer Care Representative, effectice June 11, 2004.
I want to express my deepest gratitude for an employment experience with and with you and the team personally. In the short span of time I spent with , I have learned to tap my capabilities and allowed me to increase my knowledge and skills in the field of customer service. The decision to pursue another opportunity was not an easy one, but it is a step I must take so I may fulfill my career goals.
Thank you very much for granting me an opportunity to work with this respectable organization.
Yours truly,
Angelo
I wrote this letter yesterday afternoon and it was not easy. I thought that resigning would be easy because I'm relatively new to the company and the people. But when I think about it now, I have actually developed some strong bonds with people here - my Team Leader, my Team mates, my batch mates, among others.
I haven't formally announced to the team yet that I'm resigning but I have already informed my Team Leader a week ago of my plans. She's still trying to talk me out of it but I've made up my mind. It's a scary step to take especially since I have no new official work waiting for me but then again, we all have to take the leap some time in our lives.
Thanks to Richie and Jigs for somehow serving as an inspiration for this move.
I'm passing this today.
May 11, 2004
Dear
Please accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation from
I want to express my deepest gratitude for an employment experience with
Thank you very much for granting me an opportunity to work with this respectable organization.
Yours truly,
Angelo
I wrote this letter yesterday afternoon and it was not easy. I thought that resigning would be easy because I'm relatively new to the company and the people. But when I think about it now, I have actually developed some strong bonds with people here - my Team Leader, my Team mates, my batch mates, among others.
I haven't formally announced to the team yet that I'm resigning but I have already informed my Team Leader a week ago of my plans. She's still trying to talk me out of it but I've made up my mind. It's a scary step to take especially since I have no new official work waiting for me but then again, we all have to take the leap some time in our lives.
Thanks to Richie and Jigs for somehow serving as an inspiration for this move.
Monday, May 10, 2004
Go Out Today and Vote
Image via GMC
Today is the National Elections for the country.
Incumbent President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo declared today a national holiday so that everyone may vote. I'm at work right now. Yes, we do have work today but management declared a half day today so that we can vote in the afternoon.
So after work, I'm heading over to my voting precint to vote. And if you don't have work today and you're a registered Filipino voter, please do go out and vote.
In case you don't know yet who to vote for, you can visit this website to learn more about the people who dared to run for the highest position in the country.
Who will I vote for President? There was a last minute change in my decision after I visited the website I mentioned above. It was an unexpected change in decision but the person's platform appears to be the most comprehensive amongst all of them.
I'm voting for.....
Image via GMC
Today is the National Elections for the country.
Incumbent President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo declared today a national holiday so that everyone may vote. I'm at work right now. Yes, we do have work today but management declared a half day today so that we can vote in the afternoon.
So after work, I'm heading over to my voting precint to vote. And if you don't have work today and you're a registered Filipino voter, please do go out and vote.
In case you don't know yet who to vote for, you can visit this website to learn more about the people who dared to run for the highest position in the country.
Who will I vote for President? There was a last minute change in my decision after I visited the website I mentioned above. It was an unexpected change in decision but the person's platform appears to be the most comprehensive amongst all of them.
I'm voting for.....
Saturday, May 08, 2004
Cranial Games on a Friday Night
I can't wait for the clock to strike two thirty p.m. yesterday.
Why? Because once 2:30 strikes, work ends and the weekend begins. Woo woo woo! I've been feeling tired with work for the past couple of days and the fact that I missed work for two days in a row (Yes, there's always a first time for everyone.), I still couldn't wait to have my weekend.
After I left the office, I went straight to the gym (I go to the smaller one though beside the Makati Stock Exchange building). (Oh yeah, I forgot to mention I've been going to the gym for about a month or two now. I still haven't seen any results though except for improved endurance.) Anyway, I did my usual two hour workout and after that, I met up with Hunski for dinner.
Originally, our plan was to go to Hotshots for some grilled burgers but when I saw that the branch we were supposed to eat at was so small, Hunski and I just headed to the next door Flamers where I had a grilled cheeseburger (no mayo please!) and a garden fresh salad. Following dinner, Hunski and I headed to Greenbelt III where we met up with partners Suki and Richie, as well as friends Abi and Kaye. They were dining at uppity Cascada. I also saw my favorite college professor, Dr. Angela Sarile, in the restaurant. She was sitting right next to us with some friends. I said a quick hi and hello before we left. She was still teaching and she still looked so good at her age. I look up to her so much and she is one of my icons.
Following dinner, we headed over to Abi's apartment and spent a couple of hours playing Cranium. It was my first time to play the board game and I had so much fun playing it. It actually felt good because it brought back memories of the days when I played Monopoly, Scrabble, Snakes and Ladders, among other board games. At this time where every game seems to be done over the Internet or on the computer, playing a board game is actually a refreshing thing to do.
Since there were six of us, we only had three teams. The groupings were Hunski and Kaye, Suki and Abi, and Richie and me. The other two teams immediately advanced and it took a long time before Richie and I got out of the starting place. Hehehe! Jigs arrived to join us and the game became more fun and exciting. Finally, Richie and I were able to get our piece on the board moving and I guess to everyone's surprise, we even won the game. Hehehe! Hunski and Kaye were second place while Suki, Abi and Jigs ranked third.
Hunski and I were supposed to leave at ten because I wanted to be home early but we left Abi's apartment close to midnight. Hehehe! It's true what they say, "When you're having fun, you don't notice the time go by." It was such a fun evening.
Hope your Friday night was just as fun.
I can't wait for the clock to strike two thirty p.m. yesterday.
Why? Because once 2:30 strikes, work ends and the weekend begins. Woo woo woo! I've been feeling tired with work for the past couple of days and the fact that I missed work for two days in a row (Yes, there's always a first time for everyone.), I still couldn't wait to have my weekend.
After I left the office, I went straight to the gym (I go to the smaller one though beside the Makati Stock Exchange building). (Oh yeah, I forgot to mention I've been going to the gym for about a month or two now. I still haven't seen any results though except for improved endurance.) Anyway, I did my usual two hour workout and after that, I met up with Hunski for dinner.
Originally, our plan was to go to Hotshots for some grilled burgers but when I saw that the branch we were supposed to eat at was so small, Hunski and I just headed to the next door Flamers where I had a grilled cheeseburger (no mayo please!) and a garden fresh salad. Following dinner, Hunski and I headed to Greenbelt III where we met up with partners Suki and Richie, as well as friends Abi and Kaye. They were dining at uppity Cascada. I also saw my favorite college professor, Dr. Angela Sarile, in the restaurant. She was sitting right next to us with some friends. I said a quick hi and hello before we left. She was still teaching and she still looked so good at her age. I look up to her so much and she is one of my icons.
Following dinner, we headed over to Abi's apartment and spent a couple of hours playing Cranium. It was my first time to play the board game and I had so much fun playing it. It actually felt good because it brought back memories of the days when I played Monopoly, Scrabble, Snakes and Ladders, among other board games. At this time where every game seems to be done over the Internet or on the computer, playing a board game is actually a refreshing thing to do.
Since there were six of us, we only had three teams. The groupings were Hunski and Kaye, Suki and Abi, and Richie and me. The other two teams immediately advanced and it took a long time before Richie and I got out of the starting place. Hehehe! Jigs arrived to join us and the game became more fun and exciting. Finally, Richie and I were able to get our piece on the board moving and I guess to everyone's surprise, we even won the game. Hehehe! Hunski and Kaye were second place while Suki, Abi and Jigs ranked third.
Hunski and I were supposed to leave at ten because I wanted to be home early but we left Abi's apartment close to midnight. Hehehe! It's true what they say, "When you're having fun, you don't notice the time go by." It was such a fun evening.
Hope your Friday night was just as fun.
Quick Note
Boys and girl, the newest singing sensation in the country is performing tonight. Watch this guy best other people tonight. For the people from the Philippines, you can watch the man tonight at six thirty p.m. on Channel 2. Make sure you vote for him.
For our friends from the US, please watch the show too. Below's the schedule:
On TFC (The Filipino Channel)
North America
EST - Saturdays 6:35AM Replays on Sundays 1:30AM
CST - Saturdays 5:35AM Replays on Sundays 12:30AM
Pacific Time - Saturdays 3:35PM, replays at 10:30PM
Hawaii Time - Saturdays 1:35PM
GOOD LUCK FRANCIS (BOCCELI)! WE'RE ROOTING FOR YOU!!!
Boys and girl, the newest singing sensation in the country is performing tonight. Watch this guy best other people tonight. For the people from the Philippines, you can watch the man tonight at six thirty p.m. on Channel 2. Make sure you vote for him.
For our friends from the US, please watch the show too. Below's the schedule:
On TFC (The Filipino Channel)
North America
EST - Saturdays 6:35AM Replays on Sundays 1:30AM
CST - Saturdays 5:35AM Replays on Sundays 12:30AM
Pacific Time - Saturdays 3:35PM, replays at 10:30PM
Hawaii Time - Saturdays 1:35PM
GOOD LUCK FRANCIS (BOCCELI)! WE'RE ROOTING FOR YOU!!!
Thursday, May 06, 2004
A Weekend at the Beach and a Dinner at the City
Ah, finally, I now found the time to sit down in front of a computer and write down about what has been going on with me for the past week. It is only now that I begin to realize that so many things have happened in the past week. I'm devoting about an hour of my time this afternoon to write as much as I could about the significant and, maybe some trivial, things that took place the previous week.
By the way, in case you're wondering where Hunski is. He's just a couple of feet away from me. We're at his house right now. We just finished a sumptuous lunch of stir fried veggies with shrimps and roasted chicken. Yummy, I know. Hunski's playing with his brother's XBox while I'm using his brother's computer, which has DSL connection. It is only during these moments that I appreciate a DSL service.
Moving on. Let me now begin writing...
Trip to Subic
So as I have mentioned in an entry last week, my most recent weekend was spent in Subic, which is in Zambales, a province north of Manila. Subic used to be popular for being a naval base to the US Navy but when they left the country, the naval base turned into a tourist spot for a lot of Filipinos. I went there two years ago with my college friends and I had such a grand time. This time, I went with Hunski and his close friends at the office.
We left at a very early 6:30 Saturday morning thinking that we would get to Subic by nine or ten in morning. Usually, the trip only takes about two hours. But we weren't that lucky that Saturday morning. It seems that everyone also thought of leaving the city early to get to Subic before lunch time and to avoid the traffic.
Because of this, the whole trip took about seven hours !!! Yes, I am not exaggerating here. The time it took us driving to Subic could already have taken us to several much farther locations had we taken the plane. Hehehehe! Good thing we had several soundtracks of musicals in the car, which helped us survive the grueling trip. Hehehe! The first thing we did when we reached Subic was to have a late lunch at Little Caesar's. I was so hungry from the trip that I decided to also get a Strawberry Sundae from Dairy Queen. Yeah, yeah. I know about the calories but I was on vacation so I deserved to have what I want. Hahaha!
Following lunch, the group drove for about another twenty minutes to our next destination - Subic Bay Ocean Adventure. It's the first and only open water marine park in Southeast Asia, according to what I read. After paying the entrance fee of 400 pesos, we were treated to two fifteen minute shows featuring orcas, or false killer whales, and adorable sea lions. I felt like I didn't get my money's worth from the show but then I just told myself that the money I paid for would also be used for research and the maintenance of the marine park.
Following the tour of Ocean Adventure, we drove back to the center of the naval base and enjoyed a grand dinner of grilled fish and squid and local Filipino dishes at Gerry's Grill. Together with the other out of townes, we dined by the beach boardwalk section of the restaurant right under the night sky. After dinner, we drove to the resort where we were staying - Johan's Adventure and Wreck Dive Center. It was a so-so resort. They offered a lot of water recreational activities which was probably the reason why we went there. The beach itself though was meant more for wreck diving and jetskiing, and not really for swimming.
After checking in to our rooms, Hunski and I took a bath and then we brought our books and read. The next thing we know, we were already fast asleep. That's how tired we were. It was only nine in the evening but we were just both so tired from the trip. Hunski was more tired I guess because he was the one who drove.
The following morning, Hunski and I got up early. We stepped out of our room and had a good breakfast. By eight a.m., the rest of the gang was already up and we were all enjoying the morning. After breakfast, we planned the day's activities. Several of the people wanted to ride on the banana boat. Hunski and I weren't up for it though so we headed back to the room and... relaxed.
When we left the room, we could only see the others still enjoying themselves on the banana boat. Hunski and I just set up some beach chairs and read. We thought of going parasailing, but we didn't have enough time anymore since we had to head back to Manila in a while. That was okay though. We can always do it some other time.
Before we finally began our trip back to Manila, we passed by a steak house to have another grand meal. Hunski and I each had a New York steak, paired with mashed potatoes and some veggies. Yum yum yum! Again, forget the calories first and just enjoy the good food. Hehehehe! We also passed by some of the duty free supermarkets to get some chocolates and other imported goods.
After that, we began our drive back to Manila. We were prepared for the worst but thankfully, the trip back to Manila wasn't as horrendous and as tiring as the one going to Subic. We reached Manila a little before six. As Hunski and I dropped our stuff at the apartment, I told him, "Hey! We went to the beach and we didn't even bother to even wet our feet on the beach. Isn't that weird?" I just laughed. So did Hunski.
It was okay because what I was really after was spending time out of town with my Hunski. I got it. I'm one happy man already.
Getting Back from Subic
If you think that Hunski and I were already too tired from our trip back to Manila, you're wrong. Hunski's dad called and invited him over to have family dinner. Hunski invited me and I didn't care whether I was tired, I said yes, I'm going to join you guys for dinner. One reason why I said yes was I wanted to see the kids of Hunski's siblings - Mattie and Nyla. Mattie is a a year and a half old while Nyla just recently turned a year old. They are the cutest babies in the world. I swear. Hehehe!
When we reached the apartment of Hunski's sister, Hunski's folks weren't there yet. Also, Mattie won't be there because he was brought by his Mom to his other grandparents. So it was only Nyla who I saw. She's grown a lot already since the last time I saw her and she's gotten prettier and smarter. Together with Nyla's mom and dad, and Hunski, we all just let Nyla entertain us with her smartness and cuteness.
By eight, Hunski's mom and dad arrived. So did the food. We were having Chinese for that night. Yum yum! As if the afternoon steak I had wasn't enough yet to last me til the night. Hehehe! I just had a little of the tofu, the chicken teriyaki and some fried rice, which were all really very good.
After dinner, Hunski and I went ahead because it was an early day for him. I, on the other hand, chose not to go to work and call in sick. And I was feeling sick, maybe because of the weather. Plus, I also felt that I needed some more time to rest.
Alrightey guys, that's my first installment on what happened over last weekend. I'll be writing some more later to tell you about some other things.
Take care.
Ah, finally, I now found the time to sit down in front of a computer and write down about what has been going on with me for the past week. It is only now that I begin to realize that so many things have happened in the past week. I'm devoting about an hour of my time this afternoon to write as much as I could about the significant and, maybe some trivial, things that took place the previous week.
By the way, in case you're wondering where Hunski is. He's just a couple of feet away from me. We're at his house right now. We just finished a sumptuous lunch of stir fried veggies with shrimps and roasted chicken. Yummy, I know. Hunski's playing with his brother's XBox while I'm using his brother's computer, which has DSL connection. It is only during these moments that I appreciate a DSL service.
Moving on. Let me now begin writing...
Trip to Subic
So as I have mentioned in an entry last week, my most recent weekend was spent in Subic, which is in Zambales, a province north of Manila. Subic used to be popular for being a naval base to the US Navy but when they left the country, the naval base turned into a tourist spot for a lot of Filipinos. I went there two years ago with my college friends and I had such a grand time. This time, I went with Hunski and his close friends at the office.
We left at a very early 6:30 Saturday morning thinking that we would get to Subic by nine or ten in morning. Usually, the trip only takes about two hours. But we weren't that lucky that Saturday morning. It seems that everyone also thought of leaving the city early to get to Subic before lunch time and to avoid the traffic.
Because of this, the whole trip took about seven hours !!! Yes, I am not exaggerating here. The time it took us driving to Subic could already have taken us to several much farther locations had we taken the plane. Hehehehe! Good thing we had several soundtracks of musicals in the car, which helped us survive the grueling trip. Hehehe! The first thing we did when we reached Subic was to have a late lunch at Little Caesar's. I was so hungry from the trip that I decided to also get a Strawberry Sundae from Dairy Queen. Yeah, yeah. I know about the calories but I was on vacation so I deserved to have what I want. Hahaha!
Following lunch, the group drove for about another twenty minutes to our next destination - Subic Bay Ocean Adventure. It's the first and only open water marine park in Southeast Asia, according to what I read. After paying the entrance fee of 400 pesos, we were treated to two fifteen minute shows featuring orcas, or false killer whales, and adorable sea lions. I felt like I didn't get my money's worth from the show but then I just told myself that the money I paid for would also be used for research and the maintenance of the marine park.
Following the tour of Ocean Adventure, we drove back to the center of the naval base and enjoyed a grand dinner of grilled fish and squid and local Filipino dishes at Gerry's Grill. Together with the other out of townes, we dined by the beach boardwalk section of the restaurant right under the night sky. After dinner, we drove to the resort where we were staying - Johan's Adventure and Wreck Dive Center. It was a so-so resort. They offered a lot of water recreational activities which was probably the reason why we went there. The beach itself though was meant more for wreck diving and jetskiing, and not really for swimming.
After checking in to our rooms, Hunski and I took a bath and then we brought our books and read. The next thing we know, we were already fast asleep. That's how tired we were. It was only nine in the evening but we were just both so tired from the trip. Hunski was more tired I guess because he was the one who drove.
The following morning, Hunski and I got up early. We stepped out of our room and had a good breakfast. By eight a.m., the rest of the gang was already up and we were all enjoying the morning. After breakfast, we planned the day's activities. Several of the people wanted to ride on the banana boat. Hunski and I weren't up for it though so we headed back to the room and... relaxed.
When we left the room, we could only see the others still enjoying themselves on the banana boat. Hunski and I just set up some beach chairs and read. We thought of going parasailing, but we didn't have enough time anymore since we had to head back to Manila in a while. That was okay though. We can always do it some other time.
Before we finally began our trip back to Manila, we passed by a steak house to have another grand meal. Hunski and I each had a New York steak, paired with mashed potatoes and some veggies. Yum yum yum! Again, forget the calories first and just enjoy the good food. Hehehehe! We also passed by some of the duty free supermarkets to get some chocolates and other imported goods.
After that, we began our drive back to Manila. We were prepared for the worst but thankfully, the trip back to Manila wasn't as horrendous and as tiring as the one going to Subic. We reached Manila a little before six. As Hunski and I dropped our stuff at the apartment, I told him, "Hey! We went to the beach and we didn't even bother to even wet our feet on the beach. Isn't that weird?" I just laughed. So did Hunski.
It was okay because what I was really after was spending time out of town with my Hunski. I got it. I'm one happy man already.
Getting Back from Subic
If you think that Hunski and I were already too tired from our trip back to Manila, you're wrong. Hunski's dad called and invited him over to have family dinner. Hunski invited me and I didn't care whether I was tired, I said yes, I'm going to join you guys for dinner. One reason why I said yes was I wanted to see the kids of Hunski's siblings - Mattie and Nyla. Mattie is a a year and a half old while Nyla just recently turned a year old. They are the cutest babies in the world. I swear. Hehehe!
When we reached the apartment of Hunski's sister, Hunski's folks weren't there yet. Also, Mattie won't be there because he was brought by his Mom to his other grandparents. So it was only Nyla who I saw. She's grown a lot already since the last time I saw her and she's gotten prettier and smarter. Together with Nyla's mom and dad, and Hunski, we all just let Nyla entertain us with her smartness and cuteness.
By eight, Hunski's mom and dad arrived. So did the food. We were having Chinese for that night. Yum yum! As if the afternoon steak I had wasn't enough yet to last me til the night. Hehehe! I just had a little of the tofu, the chicken teriyaki and some fried rice, which were all really very good.
After dinner, Hunski and I went ahead because it was an early day for him. I, on the other hand, chose not to go to work and call in sick. And I was feeling sick, maybe because of the weather. Plus, I also felt that I needed some more time to rest.
Alrightey guys, that's my first installment on what happened over last weekend. I'll be writing some more later to tell you about some other things.
Take care.
Tuesday, May 04, 2004
Delayed Posts
Hi guys!
I have much to write but haven't found the time to properly compose my posts. Let me see. I have to write about the trip to Subic. I have to write about the dinner with Hunski's family. I have to write why I haven't been reporting to work for the past two days. Yes, you read that right. But believe me, the two days I've been gone from work have been very productive. I have to write about plans. I have to write about fears. I have to write what may happen to me in the coming weeks or so.
So many things to write about. I just couldn't find the time to do it.
I should find the time to sit down, face the PC and let my fingers type and type and type....
Hi guys!
I have much to write but haven't found the time to properly compose my posts. Let me see. I have to write about the trip to Subic. I have to write about the dinner with Hunski's family. I have to write why I haven't been reporting to work for the past two days. Yes, you read that right. But believe me, the two days I've been gone from work have been very productive. I have to write about plans. I have to write about fears. I have to write what may happen to me in the coming weeks or so.
So many things to write about. I just couldn't find the time to do it.
I should find the time to sit down, face the PC and let my fingers type and type and type....
