...and that concludes 2014

Just like most of the people in my social media friends list, my 2014 can also be considered not as the best but still one of the most colorful years in my whole life.  After a blog hiatus for a few months, I will try my very best to summarize my 2014 in this year-ender post.

My career took a big share of my roller coaster ride this year.  A new department head came, my immediate boss resigned, our table of organization was changed, the number of "immediate concerns" sky-rocketed and became too exhausting to handle, the team held on  in spite everything.  On the brighter side of things, I got my retro, I am supposed to be promoted (as a manager), and I finally got the salary increase promised 10 months back.  Work-wise, media relations with some major media companies became stronger, establishing a more personal relationship beyond the professional call of duty.  One major project for the year was the partnership with ABS CBN for its very own realiserye, I Do.  I am proud to be a part of this pilot program as main coordinator between our company and ABS CBN's I Do production team.  Met awesome new friends in ABS, and finally got in touch with one of the couple grand winner, Ms. Kring Elenzano, a blogger and also a good friend of my late brother, Coy.

I Do is ABS CBN's realiserye featuring couples ready to wed.  Their stay inside the I Do Village enables them to know each other better and test their compatibility.  Counselors are available to strengthen their relationship and make them understand the roller coaster ride of being a couple.  At the end of the season, one couple will emerge as the grand winner.

Lancaster New City, the flagship project of Property Company of Friends, Inc. is the official home of I Do village Season 1.

Work has also led me to two places I haven't been to in my life.  And the year 2014 has to bring me there.

I am delighted to see Cagayan De Oro for the first time.  The place offers a lot of things to discover, including the popular white rapids where water rafting is common.  Too bad we only have limited time and the visit was only consumed doing official business.

Cebu--- one of the places in my bucket list.  I wasn't able to round the place and was just confined in the hotel and the very nearby places for the work that I need to do during the visit.  There is always a 'next time.'  There will be a next time.

I have grabbed the opportunity to visit Coy's resting place in Cebu.  This is the best time to do it since I do not know when I will be able to come back there again.  His brother, Jet, accompanied me early in the memorial park where Coy's remain was buried.

It feels so tranquil in that place.  Thank you, Jet, for bringing me to your kuya's resting place.   Speaking of business trips, I was also able to take my mom with me in one of my business trips in Iloilo, particularly in the early month of 2014.  Of course I need to pay for her air fare and meals but it was great bringing her there and let her see the beauty of the city.

My mom with me and Arn during one of our business trips in Iloilo.

My boss and I were also able to take some media friends to Iloilo.  We went to common tourist spots and had a good taste of local foods.  This trip is not the usual business trip we do in Iloilo since it was also the first time that we were able to visit these landmarks.

Cafe Lata FTW! (top middle photo)
Netong's Original La Paz Batchoy tastes heavenly! (rightmost, bottom photo)

Work also allowed me to have a series of "selfies" with known personalities:

SELFIES with:  (from leftmost, top clockwise) Jason Gainza, Jing Castaneda, Mon Tulfo, Bianca Gonzales, Sen. Nancy Binay, and Ms. Miriam Quiambao.

Health-wise,  I was diagnosed with kidney stones twice.  First check up was as early as January when I had to undergo a CT stonogram to determine the number and size/s of the stone/s.  I first noticed a stain-colored urine but felt no pain at all, even around the area of my kidneys.  The two young resident doctors who first questioned me about how I felt when I urinate are puzzled why there was no pain felt so they recommended the procedure over just the usual ultrasound.  Early urine tests say that blood is present with the urine which explains the color whenever I discharge liquid.  I was prescribed to take a 3-month medication hoping that the stones, biggest at .05cm, will dissolve.  I turned a 180-degree turn on my diet.  Less salty foods, more water & these three juices:  buco, apple, and cranberry.  The stones temporarily "vanished" but after a few weeks just before my birthday, I needed to undergo a shock wave procedure to dissolve the stones.  It was an unforgettable experience and I just have to thank my wifey and dad for taking care of me after the procedure, when I felt really dizzy.

diet-changing experience. 

On spiritual aspect, a major shift has come this year as my family migrated to a newborn locale extension (which will very soon be an independent locale already) that will bear the name "Centennial."  This year marks the 100th year anniversary of our church, the Iglesia Ni Cristo.  A series of big activities were made not only in the country but overseas as well.  These activities were led by the most popular of all, the Kabayan Ko, Kapatid Ko (My Countrymen My Brethren).  A milestone event that benefit the victims of typhoon Haiyan, the church-initiated Worldwide Walk earned two world records in just 24 hours.  The activity which was not only held in the Philippines brought one battle cry among the brethren who participated the said event: "we walk so they can stand."

Of course, congregational thanksgiving worship services are always the best, and most anticipated occasions annually.  This time, July thanksgiving is extra-special because of the centennial anniversary.

PNK Thanksgiving: July (left), December (right)

Family bonding is the next best thing after fulfilling church obligations.  This year, I can say that I had a pretty good, quality time with my wifey & little girl.  Little Aya went to formal school for the first time, after a few short pre-nursery courses in summer.  Her school, Divine Angels Montessori of Cainta is presided by celebrity and former child star Camille Prats.  We were able to go boating in Nuvali with church friends, and enter Tagaytay's Sky Ranch for the first time.  Some other first times for us, we dined in 100 Revolving Restaurant.  The place is ideal for one special date, no entrance fee required.  You only have to pay for the food you are going to order.  But make sure you call for reservation especially during peak days and time. Another first, and finally, we were able to dine in Vikings.  There's a branch near our place and the three of us enjoyed our dinner!

Summer Pre-Kindergarten Program graduation, Egyptian during United Nations Program, Buwan ng Wika performance... our school girl enjoys school so much. :)

dinner date at 100 Revolving Restaurant, Vikings on another occasion, and family trip to Nuvali.. all happened in 2014.

I would like to thank all the people who made a difference in our lives this 2014.  May the coming year 2015 bring us more joy, prosperity and contentment in all aspect of our lives.  Most of all, I thank God, our loving Father, for the continuous blessings He pours to me and my family.

Ending this year-ender blog post, thank you to my long-lost friends who I got the chance to meet again this 2014:

top, left to right: with HS classmate Maricel, blogger friend Alex, Glee Club colleague Mitch.
middle, left to right:  with churchmate Homer, blogger pal Flowell, former radio colleague Ener.
bottom, left to right:  with former radio colleague Ka Eric, former DKT colleague Judith, and former SUN colleague Juvy.

Three of the most treasured "selfies" for the year 2014 are the following:

left to right:  with overall choir mentor Ka Fausto; minister/debater Bro. Joe Ventilacion; and choir mentor Bro. Michael 

God has not forsaken me this passing year and for the upcoming year, to Him I entrust my life again and as always.  FAITH, LOVE, HOPE... 2015!

Last Quarter Wish List and 2014 Leftover Plans

The last month of the 3rd quarter of this year has begun, and don't look now but the days are swiftly passing by.  Next time you know, you are now preparing to celebrate the coming of a new year.  

Anyway, I have recently thought of some things I really, really want and came up with a list of it.  But then I realized that I also have a list of what I really, really need before attending to my list of 'wants.' *sigh*  Life's like that, I guess.  Prioritizing has never been this important.  So, how can I ever get this wish list:

1. brand new wallet

2. new neck tie (for December thanksgiving)

3. new white barong long sleeves (for CWS)

4. a pair of rubber shoes that I can use for jogging, cycling, or other 'physical fitness programs' haha!

5. a pair each of black & brown leather shoes

6. a new bicycle (time to shape up for that 2015 summer beach body program! LOL)

7. a new refrigerator

the car that needs my attention. 

...but then, I need to prioritize these things:

1. tuition fee of little Aya (50%) due next month 0_o

2. periodic maintenance of Vios.  read: change oil, spark plugs, air filter, break pads due ASAP!

3. fill-up mom's savings

4. fill-up dad's savings

5. fill-up little Aya's savings

6. contribute to wifey's savings

Hmm... 3rd and 4th items above spell u-t-a-n-g that needs to be paid.  

Ok, while still waiting for an upcoming "blessing" (which is already delayed for 5 months), I need to make time in studying the new 'business' I ventured in to.  Then probably re-focus a distribution business with wifey.  I need my dad to stay home with us and be with his youngest apo.  Promise, I am going to get him very soon, God-willing!

Metro Traffic: Not Fun in the Philippines

It's Tuesday.  Not the first day of the week but it's the first workweek day.  Classes in Manila has been cancelled by mayor Joseph Estrada so I was expecting a fairly light traffic.  But lo and behold! We (with my fellow passengers) were stuck in Marcos highway (west bound) for almost an hour.  The travel from Sta. Lucia East grand mall to LRT 2 Santolan Station usually takes just less than 10 minutes but no, not today.  We were all surprised with the heavy traffic, even in other roads which my office mates also encountered. Yes it did rain but the traffic is terribly extraordinary.  Even on our way back home, we were stuck in San Juan going out to Quezon City.

Traffic view from the overpass of Santolan-Marcos highway

Vehicles lined-up, west bound while classes in all levels in Manila are suspended.

Traffic will never become better in the metro, I guess.  Unless we really have the will to do some positive changes altogether--- motorists, commuters, and of course, the government. *sigh*

Salamat, Nanay Fe

Hindi ko man madalas sabihin, si Nanay Fe ang isa sa naging malaking impluwensya ko sa pamumuno sa mga mang-aawit, may ilang taon na rin na niloloob ng Ama.  Maging ang pinanghahawakan kong "tagline" o prinsipyo sa buhay na "All things happen with a purpose" ay isinalin ko lang mula sa madalas nyang sabihin sa aming mga mag-aaral noon na "lahat ng bagay ay may kaukulan."  Higit pa sa pag-aaral ng mga pyesa ng musika, ang isa sa pinakagusto kong bahagi ng aming daily rehearsal noon sa room 124 ay ang "words of wisdom" ni nanay Fe.  Hindi lamang hudyat iyon na tapos na ang sigawan sa pag-aaral ng mga kanta, kundi higit sa lahat ay oras na naman para matuto kami ng mga karagdagang aral sa buhay.  Sa kaniya ko natutuhan na pwede kang magyabang ng iyong mga naabot pero nananatili ang kababaang-loob.  Sa kaniya ko rin natutuhan na ang lahat ng angking talento natin na nagbibigay-daan para tayo ay kilalanin at hangaan ng ibang tao ay sa Diyos lamang marapat na ibalik ang kapurihan.  Pinatibay ni nanay Fe ang pagkakilala ko sa Pamamahala ng Iglesia.  Sa kanya ko na-appreciate ang pagpapagal ng Pamamahala, na halos gawin nang umaga ang gabi alang-alang sa pangangalaga ng kawan ng Diyos.  Kay nanay Fe ko rin narinig na ang paglilingkod ay hindi nakapaloob sa apat na sulok ng kapilya, pero ang pagpapahalaga rito ay hindi rin matutumbasan ng kahit ano.  Nakita ko syang nagalit, nag walk-out, humalakhak, umiyak.  Nakasama ko sya sa kainan, liguan sa outing, road trip sa kung saang walang tiyak na direksyong pupuntahan.

Flashback
pagpasok ko ng room 124, napansin kong aligaga ang mga miyembro, maliban sa nag-recruit sa akin--- ang Glee Club total performer na si Noel Cunanan. araw pala ng audition yun. walang rehearsal. itinakda ang araw para lang sa audition ng mga mag-gi-glee club.

pagbukas ng pinto, nakita kong pumasok ang isang propesor. sa unang tingin, kung may pisikal na depinisyon ng "small but terrible," yun sya--- dire-diretsong tumungo sa kaniyang upuan para sa panata. mukhang istrikta... sobrang istrikta. nang matanaw ang buong silid, sinipat ako sa isang sulok. ibinaba pa ang salamin, binasag ang katahimikan sa silid at nagtanong: "sino yan?" na naka-titig sa akin. agad namang sinalo ni Noel ang tanong at sya namang sumagot, "recruit ko po." sagot lang ni ma'am: "hmmm..." sabay balik ng salamin sa mata at naghintay na ang lahat para sa oras ng panata.

pagkatapos ng panata ay nagbilin si ma'am na hanapin na ang mga recruit na ipapa-audition at saka pinalabas ang lahat maliban sa akin. tinanong ako: "anong course mo?" "mass comm. po," sagot ko. walang ngiti sa mukha niya at nagtanong ulit, "mass comm? anong kinabukasan mo run?" hindi na ako sumagot, ngumiti na lang ako. pagkatapos ng maikling tanungan ay pinakanta na nya ako... Will I Survive? tanong ko sa sarili ko kaya yun na rin ang kinanta ko na orihinal ng Introvoys. pagkatapos lang ng ilang linya, pinatigil ako ni ma'am, "wala akong maintindihan sa kinakanta mo. kantahin mo yung unang dalawang linya ng Maalaala Mo Kaya." sa isip-isip ko, mabuti na lang at uso na ang palabas noon ni Ate Charo. Kahit paano eh alam ko yung himig at lyrics nung kanta.

mukhang kumbinsido naman si ma'am sa kinanta kong dalawang linya. pagkatapos nun ay pinapunta ako sa harap ng piano at tumipa na sya ng mga nota. sundan ko raw yung tono. parang nagdi-drill lang sa lokal, kaya ayus naman. pero teka, antaas na ng nota.. nakita ko yung tikladang pinipindot, nasa higher fa na.

at last nakita ko na ring ngumiti si ma'am, sabay wika, "hindi ka naman tone deaf. ilalagay muna kita sa baritone para maalagaan ka ni Noel." naka-ngiti na rin ako, pero sa totoo lang, hindi ko pa alam kung ano talaga itong pinasok ko. noon kaseng elementary at high school, puro academic clubs lang ang sinasalihan ko, this time, GLEE CLUB. alam ko may kantahan pero later on, nightmare pala sa akin dahil may choreography pa na kasama, eh parehong kaliwa ang paa ko, di ba Kuya Orly?

sa susunod na tagpo, lalo kong nakilala si ma'am... "o, ano ang schedule mo kapag M-W at T-F?" "ma'am, isa lang po ang subject ko pag M-W.. pol. Sci. po ng 7:30pm." tiger look ulit sa akin si ma'am, "Ano?? isa lang subject mo pag M-W at gabi pa? ano bang klaseng schedule yan? nagsasayang ka ng araw." magalang akong tumugon, "eh, ma'am, irregular po kase ako. yung ibang subjects nakuha ko na, yung iba po pre-requisite na hindi pa po ako pinayagan i-enroll." tumayo na si ma'am sa kinauupuan, "tawagan ko nga si Sally. A.S. ka ano? teka..." du-mial sa telepono, maya-maya lang... "Sally, meron ako ditong bagong myembro, tulungan mo naman sa schedule. aba, eh isa lang ang subject kapag monday at wednesday, gabi pa? sayang naman yung oras nya. baka pwede mong dagdagan ng load... (bumaling sa akin) iho, ilang units ka ba ngayong sem? sumagot ako, "15 po." at bumalik sya sa telepono, "o, 15 units lang, baka pwede mo pang dagdagan kahit isang subject lang sa hapon mga alas-tres o yung 4:30. ano, ok ba? o sige, papupuntahin ko sya dyan sa yo." pagkatapos ng usapan nila sa phone, sinabihan nya ako na makipag-usap sa secretary ng A.S. tapos pinapunta muna ako sa room 125 para makita ang staff room... tambayan. saka tinawag si Noel. "noeeeeeeel....! o eto na sunduin mo na yung recruit mo. dyan muna sya sa section mo para matutukan mo."

^ ito ang unang araw ko sa Rooms 124 at 125.  Unang araw ko sa glee club, nakita ko kung gaano ka-"powerful" si nanay Fe sa eskwelahan.  Lalo na nang itawag nya sa Arts & Sciences ang pag-aayos ng schedule ko.

Concerts Lessons

Ako At Ang Musika after a night's performance. January 1995.

first major concert ko sa grupo--- Ako At Ang Musika. magagaling ang mga dating miyembro na naging haligi ng performances. madalas sabihin ni ma'am: "***** kayong mga bago! kayo ang magpapabagsak sa konsyerto ko!" sinu-sino ba kaming new members noong batch na yun? ang mga natatandaan ko: Ako, Faye, Michelle E., Mildred, Joy, April, Joelita, Rio, Junjo, Alexis, at siyempre si Onin. (sinong na-miss ko?)
Dito ko unang nalaman kung paano "magtrabaho" ang glee club members.  Sabay ang pag-aaral at ang performances.  Time management agad sa unang taon.  At kapag dumalaw ang alumni, todo pa-impress sa mga ate at kuya dahil isa sa mga tinitignan nila ay ang mga bago sa grupo.

Piso-piso... isa ito sa bumubuhay sa grupo lalo na sa mga panahon ng rehearsals.  Maliit na bagay kung araw-araw "isinasabuhay" pero napakalaki ng naitutulong sa panahong kailangan na ito.

Bawal sa grupo ang baha-bahagi o grupo-grupo.  Bawal rin sa grupo ang magkaroon ng katipan mula sa loob.  Kung uso na noon ang "bahay ni kuya," glee club na ang nauna sa napakaraming "house rules" na dapat sinusunod kung hindi, labas ka sa "bahay."

2nd major concert ko sa grupo--- Memory Lane. ito na yata ang most attended na concert. pinakamarami ring bilang ng miyembro that time. Standing Room Only. "may nakasabit na sa kurtina." puno ang gilid at pati ang hagdanan. halos katabi na ng perfomers ang audience sa harapan ng stage. itong concert din na ito ang pinakamahaba. may intermission numbers ang mga education student sa pagitan ng mga concert part. isa rito yung 'Muslim' dance na tampok ang pamangkin ni ma'am--- si Jing. last song sa repertoire: Hibang Sa Awit! kahit pagod sa mahigit 3-oras na pagtatanghal, makita lang ang audience na buhay na buhay, sige pa rin ang 101% performance level!
Dito ako nakasama sa pag-aayos ng publicity and promotions ng konsyerto. Unti-unti, nakakasama na ako sa mga usapin ng mga staff na may kinalaman sa pag-aayos ng mga bagay-bagay sa grupo.

Eighteen... ito ang 3rd major concert ko sa grupo. para sa akin, ito ang pinaka-feel good ko na concert.  konsyertong inabangan ng maraming alumni at maging ng mga tagapgturo ng awit, kabilang ang UPSA director, ang Ka Ed Manguiat.  Broadway-themed ang concert.
Lehitimong staff na ako ng grupo.  Vice President 2. angas? Sa taong ito rin ako nabigyan ng "break" na umawit ng trio kasama sina Harold at Jontis.  Malolos, Bulacan concert.  Di ko malilimutan.  Kasabay ng pagpatak ng ulan ng Apo Hiking Society eh pumapatak din ang pawis ko sa kahihiyan.  Wala kaming feedback monitor kaya hindi nagsabay ang tinig sa minus one.  Di rin naging maganda ang quality ng sound system o nung venue? hmm.. lahat na sisisihin ko wag lang kaming tatlo na kumanta. haha.  Anyway, itong taon na ito ang naging grooming year ko para sa huling taon ko sa grupo...

'Yan Ang Pinoy! ang huli kong major concert sa grupo.  nagsimula akong Presidente sa simula ng school year na ito pero nagka-problema ako sa schedule ng 4 na OJT ko at rehearsal sa grupo.  Kasama pa ang gabi-gabing location shoots para sa telesine project.  Hindi nagkasya si nanay Fe na tanggalin ako sa pagiging presidente.  "Itiniwalag" pa nya ako.  Ayusin ko raw muna ang priorities ko.  Ramdam ko mahal nya akong anak.  Ibinalik nya ako bago mag-concert.  Sapat na panahon para mapangunahan ko ang produksyon. Ako ang Production Coordinator.  Nasa responsibilidad ko ang lahat ng apeto ng paghahanda sa produksyon.  Karangalan kong tanggapin at gampanan iyon.  Dito ko natutuhan ang magbigay-daan sa mga bagong miyembro pagdating sa performance.  Panahon na nila ito, sa "likod" na lang kami para umalalay, gumabay at gawin nilang sandigan sa panahong kinakailangan.

Fast Forward...
Nang huli ko syang makita nang personal noong nasa ospital pa, pinagsabihan na ako ng nurse na huwag nang magtagal sa pagbisita dahil pagod na raw ang pasyente at kailangan nang magpahinga.  Nangako ako na saglit lang ako.  Pero hindi ko natupad ang pangako ko sa nurse.  Nang makita ako ng nanay, hindi ko mabakas ang sinasabing "pagod" nung nurse.  Maraming ikinukwento si nanay. Nakangiti. Mahina sa karaniwan ang tinig at maraming inaalam sa buhay ko sa kasalukuyan.  "Kumusta ang tungkulin mo, pangulong mang-aawit ka pa rin ba?" "Kumusta ang anak mo?"  "Mayaman ka na ba ngayon, anak?" Agad niyang ginamit ang dinala kong bagong unan para mahigaan niya sa kama ng ospital.  Hanggang sa pumasok na ang nurse at sinabihan syang iinom na ng gamot.  Doon na kami nagpaalam sa isa't-isa.

NEU Glee Club year-end party. December 2010

August 23, 2013... namahinga na ang Nanay Fe. Isang taon na pala.  Ambilis ng panahon.  Parang kailan lang.  Nang huli ko syang masilayan sa kaniyang kinahihigaan, sigurado ako, pumanaw siyang may ngiti sa labi.  Bakas kase iyon sa payapa niyang pagkakapikit habang daan-daang miyembro, kakilala, kamag-anak, kapatid sa Iglesia ang sumisilay sa kanya habang nakahimlay.  Alam ko, nakaratay pa lang siya sa banig ng karamdaman, nakahanda na sya.  Maraming bumalik para magbigay-pugay sa napakalaking naiambag nya hindi lamang sa paaralan kundi sa buhay ng mga estudyanteng dumaan sa kaniyang "pangangalaga."  Isa ako sa kanila.  Marami mang hindi nakakikilala nang lubos sa kaniya at sa unang tingin ay agad siyang katatakutan pero para sa aming naging mga "anak" niya, nag-iisa lang si nanay Fe.  Hindi siya naging madamot para ibahagi ang mga kaalaman ng buhay.  Tulad ng iba't ibang uri ng musika na aming kinakanta sa loob at labas ng sulok ng rehearsal rooms, ganun niya ipinakita sa amin ang buhay naming haharapin... sa panahong napaka-delikado para sa amin.  Mga taon kung saan hinahanap namin ang aming mga sarili--- nakikipagsapalaran sa paaralan, naghahanda para sa mas makatotohanang hamon ng buhay sa hinaharap.  Ang paghubog niya sa amin ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na sinong guro na dumaan sa buhay ko.  Inilaan niya ang maraming oras sa pagtupad ng tungkulin at pagpapayo sa amin.  Ang malasakit niya sa grupo at pag-iingat sa tiwalang ibinigay sa kaniya ng paaralan at ng Pamamahala ng Iglesia... lahat ng iyon ay tinupad niya hanggang sa kahuli-hulihan niyang hininga.

Sa lahat-lahat... salamat, Nanay Fe.

Terrible Traffic

File photo of Ortigas Extension, West-bound

Hello, August!  First Monday of the month and traffic is a big mess.  Road accident which involved at least 8 vehicles has jammed the major thoroughfares of Metro Manila which caused hundreds of people to be late in their respective appointments.  Times like this that you wish you have a personal chopper which may take you anywhere without any hassle.  I myself drove for more or less three hours going to work.  It usually takes me an hour or less with the "normal" traffic condition.  Tsk, tsk... sayang ang gas.  Then occasional rain showers add to the gloominess of the day.  Super typhoon Halong (local name: Jose) continues to intensifies as it moves West-Northwest.  Good thing is that it will not make a landfall this time.  I can't imagine if the Philippine capital will once again be hit directly by the typhoon.  The strength of the typhoon reminds me of Yolanda which devastated parts of Visayas last year.  Metro Manila wouldn't have prepared more for another super typhoon.  Hopefully, weather must improve over the weekend.  Below is the current track of typhoon Jose.  Just look at the wind strength:

Ingat, everyone!  Let's us all have a fruitful week ahead! ;)

Iglesia Ni Cristo Centennial: A Milestone of Blessings!

100 BLESSED YEARS!  Today marks the centennial year of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) since its reemergence in the Philippines.  From its humble beginnings, the church membership today comprises at least 110 nationalities in over 100 countries and territories.  That is God's mighty work!

I have been a member of the church since childhood. "Handog" is what they call the children members who haven't gone indoctrination and baptized yet.  After my baptism in May 19, 1990, I have learned to embrace and strengthen my faith with the help of the Lord.  It has been my ultimate dream to become a choir member and was fulfilled when i was a college freshman.  My first ever choir performance was during the church's 79th year anniversary in the locale of Brookside, Rizal district.  Since then, I have looked forward to the weekly ensayo and the 2nd and 4th Sunday when the juniors choir is scheduled to perform.  Yes, we only perform twice a month then.  But due to the growing needs of the locale, we were then allowed to perform weekly on Sundays and perform also on Thursdays with the seniors choir.  For me it was a delightful development as I will be wearing my choir robe every worship services. As I held on to my office as a choir member, God called me to join the ministry by being a Sunday School Teacher.  After attending a year-long class in the district, I was sworn into office as a Guro sa Pagsamba Ng Kabataan in April 2001.

July 16, 2005--- With the kids after the CWS Thanksgiving in the locale of Mayagay, Rizal district.

In 2003, I was able to wear a different choir robe design as I transferred to the locale of Mississauga (now Mississauga West), Canada for a year.  The English hymns gave me a new perspective about the hymns, how lovely they truly are and very spiritual specially when sung in the worship services.  A year after I went back home to Manila in 2005, I was sworn into the office as the KADIWA president in my home locale, Village East, Rizal.  I carried on my duties as the choir president, a Sunday School Teacher and as the new Pangulong KADIWA.  Coinciding with the centennial year of the church, our locale was able to produce an extension which edifice was dedicated to God last May 2014.  Area-wise, I will be transferred in this congregation together with my family and from here we will carry on with our duties:  me as the choir leader and a Sunday school teacher, and my wife as a finance officer.

"Mississauga boys, Senior B" (July 25, 2004)

My personal milestone is just small compared to the whole church's achievements.  The persecutions it suffered during its early years, the brethren's test of faith during the Japanese occupation in the country, and even the continuous hatred it receives from current detractors--- all of these didn't hinder the growth, and progress of the church.  God truly fulfilled his promise to his messenger and to his nation:  "Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall hinder it? (Isa. 43:13)"

Church milestones:

July 27, 1914 - The Iglesia Ni Cristo was officially registered with the Philippine government, coinciding with the 1st world war

1924 - The church established its first ecclesiastical district--- Pampanga

February 1939 - The official publication of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, PASUGO, was launched.  It primarily aims to propagate the faith through print media.

1946 - The church has already established at least 15 ecclesiastical districts including Ilocos Norte in Luzon, Cebu in Visayas and Cotabato in Southern Mindanao.

1948 - The 1st concrete house of worship of the church was dedicated to God--- local of Washington, Manila

April 26, 1968 - Radyo Agila (DZEC 1062 kHz) began broadcasting on air.

July 27, 1968 - The Iglesia Ni Cristo has established its first congregation overseas, in Honolulu, Hawaii.

1971 - The church reached Canada; the same year when the Central office in Quezon City was opened.

1974 - The College of Evangelical Ministry was founded.  

November 1981 - Lingap Sa Mamamayan (Aid for Humanity) was launched.  It primarily aims to provide relief goods, health care, and other services to the needy, especially those who are afflicted by calamities and disasters. It also provides seminars for disaster preparedness, first aid, and family planning.

1984 - The 7,000-seat Central Temple was dedicated to God.

1987 - the US Main Office (USMO) was established in Daly City.  This helped the Central Office in overseeing the then 11 districts of the church in the West.

July 27, 1994 - Rome, Italy congregation was established

March 1996 - the church returned to Jerusalem, Israel and established the congregation for the last work of salvation

May 1997 - Athens, Greece congregation was established.

April 23, 2000 - Eagle Broadcasting launched NET 25

...the church steadily grew with faithfuls fulfilling their primary obligations to God, and also participates in other community-related activities such as blood donation, tree planting activities, community clean-up drives, and other livelihood projects.

Today, millions of brethren gathered together to join the church administrator in leading the special worship service in the occasion of the church's 100th year anniversary.  Last Monday, the major edifice of Ciudad de Victoria which is the Philippine Arena, was inaugurated. Wifey & I was just lucky to be part of this historic event.  The structure pictures the stature of the church today:  GLORIOUS!

As the church march beyond its centennial year, we as brothers and sisters in Christ will continue to be obedient to the LORD's teachings and be one with the church administration in fulfilling our duties to God, keeping FAITH, LOVE & HOPE in our journey to the promised land.

HAPPY CENTENNIAL TO ALL BRETHREN!  PRAISES BE UNTO GOD!

Read also:  Ciudad de Victoria Inauguration: A Remarkably Peaceful Event

Reference: Iglesia ni Cristo Official Website

Jollibee Superstar

Finally got home from probably the worst traffic day of the month.  My trip from the office to LRT station in V. Mapa which usually just takes around 10 to 15 minutes took an hour of my commute time due to heavy traffic.  Road construction, a little rain shower and a payday weekend should be credited to this traffic jam.  Anyway, before riding that dreadful jeepney trip, I decided to dine in Jollibee-Kalentong and order my favorite burger steak meal and pineapple juice.  Yeah, my dinner.  A few minutes after sitting down at my dining table, a child cheerfully pointed leading to the stairs beside  me... "Si Hetty!" the child happily shouted.  Hetty just waived at the crowd downstairs then went directly to the kitchen/dressing room.  Just behind Hetty is superstar Jollibee.  Yup, I still got star-struck with the jolly bee!  And this bee (in the said branch) might have reserved a whole lot of energy that even after his performance in the birthday party upstairs, he still managed to "entertain" his customers in our dining floor.  He actually rounded all the tables and "entertained" his customers.  A lot took the photo opportunity with him.

took a stolen shot of Jollibee whil he's following up a customer's order over the counter

Jollibee wittingly posed upon seeing me taking a photo of him. Gumalaw tuloy kamay ko, haha.

Not caught in the photo is the actual "pagmamano" of Jollibee to these elders.  Mabuting Pilipino ang bubuyog na ito. ;)

I refer to Jollibee as "he/him/his."  Tama kaya ito o dapat "it" na lang ginamit ko?  :P

Thank You

...for the life, for an additional year,

for the strength to move on without any fear;

for the blessings received day by day,

i am here to stand happen what may.

to GOD i owe my life and strength,

in life i've come up to this length;

may blessings flow as i wait eagerly,

for HIS love to me and to my family.

happy birthday to me! :)

Summer Getaway

CONGRATULATIONS, Lalaine & Johnbert... they tied the knot last April 12.  Lyn & I hosted the program in the reception, while wifey organized the wedding.  Gudjab!

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A little past mid-month and the heat of the summer can already be felt even in the early hours of the morning.  So a lot of Pinoys are craving for a summer getaway where one can unwind, cool off, take a breather and forget about the heat that the sun brings.  Most of them think of one thing--- swimming!  And this holy week* break is just perfect for families and friends to take time out from the daily work or domestic routine.  But unlike most people, our summer getaway isn't the usual water fun, but yeah, it's fun anyway--- road trip, fish feeding, boating, photo ops in a great nature scenery, and yeah, even take rides in an amusement park!  Didn't care about the sun's heat.  Didn't care about the money spent.  What mattered most is that my little girl enjoyed a lot!  She also found a new buddy in Tita Jenners who taught her not to be afraid of the fishes.  Eventually, my little girl enjoyed feeding them!  Then she also rode the boat twice (at a price of one, hehe).  It was our (wifey & I) first time to make a stop in Nuvali.  Didn't know that they offer a cozy place for a few leisure.  Fit for a short stop, the boat ride is a good ride at P30 per head.  Feeding the fishes will cost you P15 per fish food pack but seeing them go for their food is priceless. The big number just keeps me a little worried that there might be a sort of a 'fish stampede' when they fight over the food you throw at them.  While I have been to Tagaytay for a good number of times already, I don't get tired of the Taal Lake view.  You also get a good glimpse of Taal volcano, one of the Philippines' natures pride!  Another first timer in SKY RANCH, the newest amusement park situated in Tagaytay to date, it offers the (tallest-claimed) feris wheel in the country, overlooking Taal lake.  It also offers the vikings ride (Anchor's Away in EK) and a flying bus.  My little girl rode the air balloon by herself and of course, the big carousel with her mom.  We were all exhausted but happy at the end of the day.  We reached home by almost midnight already.

So the following day, I just slept, eat, slept, eat and slept.  To brush off the heat of the day, wifey and I took a good bath together.  Then we headed to my in-laws to accompany Mama who's been alone since Thursday.  When we returned home, we watched a couple of DVD titles:  Homefront and FROZEN.  Yup, watched Frozen for the first time and I loved it.  I now appreciate more when my little girl sings the endless "Do you wanna build a snowmaaaaan..."  Homefront, on the other hand, was a big surprise for me.  The action film was good and the father-daughter relationship in the story added to my interest.  It's a story of a once-undercover cop who wished to live a new life with his family, but the incidents of the past kept haunting him and his daughter, even in the new town where they settled.  The next scenes are just very exciting.

Today, We're making the most out of the long weekend.  Will hit the mall and see if another movie is still showing on the wide screen, as we have 3 passes.  The rest of the day will be spent in church, and tomorrow as well.  Then Monday, it's back to reality--- work.

(Clockwise) Bones & I enjoying the boat ride, wifey taking a pose overlooking Taal, the boat ride in Nuvali, Bones with her Tita Jenners

Summer Getaway - April 17, 2014

Thanking God for the long weekends.  I get to spend more time with my two girls. ;)

April Fools... not!

This is probably one of the rarest times that I haven't posted a prank on an April Fools Day.  Probably a good idea since before this day ends, I just heard (or read) some comments that they are anticipating a prank from me, be it here in my blog, or on my FB wall, or even personally in the office.  April Fools Day has never been as overrated as this year.  Many of my FB friends suddenly became pregnant.  Most SSB (single since birth) I know instantly became "in a relationship," while others kept a very short notice of their trip overseas for good.  Only a very few number of people fall for these pranks.  I guess the prank is on the prankster himself!

The past few years, I have been "fooling" some my friends either through this blog, or through any means.  Last year's April Fools joke was the best hit of all, well, I thought of changing my FB birthday profile to April 1 and guess what?  Over a hundred "friends" (including some relatives) fell for it.  I was just too embarrassed to admit I have fooled them but yeah, a lesson was learned that there are still more than a handful of your friends who truly know important information about you (and did NOT fall for the prank).  The whole April 2013 prank story here: April Fools Story 2013

look! a blog promo!
In relation to this day, I am giving away an overnight accommodation for two (with FREE breakfast) at The Bellevue Manila to the 3rd correct answer (through the comment section of this blog) to this question:  Other than April 1, what is another date when people are excused to perform prank on others?
A MUST to win:  After commenting, like & share The Bonenica Shop on your Facebook wall. :)

Hints: 1. search engines may help but ONLY the 3rd lucky commenter with the correct answer will win the hotel voucher ;)
2. I'm looking for a date far from April 1. ;)

Prize Conditions:
1. for meet-up / pick-up only (Ortigas area, but ok, this is negotiable depending on the winner's location)
2. I reserve the right to give the prize to the next eligible person for any reasons.
3. accommodation indicated in the prize can be availed until JUNE 2014 only, except weekends & holidays.
4. prize unclaimed one month before the voucher's expiration date shall be forfeited.

Congratulations, Graduates & Parents!

A lot of things have been happening lately and I just can't seem to find the "spark" to write about them.  I'm planning on something that will rekindle my passion in writing.  This blog turned 11 this month and looking at the diminishing number of contents looks awful... well, at least for me who is a self-proclaimed writer.  Yes, writing has been my passion since childhood years.  I write poems, stories, love letters... oh well.  I think I need to put my writing habit back on track and take it to the next level. ;)

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Today marks the 20th anniversary of the internet in the Philippines.  20 years ago (1994), I'm not sure if I already began surfing into the worldwide web.  I think it was only after year 2000 that I had my first ever email address... edsamail, anyone?  Then having a dial-up connection at home, I started getting an email address in excite.com.  First online leisure I became a member of was (of course) in PinoyExchange.com (PEx), the largest online Filipino community then and up to date ;)  My original username there was created in 2001 and up to now, it is still active. A couple of years after, I formally entered the world of blogging. It's just amusing to note that PEx has offered "blogging" (PEx Plus Private) even before blogs sprung out like mushrooms in the worldwide web.  Also, PEx can take the credit of being the first to introduce "micro-blogging" in Manila through PEx's Wireless Journal... the one I'm considering as the original twitter.  It was the peak of my mobile spending by sending Wireless Journal updates by texting.  I am even more interested in updating my Wireless Journal (WJ) account than my current twitter account.  Looking back at my WJ posts, I only have good memories even if I posted a good number of rants... which mostly tells updates about food and work rants. hahaha!

Since 20 years ago, internet in Manila has gone a long way.  Don't you all wish that people today still value personal connection than just virtual engagement?

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Speaking of social networking sites, my facebook timeline is loaded with graduation photos.  That's with a matching "toga" outfit.  Some include their parents in the photo, some with classmates and fellow graduates, while most are selfies.

I'd like to extend my congratulations to all the graduates, primary school, secondary school, and college as well.  But most of all, to the hardworking parents who gave everything for their kids' education.  That's a treasure that nobody can take away from your kids now. ;)

To all the primary school grads, congrats, it's a step up to more learnings.  To all secondary school grads, congratulations, you now take your first step to your chosen career path... good luck!  To the college graduates, congratulations and welcome to the world of the unemployed! hahaha, kidding! :D

Family bonding day

OFFSET!  This is one thing I am thankful for working on a holiday, I get to offset a day at work and be with my two girls.  Today, I'll be with my 3 girls--- wifey, little Aya & mom!  Lucky boy I am, eh?

Mom is set to return to Canada on the 21st.  Days are passing by fast now.  Things are getting better while mom spends her last few days with us.  I guess it's really like that.  On the last few days you begin to build up things that you will eventually miss when they're gone. 

mag-lola bonding

Today we'll be driving off to Angeles City in Pampanga, my other home province.  No new place to visit, just meeting up someone in Marquee mall then tonight, wifey & I are set for some body pampering at The Spa while mom meets her friends for dinner. I hope nothing 'troublesome' comes up at work today.  I did all my email-reminders last night and hopes that everything will be in order.  It's just a day so I hope this will be rewarded to me.  Gotta prepare!  This is going to be a great day!

It's New Year at The Square!

It was a feel good day even if I am working on a holiday, took wifey & my little girl with me to Lancaster Square so they can watch the Chinese new year celebration which the commercial team prepared for everyone in the area.  I first left them in the play place inside Leighton Hall while my team mates & I rounded the homeowners to do our day job.  Come late afternoon, we gathered in The Square to wait for the traditional lion dance and of course, the highlight of the celebration--- fireworks display.

Many people gathered in The Square to patiently wait for the start of celebration.  Unfortunately, the group that is supposed to perform the lion dance got stuck in heavy traffic and wasn't able to arrive on time.  As a result, the fireworks display was showcased first (yes, the lion dance group arrived and performed after the fireworks display but most people already left.)

It was awesome witnessing the fireworks display at the nearest possible spot where we are still safe from the 'fireworks debris.' We had to look up to witness how spectacular the heaven was being lit by colorful lights.  Seeing the people around, all were delighted seeing the more-than-5-minute fireworks display--- compensating the couple of hours waiting time for the late lion dance group.

Lancaster Square is located at the heart of Lancaster New City, the flagship project of PRO-FRIENDS.

Coy...see you very soon, kapatid.

It has been a day since I've learned of Coy's passing thru Joriben... but still in disbelief up to this moment.  Coy & I never had that many times together but our communication automatically connects with a few common links:  First, he's a brother in faith.  Second, we both became KADIWA presidents in our respective locales.  Third, we're both bloggers.  Our communication through text messages or through phone calls is much greater than our meet-ups.  I can only recall a couple of personal meet-up with him, one, when he invited me to be the guest speaker in one of their KADIWA monthly meetings in the locale of Molino (Bacoor, Cavite) in September 2008 (barely a month after I became a Buklod member), and two, during iBlog5 in May 2009.  Aside from those two, I don't think we personally met again on any occasion.  But yeah, communication remained.  It's flattering to discover that while he has touched many lives and being looked up to as a "kuya" to many, I have been his "kuya" in the very essence of the word.  I am one of those he consulted if he'll push through a career in Cebu and migrate there for good.  I supported that thought.  It was one decision that he didn't regret and blessed him with greater opportunities in terms of his career.  And there he continued on performing his duties as a very active youth leader.

Our third meet-up could have been great, as professionals in our own fields, but the next set of communication with him revealed something you would admire him for... his bravery.

...that was the last of our conversations.  Yeah, I feel bad for not being able to visit him while he was confined here in Manila.  But having known a brother like him, and being considered as one of his "kuya's" is already something I am thankful for.  Coy... see you very soon, kapatid.

1st Local Trip of the Year

Waiting for our flight back to Manila, from an unexpected trip to Iloilo.  My 2014 started a little unfavorable at work.  First work day of the year, I needed to commute to BIR in Malabon/Navotas just tohave my records updated from the previous employer.  It is my FIRST TIME to actually attend to this matter as my previous employers' HR Department takes care of EVERYTHING.  I just can't understand why the employees need to personally update when in fact, the BIR staff who received my documents didn't even bother to ask any identification cards from me.  Imagine the time I wasted spent just by traveling to and from that distance.  Yeah, my workplace is in Kalentong.  Good thing an LRT ride back to the office is neat.  Anyway, I'm just thankful that I was able to update my record which is supposed to reflect tax deduction adjustments on my payslip.  I'm currently being taxed as married with no dependent/s so the deduction on my gross pay is sky rocketing.  Now I just need to cross my fingers and put my wavering trust to our HR department that the changes will be in effect very soon. And yeah, I am also hoping for a HUGE tax refund due to this.  I've been working for almost two years now in this company and only now that this error has been rectified, but yeah, hope more because the changes are still not in effect.

This trip to Iloilo came very short-noticed.  The more difficult part is not to know what exactly is going to happen to an event which was already organized, but details of it were not really cascaded to you and you were assigned for to "supervise" it.  It's a bit annoying.  Looking a day back,  I'm just thankful that generally, everything went well, even if there was a miscommunication with the media invitees who went to (and immediately left) the event.  Their call time was freakin' 1pm for a 6pm event! Didn't bother asking who did the media invites but yeah, he/she's too excited.  Anyway, the program went smoothly, the press conference was scripted (which i preferred that time) and was able to talk to media friends.  Controversial typhoon Yolanda reporter Atom Araullo of ABS CBN hosted the event.

Presscon:  PRO-FRIENDS Iloilo launched it's "I Want Happiness" campaign during the event.

Just got an announcement that our flight back to Manila is delayed.  What's new, Cebupac?  Meanwhile, I'll just enjoy the time and this cold coffee while waiting for the aircraft.

Happy New Year! ;)