OUR AWESOME PLANET

Kape Isla, Serendra - a Blogger's Secret Haven in Serendra

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Kape Isla is turning out to be our favorite bloggers' hangout in Serendra. They have all the elements to enable a blogger to be productive:

FREE WI-FI. They are the only FREE WI-FI in Serendra. Internet access should be FREE! I don't understand why establishments continue to charge a fee to have internet access.

Good Advocacy. Kape Isla promotes Philippine Coffee. So every time you drink a cup of coffee, you support the Philippine Coffee Bean industry.

Writer's Ambiance. On weekdays, you can have all the cafe to yourself. Most people go here to write, to study or to surf the internet. I want to promote Kape Isla a bit so that it does not close down.


For less than P100, you can enjoy Kape Isla all day long. However, they should have a killer dessert or meal to attract people to visit their place.
Kape Isla Menu
Hot Drinks, Coffee, Pandesal, Pasta, Salad, Rice Meals
House Specialties, Bars, Cookies, Loaves, Danishes and Cakes

Rogin-E Update: Progressing Slowly

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It is very hard for me to provide an update on the Rogin-E challenge because I'm progressing slowly. I would like to celebrate my small successes and share them with you:

1. The challenge was able to bring me back to the gym last April. That is a significant personal achievement for me because after 5 years, I am going back to the gym again. It feels good to feel those ab crunches' pain again.

2. I lost some weight enough for me to fit in my old clothes. This gives me the motivation to continue with my goal even without this Rogin E challenge.

3. I'm more determined now to replace the guy here in the Rogin-E website (someday...). Check out the Rogin-E unbreakable challenge section in the website.

My immediate goal is to weigh under 200lbs... a long way to go.... Thanks to Rogin-E for pushing me to pursue my personal unbreakable challenge.

Text and Photos by Anton Diaz. Copyright 2008.

Big Garments Sale in Bulacan this Summer...

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I was not planning to post this anymore but a lot of recent OAP readers requested me to post the next Big Garment Sale. They are not giving out invites anymore since they already issued membership cards as the gate pass for this sale. We love this sale but we try to avoid it because of the crowd and we always end up charging 5 digits to our credit card.

BIG GARMENTS SALE!!!

Top US UK Brands

May 1-3, 2008. 8am to 6pm

Blk. 4 Lot 3 Acefree St. Sterling Ind'l Park, Iba, Meycauayan City

Telefax: 02-2996061/Mobile +639189918677

Note: Please bring your membership card as your gate pass.

For first timers to this sale, it is either you go with a person who has a membership card or call them if you can apply for a membership card on site. You can mention that you are friends of Anton of Our Awesome Planet.

Reedley International School

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We are at a stage in Aidan's life where we need to decide our education strategy. We want the best education for our kids but I believe that most traditional schools have outdated curriculum. Aidan belongs to the Generation Z and I believe that only progressive schools can meet their needs. We don't want to be close minded on this so we will be doing more research on the different schools in Metro Manila in the next few months. Suggestions are welcome.

Aidan's generation is different. As early as 2 years old, Aidan begun tinkering with our computer at home. He likes to visit the kiddie sites such as Starfall and Disney clubhouse on his own. We have stopped watching television(including us!) because of the negative impact of TV. When I was in Boracay, we were doing video calls via computer. Aidan's generation has NOT witnessed People Power 1&2, September 11 terrorist attacks, Glorietta bombings or the Tsunami in South East Asia. I believe that their generation would be more nationalistic, conscious about the environment and technologically connected in ways that we cannot imagine. Mandarin and English would still be the key to doing successful business in the future.

My preference would be the International Schools (like IS or Brent) but they are very expensive because you are paying for the Expat educators. Ateneo and La Salle, on the other hand, are more traditional in nature and I hear stories of 1 teacher: 40+ students ratio similar with our times. One consideration is Xavier School which already upgraded their curriculum and are very progressive. We are also interested with Reedley International School because of its core values and International School curriculum that they follow. We attended the orientation last December 2007 @ Reedley, and let me share with you what Reedley has to offer...

We are considering an international school program where the academic curriculum and knowledge is at PAR with the international schools outside the Philippines. They are required to learn another language which is Mandarin. Aidan will be expected to work with different nationalities and respect their customs and traditions at the same time valuing the Filipino traditions. The teaching style is more exchanging of ideas vs. the teacher downloading information and the student memorizing it.

I liked Reedley's core values which is aligned with our core values. I want Aidan's school to be truly a second home for him where he knows most of the students and teachers by first name. I like the positive culture of discipline they are fostering with focus on understanding the reason for discipline and its consequence versus the focus on punishment. Reedley boast dozens of case studies on turnaround cases where a happy-go-lucky student became enthusiastic about school and a bullied student and pressured by peers in the big schools transforms into being assertive, confident and knowing all about conflict resolution. Finally, I like the focus on finding the child's unique skills, gifts and talents and aligning the child towards his divine destiny.

I also like the very low student: teacher ratio where the teachers can really focus on the learning of the students. The maximum class size for lower school is 1teacher : 15 students.

We interviewed a Reesian and we only get great rave reviews from the kid. Have you looked into Reedley? Or are your kids enrolled in this school? Maybe you can share your experience with us.

Life Skills are also taught which includes teaching the 7 habits of highly effective teens, instilling virtues, learning conflict resolution skills, understanding emotional quotient, and reaching out to less fortunate brothers and sisters.

Mrs. Ong, founder of Reedley, shared her beliefs during the December orientation:

" I believe that with an international education, our kids are given lots of opportunities and seemingly more unique ways of learning, inside and outside of the classroom, less structured but more participatory discussions on: Global issues, economics and polities, 21st century technology, society's ills, and other relevant and worldly concerns. "

" I believe that a good school highly enables its students to have an excellent grasp of the English language in order to survive, to communicate well, and to promote Bi-lingualism."

" I believe that a both Parents and the School are responsible to help children discover ways to make good use of Life's Greatest Gift... the Gift of Learning."

" I believe that a good school is one where: RESPONSIBILITY and HARD WORK are deeply instilled; GOOD MORALS and DISCIPLINE become our children's way of life."

The tuition fee is twice that of a traditional school but a lot lower than the other International School in the country because they don't employ expats. Since they are an IS school, they don't have a focus on Christian formation which is one of the criteria I was looking for in a school. I grew up with Salesian brothers and priest in Don Bosco Makati and I was hoping Aidan to get the same Catholic formation which I won't get in Reedley International School.

We still have time to do research about other progressive schools before Aidan turns 6. Any suggestions on awesome progressive schools in Metro Manila?

For more information on Reedley: Reedley International School

Merry Christmas To You!

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Merry Christmas to all friends of Our Awesome Planet!

We celebrated Christmas with Aidan and baby Josh at home. When Aidan woke up, he saw a lot of gifts but it did not occur to him that all of the gifts were for him. He still does not understand the concept of Santa Claus giving gifts on Christmas. We don't want to hype up Santa Claus but rather emphasize that it is the birthday of Jesus and we should spend Christmas together as a family.

How did you spend your Christmas?

Our Christmas gift to Momma Rache is this paper clay caricature art from JNBM Art Shop at Mall of Asia. It is very addicting but it is also a bit challenging to complete than I expected. Looks easy huh! 

I will share with you a photo once we complete the art work.

HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Old Manila Walks Gmail Account Hacked!

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So That You May Know...and keep your eyes OPEN! 

The email address of OLD MANILA WALKS (oldmanilawalks@gmail.com)  was hacked last December 18, 2007. There has been VERY DUBIOUS messages under this specific email address going around about us being stranded in an African country and soliciting money. Please DISREGARD this as it is a HOAX. 

We are not sure if we'll be able to get back to our system but  unless we do, please be wary of any messages from oldmanilawalks@gmail.com, especially those that involve ASKING FOR MONEY. If it doesn't concern Manila or walking tours for that matter, then it was probably not sent by us.

Lessons of the Day:

1. Please be wary of your mails, even if its from the same email company as yours.These hackers can be very, very, VERY deceiving with the way they word their email.

2. This can NEVER be overstated but never, never, NEVER give out VITAL INFORMATION to any one or any company apart from those whom you personally know.

3. Sometimes, the simplest reminders are the ones over looked. In the end, they're the ones who cause the biggest headaches.  For those have received the HOAX email and are not sure what it's all about, please visit our website or drop us a message at oldmanilawalks2@gmail.com.

Thanks for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience, this is a major stub on our toe and we're limping at the moment but for sure, WE'RE  STILL WALKING….

Ivan Man Dy
Old Manila Walks
www.oldmanilawalks.com

 

P.S. Thank you Anton of Our Awesome Planet for helping disseminate our message. Over the last few days, we have received over 30 text messages and phone calls confirming this HOAX email. Thank you to all those who took time to inform us.

Barney Live in Manila!

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Aidan was speechless. It was priceless to see the wonder on his face when we saw Barney Live on its opening night last Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2007. We told him that there is a surprise that awaits him that night. I'm sure he did not expect to see Barney live :)

Together with his cousin Carlos, they danced the night away with Barney. He was so happy.


Baby Bop, B.J. and Riff joined Barney in his adventures in Manila. It is like watching the actual Barney CDs live. Rache and I enjoyed seeing Aidan, Carlos and other kids dance with Barney.

This is our favorite Barney song "I Love You, You Love Me" which was the last but memorable song for the night.

I love you, You love me
We're a happy family,
With a great big hug And a kiss from me to you
Won't you say you love me too?

I love you, You love me
We're best friends Like friends should be
With a great big hug And a kiss from me to you
Won't you say you love me too?

 

You still have time to catch it until Dec. 23, Sunday @ the Araneta Coliseum.
For ticket inquiries call  911-5555.  P1,575 | P1,260 | P1,050 | P945 | P735 | P525

The Why Not Forum 2.0

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For those who missed the first Why Not Forum, check out the second Why Not Forum at Mag:Net Cafe Bonifacio High Street

The Why Not Forum 2.0
Jim Paredes of the Apo Hiking Society
Leonard Co, Ethnobotanist
Erik Mana, Master Illusionist
Grace Dimaranan, President of the Animation Council of the Philippines
Fr. Jomar Legaspi, Founder of Learn.Ph
The Philippine Everest Team
+ spoken word performance by Juddha Paolo and Kooky Chua

Related Posts:
The Why Not Forum 1.0 -- Bakit Hindi?
Light Symphonies and ROX @ Boni High Street

Silverlens Portfolio Review with Romy Vitug, Derek Soriano, and Isa Lorenzo

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I wanted to take my photography to the next level and I'm glad that Silverlens organized these portfolio reviews with the photography masters. I submitted my best pictures to the PAL photo contest and it failed to even reach the short list. I was devastated and thanks to Silverlens photos for organizing these portfolio reviews to get direct feedback from the masters on how I can take my photography to the next level.

Portfolio Review with Isa Lorenzo, Derek Soriano, and Romy Vitug. (Dec. 8, 2008)

All of them gave me the feedback that most of my photos were generic. They were postcard perfect but they do not reflect my personality or my own signature style of photography. The photos don't jump out except for those pictures taken with Aidan. It was devastating to hear na walang kwenta ang mga larawan ko.

Isa had some useful suggestions to create a collection of photos about a place and take a lot of photos about that place. I do hope to discover my own artistic style to the point that people looking at my photos will immediately identify that it was my photo.

I also learned that one of my photo strength is Aidan as the subject. Most of the photos were taken with love that's why Aidan comes out alive. I plan to create a portfolio of photos in time for Aidan's 3rd Birthday in January. Maybe I can do an exhibit somewhere in Serendra (if possible)

In the meantime, I'm thinking of selling my photos as postcards :)

No More World Pyro...

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I was sad when I learned that there won't be any World Pyro Olympics for this year. What happened? I was looking for more info from the net and I can't find one. Have you heard anything about why they decided to cancel World Pyro this year?

The Big Garment Sale (Nov 29-Dec 1)

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The Great Bulacan Sale. November 29, Thursday to December 2, Sunday.  We usually would go on Thursday/ Friday so that the crowd is still manageable. We do most of the Christmas Shopping here for the ina-anaks.  But I think we will have to pass this time because Rache is still recuperating.

During the last sale, they issued membership cards already which serves as the gate pass. No need for invites. If you are not registered yet, just bring one valid ID. For inquiries, pls call 2996061.

All the clothes that are not sold here are sent to their Off Price Stores in Ortigas/ Makati/ Malate.

MV Doulos is back!

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Read: Doulos Bookstore: The Floating Bookstore in Manila Official Website: Doulos. Bringing knowledge, help and hope.

It is now currently docked in Batangas and will go back to Manila on Nov 29th until Christmas (Dec. 26, 2007).  During the visit to Batangas, the vessel is undergoing a routine period of maintenance that takes place annually. (see: Where's The Water Gone?) The best time to go is on the first day it is opened to the public. All of the best books would be gone by that time.

Can anyone give our family a tour of M/V Doulos? Aidan would love to go around a big ship. It will be a surprise for him and syoti this coming December :)

Food From The Heart - a Gourmet Charity Dinner by Executive Chef, Mike Figdor

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Food From The Heart will benefit 250 residents at Golden Acres. This institution is open for males and females over the age of 60 who were abandoned, neglected and needy. The event hopes to raise enough money to provide residents with the following items:

• Healthy snacks
• Daily Vitamins 
• Soap
• Shampoo
• Towels
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Clothing

Requested Items for the whole institution:

• Laundry Soap
• Janitorial Supplies 
• Medical Dressing Set 
• Minor Surgery Kits

A Christmas gathering on the 15th of December is also in line with these donations. Hearty food prepared by our chefs, a small program, games, gifts, possibly even ballroom dancing and karaoke for their enjoyment.

We have just visited the institution and have been deeply touched by our now extended lolo's and lola's. Their warm welcome to us despite being strangers was truly a heartwarming experience.

The team behind Essentiel Events is counting on your support. Thank you!

For more information: Food From the Heart by Essential Events

Happy Diwali!

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Happy Diwali to our Indian friends in Manila!  We saw a Diwali Mela (Indian Trade Fair) last Sunday when we went to Mall of Asia. I started to realize that there are a lot of Indians now in Manila. Just in our company, we have three holding key leadership positions. The Diwali Mela is very interesting because it showcases Indian dances, fashion and food (which is why I went there). I would think that Diwali will become a big occasion next year in Manila. Rumor has it that next year, it will be a holiday already because Bollywood is already investing in Manila. (can someone confirm this?)

Tina Vaswani gave me Jamoos on Diwali and these are the round balls soak in sweet liquid which I first tasted during the Pink Kitchen event. She was proud to say that they create one of the best Jamoos in Manila.  This got me interested to explore the different flavours of India in Manila and see which ones are the best. I'm looking for Indian foodies out there who can show me the secrets of Indian cuisine in Manila (aside from the usual Swagat/ Bombay Kitchen/ Prince of Jaipur).

On a personal note, my wife has not given birth yet. The dilations got stuck at 4cm and she is experiencing no regular contractions. It is the 40th week and we have been walking around the Mall of Asia this weekend but still Baby Joshua won't come out. While waiting for Baby Joshua, we already signed up for StemCord where you bank the stem cells from the baby's umbilical cord for future use ( which I will feature separately). We have eaten in the newly opened Haagen Daz in Mall of Asia (watch out for that post). I'm dying to post the Pampanga tour we had and a definitive guide to Claude tayag's Bale Dutung.

A Great Day for Philippines Sports

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October 7, 2007 was a great day for Philippines Sports!   It was a memorable day for me and let me tell you why...

 
First, La Salle won the 2007 UAAP Basketball Championship by defeating UE with 73-64 points (a convincing 9 points lead).  Everybody thought that UE was unbeatable since they had swept the elimination rounds. If you look at each of the UE Red Warriors individually, La Salle Green Archers were no match for them. But we beat Red Warriors because of the heart and determination to win as one team. More than 1/2 of the Araneta was filled with Green Archers fan. The Green Archers had led the game all the way from the first to the last quarter. Thanks to MVP Jayvee Casio and MVP Cholo Villanueva for hitting the key shots when it mattered most.

I knew it when we beat Ateneo, we could win the UAAP Championship!  ANIMO LA SALLE!!

P.S. Now I know why the WAVE is unlucky... Franz Pumaren was right and the only wave we saw yesterday was the one from UE. No more waves for the Green Archers gallery.

 
Second, Pacquiao retained his WBC International Super Featerweight Title by defeating Barrera in a 12 rounds unanimous decision. His new record is 45-3-2  with 34 KO's at the age of 28. All the Filipinos were hoping for a knockout but we saw how Barrera was avoiding Manny's punches. Barrera's goal was to survive his last 12 rounds of his career and enjoy his $2 Million dollars pay out. Thanks Manny for making us all proud once again.

Lastly, I achieved a personal best record for my 10k run at 1 hour and 15 minutes when I joined Soroptimist's Breast Cancer Run yesterday. Yahoo! My goal is to achieve a sub hour in 2008.   

P.S. No, I'm not that guy!  The photo above is Zorro from ABS-CBN running club (according to him) during yesterday's breast cancer run. He gives a comic relief in most of the major runs in Manila.

Learnings from the Transit Photo Contest

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1st Place: Mayon Seaport by Gary Mart Domingo

Congratulations to the Transit Photo Contests Winners Gary Mart Domingo, Arnold Jumpay, and Maylene Espera! I want to share my thoughts on why my photos did not win so that I can improve my shots for the succeeding contest. You might benefit from this too especially for those who wants to join such contest in the future. But I'm still happy that two of my photos were short listed as finalist. (You can see all the photos below)

On the Go, Lokal! Transit Photo Contest

Transit Photo Contest Theme:
Summer Destination Pictures of the Best Destinations the Philippines - like Siargao, Bohol, Boracay, Pagudpud, Batanes, Cebu , and other vacation destinations. Photos may include famous landmarks like historical churches and houses, animals, rivers, beaches, etc.

Learnings from the Transit Photo Contest

1. Tell a unique story about the Philippines' Destination.
First, you need to be able to identify where the place is by taking photos of the popular landmarks and places. I noticed that there are a lot of great shots of unknown beautiful places but the judges might not appreciate where it is. At least that is my hypothesis. Since it is a popular travel destination, you need to make sure that you take a unique angle on it like Mayon and the Port, Boracay and the silver surfer. Most importantly, the photo needs to tell a story especially that this is a newsprint medium so it needs to have a photo journalistic appeal.

2. Take the shot, Enter the contest, and Do a Post Analysis
You don't need to be a pro to win in these contest. What is important is that whenever you take photos, you have to automatically have these kind of contests in mind. Make sure that you submit your photos so that you have a fighting chance because you'll never know if you'll win. It does not matter if you win or lose, what is important is that you learn from it. So, visit the exhibit of the winners and this is a good way also to develop your photographic eye.

That's it! See the other winning photos below and my two photos that entered as finalist.

Technorati Tags: Transit

2nd Place: Bora Beach by Arnold Jumpay

3rd Place: Not Your Silver Surfer by Maylene Espera

Finalist: Solitude in an Island of Balesin by Jose Antonio Diaz

Finalist: Kayaking in Big Lagoon by Jose Antonio Diaz

The Greatest of All Time LT Presentation

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The LT team dancing to the tune of Fame.

Every year, P&G Philippines has this unique tradition of celebrating how successful our pension plan fund is. (I know it is kinda weird). This is the biggest celebration in our company which is held around September. It is bigger than Christmas because this is the only time we have a joint celebration with the plant, the shared service center, and the sales and marketing organization. One of our pride as P&Gers, is to retire in P&G and this night also serves as a venue for honoring the retirees.

Every pension plan celebration night, there is an inter-department competition on the best musical presentation given a particular theme. This year's theme was 80's Ballroom Dancing. For the first time in the Pension Plan celebration history, the leadership team of the company presented in the Pension Plan. Thanks to Direk Mel Soriano and team for creating a memorable fun presentation (that we won't forget and won't happen again :)

We really had fun with this presentation. I wanted to capture that joy and share it with you (even if this post is kinda personal). Here is a glimpse of the LT presentation.

Our boss Jim Lafferty was flying through the air in this graceful solo performance.

A decent attempt of a High School musical performance where each person will show the pom-poms one after another to create a wave effect.

Pauline, our media manager, was the only female in the team so we had to improvise and make our Corporate Lawyer, Junie and Shared Service Center manager, Patrick be in female roles.

I was in front together with Pauline as we danced our last High School musical sequence.


The star of the night was the beautiful Miss China, Patricia.

It was indeed a greatest of all time performance from the leadership team. We were a 3rd placer for this! Congrats!

Olay White Radiance Launch

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Photo courtesy of Cyrus of Lumina Photography

Congratulations to the Olay White Radiance Team for the successful launch last Night!

Photo Courtesy of Tony Oquias

The New Olay White Radiance Endorsers: Denise Go and Isabelle Diaz Daza

Technorati Tags: Olay

The Camera That Blogging Won

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I have a unique pasalubong for Aidan today -- His First Digital Camera!  Thanks to SM Hypermarket for the camera which is the prize for the runner's up award in the recently concluded SM Hypermarket Blogging Contest.  Congratulations to all the winners and for Anito Kid for winning the Round Trip Ticket to Malaysia -- you deserve it !

We had fun last night in the Taste of Asia Bloggers Meet. Here are some of the photos of last night's event.

Travel Bloggers having fun @ Cliquebooth

Technorati Tags: SM, SM Hypermarket

 
The barbecue was tasty and everybody agrees that it was very good.

I met the wonderful mommy bloggers from the pinoy moms network.

Thanks to SM "Hypermarket" for a nice bloggers event!  The Blogging community will be forever grateful for recognizing our collective influence as "an alternative media".

Manila Baywalk's New Look

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Yes, Manila Baywalk is now clean.  The only remaining evidence that there was once commercial activities happening here is the still standing huge Cafe Puro cup. There is a debate going on in Carlos blog about pros and cons of closing Manila Baywalk. The blogosphere started to get emotional about it. These are the type of news that you won't ever see in Manila's newspapers.

IN MEMORIAM... and WTF... by Carlos Celdran
Why Baywalk Deserve to Close by Annalyn
F*CK. I knew this would happen: Mayor Lim shuts down BAYWALK!!! by Manila Boy

 
Ever since Manila Baywalk was commercialized the entire place became dirty (with trash all around) and non-family friendly entertainment.  I'm not sure if I'm going to thank Alfredo Lim just yet because we don't want the baywalk to be dark and unsafe again.

Just to be clear, I'm happy that the establishments are gone to keep the area clean from trash. I do hope that it remains clean and safe where families can go to and enjoy the manila sunset.

Technorati Tags: Baywalk

Oh Boy, Oh Boy! It is another Boy!

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Oh yes, It is another boy!  Aidan is now an Ahiya with a Syoti (younger brother).

We are trying this 4D technology of In My Womb and our first attempt was not really successful. Baby 4 was being covered by the placenta so we have to return to get a full and moving shot. This is a first-come first-served basis. All the re-scans are done Tuesday/ Thursday only to avoid the long queue. By the way, no cameras nor video cameras were allowed during the procedure.

We took the cheapest 3D/4D Package (Ruby) for P3,300. It includes:
20-30 min 2D, 3D, 4D session
DVD recording set to music.
5 glossy, high resolution black/ white 3D photos
2 glossy, high resolution Sepia-toned 3D photoes
Medical Report, baby weights, estimated due date, heart rate, gender determination
Free return visit within 14 days if baby does NOT cooperate during your session.

 
Aidan is growing up quickly and this is his latest picture in Sophia Danielle Jabob's Baptism.  I can just imagine having two boys with almost 3 years old apart.

In My Womb 3D/ 4D Ultrasound Centre
G/F Park Square 2, Ayala Mall, Makati City
Mobile No. +63 917 818 6888
Website: www.inmywomb.com.ph
Email: inmywomb@yahoo.com.ph

The Sale

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"BIG GARMENTS SALE"
Aug 9-11, 2007
Star Trends, Sterling Industrial Park, Meycauyan, Bulacan
Tel# +632 2996061
Email: biggarmentssale@gmail.com

Related Posts:
Mango and branded apparels at Factory Prices!  July 2005
The Big Garment Sale: By Invitation Only August 2006
The Great Bulacan Sale November 2006

DEAR FRIENDS , COLLEAGUES, FAMILY!

We are having another sale of our garments this coming August 9 to 11 (Thursday to Saturday).  Some of you have already been to our sales before, you are welcome to bring your friends along, especially if they are Jaycees.

No minimums, no fakes, only original stocklot overruns from factories across Asia.  Prices will be as usual, which is the lowest you can get anywhere else..for this sale we have much more of mens tops, like Tommy, A/X, CK, Timberland, Ecko, ETC.  For ladies, we have MNG but in very small quantities so you have to come early. (you should go on Thursday) Lots of other ladies' brands too. There are a lot of styles and brands, hope you can see for yourself.

When you arrive, you will be handed a membership card which we are using as gate pass for future sales.  YOU CAN PURCHASE ONLY WITH THE MEMBERSHIP CARD SO PLEASE SIGN UP FOR ONE. (this is the first time this is being done) EVERYONE GETS ONE EACH.

No need for print outs anymore, (yehey) but most probably you need the map, so here it is attached.  Our address is Acefree Street, Sterling Industrial Park, Meycauayan, Bulacan.  Just take NLEX and get off Meycauayan exit, and turn towards Iba (there is a sign), and you should be by the gate of Sterling 2kms after Caltex.

The sale dates are August 9 to 11, gate opens at 8am and we close only when nobody else is around (usually around 8pm).  For inquiries, kindly text me at 0922-8856627.

Regards to all and see you!

JONAS

Technorati Tags: big garments sale

Philippines Photo Contests Galore

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Three of the Photo Contest I intend to join this year. Hoping for the best! (Updated Aug. 20,2007)

 
Canon Photo Marathon Asia 2007
Official Website: Canon Photo Marathon Asia
Philippines Competition is on September 15

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY AND PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF PHOTOGRAPHY
To celebrate Canon’s 70th Anniversary, Canon in Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam bring you Canon Photo Marathon Asia 2007 - a unique photography contest that challenges your imagination and empowers you to set new standards in photography.

Show us what you can do based on various themes assigned to you under the pressure of time. Your creativity and endurance to complete the marathon will give you a chance to win attractive Canon prizes and/or a Photo Clinic with a professional photographer to Japan.

Each country will organise local photo marathons where 2 winners will be selected and stand a chance to win the grand prize of a Photo Clinic to Japan.

WIN A TRIP OF SCENIC EXPERIENCE
Experience the sights and sounds of Kyushu, Japan as you go on a Photo Clinic with professional photographer Triston Yeo who will provide you with varied photo opportunities to enhance your skills and capture unique insights into this amazing island.

From the bustling Fukuoka Street Culture to one of the world’s largest active volcanos - Mount Aso at Aso National Park, Kyushu offers many fascinating sights. Enjoy the Beppu hot spring bath and visit the well-known ‘Dragon Whirlpool’ - a fiery geyser that erupts violently every 22 minutes. At the same time, experience traditional Japanese rituals such as the Yutoku Inari Shrine Fire Festival, all with the insider view of a local guide.

Capture the Beauty of the Philippines PAL Photo Contest (Deadline: September 29, 2007)
Official Website: PAL Photo Contest

THE THEME: Capture “The Beauty of the Philippines!”
Send in your most superb images that illustrate the best of anything and everything about the Philippines. The theme is divided into the following:

CATEGORIES:
The Beauty of Philippine Scapes (Scenic shots. If the shots include people in the frame, the ratio to the total composition should be very minimal)
- landscapes
- seascapes
- cityscapes
- nightscapes
- underwater shots
- historical landmarks
- architecture
- leisure spots
- night-out hotspots

The Beauty of the Filipino Spirit (portraits, people, values)
- People (the major element in the composition should be a person/people)
- Remarkable depictions of Filipino values (i.e., industriousness, sincerity, simplicity, earnestness, etc.);
- human emotions (i.e. triumph, love, happiness, etc.); Family, Friendship, Childhood, etc.

The Beauty of Filipino Culture (fests, events, arts, lifestyle)
- festivities
- events
- traditions
- arts
- food

And remember to LET YOUR PASSION FLY HIGH!
*The indicated elements are suggestions, ideas, and guides as to subjects that can fall under the theme. Subjects for the entries, however, ARE NOT LIMITED TO THESE elements alone.

Participants may use any Digital or Film based camera, provided that the photo Entry/s will be printed on an EPSON printer (Printer’s serial number is needed) and on any brand of photo papers.

Transit Photo Contest (Deadline: August 31, 2007)
Official Site: Transit Photo Contest

Set for a local destination this summer?

Armed with your digicam? (of course!) Do you keep on taking pictures? (whether you develop them or not)
Sounds very much like us - so we’ve found a way for you to make use of these pictures - we, serial trigger happy summer people keep on taking…

So, Earn big prizes! by sending us your LOCAL summer destination pictures - here’s what we’re looking for:
Summer Destination Pictures of the Best Destinations the Philippines - like Siargao, Bohol, Boracay, Pagudpud, Batanes, Cebu , and other vacation destinations. Photos may include famous landmarks like historical churches and houses, animals, rivers, beaches, etc.

How to Join? Submit your photo entries to Transit Publishing Corp. (5F Diamond Hotel, Roxas Blvd corner Dr. J Quintos St., Manila) on or before the last day of submission of entries.

*You must include a 10″ x 11″ or 10″x14″ sized print of your photo entry and the printed copy of the contest’s application form (click to download). Please affix your signature at the back of the developed copy of your picture.

When does it start? Contest period is from May 30, 2007 - extended to August 31, 2007

Who can join? Anyone with a camera (digital or not) or mobile camera phone - except professionals.

Avenue Q-Manila: Is Manila ready for the Puppet's Full Frontal Nudity?

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Avenue Q - Final Run June 2008. 5 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss the Opening Night of Avenue Q’s Final Run!

Avenue Q, Broadway’s smash-hit 2004 Tony Award winner for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, will soon be opening in Manila on September 7, 2007. I can't wait to see the great cast which includes Rachel Alejandro (dual role of Kate Monster and Lucy The Slut,), Frenchie Dy (as Christmas Eve) and Aiza Seguerra (as Gary Coleman). Chari Arespacochaga is co-directing Avenue Q with Bobby Garcia, so expect that this will be a world class show, similar to Rent.

What is AVENUE Q about?
" AVENUE Q is the story of Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad who comes to New York City with big dreams and a tiny bank account. He soon discovers that the only neighborhood in his price range is Avenue Q; still, the neighbors seem nice. There's Brian the out-of-work comedian and his therapist fianceé Christmas Eve; Nicky the good-hearted slacker and his roommate Rod -- a Republican investment banker who seems to have some sort of secret; an Internet addict called Trekkie Monster; and a very cute kindergarten teaching assistant named Kate. And would you believe the building's superintendent is Gary Coleman?!? (Yes, that Gary Coleman.) Together, Princeton and his newfound friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life." (About Avenue Q the Musical)

Here is another fun fact:
"As it turns out, Avenue Q, the Tony Award winning Broadway musical that continues to run on Broadway, has Pinoy blood behind it. Bobby Lopez, who wrote the show with his collaborator Jeff Marx, is half-Filipino." (The Pinoy who wrote Avenue Q)

Start listening to songs such as "Schadenfreude", "The Internet is For Porn" and "It Sucks to be Me", etc.. So that you are not left out -- there is still time. Do you think Filipinos will be ready for the Puppet's full frontal nudity and explicit, vulgar lyrics? What's your Favorite Avenue Q song?

P.S. 15 Sept 2007 3pm matinee performance
On the 15 Sept 2007 3pm matinee performance of Ave Q, P&G Employees are entitled to a 10% discount (yahoo!). Although the tickets for the 15 Sept 2007 3pm performance of Ave Q will be available mid-August, you can start reserving tickets for those interested. Ticket prices are (P&G employees are entitled to a 10% discount):

Balcony Php 500
Loge Php 1,000
Orchestra Php 1,250

Update 8/7/2007
FYI, Atlantis has decided that all the Saturday Matinee shows, including ours on 15 Sept 2007, will be moved from 3pm to 2pm.

We have decided as well to give Early Bird Discounts for Cash Purchases for the 15 Sept 2pm show:
10% Discount—Tickets bought from 06-19 August 2007
5% Discount—Tickets bought from 20-31 August 2007
5% Discount— On every 10 Tickets bought from 01-14 Sept 2007

They may only avail of the discounts if the tickets are bought directly from me. My contact details remain the same.

Contact Lorna Lopez for ticket reservations:
(Sun) 0922.3875729
(Globe) 0917.9256505
(email) llornalopez@gmail.com
www.thebachelorgirl.com

Technorati Tags: Avenue Q

My First 21K and Blog Withdrawal Syndromes

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I'm dying to blog!  I've been pretty busy lately with preparations for a management visit coupled with the fact that for the first time, my broadband died on me. At last, my broadband is back and we are wrapping up the management visit. I think it is almost 10 days that I have not really updated the blog. After a period of no blogging, I felt uneasy not seeing new updates on the blog. It felt as if my day is not complete and I'm mad at my broadband provider for being inconsiderate. I won't mention the provider anymore, but thanks for visiting us yesterday to fix the issue!

I ran my first 21k (yes, 21 kilometers) last Sunday. It was a half-marathon run in preparation for July 22, Milo Marathon.  I almost died and for a second, I was tempted not to finish the race. I finished the course for 3 hours and 19 minutes. This is too slow, and I was second to the last to cross the finish line. We were annoyed by the ambulance tailing us when we run and tempting us to give up. I'm not the type of person who would easily give up.

It was not an easy feat. I'm starting to run the marathon to lose all the weight I gained through blogging. I gained 40 lbs (can you imagine) and I'm running at my heaviest.  I plan to organize a marathon-for-a-cause for my first Marathon run on July 22 and I'm looking for a charity institution to partner with. I will announce more details of the marathon-for-a-cause but simply I plan to solicit monetary support for the charity institution depending on how many kilometers I run during the marathon. One could pledge P100 for every Kilometer that I finish. If I finish 42 kilometers, the donor will contribute P420 to the marathon-for-a-cause.  I want to do this so that my first run becomes very meaningful and I have something to motivate me when my knees are giving up at the 30k point. I do hope you can support me on this :)

Technorati Tags: 21k, marathon

 
I'm a techno freak and I'm inspired to run because of the running "costume" and gadget. Running a marathon is a good justification for me to buy the Nike Plus Shoes, Ipod Nano and Nike+ pedometer. It was so cool to run with Nike! I wish I was a certified runner and not a blogger so that Nike can think of sponsoring me...

 
The race started at 5.40am and it runs through from the Fort Bonifacio Grand Stand  to the Libingan ng mga Bayani, passes through C5 and make a U-turn in the bridge after Petron, then back.  There are water stations along the route, and I had to bring a gatorade with me. My boss said that there are people who dies in Marathon because they only drink water.  Btw, I've tried Pocari Sweat for the first time, and it was a hundred times better than gatorade. However, I can't find it in the convenience stores because I want to use that instead.

The sunrise run around Libingan ng mga Bayani was very nice. It was my first time to see these crosses. This was the only scenic route in the 21k course and the rest are public streets where you could inhale all the possible pollution from the cars and motor bikes.

 
In the end, I finished 21k in 3 hours and 19 minutes. My 10k record is 1 hour and 10 minutes.  They were almost packing up when we crossed the finished line. After the run, my entire legs are arching to that point that I would question myself, why am I running and doing this to myself? In the end, I'm still determined to finish the marathon on July 22. Only 0.001% of the world's population, finish a marathon. I want to be part of that elite group. P&G will be the biggest delegation in the July 22 Milo Marathon and we are estimating that we will finish the course in 7 hours!
 

One of these days, I'll join Aidan in my runs. After the 21k, we celebrated this milestone by having breakfast at Portico in Serendra!

P&G Philippines Career Opportunities

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Here is a shameless plug for those who are interested to apply in P&G. The Official P&G Philippines Website is up and running at http://www.pg.com/en_PH/ . You can apply for internship or regular employment through the online application process. (Here is the 7 step process for applying in P&G. )  We are looking for qualified individuals who have a balance between academic excellence and leadership skills. We are not  limiting our search to the top 3 schools because I personally believe that there are a lot of qualified people out there outside the usual Ateneo, UP and La Salle graduates.  As we usually say, we offer a career where you can live up to your potential and truly make a difference. This is an exciting time to be part of P&G because you will become a part of the Greatest P&G Operation of all time in P&G's History globally.

Also, just a tip for those applying, better read the website so that you'll know the history of the company and the P&G brands.  Let me know if you have questions. You can contact the recruitment team via these contact information:

Corporate Recruitment Manager
recphilippines.im@pg.com
Phone: +63-2-8148112
Fax:+63-2-8148107

Procter & Gamble Distriuting (Phils.) Inc.
6750 Ayala Office Tower
Ayala Avenue, Makati City
Metro Manila, Philippines 1226

Technorati Tags: 6750, P&G

San Fo Treats - Apple in Caramel Chocolate

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Have you tried one of these Apple coated in Caramel Chocolate?  It looks yummy and we cannot resist it despite its P80 price tag for this apple coated with caramel, chocolate and nuts. The apple treats ranges from P60-P85 and you'll wonder is it really worth it?

The only problem with this dessert is the apple. How long has the apple been there? Will it not rot after several days? Well, we got our answer when we sliced our apple. Two-third part of the apple was already rotten so we were only able to eat the top 1/3 part.  Next time, I will ask the lady to cut the apple so that I'll see the insides before paying the hefty price of P80 but my wife says otherwise. The apple was there for days already. It would have survived a week if it was just a plain apple but with the coatings, it would just be a few days.

Can Aidan resist these apple? Can you?

Technorati Tags: SanFo Treats

The  Apple or Pears coated in Caramel Chocolate with toppings are available at SanFo Treats, Glorietta (Fun Ranch and other malls).

A Turning Point in Philippines History?

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I've always believe that if only Filipinos believe and love the Philippines, we can achieve any goals we set our minds and hearts to. This May 2007 marks the turning point in Philippine History. Perhaps this is the start of a tipping point towards Philippines' greatness. I can feel it in the air and there is so much hope that we will become a great nation.  Let me share with you why I'm so proud to be a Filipino today:

1. Congratulations to Noelle Wenceslao, Carina Dayondon, and Janet Belarmino  for becoming the first Southeast Asian women to summit Everest, and the first women in the world to traverse Everest! I must admit that at first I did not have faith that they can do it but they proved us wrong. If they can climb Mount Everest, this gives hope and inspiration for all of us to conquer our own Everest. To think that Janet just gave birth to their five month old baby boy Himalaya. Ang galing ng Pinay! (Official Blog: Pinays on Everest)

2. God truly works in mysterious ways. Fr. Eddie Panlilio became the first Catholic priest in the country to be elected to public office in what is being touted as a “people-powered” unprecedented run for governor of Pampanga.

"Panlilio who got a total of 219,706 votes in the six-cornered race, winning by a lead of only 1,147 votes...The decisive votes that clinched his victory came from Magalang, a predominantly Catholic town, where 11,095 residents voted for him.Panlilio’s major rivals were Lilia Pineda, an incumbent provincial board member, who got 218,559 votes, and reelectionist Gov. Mark Lapid who received 210,875 votes." (Miracle in Pampanga by Tonette Orejas )

3. The Filipino voters have matured politically!! Yes!! Finally, Filipinos are voting based on performance, results and credentials.

"The citizenry has become sick and tired of actors and actresses in elective posts. Cesar Montano, Richard Gomez, Christopher de Leon, Lito Lapid and his son Mark, all movie idols, suffered humiliation at the hands of lesser known personalities....The only exception is actress Vilma Santos who won by a big margin over incumbent Armand Sanchez in the Batangas gubernatorial race. The reason behind her victory is her exemplary performance as Lipa City mayor." 

"The biggest loser in the electoral contest is boxing idol Manny Pacquiao who ran for the congressional seat of South Cotabato. He suffered a knockout at the hands of a woman, reelectionist Darlene Antonino-Custodio, who was running scared and was the underdog."
(Upsets in the just-concluded polls  by Ramon Tulfo) 

4.  There is a mysterious reform movement happening in the country because everyone is sick and tired of the corruption in the government! Most of the Genuine Opposition are winning in the National Elections!  I was surprised when I asked my mom who to vote, she said if you don't know the candidates, just vote for the Genuine Opposition candidates.  For the record, I voted for Noynoy Aquino, Joker Arroyo, Alan Cayetano, Chiz Escudero, Kiko Pangilinan, Sonia Roco, Antonio Trillanes, Manny Villar, Migz Zubiri, and Ang Kapatiran: Dr. B Bautista, Adrian Sison and Jess Pares. We were hoping for the Kapatiran to win but at least Trillanes was able to get in the top 12.

5. I can't believe that the Peso to Dollar conversion rate is now at its all time low P46.xx to a $1 despite the elections! I love the graph below :) Can we see a P40 to a $1 conversion rate? At this point, I am very optimistic :)

 

We are three years away from having a great leader for the Philippines. All of us need to be vigilant and this is an exciting time to be in the Philippines. Time to celebrate and invest in our country. We love the Philippines!

Technorati Tags: Philippines

Trinoma Misadventures

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Trinoma, Triangle North of Manila, "soft" opened last 16th of May 2007. The much-awaited opening of an Ayala Mall outside Makati was disappointing. The misadventure started with a game of "Find a Parking Spot" where guards were there to confuse you so you get to tour the mall and