Hi there! It’s midweek and we’re all in for another long weekend. Today’s title pays tribute to one of our endearing traditions which has to do with the observance of All Souls’ and All Saints’ Days. And this is way out of the tradition I have imposed upon myself (or this column) wherein I always pay homage to the ghouls, spirits and ghosts among us each time this season of the year comes.
It’s interesting to note that when the day commemorating the dead comes around, a good number of old women get themselves busy going house to house (I still have to hear someone go puntod to puntod) to do their long prayers supposedly aimed at ensuring that the dear departed a good life in the, well, after-life. The prayer is kinda long (not to mention that a good part of it is in latin) I managed to remember only a line: “…tungod san paghampaka san Sta. Cruz guin tubos mo an kalibutan, Ginoo kalooyi an amon bugto nga si…”.
That prayer supposedly is a novena that is usually said in nine days. But considering today’s fast-paced life (or maybe the hectic schedule brought about by many bookings), even the old ladies have adjusted their services. Some of them now offer a 9-hour (marathon) prayer. Yup nine days worth of prayer compressed in nine hours. Whew! And yes in between prayers (or hourly breaks) they take time to have some biko, sinugba and in some cases bahalina nga tuba. If you seriously consider bahalina, you do not have to imagine how the old ladies do their job halfway through the prayer marathon.
And there is this practice of offering food to the dead. Many do it by putting the offering in dining plates and placing it in front of a picture of a dear departed. Whew! I suppose it’s a way of letting them share what’s in store for everyone during this party for the dead; or is it for the dead to sustain them as they go on their journey in the next life? And the usual fare? Sinakugan, tsokolate, labtinaw, humba. Well, that’s what I call traveling on a heavy stomach. And just curious, why does it always have to include something that is malagkit?
And yes, each time the November 2 comes, my mom and our ever reliable house helper always argue (almost) as to which one to prepare for her (the helper’s) departed: tuba ug sumsuman para sa kalag-kalag against my mom’s suggestion which is to have a mass said for the dead. Thanks to tradition, they always end up with both having what they want.
Seriously, the fact that dates have been set to remember the departed underscores the importance of commemorating our loved ones. From my limited observance of some people’s faith, whatever one into in his belief about God or any supreme being, it seems that our existence on earth is one that is aimed in preparation for the after-life. And this leads me to my next topic which is about prayer.
* * *
I attended the evening mass last Sunday. And the theme of that Sunday had something to do with prayer, particularly our attitude in praying. As the gospel was read, it suddenly hit me! There must be a group of people – the candidates - who said one common prayer that night: Lord (please) let me win! (By this time we would have known who ended with unanswered prayers).
Back to the mass. In a way, the theme taught us about humility in praying. On the other hand, the priest observed that the last mass is always filled with young people. But not that Sunday. “Where are the young people?” the priest asked. Don’t tell me, he said. I saw some of them gathered (for the night?) at the youth hostel. Other groups may have been gathered in other places around the city.
Now a question: where they herded in various places to pray? Nah! It’s part of the SK tradition of herding a bunch of young voters to ensure a candidate’s victory. It used to be done only during the election for the Federation President, now some are doing it even at the barangay level. So how can some young people pull off something like this? Lest we forget, SK also can also stand for Samukan nga Kalagsan.
* * *
Let me leave you with something about my favorite topic (the past few days). This has to do with some doctors (not again). One is this doctorate degree holder who teaches in a local institution. She is among the rare species whom I refer to as the very few na may karapatang magdala ng titulong doctor. So what about her? I learned only lately that for a good number of times she locked horns with the doctorette I was referring to in my previous columns. That locking of horns is an open secret among their students. Some of these students were inquisitive enough to ask why is that? My favorite doctor na may karapatan simply said: “I’m giving her the rare privilege of hating me” Yun na!
* * *
Have a nice week everyone! Ciao!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
tolerance
Hi there! It’s a weekend and the SCUUA 2007 meet officially ends today with the closing ceremonies to be followed by SCUAA Jam cum Paalam Night at the TTMIST Oval.
* * *
First things first. Mayor Mel Sarmiento is off to Jeju, South Korea for the 2nd United Cities and Local Governments World Congress on October 28 – 31, 2007. He has been invited to speak during the session on Strategic Responses in Fast - Growing Cities.
If I may repeat what I featured in this column a few weeks ago, the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) represents and defends the interests of local governments on the world stage, regardless of the size of the communities they serve. Headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, the organization’s mission is to be the united voice and world advocate of democratic local self-government, promoting its values, objectives and interests, through cooperation between local governments, and within the wider international community.
* * *
A few weeks ago, news had it that some quarters are considering tapping nuclear energy for the country. It’s almost time don’t you think? Yeah right. After 30 years (?) they (or should I say we, I mean the Filipino people) have paid-off the loan for the mothballed Bataan Nuclear power plant. And now somebody is trying to float the idea about the need to tap nuclear energy. Okey it’s cheap, but they still have to make clear how to do away with radioactive waste safely.
And the glorietta blast. As expected some lawmakers were quick to accuse the government of doing it. I’m wondering when they are going to call an inquiry on the blast, in aid of legislation, of course.
* * *
I got this from Yahoo and I can’t help but feature it here, and this explains the title for today. I’ve heard of Harry Potter (who hasn’t) but was never into the movie, well, that’s until last week when a good number of sites featured this line: Dumbledore is gay! That’s after Jo Rowling said so when she answered one young reader's question about Dumbledore by saying that he was gay and had been in love with Grindelwald, whom he had defeated years ago in a bitter fight. If I may quote some lines from yahoo: '"You cannot imagine how his ideas caught me, Harry, inflamed me,'" Dumbledore says in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," the seventh and final book in Rowling's record-breaking fantasy series.
Some quarters were quick to say that a gay character in the most popular series in the world is a big step for Jo Rowling and for gay rights." Some fans had this to say: "Jo Rowling calling any Harry Potter character gay would make wonderful strides in tolerance toward homosexuality. By dubbing someone so respected, so talented and so kind, as someone who just happens to be also homosexual, she's reinforcing the idea that a person's gayness is not something of which they should be ashamed."
* * *
I don’t remember the exact words, but I can clearly remember the message. An institution in the city is into promoting the culture of excellence. Nice to hear or know that. What person in his right mind will say no to that? And a culture like that entails discipline, no question about it. But then how should one react when along the way the discipline should include talking only in English or Filipino? The way I see it, the message is that waray-waray or binisaya is something that promotes anything but excellence. Did I get it right? What do you think? Nagtatanong lang po.
* * *
Let me leave you with the last part of the airline (cabin) announcements email I left you with last Wednesday.
All too rarely, airline attendants make an effort to make the in-flight "safety lecture" and announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some (supposedly) real examples that have been heard or reported:
- "In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with more than one small child, pick your favorite."
- "As you exit the plane, make sure to gather all of your belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses."
- And from the pilot during his welcome message: "Philippines Airlines is pleased to have some of the best flight attendants in the industry. Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!"
- After landing the airplane and while taxiing towards the terminal, cabin attendant announced as passengers rise to retrieve their hand carry bags: "Manatili po sana tayong nakaupo habang hindi pa ganap na nakahimpil ang ating sasakyan, WALA PONG PREMYO PARA SA MAUUNANG LALABAS NG EROPLANO."
* * *
Have a nice weekend everyone! Ciao!
* * *
First things first. Mayor Mel Sarmiento is off to Jeju, South Korea for the 2nd United Cities and Local Governments World Congress on October 28 – 31, 2007. He has been invited to speak during the session on Strategic Responses in Fast - Growing Cities.
If I may repeat what I featured in this column a few weeks ago, the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) represents and defends the interests of local governments on the world stage, regardless of the size of the communities they serve. Headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, the organization’s mission is to be the united voice and world advocate of democratic local self-government, promoting its values, objectives and interests, through cooperation between local governments, and within the wider international community.
* * *
A few weeks ago, news had it that some quarters are considering tapping nuclear energy for the country. It’s almost time don’t you think? Yeah right. After 30 years (?) they (or should I say we, I mean the Filipino people) have paid-off the loan for the mothballed Bataan Nuclear power plant. And now somebody is trying to float the idea about the need to tap nuclear energy. Okey it’s cheap, but they still have to make clear how to do away with radioactive waste safely.
And the glorietta blast. As expected some lawmakers were quick to accuse the government of doing it. I’m wondering when they are going to call an inquiry on the blast, in aid of legislation, of course.
* * *
I got this from Yahoo and I can’t help but feature it here, and this explains the title for today. I’ve heard of Harry Potter (who hasn’t) but was never into the movie, well, that’s until last week when a good number of sites featured this line: Dumbledore is gay! That’s after Jo Rowling said so when she answered one young reader's question about Dumbledore by saying that he was gay and had been in love with Grindelwald, whom he had defeated years ago in a bitter fight. If I may quote some lines from yahoo: '"You cannot imagine how his ideas caught me, Harry, inflamed me,'" Dumbledore says in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," the seventh and final book in Rowling's record-breaking fantasy series.
Some quarters were quick to say that a gay character in the most popular series in the world is a big step for Jo Rowling and for gay rights." Some fans had this to say: "Jo Rowling calling any Harry Potter character gay would make wonderful strides in tolerance toward homosexuality. By dubbing someone so respected, so talented and so kind, as someone who just happens to be also homosexual, she's reinforcing the idea that a person's gayness is not something of which they should be ashamed."
* * *
I don’t remember the exact words, but I can clearly remember the message. An institution in the city is into promoting the culture of excellence. Nice to hear or know that. What person in his right mind will say no to that? And a culture like that entails discipline, no question about it. But then how should one react when along the way the discipline should include talking only in English or Filipino? The way I see it, the message is that waray-waray or binisaya is something that promotes anything but excellence. Did I get it right? What do you think? Nagtatanong lang po.
* * *
Let me leave you with the last part of the airline (cabin) announcements email I left you with last Wednesday.
All too rarely, airline attendants make an effort to make the in-flight "safety lecture" and announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some (supposedly) real examples that have been heard or reported:
- "In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with more than one small child, pick your favorite."
- "As you exit the plane, make sure to gather all of your belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses."
- And from the pilot during his welcome message: "Philippines Airlines is pleased to have some of the best flight attendants in the industry. Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!"
- After landing the airplane and while taxiing towards the terminal, cabin attendant announced as passengers rise to retrieve their hand carry bags: "Manatili po sana tayong nakaupo habang hindi pa ganap na nakahimpil ang ating sasakyan, WALA PONG PREMYO PARA SA MAUUNANG LALABAS NG EROPLANO."
* * *
Have a nice weekend everyone! Ciao!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
by virtue of the power vested in me . . .
Hi there! It’s midweek and the games of the 23rd SCUAA officially started yesterday, but it was a rainy start though. And yes, thanks to that power outage, the delegates literally got a warm (or is it hot?) welcome on their second night in the city.
SCUAA 2007 opened last Sunday at the TTMIST Socio-Cultural Center with the Solidarity Night dubbed as Kangay. I hosted the said event and referred to it as the cultural side of SCUAA. It was preceded by a Mass presided by Msgr. Leonardo Guadalquiver. Dr. Socorro Bohol welcomed the guests which included the City Officials led by the Mayor Mel Sarmiento and the Presidents of the participating State Colleges and Universities of Region 8 namely, Naval Institute of Technology, Samar State University, Samar State College of Agriculture and Forestry, Eastern Visayas State University, University of the Eastern Philippines, Palompon Institute of Technology and Visayas State University.
Guests were treated to a sumptuous feast during the dinner cum sugba fest. It opened with a colorful ritual-dance performed by the Sarakiki-Hadang Performers of Calbayog. Guests were later treated to Calbayog songs and dances presented by the Kinetics Dance Company and the Campus Chorus. The cultural show was highlighted with the kuratsa being performed by Dr. Socorro Bohol and Dr. Cesar Sabenicio who were later joined in by the VIPs and guests.
The successful Kangay event was result of the collaboration between Dr. Gabriella Sabenicio of TTMIST and Jonas Lim of CACO. For some pictures of the said event, please check this link: kangay/scuaa 2007.
* * *
You must have noticed the recent TV ADs showing the country’s economic growth. Nice to know that. But why did the price of that breakfast staple a.k.a. pandesal have to go up? On the other hand, food and cosmetic manufacturers are still coming up with products packed in tingi or what they call saver packs. A few years back, there was this article saying that the tingi phenomenon is a manifestation that something is wrong with the economy. But then I heard somewhere that this marketing strategy is being followed by some of our prosperous Asian neighbors. Whatever one is into, I saw the wisdom of tingi lately when I did some grocery shopping with a calculator on hand. And yes, one can save a lot if one is to buy shampoo, gel and some beauty products in those small packs or sachets. So, is there something wrong with the economy? I dunnow, ‘coz in Calbayog the local food joints along with Jollibee and Chowking are still packing ‘em in.
* * *
So, what’s with today’s title? This has to do with my never-ending series about some doctors (not MDs if I may add) in Calbayog who can’t seem to do it right. I’d rather that I discuss about the new (and very interesting) twist on the Harry Potter series: Dumbledore is gay! But that can wait. I’ll deal with Dumbledore next time. For now, let’s have a little bit of this doctorette (now I just gave you a clue as to the size of the doctor).
A bubwit told me that earlier this year, this doctorette was invited as speaker in a school graduation in one of the barangays (carline, now that’s a clue) in the city. So what about it? People get invited to talk in graduations. Now, ang siste is that there was no official or somebody who was supposed to declare the candidates for graduation as graduates. Lo and behold, instead of the principal or maybe some DepeEd official, the doctorette was the one who declared the candidates as graduates. So what’s wrong with that? I’m still trying to see the konek between the doctorette’s school or at least his/her position in school and his/her being able to declare as graduates students from another school the curriculum of which has nothing to do with school from where the doctor comes from. Magulo ba? Do we blame it on the school officials? Or maybe the doctorette did not read the program so as to give suggestions? Or maybe the doctorette just didn’t know the difference. Es la vida.
* * *
Let me leave you with something to smile about this week. Something I got via email (again). It has something to do with airline (cabin) announcements.
All too rarely, airline attendants make an effort to make the in-flight "safety lecture" and announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some (supposedly) real examples that have been heard or reported:
- On a flight with a very "senior" flight attendant crew, the pilot said, "Ladies and gentlemen, we've reached cruising altitude and will be turning down the cabin lights. This is for your comfort and to enhance the appearance of your flight attendants."
- On landing, the stewardess said, "Please be sure to take all of your belongings. If you're going to leave anything, please make sure it's something we'd like to have."
- "There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane."
- "Welcome aboard . . . To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull tight. It works just like every other seat belt; and, if you don't know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised. "
* * *
Have a nice week everyone! Ciao!
SCUAA 2007 opened last Sunday at the TTMIST Socio-Cultural Center with the Solidarity Night dubbed as Kangay. I hosted the said event and referred to it as the cultural side of SCUAA. It was preceded by a Mass presided by Msgr. Leonardo Guadalquiver. Dr. Socorro Bohol welcomed the guests which included the City Officials led by the Mayor Mel Sarmiento and the Presidents of the participating State Colleges and Universities of Region 8 namely, Naval Institute of Technology, Samar State University, Samar State College of Agriculture and Forestry, Eastern Visayas State University, University of the Eastern Philippines, Palompon Institute of Technology and Visayas State University.
Guests were treated to a sumptuous feast during the dinner cum sugba fest. It opened with a colorful ritual-dance performed by the Sarakiki-Hadang Performers of Calbayog. Guests were later treated to Calbayog songs and dances presented by the Kinetics Dance Company and the Campus Chorus. The cultural show was highlighted with the kuratsa being performed by Dr. Socorro Bohol and Dr. Cesar Sabenicio who were later joined in by the VIPs and guests.
The successful Kangay event was result of the collaboration between Dr. Gabriella Sabenicio of TTMIST and Jonas Lim of CACO. For some pictures of the said event, please check this link: kangay/scuaa 2007.
* * *
You must have noticed the recent TV ADs showing the country’s economic growth. Nice to know that. But why did the price of that breakfast staple a.k.a. pandesal have to go up? On the other hand, food and cosmetic manufacturers are still coming up with products packed in tingi or what they call saver packs. A few years back, there was this article saying that the tingi phenomenon is a manifestation that something is wrong with the economy. But then I heard somewhere that this marketing strategy is being followed by some of our prosperous Asian neighbors. Whatever one is into, I saw the wisdom of tingi lately when I did some grocery shopping with a calculator on hand. And yes, one can save a lot if one is to buy shampoo, gel and some beauty products in those small packs or sachets. So, is there something wrong with the economy? I dunnow, ‘coz in Calbayog the local food joints along with Jollibee and Chowking are still packing ‘em in.
* * *
So, what’s with today’s title? This has to do with my never-ending series about some doctors (not MDs if I may add) in Calbayog who can’t seem to do it right. I’d rather that I discuss about the new (and very interesting) twist on the Harry Potter series: Dumbledore is gay! But that can wait. I’ll deal with Dumbledore next time. For now, let’s have a little bit of this doctorette (now I just gave you a clue as to the size of the doctor).
A bubwit told me that earlier this year, this doctorette was invited as speaker in a school graduation in one of the barangays (carline, now that’s a clue) in the city. So what about it? People get invited to talk in graduations. Now, ang siste is that there was no official or somebody who was supposed to declare the candidates for graduation as graduates. Lo and behold, instead of the principal or maybe some DepeEd official, the doctorette was the one who declared the candidates as graduates. So what’s wrong with that? I’m still trying to see the konek between the doctorette’s school or at least his/her position in school and his/her being able to declare as graduates students from another school the curriculum of which has nothing to do with school from where the doctor comes from. Magulo ba? Do we blame it on the school officials? Or maybe the doctorette did not read the program so as to give suggestions? Or maybe the doctorette just didn’t know the difference. Es la vida.
* * *
Let me leave you with something to smile about this week. Something I got via email (again). It has something to do with airline (cabin) announcements.
All too rarely, airline attendants make an effort to make the in-flight "safety lecture" and announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some (supposedly) real examples that have been heard or reported:
- On a flight with a very "senior" flight attendant crew, the pilot said, "Ladies and gentlemen, we've reached cruising altitude and will be turning down the cabin lights. This is for your comfort and to enhance the appearance of your flight attendants."
- On landing, the stewardess said, "Please be sure to take all of your belongings. If you're going to leave anything, please make sure it's something we'd like to have."
- "There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane."
- "Welcome aboard . . . To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull tight. It works just like every other seat belt; and, if you don't know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised. "
* * *
Have a nice week everyone! Ciao!
Monday, October 22, 2007
The City Mayor receives Region 8 SUCs Presidents
The Presidents of the various State Colleges and UNiversities (SUCs) participating in the SCUAA Meet 2007 paid a courtesy call on the City Mayor this morning. Due to the ongoing repairs at the Mayor's Office, Mayor Mel Sarmiento received his callers at the CBO Conference Call.
A good number of topics were discussed during the meeting, among these was the positive results the city is getting from its partnerships with various schools and other private institutions in the city. The City Mayor also clarified his stand on the citihood of some municipalities in region 8.
The City Mayor with (l-r) Dr. Delia Combista (PIT), Dr. Aida Tobes (SSCAF), Dr. Editha Henson (NIT), Dr. Socorro Bohol, Dr. Jose Bacusmo (VSU), Atty. Mar De Asis (UEP), Dr. Simon Babalcon, Jr. (SSU) and Dr. Reynaldo Lumbio (ESSU)
A good number of topics were discussed during the meeting, among these was the positive results the city is getting from its partnerships with various schools and other private institutions in the city. The City Mayor also clarified his stand on the citihood of some municipalities in region 8.
The City Mayor with (l-r) Dr. Delia Combista (PIT), Dr. Aida Tobes (SSCAF), Dr. Editha Henson (NIT), Dr. Socorro Bohol, Dr. Jose Bacusmo (VSU), Atty. Mar De Asis (UEP), Dr. Simon Babalcon, Jr. (SSU) and Dr. Reynaldo Lumbio (ESSU)Friday, October 19, 2007
SCUAA City
(this column appears in today's edition of the Leyte-Samar Daily Express)
Hi there! It’s Friday and we’re two days away to the 23rd SCUAA meet; and that explains today’s title (and also the reason why for this issue, I won’t have nasty comments about issues both local and national as well as on some people who make life kinda uncomfy for some Calbayognons).
In case I haven’t mentioned it yet, TTMIST is hosting the annual event. (By the way, a few weeks ago I have featured a news item about TTMIST being on top of all SUCs in Samar. In case you're interested, check this link).
The City Government has contributed (both money and effort) to help in the successful hosting of this event which is expected to bring to Calbayog athletes and officials from the twelve state colleges and universities in Eastern Visayas. Mayor Mel Sarmiento in his message during the last Charter Day celebration called on all Calbayognons to ensure the success of the event.
In a way, helping the SCUAA hosting was one reason for the low-key 59th Charter Day celebration. A few days ago, Mayor Sarmiento signed an Executive Order naming Councilor Julius Mancol as chairperson of the committee tasked to come up with a meaningful and appropriate charter day celebration next year when Calbayog City turns 60. If I may repeat what the Mayor cited in his speech, Calbayog is the 19th oldest city in the country.
* * *
Charter Day 2007 highlights. The Parish Pastor, Fr. Toto Vivas presided over the Thanksgiving Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. I had to attend to other program details so I missed that activity. Anyway, Fr. Vivas must have delivered quite a homily. Mayor Sarmiento quoted a number of lines from that homily when he delivered his speech.
Also part of the program was the Ceremonial Launching Knock-out Tipdas 2007 program. DOH Regional Director Teogenes Baluma was on hand for the said launching.
And the annual parade. It was participated in by a good number of employees from public and private offices, as well as students form the various schools of Calbayog. However this activity was cut short due to a sudden downpour.
* * *
Tribute to Senate President Jose Avelino. In celebration of the 59th Calbayog Charter Day Anniversary, the Sen. Pres. Jose Avelino Foundation in cooperation with some Calbayog artists hosted “An Hulagway ni Lolo Jose”, a portrait-painting exhibit of Calbayog artists at the museum located in the old barracks building. The exhibit is open for viewing from 9am to 5pm and will run until October 26, 2007.
* * *
Hey rockistas! KAMIKAZEE will be in Calbayog on Octboer 23, 2007 at the Socio-Cultural Center. Tickets available at TTMIST Bursar’s Office and SKR promotions office at Brgy. Rawis Calbayog.
* * *
Let me leave you with something to smile about this weekend. It’s something I got via email again. The way I see it, I believe this piece was written by a woman who seems to have some ill-feelings towards the opposite sex. Please don’t take it seriously.
Subject: GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHY OF A WOMAN
Between 18 and 22, a woman is like Africa, half discovered, half wild, naturally beautiful with fertile soil.
Between 23 and 30, a woman is like America, well-developed and open to trade, especially for someone with cash.
Between 31 and 35, a woman is like India, very hot, relaxed and convinced of her own beauty.
Between 36 and 40, a woman is like France, gently aging; but still warm and a desirable place to visit.
Between 41 and 50, a woman is like Great Britain, with a glorious and all conquering past.
Between 51 and 60, a woman is like Yugoslavia, lost some wars, won some great battles but haunted by past mistakes, still very strong and proud.
Between 61 and 70, a woman is like Russia, very wide and borders are now largely un-patrolled.
After 70, she becomes Tibet. Off the beaten path, with a mysterious past and the wisdom of the ages. . . still desirable but only those with an adventurous spirit and a thirst for spiritual knowledge and true love dare visit there.
GEOGRAPHY OF A MAN
Between 1 and 80, a man is like Iran, ruled by a d-_-_- k. (in case you’re wondering what the word is, do email me. Again, don’t take it seriously. Smile! It’s a weekend)
* * *
Have a nice weekend everyone! Ciao!
Hi there! It’s Friday and we’re two days away to the 23rd SCUAA meet; and that explains today’s title (and also the reason why for this issue, I won’t have nasty comments about issues both local and national as well as on some people who make life kinda uncomfy for some Calbayognons).
In case I haven’t mentioned it yet, TTMIST is hosting the annual event. (By the way, a few weeks ago I have featured a news item about TTMIST being on top of all SUCs in Samar. In case you're interested, check this link).
The City Government has contributed (both money and effort) to help in the successful hosting of this event which is expected to bring to Calbayog athletes and officials from the twelve state colleges and universities in Eastern Visayas. Mayor Mel Sarmiento in his message during the last Charter Day celebration called on all Calbayognons to ensure the success of the event.
In a way, helping the SCUAA hosting was one reason for the low-key 59th Charter Day celebration. A few days ago, Mayor Sarmiento signed an Executive Order naming Councilor Julius Mancol as chairperson of the committee tasked to come up with a meaningful and appropriate charter day celebration next year when Calbayog City turns 60. If I may repeat what the Mayor cited in his speech, Calbayog is the 19th oldest city in the country.
* * *
Charter Day 2007 highlights. The Parish Pastor, Fr. Toto Vivas presided over the Thanksgiving Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. I had to attend to other program details so I missed that activity. Anyway, Fr. Vivas must have delivered quite a homily. Mayor Sarmiento quoted a number of lines from that homily when he delivered his speech.
Also part of the program was the Ceremonial Launching Knock-out Tipdas 2007 program. DOH Regional Director Teogenes Baluma was on hand for the said launching.
And the annual parade. It was participated in by a good number of employees from public and private offices, as well as students form the various schools of Calbayog. However this activity was cut short due to a sudden downpour.
* * *
Tribute to Senate President Jose Avelino. In celebration of the 59th Calbayog Charter Day Anniversary, the Sen. Pres. Jose Avelino Foundation in cooperation with some Calbayog artists hosted “An Hulagway ni Lolo Jose”, a portrait-painting exhibit of Calbayog artists at the museum located in the old barracks building. The exhibit is open for viewing from 9am to 5pm and will run until October 26, 2007.
* * *
Hey rockistas! KAMIKAZEE will be in Calbayog on Octboer 23, 2007 at the Socio-Cultural Center. Tickets available at TTMIST Bursar’s Office and SKR promotions office at Brgy. Rawis Calbayog.
* * *
Let me leave you with something to smile about this weekend. It’s something I got via email again. The way I see it, I believe this piece was written by a woman who seems to have some ill-feelings towards the opposite sex. Please don’t take it seriously.
Subject: GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHY OF A WOMAN
Between 18 and 22, a woman is like Africa, half discovered, half wild, naturally beautiful with fertile soil.
Between 23 and 30, a woman is like America, well-developed and open to trade, especially for someone with cash.
Between 31 and 35, a woman is like India, very hot, relaxed and convinced of her own beauty.
Between 36 and 40, a woman is like France, gently aging; but still warm and a desirable place to visit.
Between 41 and 50, a woman is like Great Britain, with a glorious and all conquering past.
Between 51 and 60, a woman is like Yugoslavia, lost some wars, won some great battles but haunted by past mistakes, still very strong and proud.
Between 61 and 70, a woman is like Russia, very wide and borders are now largely un-patrolled.
After 70, she becomes Tibet. Off the beaten path, with a mysterious past and the wisdom of the ages. . . still desirable but only those with an adventurous spirit and a thirst for spiritual knowledge and true love dare visit there.
GEOGRAPHY OF A MAN
Between 1 and 80, a man is like Iran, ruled by a d-_-_- k. (in case you’re wondering what the word is, do email me. Again, don’t take it seriously. Smile! It’s a weekend)
* * *
Have a nice weekend everyone! Ciao!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
the 2007 Calbayog Charter Day Celebration
Calbayog had a low-key observance of her 59th Charter Day Annivesary.
The Day started with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. The said mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Rolando Vivas.
A flag-raising ceremony followed in front of the City Hall, afterwhich Mayor Mel Sarmiento delivered his Charter Day message. The program also included the Ceremonial Launching of the Knock-Out-Tipdas 2007 program of the Department of Health with DOH-RO 8 Regional Director Teogenes Baluma in attendance.
The City Officials who attended the affair were Vice Mayor Onald Aquino, Councilors Julius Mancol, Danny Bernate, Noel Sermense, Ver Porlares, Benjie Dean, Nonoy Pasacas, Ina Rabuya, Virgil Clemens and Sonny Salurio.
The celebration was capped by the parade. For some pictures, please check this link: 2007 Charter Day Parade
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Vice Mayor Aquino as he participates in the Ceremonial Launching of Knock-out Tipdas 2007
The Day started with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. The said mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Rolando Vivas.
A flag-raising ceremony followed in front of the City Hall, afterwhich Mayor Mel Sarmiento delivered his Charter Day message. The program also included the Ceremonial Launching of the Knock-Out-Tipdas 2007 program of the Department of Health with DOH-RO 8 Regional Director Teogenes Baluma in attendance.
The City Officials who attended the affair were Vice Mayor Onald Aquino, Councilors Julius Mancol, Danny Bernate, Noel Sermense, Ver Porlares, Benjie Dean, Nonoy Pasacas, Ina Rabuya, Virgil Clemens and Sonny Salurio.
The celebration was capped by the parade. For some pictures, please check this link: 2007 Charter Day Parade
.jpg)
Vice Mayor Aquino as he participates in the Ceremonial Launching of Knock-out Tipdas 2007
Monday, October 15, 2007
SOS BINGO SOSYAL ‘07
SOS CHILDREN’S VILLAGE CALBAYOG, INC.
Brgy. Dagum, Calbayog City
Invites you!
Brgy. Dagum, Calbayog City
Invites you!
What: SOS BINGO SOSYAL ‘07
Where: Nijaga Park, Calbayog City
When: November 10, 2007
at 3:00 in the afternoon
Great, great prizes are given away!
For further details & card purchase please call: 2093-169 / 2093-798 / 2091-170
Foods are available at the
open canteen.
4th Lamiraw Workshop Slated
The Arts, Social, and Cultural Affairs Office of TTMIST invites all writers in Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) to join the 4th Lamiraw Creative Writing Workshop on November 8-10, 2007 at Tiburcio Tancinco Memorial Institute of Science and Technology in Calbayog City, Samar.
Interested fellows are required to submit 3 poems or 1 short story or 2 essays written either in Waray, Cebuano, Hinabaknon, or English as pre-qualification requirements.
This activity is a joint project of TTMIST and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). 20 slots are at stake for this region-wide workshop and those who will qualify will be free of registration, travel allowance, and board and lodging.
Deadline of submission is October 15, 2007. For inquiries, please email at lamiraw@yahoo.com or text 09162527995.
Interested fellows are required to submit 3 poems or 1 short story or 2 essays written either in Waray, Cebuano, Hinabaknon, or English as pre-qualification requirements.
This activity is a joint project of TTMIST and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). 20 slots are at stake for this region-wide workshop and those who will qualify will be free of registration, travel allowance, and board and lodging.
Deadline of submission is October 15, 2007. For inquiries, please email at lamiraw@yahoo.com or text 09162527995.
Friday, October 12, 2007
mader, mader, ay am sik
Hi! It’s a Friday and (my apologies to the business sector) today’s holiday proclamation is certainly one of the most welcome moves done my Malacañang.
First things first. Calbayog will turn 59 years old on Tuesday. It’s going to be a low-key affair which will include a Thanksgiving Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. Fr. Rolando Vivas has been invited to preside in the celebration.
After the mass, a short program at the City Hall Stage will follow. It will include the Ceremonial Launching of Knock-out Tipdas 2007, an activity under the auspices of the Department of Health. DOH-8 Regional Director, Dr. Teogenes Baluma will deliver a message. The program will be capped with the Charter Day Message of Mayor Mel Sarmiento and the annual charter day parade.
* * *
So, what’s with today’s title? Wala lang, just wanna feel light this weekend (ano yun?). Nope, I’m not referring to the doctors as in like the ones who make people well, physically, that is. Let’s talk about doctors as in Phd, EdD, and the like. I know a good number of them and I salute them. My former teachers at CKC who are now in other institutions are proofs of the good doctor-educators that we have in Calbayog.
And then, there are the other set of doctors who need to be doctored (read: duroktorun pa). Weeks ago a friend told me that the justices at the Ombudsman have strict instructions to all concerned that the word HONORABLE which comes before their names, as much as possible, should not be included in certificates or anything that they need to sign. So, how does that story connect to my topic on doctors? Well, there was this doctor in Calbayog who always insists on having his title indicated be it in certificates or, heavens, letters which he need to sign. Need I say more?
Do you remember my story about someone saying sinet (for senate), formulets (for formulates). Yup, that person is a doctor (I dunnow if it’s Phd or EdD.); then there are those who can speak in perfect, err, good English, but can qualify as the president of the world’s tactless persons society (there should a group like this somewhere); and then there are those who act as if they own they national highway, or at least a small portion of their school pathway, it turns out they haven’t published a book yet.
And yes, there is this classic line which I heard from another doctor “… from what they said, therefore they are doubt!”
Okey, speaking in English isn’t the only basis for becoming a (good) doctor. But then again . . .
* * *
I dunnow if I’ve shared this in my earlier columns. I like this (which I got via email) The Best Moments In Life:
1. Falling in love.
2. Laughing till your stomach hurts.
3. Enjoying a ride down the country side.
4. Listening to your favorite song on the radio.
5. Going to sleep listening to the rain pouring outside.
6. Getting out of the shower and wrapping yourself with a warm, fuzzy towel.
7. Passing your final exams with good grades.
8. Being part of an interesting conversation.
9. Finding some money in some old pants.
10. Laughing at yourself.
11. Sharing a wonderful dinner with all your friends.
12. Laughing without a reason.
13. "Accidentally" hearing someone say something good about you.
14. Watching the sunset.
15. Listening to a song that reminds you of an important person in your life.
16. Receiving or giving your first kiss.
17. Feeling this movement in your body when seeing this "special" someone.
18. Having a great time with your friends.
19. Seeing the one you love happy.
20. Wearing the shirt of a person you love and smelling his/her perfume.
21. Visiting an old friend of yours and remembering great memories.
22. Hearing some telling you "I LOVE YOU"
"True friends come in the good times when we tell them to, and come in the bad times.....without calling."
* * *
Have a nice weekend everyone! Ciao!
First things first. Calbayog will turn 59 years old on Tuesday. It’s going to be a low-key affair which will include a Thanksgiving Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. Fr. Rolando Vivas has been invited to preside in the celebration.
After the mass, a short program at the City Hall Stage will follow. It will include the Ceremonial Launching of Knock-out Tipdas 2007, an activity under the auspices of the Department of Health. DOH-8 Regional Director, Dr. Teogenes Baluma will deliver a message. The program will be capped with the Charter Day Message of Mayor Mel Sarmiento and the annual charter day parade.
* * *
So, what’s with today’s title? Wala lang, just wanna feel light this weekend (ano yun?). Nope, I’m not referring to the doctors as in like the ones who make people well, physically, that is. Let’s talk about doctors as in Phd, EdD, and the like. I know a good number of them and I salute them. My former teachers at CKC who are now in other institutions are proofs of the good doctor-educators that we have in Calbayog.
And then, there are the other set of doctors who need to be doctored (read: duroktorun pa). Weeks ago a friend told me that the justices at the Ombudsman have strict instructions to all concerned that the word HONORABLE which comes before their names, as much as possible, should not be included in certificates or anything that they need to sign. So, how does that story connect to my topic on doctors? Well, there was this doctor in Calbayog who always insists on having his title indicated be it in certificates or, heavens, letters which he need to sign. Need I say more?
Do you remember my story about someone saying sinet (for senate), formulets (for formulates). Yup, that person is a doctor (I dunnow if it’s Phd or EdD.); then there are those who can speak in perfect, err, good English, but can qualify as the president of the world’s tactless persons society (there should a group like this somewhere); and then there are those who act as if they own they national highway, or at least a small portion of their school pathway, it turns out they haven’t published a book yet.
And yes, there is this classic line which I heard from another doctor “… from what they said, therefore they are doubt!”
Okey, speaking in English isn’t the only basis for becoming a (good) doctor. But then again . . .
* * *
I dunnow if I’ve shared this in my earlier columns. I like this (which I got via email) The Best Moments In Life:
1. Falling in love.
2. Laughing till your stomach hurts.
3. Enjoying a ride down the country side.
4. Listening to your favorite song on the radio.
5. Going to sleep listening to the rain pouring outside.
6. Getting out of the shower and wrapping yourself with a warm, fuzzy towel.
7. Passing your final exams with good grades.
8. Being part of an interesting conversation.
9. Finding some money in some old pants.
10. Laughing at yourself.
11. Sharing a wonderful dinner with all your friends.
12. Laughing without a reason.
13. "Accidentally" hearing someone say something good about you.
14. Watching the sunset.
15. Listening to a song that reminds you of an important person in your life.
16. Receiving or giving your first kiss.
17. Feeling this movement in your body when seeing this "special" someone.
18. Having a great time with your friends.
19. Seeing the one you love happy.
20. Wearing the shirt of a person you love and smelling his/her perfume.
21. Visiting an old friend of yours and remembering great memories.
22. Hearing some telling you "I LOVE YOU"
"True friends come in the good times when we tell them to, and come in the bad times.....without calling."
* * *
Have a nice weekend everyone! Ciao!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
and now they are after the monks
Hi there! It’s midweek and Pacquiao is several millions richer after his latest fight. And again, it’s ironic how a bloody sport can have the power to unite Filipinos. One police officer went on TV to say that no crimes were reported on the day of the fight (well I always see it as either no crime were committed or there were some committed but were not reported). Be that as it may, it’s nice to note how the Speaker and the resigned Comelec Chair made dedma about each other when they watched the fight in a cinema (maybe he was blind? Ah nandyan ba? Hmm, these lines remind me of the dedmahan between Gretchen and Dawn). You take it from there.
So far so good. There was another thing worth noting about the latest Pacquiao fight. The singer sang the national anthem quite well (but I’m not sure about the beat). At least it was not in the R & B style that previous performers were into. As to what Pacquiao said (in English) in the interviews that followed, well, I rest my case.
Oh no! Not Again! So they (or someone) had filed another impeachment complaint against PGMA. How do you think should we react?
Meanwhile in Burma, our ASEAN neighbor which is ruled by a military junta (for two decades now?), it seems like they are through with Aung Sang Su Kyi, they have started going after the monks. What the hell is going on? As news reports had it, the monks (or the temples that they are into) are considered as the (highest) moral authorities in Burma. If text messages are indeed true, how would you consider the death of more that ten thousand monks (and that those who survived were supposedly cremated alive). Text messages can be exaggerated, but certainly not the reports from credible news networks. So what’s the catch here? So far the ASEAN has done nothing (okey, it’s that non-interference thing again). Come to think of it, even the U.N. wasn’t able to do a thing. Why doesn’t Mr. Bush do something akin to what he did to oust Saddam? My apologies, the olive branch of peace could get broken or can dry up in time and one has got no choice but opt for the sword of war. Oops, just wishful thinking on my part.
* * *
Congratulations to the City Arts and Culture Office for a successful presentation of their stage play and digifilm entitled Inodoro in Dipolog City. The said presentations are part of the advocacy campaign of the City’s USAID-funded LINAW program.
* * *
Congratulations to Calbayog’s new judges: Judge Felipe Maglana and Judge Myrna Clemens.
* * *
Congratulation and Best Wishes to Romeo Salceda Jr. of Palo, Leyte and Leah Nicolasora of Calbayog City. They recently got married with Fr. Ric Pitogo saying the wedding mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. Reception was held at the LMA Auditorium. Their sponsors included Judge Rey Clemens, Judge Odel Mabutin, Judge Philip Maglana, Mr. Ben Muncada, Mrs. Elsa Tan, Mrs. Ana Asis, among others.
* * *
Let me continue with the second part of the “INSTALLING LOVE” article I left you with last Wednesday:
Customer: Oops! I have an error message already. It says, "Error - Program not run on external components." What should I do?
Tech Support: Don't worry. It means that the Love program is set up to run on Internal Hearts, but has not yet been run on your Heart. In non-technical terms, it simply means you have to Love yourself before you can Love others.
Customer: So, what should I do?
Tech Support: Pull down Self-Acceptance; then click on the following files: Forgive-Self; Realize Your Worth; and Acknowledge your Limitations.
Customer: Okay, done.
Tech Support: Now, copy them to the "My Heart" directory. The system will overwrite any conflicting files and begin patching faulty programming. Also, you need to delete Verbose Self-Criticism from all directories and empty your Recycle Bin to make sure it is completely gone and never comes back.
Customer: Got it. Hey! My heart is filling up with new files. Smile is playing on my monitor and Peace and Contentment are copying themselves all over My Heart. Is this normal?
Tech Support: Sometimes. For others it takes awhile, but eventually everything gets it at the proper time. So Love is installed and running. One more thing before we hang up. Love is Freeware. Be sure to give it and its various modules to everyone you meet. They will in turn share it with others and return some cool modules back to you.
Customer: Thank you.
* * *
Have a nice week everyone! Ciao!
So far so good. There was another thing worth noting about the latest Pacquiao fight. The singer sang the national anthem quite well (but I’m not sure about the beat). At least it was not in the R & B style that previous performers were into. As to what Pacquiao said (in English) in the interviews that followed, well, I rest my case.
Oh no! Not Again! So they (or someone) had filed another impeachment complaint against PGMA. How do you think should we react?
Meanwhile in Burma, our ASEAN neighbor which is ruled by a military junta (for two decades now?), it seems like they are through with Aung Sang Su Kyi, they have started going after the monks. What the hell is going on? As news reports had it, the monks (or the temples that they are into) are considered as the (highest) moral authorities in Burma. If text messages are indeed true, how would you consider the death of more that ten thousand monks (and that those who survived were supposedly cremated alive). Text messages can be exaggerated, but certainly not the reports from credible news networks. So what’s the catch here? So far the ASEAN has done nothing (okey, it’s that non-interference thing again). Come to think of it, even the U.N. wasn’t able to do a thing. Why doesn’t Mr. Bush do something akin to what he did to oust Saddam? My apologies, the olive branch of peace could get broken or can dry up in time and one has got no choice but opt for the sword of war. Oops, just wishful thinking on my part.
* * *
Congratulations to the City Arts and Culture Office for a successful presentation of their stage play and digifilm entitled Inodoro in Dipolog City. The said presentations are part of the advocacy campaign of the City’s USAID-funded LINAW program.
* * *
Congratulations to Calbayog’s new judges: Judge Felipe Maglana and Judge Myrna Clemens.
* * *
Congratulation and Best Wishes to Romeo Salceda Jr. of Palo, Leyte and Leah Nicolasora of Calbayog City. They recently got married with Fr. Ric Pitogo saying the wedding mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. Reception was held at the LMA Auditorium. Their sponsors included Judge Rey Clemens, Judge Odel Mabutin, Judge Philip Maglana, Mr. Ben Muncada, Mrs. Elsa Tan, Mrs. Ana Asis, among others.
* * *
Let me continue with the second part of the “INSTALLING LOVE” article I left you with last Wednesday:
Customer: Oops! I have an error message already. It says, "Error - Program not run on external components." What should I do?
Tech Support: Don't worry. It means that the Love program is set up to run on Internal Hearts, but has not yet been run on your Heart. In non-technical terms, it simply means you have to Love yourself before you can Love others.
Customer: So, what should I do?
Tech Support: Pull down Self-Acceptance; then click on the following files: Forgive-Self; Realize Your Worth; and Acknowledge your Limitations.
Customer: Okay, done.
Tech Support: Now, copy them to the "My Heart" directory. The system will overwrite any conflicting files and begin patching faulty programming. Also, you need to delete Verbose Self-Criticism from all directories and empty your Recycle Bin to make sure it is completely gone and never comes back.
Customer: Got it. Hey! My heart is filling up with new files. Smile is playing on my monitor and Peace and Contentment are copying themselves all over My Heart. Is this normal?
Tech Support: Sometimes. For others it takes awhile, but eventually everything gets it at the proper time. So Love is installed and running. One more thing before we hang up. Love is Freeware. Be sure to give it and its various modules to everyone you meet. They will in turn share it with others and return some cool modules back to you.
Customer: Thank you.
* * *
Have a nice week everyone! Ciao!
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