Tuesday, August 31, 2004
It's Fun To Be OUT!!!
Out Hosts Sexy Avi and Sexier Jigs (Ignore the leftmost guy. He's not a host anymore.)
OUT!, the first gay and lesbian oriented magazine showon Philippine television will air its pilot episode on Saturday, September 4 at 11pm on GMA-7.
There will be a simultaneous street party launch as well as a screening of the pilot episode along Orosa St. inMalate, Manila at 10pm on the same night. The show will be hosted by very good friendJigs Mayuga, Avi Siwa and our new host, "The Probe Team" reporter, JM Cobarrubias.
Please join us in celebrating the diversity of the LGBT community and this groundbreaking new show!
See you all there!
Out Hosts Sexy Avi and Sexier Jigs (Ignore the leftmost guy. He's not a host anymore.)
OUT!, the first gay and lesbian oriented magazine showon Philippine television will air its pilot episode on Saturday, September 4 at 11pm on GMA-7.
There will be a simultaneous street party launch as well as a screening of the pilot episode along Orosa St. inMalate, Manila at 10pm on the same night. The show will be hosted by very good friendJigs Mayuga, Avi Siwa and our new host, "The Probe Team" reporter, JM Cobarrubias.
Please join us in celebrating the diversity of the LGBT community and this groundbreaking new show!
See you all there!
This Week's Pinoy Trivia:
Since yesterday was the launching of Plaridel, I'd like to share with you what Plaridel is, or rather who Plaridel is.
During the time when the Philippines was a colony of Spain, several of the propagandists had to take on pen names in order to escape incarceration on the charge of subversiveness. Marcelo H. del Pilar, whose pen name is Plaridel (taken from his surname), was a leading propagandist for reforms in the country.
He was born on August 30, 1850. (Hence, the launch date of Plaridel is August 30.) He hails from the province of Bulacan. Del Pilar was the editor and co-publisher of La Solidaridad, the newspaper that contained protests against the ways the Spanish ruled the country. Aside from La Solidaridad, Del Pilar also wrote several pamphlets to demand reform from Catholic Spain. His parodies of the Our Father, the Hail Mary, the Apostle's Creed, the Ten Commandments and simulated the format and size of the novenas were highly effective propaganda.
Marcelo H. del Pilar died on July 4, 1896 of tuberculosis, in Barcelona, Spain.
Since yesterday was the launching of Plaridel, I'd like to share with you what Plaridel is, or rather who Plaridel is.
During the time when the Philippines was a colony of Spain, several of the propagandists had to take on pen names in order to escape incarceration on the charge of subversiveness. Marcelo H. del Pilar, whose pen name is Plaridel (taken from his surname), was a leading propagandist for reforms in the country.
He was born on August 30, 1850. (Hence, the launch date of Plaridel is August 30.) He hails from the province of Bulacan. Del Pilar was the editor and co-publisher of La Solidaridad, the newspaper that contained protests against the ways the Spanish ruled the country. Aside from La Solidaridad, Del Pilar also wrote several pamphlets to demand reform from Catholic Spain. His parodies of the Our Father, the Hail Mary, the Apostle's Creed, the Ten Commandments and simulated the format and size of the novenas were highly effective propaganda.
Marcelo H. del Pilar died on July 4, 1896 of tuberculosis, in Barcelona, Spain.
Monday, August 30, 2004
Another Feather in My Cap
I got a call this morning from Prof. Betsy to inform me that today is the launch of Plaridel, the academic journal of the UP College of Mass Communication.
If you remember correctly, I wrote a review of the film, Eating Out, as a contribution to the journal.
I have to admit this is another exciting moment for men. I dunno. Every time I have an article that is published, this feeling of excitement and thrill builds up inside of me. I don't think I will ever get used to having my articles published.
I missed the launch though.
Due to a very talk-active friend and the terrible traffic, by the time I reached the college, the launch was over. I'm very happy though because Hunski drove me to the college. And he tried to make me laugh along the way. I'm also happy that he accompanied me because frankly, I still have to get used to mingling during occasions like these.
Though I missed the launch, I got to have a little chit chat with Prof. Betsy. (Thanks to Hunski for prodding me to talk to her.) Prof. Betsy then introduced me and Hunski to the Dean of the college, and another professor. Hunski and I told them about the magazine and they were happy about it.
It's all good.
I'll try to put a copy of my contribution online. The title is "Changing the Face of Homosexuality:A Review of Eating Out".
I got a call this morning from Prof. Betsy to inform me that today is the launch of Plaridel, the academic journal of the UP College of Mass Communication.
If you remember correctly, I wrote a review of the film, Eating Out, as a contribution to the journal.
I have to admit this is another exciting moment for men. I dunno. Every time I have an article that is published, this feeling of excitement and thrill builds up inside of me. I don't think I will ever get used to having my articles published.
I missed the launch though.
Due to a very talk-active friend and the terrible traffic, by the time I reached the college, the launch was over. I'm very happy though because Hunski drove me to the college. And he tried to make me laugh along the way. I'm also happy that he accompanied me because frankly, I still have to get used to mingling during occasions like these.
Though I missed the launch, I got to have a little chit chat with Prof. Betsy. (Thanks to Hunski for prodding me to talk to her.) Prof. Betsy then introduced me and Hunski to the Dean of the college, and another professor. Hunski and I told them about the magazine and they were happy about it.
It's all good.
I'll try to put a copy of my contribution online. The title is "Changing the Face of Homosexuality:A Review of Eating Out".
Sunday, August 29, 2004
Busy, Busy
Together with the other boys, we've been busy these past few days...make that weeks... because of the magazine.
Next week would even be more tedious because it'll be the last week for marketing the magazine to potential advertisers. This is our problem right now. Almost all of the ad agencies and media buyers we went to are interested in the concept of the magazine but almost all of them also want to see the maiden issue first prior to placing an ad.
Sigh.
If only they have an idea how many ads place in this magazine? All the big names in fashion, travel, cars and the like are placing ads in the magazine because they know how lucrative the market is. They know that the pink market is a huge spender on their products.
Oh well, I guess it's really like this in the beginning.
I should be happy that we've been getting positive response from potential advertisers.
If you know of anyone who may be interested to place an ad in the magazine, or maybe become a financial backer so that we can do so much more, please feel free to email me.
Together with the other boys, we've been busy these past few days...make that weeks... because of the magazine.
Next week would even be more tedious because it'll be the last week for marketing the magazine to potential advertisers. This is our problem right now. Almost all of the ad agencies and media buyers we went to are interested in the concept of the magazine but almost all of them also want to see the maiden issue first prior to placing an ad.
Sigh.
If only they have an idea how many ads place in this magazine? All the big names in fashion, travel, cars and the like are placing ads in the magazine because they know how lucrative the market is. They know that the pink market is a huge spender on their products.
Oh well, I guess it's really like this in the beginning.
I should be happy that we've been getting positive response from potential advertisers.
If you know of anyone who may be interested to place an ad in the magazine, or maybe become a financial backer so that we can do so much more, please feel free to email me.
Friday, August 27, 2004
Addicted to...
You're addicted to.....
Nothing! Your addicted to nothing at all? Well..... ok I
guess thats a good thing but come on just think
of the possibilities!
What are you addicted to? (pics!)
brought to you by Quizilla.com
Wrong!!!
I am addicted to...Hunski!!! :)
You're addicted to.....
Nothing! Your addicted to nothing at all? Well..... ok I
guess thats a good thing but come on just think
of the possibilities!
What are you addicted to? (pics!)
brought to you by Quizilla.com
Wrong!!!
I am addicted to...Hunski!!! :)
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
This Week's Pinoy Trivia:
Since Hunski just came home from a trip, I'd like to introduce a Pinoy word - pasalubong. In English, it literally means a present that is given by a person who just arrived from a trip. According to this site, the rootword is "salubong" which means "to meet", and the prefix "pa" connotes "for".
This act of giving, which has become a tradition, has been part of the Filipino life for the longest time. I don't know how old the tradition has been. Maybe since the time of our ancestors.
When I was still a kid, I remember relatives who arrive from trips bringing with them small presents - pasalubong. The farther the trip, the more the pasalubong. Which is why, I always look forward to the arrival of uncles and aunts who came from the United States. That meant having more toys and more chocolates. Hehehe!
On my part, I remember doing this tradition the moment I had my first trip alone (without family members). Sometimes, I'd just bring home some native delicacy. On other occasions, I would bring home a souvenir. When I started working for Pahinungod, I had to go on several trips on different provinces - provinces I've never been to as a kid. So you can just imagine how excited I am to go shopping for pasalubong.
And you can just imagine how happy I was when Hunski handed me a huge here, photo frames and umbrella from here, and the best one - the soundtrack of this movie. It felt like Christmas or my birthday. Thanks Hunski!
Now, don't you think pasalubong is such a great tradition! :)
Since Hunski just came home from a trip, I'd like to introduce a Pinoy word - pasalubong. In English, it literally means a present that is given by a person who just arrived from a trip. According to this site, the rootword is "salubong" which means "to meet", and the prefix "pa" connotes "for".
This act of giving, which has become a tradition, has been part of the Filipino life for the longest time. I don't know how old the tradition has been. Maybe since the time of our ancestors.
When I was still a kid, I remember relatives who arrive from trips bringing with them small presents - pasalubong. The farther the trip, the more the pasalubong. Which is why, I always look forward to the arrival of uncles and aunts who came from the United States. That meant having more toys and more chocolates. Hehehe!
On my part, I remember doing this tradition the moment I had my first trip alone (without family members). Sometimes, I'd just bring home some native delicacy. On other occasions, I would bring home a souvenir. When I started working for Pahinungod, I had to go on several trips on different provinces - provinces I've never been to as a kid. So you can just imagine how excited I am to go shopping for pasalubong.
And you can just imagine how happy I was when Hunski handed me a huge here, photo frames and umbrella from here, and the best one - the soundtrack of this movie. It felt like Christmas or my birthday. Thanks Hunski!
Now, don't you think pasalubong is such a great tradition! :)
Monday, August 23, 2004
Some Pics from HongKong...
When Hunski asked me what I wanted from HongKong, I just told him I want pictures of these. Hehehe! What can I say? What they say is true. A simple image is worth a thousand words, or in this case, getting the actual thing would cost a thousand dollars (even more). Hehehe!
When Hunski asked me what I wanted from HongKong, I just told him I want pictures of these. Hehehe! What can I say? What they say is true. A simple image is worth a thousand words, or in this case, getting the actual thing would cost a thousand dollars (even more). Hehehe!
Fendi
Prada
Another Prada
Hermes
Dior
When Hunski told me that the shops were all over the place, irreverently comparing it to McDonald's, two words came to mind - shopper's haven. Awwww! :)
Just so you know, there are no freestanding shops of Fendi, Hermes, Dior and Chanel here in the country.
Saturday, August 21, 2004
Alone in the City (Part II)
I've been alone again since Wednesday.
As I type this entry, Hunski is somewhere in HongKong doing some shopping maybe. He left for HongKong last Wednesday to visit a friend and for vacation. Three of his former officemates followed yesterday.
Why did I not go?
Uhm, I'm still thinking of where to get money for school for second semester, among many other expenses, so I don't really have the resources to go anywhere but here in Manila as of the moment.
I can't wait to go on another out of town trip. It's been ages since I last went out of the city.
Augh!
Oh well. Soon.
I've been alone again since Wednesday.
As I type this entry, Hunski is somewhere in HongKong doing some shopping maybe. He left for HongKong last Wednesday to visit a friend and for vacation. Three of his former officemates followed yesterday.
Why did I not go?
Uhm, I'm still thinking of where to get money for school for second semester, among many other expenses, so I don't really have the resources to go anywhere but here in Manila as of the moment.
I can't wait to go on another out of town trip. It's been ages since I last went out of the city.
Augh!
Oh well. Soon.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Makes Me Wanna...
One of the nice things about not having work is that you can stay out late, even on Monday night.
That's what happened last Monday.
I met up with Hunski in the evening for dinner. After that, we went to Abi and Chari's apartment, where we were supposed to play mahjong. Let me correct that, they were supposed to play mahjong and I will just watch or do something else.
When we got there, it was just Abi at home. Chari was still at rehearsals for Baby the Musical. A little after Hunski and I arrived, Suki and Richie were already knocking at the door. About thirty minutes later, Jigs was also already knocking at the door.
The game night turned into a movie night, and the film for the night was Camp.
Camp is based on an actua summer camp for young actors, singers and dancers. In the movie, the name of the camp is Camp Ovation. For about two months, the children work their butts off to put together a new show every two weeks.
The lead characters in the movie are a bunch of teenagers led by Vlad (Daniel Letterle) - the so-called all-American straight guy who seduces almost every hot teenage girl, even one vulnerable gay teen, at the camp, Ellen (Joanna Chilcoat) - the unpopular teenager who was willing to pay her brother to take her to the prom, and Michael (Robin De Jesus) - the gay teen who got beaten up for attending his prom in drag.
The movie kind of reminds us of Fame the musical. It's about growing up and discovering who we are and what we want out to do in life. It's about falling in love for the first time, following your dreams, doing what you want to do. It's about enjoying life just as it is before the complications of adulthood sets in.
I actually enjoyed the movie very very much. The acting of the teeners was very pure and unadulterated. Stephen Sondheim makes an appearance. My favorite thing about the movie was it was filled with great songs and musical numbers that I can't wait to get a copy of the soundtrack. The only problem is it's not available here in the Philippines. Email me if you want to do a nice deed by sending me a copy. Hehehe!
When we finished watching the movie, Richie thought it was just okay.
I thought, "Here is a movie that makes you want to be a teenager again."
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
This Week's Pinoy Trivia:
Image via Ben Razon
I'm writing an article right now for a publication of Pahinungod, the volunteer organization I worked for. The metaphoric theme of this volume is about mountains and peaks.
And so it is because of this that I decide to write about a mountain as well for this week's edition of Pinoy Trivia.
The highest mountain in the Philippines is Mt. Apo. Apo stands for "grandfather". It is the highest point in the country at 2,954 meters (9,691 feet). Mt. Apo is a dormant volcano located in the Mindanao region. To be specific, its mountain range bisects the provinces of Davao, Cotabato, Agusan and Misamis Oriental.
The mountain is considered a National Park and is home to several species of plants, trees and animals like the Philippine Eagle.
If you are one of those people who have an addiction to mountains, you should definitely try climbing this beauty.
Learn more about Mt. Apo from this guy.
Image via Ben Razon
I'm writing an article right now for a publication of Pahinungod, the volunteer organization I worked for. The metaphoric theme of this volume is about mountains and peaks.
And so it is because of this that I decide to write about a mountain as well for this week's edition of Pinoy Trivia.
The highest mountain in the Philippines is Mt. Apo. Apo stands for "grandfather". It is the highest point in the country at 2,954 meters (9,691 feet). Mt. Apo is a dormant volcano located in the Mindanao region. To be specific, its mountain range bisects the provinces of Davao, Cotabato, Agusan and Misamis Oriental.
The mountain is considered a National Park and is home to several species of plants, trees and animals like the Philippine Eagle.
If you are one of those people who have an addiction to mountains, you should definitely try climbing this beauty.
Learn more about Mt. Apo from this guy.
Monday, August 16, 2004
This Kiss, This Kiss
cuddle and a kiss on the forehead - you like to be
close to your special someone and feel warm,
comfortable, and needed
What Sign of Affection Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
Sunday, August 15, 2004
Our Baking Mini-Business
Things are going well with the baking business, or mini-business, I should say.
Today, we had to double the usual quantity that we bake because a.) we had some orders from our friends, and b.) my Mom will be putting some of our baked goods at one of our other canteens.
Yay!
Have Hunski and I been earning from the business? Well, we get some money out of it but it's not enough to buy this, or even this. Hehe! I really have to get a job.
In fact, Hunski and I would be most probably be scolded by real businessmen because the prices of our baked goods do not factor in so many things - electricity, water, gas, packaging, car gas, and above all, our labor. Hehehe!
But it's okay though. This whole thing has been a venue for Hunski and I to spend time together and be with each other.
Oh, have I already told you how this all started? It was Christmas 2003. I attended a half day baking class because Hunski and I were planning to give our baked goods in Christmas baskets to friends and relatives.
From that small beginning, here we are now - baking every week to satisfy the sweet cravings of the students of my University.
You too can have a taste of our baked goods. Just click here.
Things are going well with the baking business, or mini-business, I should say.
Today, we had to double the usual quantity that we bake because a.) we had some orders from our friends, and b.) my Mom will be putting some of our baked goods at one of our other canteens.
Yay!
Have Hunski and I been earning from the business? Well, we get some money out of it but it's not enough to buy this, or even this. Hehe! I really have to get a job.
In fact, Hunski and I would be most probably be scolded by real businessmen because the prices of our baked goods do not factor in so many things - electricity, water, gas, packaging, car gas, and above all, our labor. Hehehe!
But it's okay though. This whole thing has been a venue for Hunski and I to spend time together and be with each other.
Oh, have I already told you how this all started? It was Christmas 2003. I attended a half day baking class because Hunski and I were planning to give our baked goods in Christmas baskets to friends and relatives.
From that small beginning, here we are now - baking every week to satisfy the sweet cravings of the students of my University.
You too can have a taste of our baked goods. Just click here.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Please Call...
A couple of weeks ago, I emailed my resume to a non-government organization (NGO).
For superstitious beliefs, I wouldn't mention the name of the organization yet because it might jinx my application. Am I weird? Hehe!
The organization is in need of a Development Communication Associate. Basically, the position entails assisting in the design, composition and production of the organization's official publications and other development communication materials. The position is somewhat similar to the one I had with Pahinungod.
What I like about this is the organization. The fact that it is a non-government organization is something that I found very appealing. I dunno. Sometimes, I think I was meant for NGO work. I dunno. There's just something about NGO work that makes me really happy and fulfilled.
Anyway, this morning I went to the organization to take an examination. To be honest, I don't like taking examinations for job applications. I guess it becomes irritating when the different companies you applied to are administering the same blasted exam. Hehehe!
So yesterday, I already psyched myself for the exam so at least, I wouldn't feel cranky and lazy. When the exam was handed over to me, I was so happy that it wasn't one of those personality exams that has over three hundred questions, and answering it takes forever. The exam that was given to me had only two pages. Attached to the list of questions were a couple of pages of yellow pad. Damn! The other thing I don't like about exams, whether it's for school or for job applications, is writing essays. Augh! I guess my hands have been so used to dancing on the PC keyboard.
I went over the questions and then began to outline my answers. The questions made me feel like I was taking my midterms for my Communication and Socio-Cultural Change class. Some of the questions were: Define empowerment, How do you think can we achieve empowerment, What is an NGO, What is the role of an NGO in a country? The other exam required me to write a speech on Disaster Preparedness and Management, as well as, drafting a proposal for the organization's newsletter.
I think I did well with the exam, particularly with the questions on empowerment and NGO. I dunno. I guess I got carried away. The work I had for Pahinungod and some graduate school courses have been every helpful. As for the other exam, I figured I can just whip out my portfolio if they call me for an interview. That'll give them a better idea of the work I've done.
Oh well, right now, I have to wait for a call from them for an interview. I really really hope they do call because I think I'd like the job.
You have no idea how difficult it is to look for a job right now here in the country. There are thousands of available jobs but they're all call center, call center, call center.
Haaay! Please call. Please call. Please call.
A couple of weeks ago, I emailed my resume to a non-government organization (NGO).
For superstitious beliefs, I wouldn't mention the name of the organization yet because it might jinx my application. Am I weird? Hehe!
The organization is in need of a Development Communication Associate. Basically, the position entails assisting in the design, composition and production of the organization's official publications and other development communication materials. The position is somewhat similar to the one I had with Pahinungod.
What I like about this is the organization. The fact that it is a non-government organization is something that I found very appealing. I dunno. Sometimes, I think I was meant for NGO work. I dunno. There's just something about NGO work that makes me really happy and fulfilled.
Anyway, this morning I went to the organization to take an examination. To be honest, I don't like taking examinations for job applications. I guess it becomes irritating when the different companies you applied to are administering the same blasted exam. Hehehe!
So yesterday, I already psyched myself for the exam so at least, I wouldn't feel cranky and lazy. When the exam was handed over to me, I was so happy that it wasn't one of those personality exams that has over three hundred questions, and answering it takes forever. The exam that was given to me had only two pages. Attached to the list of questions were a couple of pages of yellow pad. Damn! The other thing I don't like about exams, whether it's for school or for job applications, is writing essays. Augh! I guess my hands have been so used to dancing on the PC keyboard.
I went over the questions and then began to outline my answers. The questions made me feel like I was taking my midterms for my Communication and Socio-Cultural Change class. Some of the questions were: Define empowerment, How do you think can we achieve empowerment, What is an NGO, What is the role of an NGO in a country? The other exam required me to write a speech on Disaster Preparedness and Management, as well as, drafting a proposal for the organization's newsletter.
I think I did well with the exam, particularly with the questions on empowerment and NGO. I dunno. I guess I got carried away. The work I had for Pahinungod and some graduate school courses have been every helpful. As for the other exam, I figured I can just whip out my portfolio if they call me for an interview. That'll give them a better idea of the work I've done.
Oh well, right now, I have to wait for a call from them for an interview. I really really hope they do call because I think I'd like the job.
You have no idea how difficult it is to look for a job right now here in the country. There are thousands of available jobs but they're all call center, call center, call center.
Haaay! Please call. Please call. Please call.
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
This Week's Pinoy Trivia:
Image via this Website
You probably know that the Philippines was under the Spanish reign for three hundred years.
Yes, three hundred years!
The three centuries that the Spaniards stayed in the country paved the way for the spread of the Roman Catholic faith almost all over the archipelago. Right now, the Philippines is the only predominantly Catholic country in South Asia, if I'm not mistaken.
One of the legacies that the Spanish friars left in the country are the magnificent churches. These huge and picturesque edifices were the erected with the blood, sweat and tears of the Filipinos.
Right now, I am one of those people who really, really enjoy visiting these churches. These works of art are just so amazing. I am always in awe whenever I see the magnificent architecture and craftsmanship that are seen all over the church.
When Hunski and I went to Ilocos, a province up north, last year, I had a grand time visiting the various Hispanic churches in the province.
This week, I'd like to share some trivia about another church which I haven't visited yet, but hope to someday.
The Panay Church is located in the province of Panay. This 221-year old church boasts of the largest bell in Asia. The huge bell is 7 feet in diameter and 7 feet in height, and weighs 10.4 tons. Gawd! That's heavy!
When the bell is rang, it can be heard as far as eight kilometers. According to historical records, the bell was casted using 70 sacks of coins that were donated by the townspeople. This act of donating to the Church is a traditonal manifestation of thanksgiving and faith.
Image via this Website
You probably know that the Philippines was under the Spanish reign for three hundred years.
Yes, three hundred years!
The three centuries that the Spaniards stayed in the country paved the way for the spread of the Roman Catholic faith almost all over the archipelago. Right now, the Philippines is the only predominantly Catholic country in South Asia, if I'm not mistaken.
One of the legacies that the Spanish friars left in the country are the magnificent churches. These huge and picturesque edifices were the erected with the blood, sweat and tears of the Filipinos.
Right now, I am one of those people who really, really enjoy visiting these churches. These works of art are just so amazing. I am always in awe whenever I see the magnificent architecture and craftsmanship that are seen all over the church.
When Hunski and I went to Ilocos, a province up north, last year, I had a grand time visiting the various Hispanic churches in the province.
This week, I'd like to share some trivia about another church which I haven't visited yet, but hope to someday.
The Panay Church is located in the province of Panay. This 221-year old church boasts of the largest bell in Asia. The huge bell is 7 feet in diameter and 7 feet in height, and weighs 10.4 tons. Gawd! That's heavy!
When the bell is rang, it can be heard as far as eight kilometers. According to historical records, the bell was casted using 70 sacks of coins that were donated by the townspeople. This act of donating to the Church is a traditonal manifestation of thanksgiving and faith.
Monday, August 09, 2004
Guess Who's the New Guess Girl
Anna Nicole Smith for Guess Jeans
Paris Hilton for Guess Jeans
As a teenage boy, I was addicted to the print ads of Guess. I just loved loved loved the black and white photos of the men and women. Innocent young man that I was, I found the very sensual images of Anna Nicole Smith to be very artsy that I told myself I wanted to have that particular print ad enlarged and framed.
Of course, I grew up and knew more about Anna and I lost interest in her. I also lost interest in the Guess print ads when they started to make it colored. I was a bit disappointed. I love black and white photographs. They're just so classy and artsy.
Anyway, I was reading through a copy of the August issue of Vogue at one of the local bookstores and to my surprise, who do I find spread on fourteen pages of the reverent magazine?
Paris Hilton. Modelling for Guess.
Apparently, the multi-million dollar heiress is the model for the Fall Guess print ad campaign. The campaign was shot by Guess' favorite photographer Ellen von Unwerth. Paris now joins the ranks of Drew Barrymore, Claudia Schiffer, Adriana Lima and Anna Nicole Smith as Guess girls.
Anna Nicole Smith for Guess Jeans
Paris Hilton for Guess Jeans
As a teenage boy, I was addicted to the print ads of Guess. I just loved loved loved the black and white photos of the men and women. Innocent young man that I was, I found the very sensual images of Anna Nicole Smith to be very artsy that I told myself I wanted to have that particular print ad enlarged and framed.
Of course, I grew up and knew more about Anna and I lost interest in her. I also lost interest in the Guess print ads when they started to make it colored. I was a bit disappointed. I love black and white photographs. They're just so classy and artsy.
Anyway, I was reading through a copy of the August issue of Vogue at one of the local bookstores and to my surprise, who do I find spread on fourteen pages of the reverent magazine?
Paris Hilton. Modelling for Guess.
Apparently, the multi-million dollar heiress is the model for the Fall Guess print ad campaign. The campaign was shot by Guess' favorite photographer Ellen von Unwerth. Paris now joins the ranks of Drew Barrymore, Claudia Schiffer, Adriana Lima and Anna Nicole Smith as Guess girls.
Saturday, August 07, 2004
Today and Tomorrow is UPCAT Day
The year was 1995. The date was probably the same as today's date.
I remember waking up at a very early Saturday morning. Together with me, my parents also woke up to prepare breakfast for me. (Aren't they the sweetest?) That particular Saturday morning was very significant for me. It was the day I have been dreading, and at the same time, looking forward to for the past several weeks.
That day was the day for my UPCAT exams.
Short for the University of the Philippines College Admission Test, the UPCAT is taken by more than twenty, even thirty thousand, hopeful high school senior students across the country. Each one fervent that we would get into the country's (pardon me if I am being a braggart) top University (I have to admit UP does not have the best educational facilities, but (most of) its graduates are among the best in the archipelago.). Unfortunately, only a very small percentage, not even a quarter, of the exam takers will be admitted.
Passing the UPCAT is a very special event for several families, and not just for the examinee alone. Passing the UPCAT means having an opportunity to get a very good college education. Passing the UPCAT confers some sort of special mark on a person. In my family, several of my cousins have studied in UP. The eldest sister of my Dad graduated and taught in UP. My Dad took up Fine Arts in UP. For the beaming and proud parents of the UP student, it means being able to save a huge, and I really mean huge, amount of money on tuition fee. The average tuition fee of a UP student is probably P6,000 (about $110 at the ongoing exchange rate) per semester while the tuition fee of the very good private universities begin from P25,000 (about $440) per semester.
Just imagine what getting into UP would mean for the student and his family.
In addition to the things I just mentioned, the UPCAT was also significant for me because UP was the only college I applied to. I didn't bother to apply to any of the other Universities. No, it's not because I was so sure that I would pass. It was for a different reason. At that time, the only other option I created for myself was to enter the seminary, and eventually be a priest.
Yes, you read that right. Once upon a time, this blogger wanted to become a priest.
But I passed the UPCAT. I survived the half-day battery exam which included Math, Science and English. If there were any other topics, I don't really remember it now. I got accepted into the Organizational Communication program. My Dad told me to let the seminary wait and attend UP first.
And I obeyed.
Nine years later, here I am now. I've graduated from UP. And I'm currently taking up my graduate studies in the same University.
Today, another batch of 30,000 hopefuls will be taking the tough and challenging UPCAT exam. To all the examinees, I wish you guys the best.
The year was 1995. The date was probably the same as today's date.
I remember waking up at a very early Saturday morning. Together with me, my parents also woke up to prepare breakfast for me. (Aren't they the sweetest?) That particular Saturday morning was very significant for me. It was the day I have been dreading, and at the same time, looking forward to for the past several weeks.
That day was the day for my UPCAT exams.
Short for the University of the Philippines College Admission Test, the UPCAT is taken by more than twenty, even thirty thousand, hopeful high school senior students across the country. Each one fervent that we would get into the country's (pardon me if I am being a braggart) top University (I have to admit UP does not have the best educational facilities, but (most of) its graduates are among the best in the archipelago.). Unfortunately, only a very small percentage, not even a quarter, of the exam takers will be admitted.
Passing the UPCAT is a very special event for several families, and not just for the examinee alone. Passing the UPCAT means having an opportunity to get a very good college education. Passing the UPCAT confers some sort of special mark on a person. In my family, several of my cousins have studied in UP. The eldest sister of my Dad graduated and taught in UP. My Dad took up Fine Arts in UP. For the beaming and proud parents of the UP student, it means being able to save a huge, and I really mean huge, amount of money on tuition fee. The average tuition fee of a UP student is probably P6,000 (about $110 at the ongoing exchange rate) per semester while the tuition fee of the very good private universities begin from P25,000 (about $440) per semester.
Just imagine what getting into UP would mean for the student and his family.
In addition to the things I just mentioned, the UPCAT was also significant for me because UP was the only college I applied to. I didn't bother to apply to any of the other Universities. No, it's not because I was so sure that I would pass. It was for a different reason. At that time, the only other option I created for myself was to enter the seminary, and eventually be a priest.
Yes, you read that right. Once upon a time, this blogger wanted to become a priest.
But I passed the UPCAT. I survived the half-day battery exam which included Math, Science and English. If there were any other topics, I don't really remember it now. I got accepted into the Organizational Communication program. My Dad told me to let the seminary wait and attend UP first.
And I obeyed.
Nine years later, here I am now. I've graduated from UP. And I'm currently taking up my graduate studies in the same University.
Today, another batch of 30,000 hopefuls will be taking the tough and challenging UPCAT exam. To all the examinees, I wish you guys the best.
Friday, August 06, 2004
Alone in the City
I'm spending the whole weekend alone.
Hunski will be attending the wedding of his cousin. The wedding will be in beautiful out of town Tagaytay. It is about two-hour drive south of Manila. It is located in the province of Cavite. If Hamptons is the popular getaway for New Yorkers (or am I just watching too much Sex and the City), then Tagaytay has to be one of the several Hamptons available for Manileños (That's what you call the Manila people).
Tagaytay may not have a beach, but if you frive for another thirty minutes or an hour, you reach Batangas where you have the beaches.
But no need to this because...
Though Tagaytay does not have a beach, it has a beautiful scenic view of the Taal Lake and the Taal Volcano. Tagaytay has several resthouses where the tired soul can rest and just enjoy the cool temperature, breathe fresh, clean air, and release the body from all stress. To feed the body, there are several restaurants that offer sumptuous food. One of our favorites (Hunski and me) is Sonya's Garden, which serves the freshest salad and very delicious pasta. The vegetables were taken directly from, where else but Sonya's Garden. After a lovely dinner, and you still don't feel like heading back to your resthouse yet, there's a Starbucks (yes, there is) where you can perfectly, perfectly enjoy that hot cup of caffee mocca while watching the stars in the sky or while you enjoy the cold night air, and you can just watch the moon cast its light on the Taal volcano.
Augh! I miss Tagaytay. It's been ages since I last went there. I think it was last year. Hunski and I stayed at a villa type home. It was such a great weekend!
My gawd! It's been ages since I'e been out of town on a roadtrip. Waaaaah! I want to go to Tagaytay.
Soon. One of these days. For now...
Enjoy the wedding, Hunski! And enjoy Tagaytay! You deserve that break.
Thursday, August 05, 2004
The Loop
Hi guys!
If you happen to be in the vicinity of Makati, or specifically in Greenbelt, make sure you pick an August issue of The Loop. I've got a very short article in that issue.
As for my dear blogger friends from the US and yonder, here's a copy of the article. Geez! I hope The Loop doesn't sue me for publishing it here in my blog. Hehehe!
Enjoy!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Spawning Ground of Ideas
Sources say artists started it: poets, painters, writers and actors. It's hard to tell who really created a café culture. But one thing's for sure; cafés have become a significant part of the Filipino urban lifestyle. Before we even knew it, cafés began popping up all over the city like mushrooms.
Cafés have evolved into more than just being a venue for lounging and hanging out. They have turned into hives for ideas: from profound to mundane. To wit is the true-to-life story of a now–immensely-famous, single mom who regularly sat a café writing about wizards in flying cars while her young daughter took naps right beside her.
Who's to know whether it's the aroma of brewed coffee, the caffeine, or the conducive atmosphere but cafés certainly have a way of inspiring one's creative juices to flow.
Undeniably, cafés will continue to exist in the urban landscape. So the next time you enjoy your drink at your favorite café, look around and observe; the person beside you might be on the verge of the next big thing.
Hi guys!
If you happen to be in the vicinity of Makati, or specifically in Greenbelt, make sure you pick an August issue of The Loop. I've got a very short article in that issue.
As for my dear blogger friends from the US and yonder, here's a copy of the article. Geez! I hope The Loop doesn't sue me for publishing it here in my blog. Hehehe!
Enjoy!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Spawning Ground of Ideas
Sources say artists started it: poets, painters, writers and actors. It's hard to tell who really created a café culture. But one thing's for sure; cafés have become a significant part of the Filipino urban lifestyle. Before we even knew it, cafés began popping up all over the city like mushrooms.
Cafés have evolved into more than just being a venue for lounging and hanging out. They have turned into hives for ideas: from profound to mundane. To wit is the true-to-life story of a now–immensely-famous, single mom who regularly sat a café writing about wizards in flying cars while her young daughter took naps right beside her.
Who's to know whether it's the aroma of brewed coffee, the caffeine, or the conducive atmosphere but cafés certainly have a way of inspiring one's creative juices to flow.
Undeniably, cafés will continue to exist in the urban landscape. So the next time you enjoy your drink at your favorite café, look around and observe; the person beside you might be on the verge of the next big thing.
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
Pinoy Trivia of the Week:
Whale Shark Image from Richard Mabey
In the past Pinoy trivias, I told you about the exotic wildlife of the country. This week, I’m adding one more creature to the list of exotic wildlife that can be found on Philippine land, well, in this case, Philippine waters.
In the southern part of the Bicol region, Sorsogon province to be specific, one would find the largest fish in the world. The whale shark, locally known as the butanding, can be seen swimming in the waters of Sorsogon, particularly in the town of Donsol.
The gentle giants, measuring from 15 ft. to 40 ft. long, have silvery polka dots covering its huge body. The sea giants are gentle and friendly, allowing people to swim with them. They congregate in the waters of Donsol at the start of October and November, and peaks from February to May. After that, they quietly swim away. No one’s quite sure where they are off to but the fisher folk of the province are sure that the Butandings will return sometime in October.
In case you’re interested to swim and play with the butandings, you can click here to know how you can meet these giants.
Whale Shark Image from Richard Mabey
In the past Pinoy trivias, I told you about the exotic wildlife of the country. This week, I’m adding one more creature to the list of exotic wildlife that can be found on Philippine land, well, in this case, Philippine waters.
In the southern part of the Bicol region, Sorsogon province to be specific, one would find the largest fish in the world. The whale shark, locally known as the butanding, can be seen swimming in the waters of Sorsogon, particularly in the town of Donsol.
The gentle giants, measuring from 15 ft. to 40 ft. long, have silvery polka dots covering its huge body. The sea giants are gentle and friendly, allowing people to swim with them. They congregate in the waters of Donsol at the start of October and November, and peaks from February to May. After that, they quietly swim away. No one’s quite sure where they are off to but the fisher folk of the province are sure that the Butandings will return sometime in October.
In case you’re interested to swim and play with the butandings, you can click here to know how you can meet these giants.
Monday, August 02, 2004
Cookies. Squares. Brownies.
Oatmeal Bars
Good news to everyone.
Cookies. Squares. Brownies.is now accepting orders.
Just click here for more information on how we can satisfy your craving... for sweets.
Thanks people.
Oatmeal Bars
Good news to everyone.
Cookies. Squares. Brownies.is now accepting orders.
Just click here for more information on how we can satisfy your craving... for sweets.
Thanks people.
