GlamPinoy

All I Need Is Faith

2011-09-23T16:38:00.003+08:00

It is easy to recite 'I believe in God, the Father Almighty...'. Yet when confronted with 'dark night' especially if the night is so long, can we still say I believe?

Many people doesn't really grasp the real meaning of such claim as "I believe". They do claim they have faith in the supreme being when it is all sunshine and they live comfortably.

I have read the story of Job a lot of times. Yes that man who have lost everything: properties, children, health, and whatever else he hold important except one thing, his faith.

And there were some people who tried very hard, really hard to convince him of the futility of his faith. But he held on...

Whatever is in the mind of Job all this time that he had been in the 'dark night'?
Was there a moment when he doubted? The bible does not say.

And then there is the story of Joseph the dreamer. He was thrown in a pit, sold as a commodity to the Egyptians, the Pharoah's wife tried to seduce him and when he refused, he thrown into prison like a criminal. Oh, what was he thinking all the time he suffered injustice? Did he not, even for a moment, doubted the existence of a loving God?

Never ba siyang nagtanong nang 'Lord bakit ako pa?

Job and Joseph, as the bible tells us, that after so much suffering, God, at last, in his bountiful mercy, rewarded them with more wealth and power!

Very dramatic indeed.

There is only one lesson here I guest. God do really want faith from us. To believe in Him even if there is no more reason to believe.

Peace to all...

Father Amado Picardal Walks 2,060-km

2011-05-29T19:40:00.004+08:00

The Inquirer reported today an interesting story of a 57-year old Redemptorist priest
who was able to complete walking from Davao City to Aparri in Cagayan Province. Wow, that's a two-thousand sixty kilometers long. (Kaya ko kaya ito?)

Anyway, according to the report, the priest did it for the environment and to stop extra-judicial killing. And also against the controversial RH Bill. (At least, hindi para mai-dyario tulad ng ginagawa ng iba.)

What makes the report more interesting is that the priest had been diagnosed with a heart disease. And inspite of "heavy downpour and biting cold" and experiences of dehydration and diarrhea, he completed his journey in 57 days from April 1 to May 27.

Mabuhay ka Father. Sana makinig ang Malacanang at taumbayan sa iyong mensahe!

Pagbabalik

2011-05-26T20:53:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone, I'm back!!!!

Miss all of you here. I really miss the "scenes and sins" at blogosphere.

Well, I will start again to blog pag walang magawa. That has been my, say, achilles heel, iyon bang start and stop, then start again. Parang sa telenovela:
magkita, magligawan, magsyota tapos maghiwalay and then magsyota uli.

Sana nga makapagsulat ako ng isang telenobela kahit dito lang sa glampinoy. Kanit walang magbasa, maisulat ko lang.

Iyon ay kung makapag-isip ako, ay este kung may oras akong mag-isip. Sana mayroon.

And this time I hope I will really concentrate.

Top 20 Individual Taxpayers in 2009

2010-04-22T05:34:00.002+08:00

The Bureau of Internal Revenue gas release the names of the highest taxpayers for 2009. They are

1. Manny Pacquiao - the boxing legend
2. Elaine B. Gardiola - well-known DPWH contractor
3. Ronaldo Soliman - with business in real estate
4. Rainero Borja - BPO pioneer
5. Lauro Baja Jt. - UN Ambassador
6. Willie Revillame - Wowowee host
7. Francisco Guerra III - Do we know this guy?
8. Kris Aquino - Who does not know this flamboyant lady?
9. Patricia Zobel de Ayala - sibling of Jaime Augusto and Fernando Zobel of Ayala group
10. Manuel Zamora Jr. - Philex mining investor
11. Danding Cojuangco of San Miguel Corp.
12. Manuel Pangilinan of PLDT
13. Bea Zobel de Ayala Urquijo of the Ayala group
14. Gigi Chio Ibasco - engaged in construction business
15. Manuel Lopez of Meralco
16. Christopher Salcedo Co - ?
17. Justo Aboitiz Ortiz of the Aboitiz group
18. Piolo Pascual - a famous actor
19. Ramon Ang - president of San Miguel Corporation
20. Federico Lopez - again of the Lopez Group which includes Meralco

Well if you are wondering why some famous names in Philippine politics, business, and entertainment are nowhere in the top ten, well marahil andon sila in the top 100. Pwede kasing bumaba and income nila for 2009 o kaya talaga namang kunti ang income nila as individual pero ung mga kumpanya nila ang nagbabayad ng mas malaking buwis.

Hay naku, if only everybody pays the correct amount of taxes.
And if only the government uses every centavo of the collected taxes for legal expenses at hindi ito naibubulsa. But this another story.

Entreprenuership

2010-04-17T21:27:00.002+08:00

Pwede nga bang yumaman ang isang mahirap?
Syempre naman!

Pero pwede nga bang yumaman ang isang mahirap sa malinis na paraan?
Oo, syempre.

Paano?

Ang Sagot ko dito ay hindi lamang sipag at tiyaga sa pagnenegosyo (entreprenuership)tulad ng sinasabi ng isang pulitiko. Kasama rito ang swerte at tamang paghawak ng pera.

Ito ang aking pananaw. Kahit masipag at matiyaga ka, kung sakitin ka naman, iyong perag naiipon mo napunpunta sa paggamot mo. Paano ka yayaman? Isang pang halimbawa. Paano kung mataas ang suweldo mo o kita mo pero nilulustay mo lang sa pambababae o pagsusugal o sa iba pang bisyo, paano ka yayaman?

Mayroon akong matagal na kakilala. Matagal syang nagtrabaho at naghusay sa isang motorshop. Nagtayo sya ng sarili niyang repair shop. Iyong mga dating customer niya sa boss niya ay lumipat sa kanya. Ngayon mayroon na siyang malaking bahay at maraming sasakyan.

See? Mayroon pa akong isang halimbawa, isang probinsyana na nagtayo ng isang maliit na tindahan sa isang palengke sa Quezon City. Pinalago nya 'yong tindahan na yon. Ngayon may bahay na siya at sasakyan bukod sa nabili niyang sakahan sa probinsya at pinapag-aral ang mga anak sa pribadong paaralan.

Kayo, mayroon ba kayong kakilala na yumaman sa malinis na paraan?

My Dream Beach Destinations in the Philippines

2010-04-12T21:16:00.004+08:00

The following are the beaches in the Philippines that I want to visit before I die:

1. Motyong Beach in Casiguran, Aurora (Luzon)
2. Gota Beach in Caramoan, Camarines Sur (Luzon)
3. San Vicente Beach in San Vicente, Palawan (Visayas or Luzon?)
4. Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan, Cebu (Visayas)
5. Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol (Visayas)
6. Caliocan Island in Guiuan, Eastern Leyte (Visayas)
7. Dakak Beach in Dapitan City, Zamboanga Del Norte (Mindanao)
8. Dahican Beach in Mati City, Davao Oriental (Mindanao)

If only I were a rich man like Manny Villar or Henry Sy, I would invest a lot to develop these beaches and make it as popular as Phuket in Thailand or Hawaii and thus creating thousands of jobs. In this way, there would be less Filipinos "na naliligo sa gitna ng basura!"

Change

2010-04-08T22:13:00.002+08:00

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is the daughter of a former president. If Noynoy wins in this coming election, we will have another scion of a former president as leader of the land. And then in 2016, we will have Mar Roxas as the next president - another scion of a former president. After him, it would be the turn of Kris Aquino. And then she would be followed by Jinggoy Estrada and then Bongbong Marcos and then in the distant future, we would have President James Yap Jr.

And you call this change?

Baby James Yap endorses Manny Villar for President

2010-04-07T21:46:00.003+08:00

Usap-usapan ngayon ang ginawa ni Baby James Yap na pagbanggit sa pangalanng Villar noong kampanya ng Liberal Party sa Bacolod City. Syempre abot langit ang tuwa ni Manny Villar sa ginawa ni Baby James Yap. Ayon kay Villar, hindi nagsisinungaling ang bata.

Click nyo ito para mapanood ang video sa youtube.

Baby James Yap endorses Manny Villar for President

Ayan kasi pati mga bata ay ginagamit sa kampanya!

4th Gawad Haydee Yorac Awardee

2010-04-06T21:02:00.004+08:00

When many Filipino doctors and nurses choose to leave the country for that proverbial greener pasture abroad, a distinguished physician have chosen to stay and serve the rural folks. His name is DR. KADIL M. SINOLINDING, JR. of Kabacan, North Cotabato.

Dr. Sinolinding is the 2009 winner of the 4th Gawad Haydee Yorac Award. He is a well-known eye specialist whose "Vision 20/20 Cataract Charities Project" has helped thousands of people in Mindanao. He was a graduate of West Visayas State University in 1989. In 2000, he was chosen as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of the Philippines and in the following year, he received the award as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the world. Later on, he was selected as one of the five heroes for Pfizer Philippines.

He has children – Josh, Thianne and Khalil with his wife, Ma. Elena Paz Unson. Recently he was appointed Regional Secretary of the Department of Health in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). For more informantion, see http://www.meralco.com.ph/gawadhaydeeyorac/home.htm

Congratulations Dr. Sinolinding and may you become an inspiration of selfless service to all Filipinos in general and to more medical practitioners in particular.

Corruption in the Philippines

2010-04-05T21:18:00.002+08:00

Ask any Filipino whether based here or abroad if they want corruption. Of course no Filipino in his right mind would ever say he or she wants corruption. So then why is the Philippines considered one of the most corrupt countries in Asia? Are we not also the only one of two christian nations in Asia?

Corruption is evil. It deprives the people especially the poor of badly-needed money for services. It drives away investors and it limits the economic growth potential of the country.

Just a while ago, I went to help in the store of my sister. One customer asked if we could change the amount in the receipt. The actual amount is only 108 pesos but she wanted us to write instead 112 pesos. I asked why. She said she needed that 4 extra pesos for her benefit. Thank goodness she told me the truth. But of course this is a form of corruption.

I told my sister about it and she told me that the customer is a teacher! Of course I did not give in to the demand in a nice way so as not to antagonize the "valued customer".

Well this is not to say that teachers are corrupt. There are many teachers who are really honest.

In another instance, the delivery boys asked us if we could get an extra box of snack food for cash. I knew right away that the extra box was taken out of the supplier's warehouse without the owner's knowledge. (Naipuslit nila). If not, the delivery boys could just return it. Why are they selling it for cash and not include them in the purchased items?

My point here is that corruption does not happen only in government offices. It happens everywhere even at home!

"Hindi ako magnanakaw". (I will not steal).

This is the campaign slogan of Noynoy Aquino. Honestly I think this is more of a gimmick to attract voters than a real personal advocacy of good governance. Yet even if we give him the benefit of the doubt, the question is can his relatives say the thing? What about his supprters who are mostly former government officials and former cabinet members of Gloria Arroyo at that?

For Noynoy to promise no corruption when he wins the presidency is surely the hallmark of a traditional politician. It can not be forgotten that during presidency of his mother, the term "Kamag-anak Inc." was very popular to denote the voracity of the members of the powerful Cojuangco-Aquino dynasty.

The Meaning of Easter

2010-04-04T22:19:00.003+08:00

Easter refers to that particular Sunday in March or April when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. While some Christians believe that the foundation day of the Church is on Pentecost Sunday, many believe that the Church was actually founded on Easter Sunday.

So great is the importance given to Easter Sunday. This is in recognition to the truth that if Christ has not been resurrected, the christian faith is futile, as St. Paul has written.

But what is the meaning of Easter to the individual Christian? Personally, I believe that the most important message of easter is that life does not end in death. That there is life after death on earth. It means that Jesus have shown that death has no power over us, that there is no reason to fear death, that there is no need to be feel insecure, and that in the midst of the darkness of this world, we are still the children of the light.

Does the message of Easter rings a bell to our everyday life as Filipinos? When hopelessness permeates the whole fabric of the Filipino psyche due to poverty, corruption, and divisions, Easter shows us that there is the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. It brings us to the realization that only by dying to ourselves can we truly experience the power of the resurrection.

Easter is basically a message of hope. When we are about to give up on our ideals and dreams, Jesus invites us to reflect on his selfless act of giving Himself for others. When everything else seem to fail, we look up to Easter Sunday and reclaim our right as heirs of the Kingdom of God. Let us remember that when Jesus died on the Cross on that infamous Good Friday, his disciples became very fearful. Yet when they heard of his resurrection, they became very fearless.

Happy Easter to everyone.

Visiting Metro Manila Churches

2010-04-03T20:14:00.012+08:00

Like many other Catholics, I also observed Holy week by visiting at least seven churches around Metro Manila. With my nephew and houseboy as my companion, we went "church-hopping" on Good Friday.

At the outset, I explained to my companion the nature of "Bisita Iglesia". Alas, my explanation did not sink in. Even if I keep on telling them to behave well and to just pray inside the church, there they are holding on to their gameboy and cell phones. From time to time I have to "shhhh" them because of their loud whispers. On hindsight, I am still grateful that they came with me rather than stay at home and play the whole day.

Anyway, I consider visiting different churches as a way of spiritual renewal. Although our stay in one church is brief, at least it was prayerful. It has been a long while that I last meditated and I have this weakness of falling asleep when I say very long prayers or listen to long sermons.

What did I pray for? Well I prayed for peace of mind, peace at home, peace in the Philippines, and peace in the whole world. I also prayed for honest, orderly, and peaceful election (HOPE). Of course I did not forget to pray for guidance that my next career move would be successful.

Here are the photos of the churches we visited:

This was our first stop: San Sebastian Church in Manila. With its unique architecture, it is one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines.

The Benedictine Church near San Beda College along Mendiola.

Saint Jude Church near Malacanang Palace along Laurel Street. This church is always full of devotees of Saint Jude every Thursday.

The background is the Shrine of Mary, Our Lady of Peace on the boundary of Mandaluyong City and Quezon City. Beneath the shrine is the church that was put up on the site of the bloodless revolution in 1986 that toppled the regime of former President Marcos. The event is now called the EDSA I Revolution. On the same site, President Gloria Macapagasl-Arroyo took her oath of office after then President Joseph Estrada moved out of Malacanang during the so called EDSA 2 revolution.

Above is the 5th church that we visited: the church of the Our Mother of Perpetual in Baclaran, Paranaque City. One of the most popular church in the Philippine which is always full of pilgrims every Wednesday.

The Church of Jesus - the Way, the Truth, and the Life located near SM Mall of Asia.

It was already evening when we reached our last destination: the Malate Church above. The Malate Circle, in front of the church is, as usual, full of people.

Libreng Tindahan

2010-03-03T04:55:00.002+08:00

Doon sa self-transformation seminar na sinalihan ko ay naikuwento ni Mr. Vic Hao Chin na sa India ay mayroon lugar na tinatawag na Auroville. Ang lugar na ito ay isang "UNIVERSAL TOWN where men and women of all countries are able to live in peace and progressive harmony above all creeds, all politics and all nationalities. The purpose of Auroville is to realise human unity."

Sabi ni Mr. Vic na sa lugar na ito ay may LIBRENG TINDAHAN kung saan ang "mamimili" ay pupunta doon at kukuha ng kanyang pangangailan nang walang bayad. Pipirma ka lang at isusulat ang inyong nakuha. Ang mga stocks o items dito ay pawang mga donasyon lamang at hinihingi sa mga "mamimili" na magdonate rin pero dahil donation nga hindi ito sapilitan.

Ang tindahan na ito ay walang security guard at mga volunteers lang ang nag-aasikaso dito.

Hmmm, Pwede kayang magtayo ng isang libreng tindahan dito sa pilipinas? Baka naman sa isang oras ubos na ang "paninda" dito?

Self-Transformation Seminar

2010-03-01T05:25:00.003+08:00

This blog has not been updated for a long time because I deliberately busied myself with many other things. There was the help requested by my sister, my Mandarin class at the Ateneo, reading a book ( which I hope to share later), updating www.Geotayo.com and attending the Self-Transformation Seminar.

What is this self-transformation seminar? Well, by its name alone, it is a 3-day seminar which is all about transforming one's self. It is all about making constant changes in the self in order to achieve self-actualization or to reach one's fullest potential. Is it possible?

Of course it is. I learned from the sermon of a priest years ago that if there is no hope that man can change, then there is really no hope for the world. But then they always say hope springs eternal.

In the seminar, we reviewed our understanding of life in general including beliefs, assumptions, and attitudes. The speakers emphasized that many or all of our day-to-day actions and reaction are due to push-buttons or unreleased fears which we have accumulated in the past. Then values were clarified and tools were given for self-mastery.

The seminar was held at the headquarter of Theosophical Society of the Philippines in Quezon City. It was mainly conducted by a superb public speaker, the TS president, Mr. Vic Hao Chin. He was ably assisted by Atty. Flor, Bimboy and his wife Jo. Most of the participants were workers of NGOs, students, and interested individuals like me.

I attended this seminar because "Gustong kong bumait pero di ko magawa".

Saying "I Love You" in different Philippine Dialects

2010-02-14T20:02:00.003+08:00

This is how to say I LOVE YOU using different dialects of the Philippines:

Tagalog - Mahal Kita / Iniibig Kita
Ilocano - Ay-ayaten ka
Ifugao - Penpenhod cha-a (Ayangan version)
Kapampangan - Kaluguran da ka
Bicolano - namumuot ako sa imo
Waray - Pinaura ko ikaw
Cebuano - Hinigugma ko ikaw
Ilonggo - Palangga ta ka

And of course, the joke is that a japanized Filipino would say "I Rob Yu".

(I hope you can more...)

Happy Hearts / Hurts day!!!!!!

Manny, Manny, Manny

2010-02-08T21:20:00.005+08:00

Manny, Manny, Manny. Money, Money, Money.

At least three Mannys are famous in the Philippines. One is in business and hopefully will remain in business. Another is in business and politics with the possibility of the becoming the president of the republic. The last one is into sport and entertainment but is trying hard to become a legislator.Actually their stories have been told and retold so I will just mention them in passing.

First, we have Manny V. Pangilinan, the head of telecommunication giant PLDT. Also known as MVP, he is a classic Filipino executive who really rose from the ranks. He is also the head of infrastructure giant Metro Pacific Investments which has invested much in toll roads, electricity and water distribution, hospitals, and now television. He started his business career as an assistant to the president of a local company then he went to Hongkong as an OFW. While there, he befriended many rich people until he became the chairman of an Indonesian-owned company. Then he returned to the Philippines as an investor.

Then we have the presidential candidate, Manny B. Villar. We are told that he was born and grew up in Tondo, Manila. We are also told that he helped his mother sell fish at Divisoria Market. Then after being an employee in a local company, he started a construction business which grew into a multi-billion housing concern. He joined politics and was elected as a congressman for three terms eventually becoming house speaker. Then he run for and won as senator for two terms. He was a former senate president and he now wants to cap his political career by running for president.

Last but not the least is another billionaire in the person of Manny Pacquaio. We know he was a former helper in a bakeshop. He trained hard in boxing and he is now considered as the world's greatest boxer of all times and in the process earning lots and lots of money. He used his popularity to become a movie star and a mainstay in television as well as a reliable product endorser. He entered politics in the 2007congressional election but lost miserably. He is again running as representative in the upcoming May election.

Manny Pangilinan traces his root to Pampanga Province while Manny Villar is now a Las Pinas resident. Manny Pacquaio hails from General Santos City in South Cotabato but has transferred his residence to Sarangani Province where is now a candidate for congressman.

All the above three billionaires are trumpeting their rags to riches stories. Yet we can assume safely that only Manny Pacquiao really came from a very poor family. The other two Mannys were at best came from middle class families. They went to private schools and were even able to get Master's Degree. But the fact remains that they were all SELF-MADE people, meaning their wealth is a product of their own sweat and maybe tears. We may not vote for Manny Villar and we may not agree with Manny Pacquaio entering politics but their lives should inspire many Filipinos out there. That in this country, though poor as it is, the possibility to rise above mediocrity and poverty is there.

Hindi matatawaran ang naging papel na ginampanan at ginagampanan pa ng tatlong Manny na ito sa kasaysayan ng Pilipinas. Maraming Pilipino ang humahanga sa kanila. Sana hindi nila basta basta walain ang tiwalang ito dahil sa paggawa ng hindi kanaisnais na bagay. Sana hindi nila gamitin ang kanilang yaman sa ikasisira ng kanilang pangalan at ng kanilang bansa!

Joke only

2010-02-06T21:19:00.004+08:00

Before the politikos will bore you with their campaign jingles, let me share with you an e-mail which I received from Ms. Cristina. Here it is:

One morning the husband returns after several hours of fishing and decides to take a nap. Although not familiar with the lake, the wife decides to take the boat out. She motors out a short distance, and reads her book. Along comes a Game Warden in his boat.

He pulls up alongside the woman and says, "Good morning, Ma'am. What are you doing?"

"Reading a book," she replies, (thinking-- "Isn't that obvious?")

"You're in a Restricted Fishing Area," he informs her.

"I'm sorry officer, but I'm not fishing, I'm reading."

"Yes, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment. I'll have to take you in and write you up."

"If you do that, I’ll have to charge you with sexual assault," says the woman.

"But I haven't even touched you,” says the game warden.

"That's true, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment."

"Have a nice day ma'am," and he left.

Eto Pa:

A lonely widow, aged 70, decided that it was time to get married again. She put an ad in the local newspaper that read:

HUSBAND WANTED: MUST BE IN MY AGE GROUP (70's), MUST NOT BEAT ME, MUST NOT RUN AROUND ON ME, AND MUST STILL BE GOOD IN BED! ALL APPLICANTS PLEASE APPLY IN PERSON.

On the second day she heard the doorbell. Much to her dismay, she opened the door to see a grey-haired gentleman sitting on a wheel chair. He had no arms or legs. "You're not really asking me to consider you, are you?" the widow said. "Just look at you ... you have no legs!"

The old gentleman smiled, "Therefore, I cannot run around on you!"

"You don't have any arms either!" she snorted. Again, the old man smiled, "Therefore, I can never beat you!"

She raised an eyebrow and asked intently, "Are you still good in bed??"

The old man leaned back, beamed a big smile and said, "I rang the door bell, didn't I?" =D

Oh di ba? Saan Ka pa?

Poverty Incidence in the Philippines

2010-02-04T05:25:00.003+08:00

It's really a sad thing that PGMA's administration is spending oceans of public money to advertise its accomplishment during the past nine years. What is glaring though in the newspaper and TV ads is the failure of this not-so-cute adminstration to really uplift the lives of so many Filipinos.

Here is the list of provinces and their respective poverty incidence among population for 2006 as per record of the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB):

The top poorest provinces

1. Tawi-Tawi - 78.2%
2. Maguindanao - 69.3%
3. Zamboanga Del Norte - 67.5
4. Apayao - 63.1%
5. Northern Samar - 61.1%
6. Abra - 60.7%
7. Surigao Del Norte - 60.2%
8. Masbate - 59.5%
9. Lanao Del Sur - 58.5%
10. Misamis Occidental - 56.3%

The top provinces with the least poverty incidence

1. Batanes - 0% (Congratulations???)
2. Rizal - 8.9
3. Bataan - 10.5
4. Pampanga - 10.8
5. Benguet - 11.1
6. Cavite - 11.2
7. Laguna - 13.2
8. Bulacan - 13.4
9. Nueva Vizcaya - 16.7
10 Quirino - 22.4

How other provinces fared:
1. Agusan del Norte - 40.0
2. Agusan del Sur - 56.2
3. Aklan - 52.0
4. Albay - 46.2
5. Antique - 51.6
6. Aurora - 36.8
7. Basilan - 43.7
8. Batangas - 30.7
9. Biliran - 42.2
10. Bohol - 46.9
11. Bukidnon - 37.2
12. Cagayan - 23.1
13. Camarines Norte - 49.3
14. Camarines Sur - 49.9
15. Camiguin - 42.1
16. Capiz - 30.2
17. Catanduanes - 46.8
18. Cebu - 28.2
19. Compostela Valley - 47.1
20. Davao Del Norte - 44.8
21. Davao Del Sur - 27.4
22. Davao Oriental - 48.8
23. Dinagat Islands - -
24. Eastern Samar - 51.9
25. Guimaras - 39.6
26. Ifugao - 40.3
27. Ilocos Norte - 21.2
28. Ilocos Sur - 32.6
29. Ilo-ilo - 30.4
30. Isabela - 30.7
31. Kalinga - 51.9
32. La Union - 32.6
33. Lanao Del Norte - 52.2
34. Leyte - 47.3
35. Marinduque - 50.6
36. Misamis Oriental - 37.5
37. Mt. Province - 50.4
38. Negros Occidental - 42.0
39. Negros Oriental - 48.1
40. North Cotabato - 34.6
41. Nueva Ecija - 37.7
42. Occidental Mindoro - 57.0
43. Oriental Mindoro - 55.5
44. Palawan - 49.3
45. Pangasinan - 35.0
46. Quezon - 47.7
47. Romblon - 51.7
48. Sarangani - 52.0
49. Siquijor - 21.5
50. Sorsogon - 55.3
51. South Cotabato - 37.3
52. Southern Leyte - 36.0
53. Sultan Kudarat - 47.4
54. Sulu - 52.2
55. Surigao Del Sur - 55.1
56. Tarlac - 27.6
57. Western Samar - 47.6
58. Zambales - 28.9
59. Zamboanga Del Sur - 33.8
60. Zamboanga Sibugay - 50.3

Medyo luma itong data na ito pero if ever may kunting pagbabago siguro sa ranking pero sa statistics, napakarami pa ring mahihirap. Sa tingin ninyo meron bang nabago since 2006?

This is election time. I do believe that the war on poverty can only be won through GOOD GOVERNANCE. I hope the Filipino voters particularly those in the poorest provinces will really vote wisely so that only those who can truly serve the poor will win.

Till my next bulbulablog..

Zoobic Safari

2010-02-01T19:37:00.011+08:00

Zoobic Safari is a unique kind of nature park located deep in the so-called Ilanin Forest within the the Subic Freeport. Aside from the different animals (lots of them really), there is also an Aeta Trail where some Aetas would showcase their way of life particularly their arts and dances. There is also an animal museum but the main attraction of the zoo is its collection of tigers. In fact, the park is also known as Zoobic Tiger Safari.

The zoo is truly different from those in Metro Manila. Aside from the jungle setting with tall trees all around, visitors are allowed to interact with the animals like touching or feeding them.

For those who can not make it to the zoo, here are some photos of my visit to Zoobic Safari.

Visitors can also observe at close range how tigers are fed with chicken.

Sa wakas nakakita na ako ng buhay na camel kahit hindi pa ako nakatuntung sa Gitnang Silangan.

Birds of colorful feathers flock together here.

Eeeek...give me my milk, says the little goat.

Crocodiles galore at the croco-loco section.

Inside the museum...

The aborigines of the Philippines are good care takers of nature. May we learn from them.

Hapon na, its time to go home.

Photos of Ocean Adventure at Subic

2010-01-29T20:51:00.008+08:00

A great way perhaps to spend a weekend with family members or with friends is to visit Ocean Adventure at Subic Bay Freeport. Ocean adventure is a marine park located at Camayan Wharf at the former American Navy Base. As per information, this park is the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia.

It was a hot sunny day when we visited the park last Sunday. There were several groups of school children and some foreign tourists particularly Koreans. I was with pre-school kids. When we arrived, the children were very excited to see many monkeys roaming around the forest near the park.

The park was divided into sections. The first section that we entered was the aquarium. There lots of fishes and other sea creatures.

This is the sealion show.

Then we were led by our guide to an open air mini amphitheater where the acrobat show was being held. The sun was already high but we enjoyed nevertheless the singing, dancing, and the spectacular acrobatic acts of two "imported" entertainers.

Then there was the sort of finale show right after lunch. Dolphins jumping and splashing, spinning, "walking on water", "running", and well feasting on fishes given by their trainors.

(I really have to apologize for posting the photos very late and very few because I am encountering internet connection problems. Grabe, so much time is wasted. Malapit ng mag-overflow ang baso. Pag nagkataon, magpapalit na ako ng ISP.)

Destination: Subic

2010-01-25T21:40:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, I had the privilege of joining the kids and parents from Sunshine Learning Center in their field trip to Subic Freeport in Zambales Province. The trip was serviced by Island Discovery Tours. Aside from the driver, three other personnel from the travel agency joined us in the bus. These were the trip supervisor, the storyteller/entertainer, and the "historian" whom I would learn later to be actually an engineer by profession.

It was not my first time to travel to Subic Freeport but my previous itinerary was limited to the commercial part of the former American navy base. This time I got to see Ocean Adventure and Zoobic Zafari and of course the much-talked-about tropical rainforest where monkeys, bats, and other forest animals abound.

While on the way, Paul, the entertainer, did not fail to amused me and the other passengers, I guessed. A sample of his joke was when he asked the children to mention what they saw on their left side and on their right side. Farms, houses, buildings, trees, street light, sky were all mentioned except one. When the children could not answer, he asked the parents who can't guess either. Then he shouted the "bus window" followed by a loud laugh! (Corny).

Then it was the turn of the "historian". He explained the basis of the number of kilometers which one sees on signposts beside any road. He also informed us about the different places that were being passed by such as Candaba Swamp which is frequented by birds from other countries, the city of San Fernando, how the province of Pampanga got its name, famous places, persons, and cuisine from pampanga. Sensing that he would fail to mention Mt. Arayat, I pointed out to him the famous mountain. (Ay may naitulong din pala ako.)

And then, while we were leaving San Fernando City, I waited for him to mention it as the capital of Pampanga but in vain so I uttered to him in a small voice as I was seated near him. He thanked me. Well, I just can't help but that I felt it was very important for the children to know more about Philippine Geography. Actually he was having fun communicating to the children about a television show which is being shot in Pampanga.

(Photo above shows rice farms in Pampanga which is part of Central Luzon Region, considered as the Rice Granary of the Philippines.

(This photo shows the Tipo Tollgate, the entrance to Subic Freeport Zone which is now connected to the new Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway. Tipo Expressway is a short tollway built during the Ramos Administration. It was built in time for the holding of the APEC Summit which was erroneously mentioned by the entertainer from the travel agency as ASEAN Summit.)

By and large, the bus trip was enjoyable as I was also seated with a very shy four-year old kid. From time to time I would strike a conversation with him.

(To be continued...)

Huwag Mo Akong Awayin

2010-01-24T22:36:00.002+08:00

Sabi ng isang Kaibigan: most of the problems in this world start the moment one says "I Am Right". Once we say this, it necessarily means the others are wrong. Why can't we just express ourselves and that's all?

If we stop saying "I Am Right", then nobody is really right and therefore nobody is wrong. So there's no conflict. It follows then that there is no problem.

Do you agree with this assertion?

8,000,000 Witnesses?

2010-01-23T09:12:00.004+08:00

There is this news item in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (January 18, 2010, page A17)where reporters Jhunnex Napallacan and Chito Aragon quoted the police who said that the grand parade during the Sinulog Festival was witnessed by an estimated six to eight million people despite the incessant rain.

Six to Eight million? Even if it is just an estimate, the number is too big as to reflect an iota of truth. Consider the following: The whole of Cebu Province had a population of a little over 3.8 million in 2007, according to the National Statiscal Coordinating Board. Since this is 2010, perhaps the total population has already breached the 4 million mark.

Okay, let us take the lower estimate of 6 million. If this figure is to reflect reality, all the people of Cebu must have gone to watch the parade - that is including non-catholics, babies and old people from the remotest barangays (IMPOSSIBILITY NO. 1). Then another two million tourists must have travelled to Cebu from other provinces and countries. Aha, imagine how many ships, boats, and airplanes used to ferry these number of people. Imagine also how many rooms (hotel or otherwise) were used by 2,000,000 bodies? (IMPOSSIBILITY NO. 2).

Sabihin natin, hindi naman lahat naghotel eh. Mayroon dyan dumating umaga tapos umuwi pagkatapos ng parade. Eh mayroong bang enough hotel rooms within Metro Cebu for 500,000 people? Masyadong Malaki pa rin.

You see 6 million doesn't hold water. How much more for 8 million?

So what if the estimate is bloated? Anong issue? Well the proper question should be: Why can't the police give a better estimate? Also, why did the journalists who are supposed to give us balanced news did not bother to question or correct the police estimate?

Why is there a need to exaggerate? Just asking...

I Am Happy

2010-01-22T01:21:00.002+08:00

It is 1:30 in the morning. I just arrived home from a drinking session. You see I just met some friends who shared their ideas on how to be happy.

It may seem shallow to some but I am sure everyone wants to be happy. Yet how many times we end up being sad and sometimes even bitter?

These friends claimed that happiness is not found outside of us. Even love is not found anywhere. That is why it is useless to look for happiness or love beyond ourselves.

Consider these situations. If happiness is found in marriage, then all married people must be happy. But this is not true. If happiness is found in money, then all the rich people must be happy. Unfortunately, this is not the reality. If happiness is found in power, then all those in power, i.e. government officials, must be happy. Again, the current situation does not support this. If happiness is found in fame, then why is it that famous celebrities aren't the happiest people on earth?

The fact is, in whatever situation you are in, you can be truly happy. You just have to choose it! If you have difficulty in choosing to be happy, it is because you have not come to terms with yourself. First you have to love yourself and everything will fall in line!

So you want to be happy? Relax, just accept and love yourself as you are.

Filipinnovation

2010-01-13T09:05:00.003+08:00

I have always been a believer in the can-do spirit of Filipinos. We do have many innovative ideas on how to achieve development. Yet somehow and somewhere along the road to progress, we seem encounter setbacks after setbacks. Still we move on.

We have great thinkers and policy makers. We have good engineers and scientists. We also have bureaucrats with good intentions. And there are the private citizens who are willing to serve the country. Among them are the people who came up with Filipinnovation initiative.

Filipinnovation is simply a catchword referring to the strategy adopted by both government and private sector to make the Philippines an innovation hub. It aims, according to the Department of Science and Technology, "to increase industry productivity, to ensure an innovative environment, and to shape the national mind-set for a competitive innovation agenda."

The strategy is now on its third year of implementation. In support of this project, IBM Philippines opened recently its "Innovation Center" at its building in the UP-Ayala Land TechnoHub located right near the University of the Philippines Campus in Quezon City.

Another project of the Filipinnovation initiative is the launching of the electronic version of its magazine which will chronicle progress on the four major aspects of innovation namely: human capital, business incubation and acceleration, public policies, and the Filipino mindset.

More on this undertaking at Manila Bulletin.

Feast of the Black Nazarene

2010-01-10T11:14:00.013+08:00

Every January 9 of each year is the Feast of the Image of the Black Nazarene. The center of the celebration is of course Quiapo Church in Manila City. This festival is perhaps the most popular festival in Metro Manila. According to newspaper reports, around 2 million people attended yesterday's celebration, the largest to date.

The Catholic Church in Quiapo is of course the home of the black image of the suffering Christ. The Quiapo Church is also called the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene. Here are some of the photos of the "Pista ng Poong Nazareno".

Quezon Avenue is filled with devotees, kibitzers, and media people.

Devotees have been waiting for many hours for the carriage to pass by.

Finally the carriage bearing the real (original) image is making headway inch by inch.

There is pushing and shoving to touch the rope (lubid) that is connected to the carriage. Devotees believe that by just touching the rope, their prayers would be answered. Hence by all means sinisiguro nila na mahipo man lang iyong lubid kahit minsan isang taon. Iyon ang kanilang "panata" which I would translate as "covenant".

This boy wants to touch the image with a white handkerchief. Well, would you literally step on others head and shoulders just to get what you want?

Tired but with faith renewed?

What does it feel to sit on the throne? and to have women as your disciples?

Business as usual. Make money while there is opportunity.

Mona's Cat

2010-01-08T20:12:00.005+08:00

I am not fond of pets but I have a friend who is very much interested in domesticated animals especially cats. One time I visited Mona in her office and I was surprised to see a cat playing on the floor. Without much hesitation, I brought out my camera and began to take some shots. The photo above is one of them.

In between conversation with my friend, I would glance at the cat. I was not actually feeling well at the time. Yet the cat was making me smile with its tricks and turns. Then it dawn upon me the thought that this cat does not work nor does it worry about anything. I was thinking how lucky this cat is because somebody is taking care of him! Somebody loves this cat! I felt all my worries at that time vanished. Could this be a moment of illumination?

If this cat is taken cared of, what about me? What about the street children like those in the photo below?

Carabao Vs. Boracay Islands

2010-01-07T09:49:00.005+08:00

The Philippines is truly blessed with many beautiful places particularly stunning beaches. Who have not heard of world-famous Boracay Island? This so-called crown jewel of Philippine tourist spots is considered one of the best beaches in the world today. What about Carabao Island? An interesting article in the Panorama Magazine proclaimed this island as the next Boracay.

In the article, it claimed that Carabao Island has a longer and more beautiful beach. Moreover, it is unspoiled unlike Boracay where it is now congested. An international airport is now being constructed by private investors.

In the map above, you will see the location of Carabao Island which is very near Boracay Island. Carabao Island is part of Romblon Province while Boracay belongs to Aklan Province. You will also see the location of Caticlan, the jump-off point to Boracay. Further down to the southeast is Kalibo, the capital of Aklan.

Just for your information, there is already an existing international airport in Kalibo. According to newspaper reports, another international airport will start construction this January in Caticlan. My concern is, Why build three (3) international airports near each other? Caticlan is less than an hour drive from Kalibo and Carabao Island is only 30 minutes boatride from Boracay. If a superhighway will be built between Kalibo and Caticlan, travel time will be cut into 30 minutes or less.

If there is so much money to be spent in building 3 international airports, why not construct only one but make sure it will be as great as Changi Airport in Singapore or that of Hongkong?

Anyway, I am sure there are many places in the country with good tourism potential but with no airport yet. Consider Caramoan Peninsula in Camarines Sur, Bicol. Or Calicoan Island in Eastern Samar Province.

What I see here is a mad rush by politicians to have projects built in their home turf without considering the feasibility of these projects and their implication to the over all national development of the country.

Mga Messages sa Nu Yir

2010-01-03T21:00:00.002+08:00

May isang kaibigan na walang humpay na nagpapadala ng mensahe na kanyang nakalap naman mula sa kanyang mga kaibigan. Narito ang ilan sa kanyang pinadala:

1. Mga dapat sundin para di madisgrasya sa paputok:
- Huwag kumuha ng naputukan, baka mapikot ka.
- Alisin agad pag malapit ng pumutok.
- Kung naputukan, dali daling hugasan. Baka madala pa sa hugas.
- Huwag magpaputok sa mataong lugar, nakakahiya.
- Magtanong kung safe bago magpaputok. Pag safe, saka iputok.
- Be safe, Hapi New Year.

2. Ngayong natapos na ang O'NINE, naway labasan ka ng maraming tagumpay at swerte sa pagpasok ng O'TEN. Isang masagana at malaking O'TEN ang hangad ko sayo.

3. Para di malasin sa bagong taon, wag isali ang ice cream, matutunaw ang swerte. Wag isali ang manok, lilipad ang swerte. Wag isali ang isda, malulunod swerte. Wag isali baboy, tatakbo swerte. Wag na lang kayang maghanda?

---------------

1. May the spirit of the changing seasons gives us new meaning to realize a relevant paradigm shift towards the quantum leap of faiththat is unfolding.

2. It is the ending of a season and a new beginning. Happy new year!

3. Best wishes for 2010! Success in all levels! So be it in partnership with the Divine Absolute!

4. Abundant graces, Abundant blessings. No calamity is worse than discontentment. Happy New year!

5. Receive seeds from the garden of daily living and follow this instructions:
- 3 rows of peas - peaceof mind, heart, and soul.
- 4 rows of squash - squash gossip, indifference, grumbling, and selfishness.
- 6 rows of lettuce - lettuce be faithful, kind, patient, generous, humble and lettuce really love one another

*** To enhance your garden here is the seed of time: time for God, family, and friends. Water regularly with patience, cultivate with love and there will be much fruit in your garden. Remember, you reap what you sow. Happy planting not only today but always.

Hopeful

2010-01-02T22:20:00.003+08:00

Day dreaming is different from having a dream. Daydreaming is dreaming and doing nothing to achieve the dream. But to have a dream means to have some kind of goal that is achievable in the near term or in the long run.

I wrote in my profile that I am a dreamer. I have many dreams. Or rather I have too many dreams. Is it bad? Please forgive me if I think it is not. After all, buhay ko ito, ika nga. And remember, libre lang ang mangarap!

I was taught in my childhood to have a dream because it is disastrous not to have one. Later, I read in some inspirational books that the first step to success is to have a dream. Then have a plan. Then execute that plan. Then persevere. And so on.

Looking back now, I would say the result is mixed. I achieved some but I have stumbled a lot. Looking forward, I am hopeful that the other goals I have set for myself will soon be realized.

It is in this context that I would say it was Susan Boyle who inspired me a lot in 2009. (Sorry folks if you haven't heard of this lady. Well, she lived to see her dream being realized even in the most unkindly environment at past middle age!) Oh di ba, hindi pa huli ang lahat...Sana nga.

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010

2010-01-01T12:27:00.003+08:00

Today I give thanks to my creator and to all the spiritual masters for all the blessings I received last year. Whatever happened in the year that has just passed, good or bad, I release them all. I forgive everyone and I ask forgiveness for whatever bad I did and whatever good I did not do.

Today I welcome the new year with gratitude and hope. I am grateful because I am given another year as an opportunity to continue my mission on earth. I am hopeful that this year will be peaceful, prosperous, and "pioneering". The last word refers to new experiences, new places to visit, new people to meet, and new things to try. But above all, since I become older, I hope to learn new lessons - to acquire new habits that would eliminate the bad ones.

Ah new year's resolution? Year in and year out I made one or two. Many times I failed. But I have learned to accept my shortcomings. The best thing is I tried to be become "better". Somebody told me there is no need to become better. Let us just accept who we are or what we are.

Well, acceptance is one thing. Striving to be what you want to be is an option. We are all responsible for our decisions anyway. As for me, life is what I make it. I listen to what others tell me but at the end of the day, I still decide on my own.

To all of you dear friends and visitors, thank you for being there. I wish all of you peace, joy, more blessings this new year.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T15:00:00.003+08:00

Pulubi

2009-12-13T21:28:00.004+08:00

Kapag ba nakakita kayo ng pulubi, ano ang nararamdaman ninyo?

Dito sa Pilipinas, nagkalat ang mga pulubi lalo na dito sa Metro Manila. Bata, matanda, may kapansanan o wala, makikita mo sila kung saan saan. Nariyan iyong kumkalabit sa likuran mo habang nakasakay sa jeep at andyan din iyong nagbibigay ng envelope pagkatapos ay tutugtugin iyong daladalang lata. Sa Recto na malapit sa Divisoria, may mga nanay pang kalong kalong ang anak at nanghihingi ng barya. Hayyyy third world country nga ang Pinas!

Kung minsan nagbibigay ako ng barya pero kadalasan ayoko kong magbigay. Ang alam ko may batas na nagbabawal magbigay sa mga pulubi lalo pag bata. Sa tingin ko may katwiran ang batas na ito. Kasi nga naman nakakabawas dignidad sa isang tao ang pagiging pulubi. Isama mo pa iyong mga sabi-sabi na miembro sila ng sindikato. Kung bata naman ayaw kong masanay siya doon.

Subalit nakakaawa tingnan iyong mga pulubi. Sabi ng isang kaibigan, paano kung ikaw ang ganyan? Tapos hindi ka bibigyan at mumurahin ka pa?

Ang turo ng simbahan ay dapat ibahagi ang mga blessings sa nangangailangan. Pero sa tingin ko may tamang paraan para magbahagi. Tulad ng pagbibigay donasyon sa mga foundation na kumukupkop sa mga batang lansangan.

Pero hindi ba nasa kultura nating Pinoy ang paghihingi. Isa rin itong klase ng pagiging pulubi. Nandyan ang mga kapitbahay o kaupisina na hingi ng hingi.
Hingi ng pagkain. Hingi ng tissue. Hingi ng kung anu-ano. Di ba pulubi din sila? Nariyan din ang mga citizens o local officials na hingi ng hingi ng tulong sa mga politiko kung kayat naghahanap ng makokorap ang politicians natin. Pero ibang usapan na ito.

Nandyan din iyong tuwing nagdadasal ay hingi ng hingi ng pabor kay Lord. O di ba lahat tayo ay pulubi?

Kanina lamang ay dumaan ako sa EDSA. Malayo pa ay may naririnig akong malakas na kumakanta. Noong malapit na ako ay kumanta siya ng "Give Love on Christmas Day". Napakaganda ng kanyang boses kung kaya't hindi na ako nagdalawang isip pang maghulog ng ilang barya sa kahon niya. Ito siya...

The Heart

2009-12-12T14:11:00.003+08:00

What is the color of your heart? The photo below was taken at the War Memorial Park in Kiangan, Ifugao.

Masaya Pero Malungkot

2009-12-10T04:45:00.003+08:00

Kahahatid ko lamang ang aking pamangkin sa airport. Masaya ako kasi pagkatapos ng isang taong paghihintay ay nakalipad na rin siya patungo sa ibang bansa. Ay sa wakas kako, may katuwang na ang kanyang nanay sa pagpapaaral ng kanyang mga kapatid, well hopefully. Subalit nang pauwi na ako ay biglang nawala ang aking kasiyahan at ako'y nanlamig at nalungkot. Isang malaking katanungan ang summaglit sa aking isipan: Bakit kailangan niyang umalis?

Tulad ng napakaraming Pilipino, hangad ng aking pamangkin ang mangibang bansa upang doon makapagtrabaho. Kailangan daw sabi ng aking pamangkin dahil kakaramput ang kanyang kikitain kung dito sya magtratrabaho. Di baleng domestic helper sya doon. Di baleng tagapaglinis sya ng puwet ng isang matandang banyaga. Di baleng malayo sya sa kanyang mga mahal sa buhay.

Hindi ito ang first time na pagpunta ni Icel sa abroad. Noong first time ay may apat na taon na ang nakaraan. Limang buwan lang siya doon sa abroad ay bumalik siya dahil hindi niya nakayanan ang pagmamalupit ng kanyang amo. Sounds familiar ba? Pero hindi pa rin siya nawalan ng pag-asa. Ito, bumalik ulit. Hanga talaga ako sa determinasyon niya.

Okay, okay...kailangan niyang umalis dahil sa kanyang sariling bansa ay walang disenteng trabahong para sa kanya period, period, period. Iyon lang naman eh. Kahit pa ilang ulit ko nang narinig na maganda at mayaman ang Pilipinas; Na napakaraming ginto at kung anu-ano pang kayamanan ang nakabaon sa lupa ng bansang ito. Ang lungkot isipin ang bagay na ito.

Mga ilan na rin ang nasaksihan kong nag-abroad. Mga kamag-anak, kababayan, kaibigan. Iyong iba, habang nag-aaply o nagtraitraining ay sa aking flat tumira. At siyempre hatid ko rin sila pag flight na nila. Iyong iba nangungutang pa. Ipapadala na lang daw ang bayad. Pagbalik nila magpapasundo sa airport at siyempre sa akin din titira pansamantala. Masaya ako kung may pasalubong. Pero okay na rin kung wala kasi nga biglaan daw ang uwi, o kaya hindi raw ibinigay ng amo ang huling suweldo, etc, etc.
May iba din na bigla ko lang narinig na nakauwi na pala sa probinsya. Okay na rin iyon. Ang importante ay nakatulong ako noong kailangan nila.

Nakailang beses ko na ring narinig ang katanungang - ikaw, wala ka bang planong mag-abroad? Ang madalas kong sagot ay saka na. Pero sa totoo lang, ayoko ko. Kahit noong bata pa ako ay wala akong balak magabroad para magtrabaho dahil kailangan. Gusto ko sana, (read it several times SANA) ay pupunta ako abroad as a tourist or businessman. Pero sa ngayon, nakakalungkot man sabihin ay napipilitan din akong gawin ang hindi ko gusto.

Bignay Tea Vs. Viagra

2009-12-07T20:35:00.011+08:00

Ever heard of agaricus, charantia, ganoderma, goji, or taheebo? I bet you do because these are some of the most advertised exotic ingredients of some health drinks or coffee. But what about bignay tea?

Well, from the resort town of Nasugbu in the province of Batangas, 43 year-old Clarito A. Caisip has discovered what could save some men from embarrassment due to "junior's refusal to rise to the ocassion". This farmer was able to produce a herbal tea from the barks, leaves, and stems of the bignay tree which grows in the nearby mountains.

In an article which purportedly appeared in the Philippine Daily Inquirer and written by Mel Magsino and which was reproduced in a brochure, some testimonials, including that of Carlito's wife, attested to the efficacy of the bignay tea in renewing sexual vitality and in curing arthritis. Not only that, the same brochure claims that the tea can:

1. stregnthen immune system
2. prevent camcer and premature aging
3. stimulate natural weight loss without exercising
4. and normalizes blood pressure.

The tea is now registered with BFAD and DTI. Its preparation is also patented. It comes in pack of 50 and 100 grams. The product is available in some selected distributors in Metro Manila and in the discoverer's home in Batangas.

Like other herbal teas, this bignay tea is stamped with "No Approved Therapeutic Claims" (NATC). Yet the producer claims it to be a powerful health drink that can cure many ailments. It may not be popular nowadays but if it is true that it can cure erectile dysfunction, it will soon, oh my Lord, become a big money maker. Then it will give the producer of the Viagra a run for their dollar.

Oh ano mga readers gusto nyo bang itry? But I would hasten to advice you that "if symptom persists, consult your doctor" and of course, to be always responsible with your decision. Lalo na ngayon nagkalat ang iba-ibang produkto with inflated miraculous claims.

P.S. Googling Bignay tea as of today yields 6,830 results.

Award-winning Filipino Inventions

2009-12-05T13:59:00.013+08:00

At the recently concluded Inventors week and Exhibition held at the Taguig City University, several world class inventions by Filipinos were displayed. It is really amazing to know that Filipinos can come up with gadgets, technologies, or products that can make an impact on the development not only of the country but also other countries that may employ such inventions. Take for example a device that can tranform ocean waves into electricity. It is said that the Philippines can achieve energy sufficiency by just tapping the power of the ocean. With this invention together with the advent of electrical vehicles, we can no longer be dependent on imported oil. Here is a photo of the device which is an invention of Engr. Macario Tagum from Laguna Province.

Another interesting invention is the Magichanic Oil by inventor Johnny Nonog Sy.

This is an engine oil additive that gives several benefits to vehicle owners. These benefits include increase power and protection to the engine as well as better performance and savings. This has been tested by the Department of Science and Technology as well as by the Department of Transportation and Communication.

Still another great invention that is good for the environment is the rain harvester by Engr. Antonio F. Mateo who is an alumnus of Mapua Institute of technology. As the name implies, the device would catch rainfall, disinfect it and store it in tanks for ready use. The rain harvester can be installed in buildings, homes and even in vacant lots. Just think of what it will do if all buildings and homes will have it. There will be enough potable water and it lessens flooding! Here a photo of the device.

Another inventor who participated in the exhibit is Arquilio Y. Melano, Sr. whose products include gas safety regulator with adjustable flow control and adaptor unit
and Super Turbo Atomizer with Anti-Pollution Device. These products were exhibited even in Switzerland!

Other notable inventions in the exhibit are:
1. Aeronox electro-Nitrous converter a fuel savings and anti-pollution device;
2. Carmenbees synchrotherapy apparatus - detects and corrects electrical imbalances in the human body thus boosting human immune system by Engr. Leonardo Orijuela;
3. Cratage - a 8 in 1 portable cradle bed with self built cottage and hand carry pack bag.
4. MCGrill - a griller
5. U-Wash - a do-it-yourself coin-operated car and motor washer
6. ATM or Automatic Tubig Machine -a cold water dispenser
7. Ironmate - a device to save electricity while ironing clothes

Of course there were also the usual food and wellnes products on display. The point is there are many talented and skilled Filipinos who are capable of producing world-class inventions. If these talents are nurtured and supported, there will be more competitive businesses that we can be proud of.

Cactus Garden

2009-12-02T22:16:00.006+08:00

The photos above were taken from a garden show held recently in Quezon City.

Which of the two cactus gardens do you like? Or perhaps the question is "do you like to have cactus in your garden?

November Events And Christmas Anticipation

2009-12-01T05:18:00.007+08:00

It's December 1 here in the Philippines and in the Western Pacific countries. It is the merriest month for Christians because it is Christmas time. As one song says - tis the season to be jolly. But before we talk about christmas any further, let us first look back to the month of November which has just passed.

On November 1 and 2, we celebrated All Saints Day and All Souls Day respectively. We Filipinos idolize so much our santos and santas and we reserve our fondest memories for our loved ones who have gone before us. We try to be good like our favorite saints and some of us may have promised to be good before the passing of a dear parent or grandparent. Yet do we really behave like a living saint? What happened to those promises to our dearly beloved?

Then on November 15, we witnessed with great pride how Manny Pacquiao won his fight against Cotto to become the first boxer ever to win 7 titles. A week later, Efren Penaflorida won the CNN Hero of the Year Award. On November 29, we remembered the birth of Ninoy Aquino, a National Hero. Of Course, the next day (November 30) was a holiday because it is the birth of one of the greatest Filipinos - Andres Bonifacio.
But then the Maguindanao Massacre happened which catapulted the Philippines to become the world's most dangerous place for journalist. Oh my, whoever said that we Filipinos always shoot ourselves in the foot?

This month is supposedly the birth of the Messiah - Jesus Christ. Christians believed that He is the only Son of the Most High who became man in order to free us from the bondage of sin. It has been told and retold that Jesus came to teach about LOVE and PEACE. Who would not want love? Who would not want peace?

We Filipinos are known to be loving and peaceful people. Are we really? I believe so but I have to be honest that there are many times when I am in doubt. I am told not to be judgmental but when I see a "santong kabayo, natatawa talaga ako" I could only shake my head and accept my friend's observation that "karma nating mga Pilipino kung bakit may Maguindanao Massacre!." What about the corrupt politicians? Are they also our Karma?

With regards to the last question, my friend would only say, "Look at yourself!".

Fashion Accessories from Coconut Shell

2009-11-29T21:04:00.009+08:00

Yesterday I met an enterprising woman from San Pablo City, Laguna. Her name is Ms. Edna Palad. She is a much sought-after resource speaker on designing handicrafts and fashion accessories. A graduate of UST school of Fine Arts, she owns a factory in San Pablo and her company is called Red Palm Ventures which is into the production of different items made from coconut by-products. Here are some of her designs from coconut shell:
A necklace
A kid belt
Earrings
Bracelet

According to Edna, these export-quality products are very affordable. In order to preserve the uniqueness of each design, they don't produce more than 10 items each unless it is for export.

She also mentioned that she earned the trust of her customers because her company produce items in accordance with specification especially in terms of materials and colors used.

"Marereject din ang orders kung mayroong hindi nasusunod na specification. Kaya ang advise ko sa mga nagnenegosyo, dapat sumunod lagi sa usapan kasi lugi ang aabutin mo kung nagkataon.", she warned.

Mabuhay ka Ms. Edna! Sana lumago ang business mo para mas maraming magtratrabaho sa iyo at makatulong ka sa pagpapaunlad ng bansa.

Ang gaganda ng products di ba? Saka sa halip na maitapon ung mga coconut shells ay napakinabangan pa.

Galing Pook Winners

2009-11-28T22:23:00.006+08:00

If you think all is lost in Mindanao due to the spate of killings and kidnappings, you are wrong. It is because these unfortunate events are limited to a few places. In fact most of the 33 provinces that comprised the island of Mindanao are relatively peaceful.

That is why it is not very surprising that, of the 14 Galing Pook Foundation awardees, 5 are from Mindanao. The other winners are from Metro Manila which garnered 5 awards, Visayas 2 and Luzon 2. These 14 winners were selected out of 123 nominees.

Galing Pook Award is given to promote excellence in local government. The criteria for judging were "Innovation, positive results, transferability and sustainability, and efficiency." This year's panel of judges was chaired by former economic development Secretary and now an Inquirer columnist Solita Monsod.

These are the winners from Mindanao:

1. Sarangani Province for its Kalinaw Sarangani Program which brought together different groups for peace-building;
2. Midsayap town of North Cotabato for its "Natularan Mu" project which is an alliance of six barangays to resolve conflicts;
3. Surallah, South Cotabato for its "paraiso Himsug" project which promotes organic agriculture and alternative medicine;
4. Malaybalay City of Bukidnon for its Integrated Survey System of development planning based on the needs of the different departments;
5. Barangay Barobo in Valencia City, Bukidnon for promoting vermiculture as a livelihood program in its "Project Bulawan".

On the other hand, the winners from Luzon and Visayas are:
1. Tabuk, Kalinga for its "Matagoan Program" of settling tribal disputes;
2. Bulacan Province for recognizing and honoring outstanding projects;
3. Marikina City starting a clean food and water laboratory;
4. Taguig City for its system of giving identification cards to residents for purposes of providing discounted social services;
5. Quezon City empowering barangays to develop parks through cost sharing
6. Makati City for its "Baratilyo ng Basura sa Barangay" which is a waste diversion and reduction program;
7. Paranaque City for its "Adolescent Friendly Reproductive Health Services" or ARFHS;
8. Barangay Luz in Cebu City for its "Kuarta sa Basura" program; and
9. Bayawan City in Negros Oriental for its "Ecosan" project of treating and converting human waste into fertilizers and soil conditioners.

These winning projects will each receive P100,000.00 from the Department of Interior Local Government.

Congratulation to the people behind these winning projects. I hope that all of these projects will be improved further and be replicated all over the country.

Galit Ako!!!

2009-11-26T09:37:00.005+08:00

Galit! iyon ang nararamdaman ko ngayon. Galit ako dahil sa mga nangyayaring hindi ko maintindihan. Nagsusumiklab ang aking galit!

More than 50 people (read Filipinos) have died in the Maguindanao Massacre and I am afraid the number may still go up. Para ano? Para sa kapangyarihan? Para sa ambisyon ng isang tao? Para sa kapakanan ng isang pamilya o angkan? Ano ulit? papatay ka ng mahigit 50 tao - lalaki, babae, politiko, at journalists? para saan? Hello...

The killing or mass murder or massacre or whatever name you will use is really shocking, outrageous, barbaric, gruesome, unacceptable, unimaginable, inhuman, distressing, disturbing, senseless, pointless, uncalled for, unprecedented, objectionable, unnerving, upsetting, immoral, and what else. In Filipino, it is nakakakilabot, karumaldumal, nakakasindak, nakakatakot, napakarahas, makahayop, at anong ginagawa ng inutil na gobyernong ito para sa peace and order ng bansa? pasensya na. My stomach is revolting.

Biruin nyo pagkatapos ng tatlong araw, wala ni isang naaresto? Hello PNP? Hello Versoza? Hello GMA? O baka naman isang pakunwari na naman ito para sa isang malawakang kaguluhan na may kaugnayan sa eleksyon? Sana, sana hindi. Sana imahinasyon ko lang ito.

Pero kung sakali na tama ang hinala ko, panahon na para lumabas ang pagka-hero ng taumbayan. Sure ako na marami dyan sa tabi-tabi ang tulad ni Efren Penaflorida.

Orchids Galore

2009-11-24T20:52:00.009+08:00

One glamorous industry that the Philippines can be developed into a big business is the production of cutflowers particularly orchids. As a tropical country, the Philippines is home to different orchid varieties both native and hybrids. Many Filipino homes and gardens are adorned with one or two kinds of orchid. It is no wonder then that many hobbyists and entrepreneurs are engaged in orchid growing.

Here are some of my photos of orchids which I took at a garden show. By the way, for those interested in the orchid business, you may contact the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) at Los Banos, Laguna. E-mail address is pcarrd@pcarrd.dost.gov.ph

Actually marami pang ibang pwedeng idevelop ng gobyerno na pagkakakitaan tulad nga ng cutflower. Pero ewan ko kung bakit napakarami pa ring Pilipinong "unemployed".

Poverty Reduction Award for Ilocos Sur

2009-11-23T20:48:00.004+08:00

For the third time, the province of Ilocos Sur received the 2008 Outstanding Local Government Poverty Reduction Program Implementer for Region I. Previously, it won the award in 2004 and 2007. It was noted the number of families living below the poverty level was reduced from 8,250 to 7,095 based on the Minimum Basic Needs survey conducted on fourth- to sixth-class municipalities of Ilocos Sur.

The Award was personally given to Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano by National Anti-Poverty Commission Assistant Secretary Catherine Mae Santos. In receiving the award, the governor said that the provincial government is committed to continue poverty reduction efforts such as the Prosperity, Kabsat, Kalahi, and Siglat to which he attributed the success of the campaign to eradicate the scourge of poverty.

Ilocos Sur Province is located in the northwestern part of Luzon Island specifically in Region I. It is composed of 32 towns and 2 cities namely Vigan and Candon. The province is the hometown of former President Elpidio Quirino. At present, one of the most noted personalities from this province is Chavit Singson who was a long time governor of Ilocos Sur.

Cubao by Nightfall

2009-11-20T04:31:00.006+08:00

I happened to passed by Cubao yesterday hoping to find a particular book at the biggest branch of National Bookstore but was not able to find it. When I went out of the store, it was already past 6:00 PM. But I was awe-strucked by the sight of dazzling lights all around. So I hastily brought out by Camera and started clicking.

I stared at this giant Christmas Tree hoping to draw some "Christmas Inspiration". This is considered as the tallest in the country.

No doubt one of the best shopping and entertainment complexes in the Metro Manila is Araneta Center Cubao. The center is owned by the influential Roxas-Araneta clan whose members include, of course, Senator Mar Roxas. If you have been to Cubao these days, you will have noticed the massive construction of high rise buildings. If only this frenzied economic activity is replicated all over the country. But this is another story.

Araneta Center was in fact the most glamorous shopping centers before Glorietta of the Ayalas, Ortigas, and now Fort Bonifacio came into being. But it has lost its luster in the previous decades. In partnership with Megaworld, it hopes to revive its former glory of being the premier spot for not only for shopping and entertainment but also as the address of the rich and famous. Thanks in part to its central location which is easily accessible from all parts of the metropolis. It is in fact located at the intersection of MRT and LRT2.

Puto-Bongbong Anyone?

2009-11-19T10:04:00.007+08:00

One of the things I look forward to during Christmas season is the Puto-Bongbong. Yesterday, as I was waiting for a ride, I spotted two youngsters making and selling this delicacy. Off I went to buy one or two. I bought and consumed two actually. The taste was fine except that they did not add cheese but only margarine. Also there was much sugar in it.

Here's my photo of how they prepared the puto-Bongbong.

Kayo bayo ba, gusto nyo ring kumain nito?

Manny Paquiao Jokes

2009-11-18T20:15:00.003+08:00

With all due respect to our pound for pound king, allow me to share some jokes I have received from a friend. Here they are:

Quotes from Great Warriors:
"Veni, Vidi, Vici" - Julius Ceasar
"I Shall Return" - Macarthur
"I will fight INIWAN, INIWER, INITAYM! you know!" - Pacquiao

Pag panalo si Pacquaio sa Election
magpapatayo siya ng school.
Pacquiao University ang tawag.
In short: "PACQU"
"PACQERS" naman ang tawag sa mga students

Pacquiao - "hulaan mo ang alaga kong hayop. Nagsisimula sa I."
Erap - "Isda"
Pacquiao - "hindi"
Erap - "Ibon"
Pacquiao - "hindi pero malapit jan"
Erap - "sirit na ako."
Pacquiao - "Igol"

"Fooling her?.....try Head and Shoulders Shampoo..now you know." - Pacquaio

Dionesia (Pacmom) - "Karamehan pala nkalebeng sa simintiryo , genahasa!'
Jinky (Pacwife) - "Pano nyo nalaman, mom?"
Dionesia - "Kase, nakalagay sa lapeda, RIP!"

Reporter - "Ano similarity nina Rizal, Bonifacio, at Ninoy?"
Pacquiao - "Pagkaalam ko, lahat sila namatay sa HOLIDAY, now you know."

Ha ha ha

Agora Awards

2009-11-17T17:40:00.003+08:00

Nasubukan nyo bang kumain sa Mang Inasal? To date, it has now 170 branches all over the Philippines and is expecting to have 200 stores by the end of this year.

How about eating pizza from Lot's A Pizza? The company claims to have a total of 129 branches, 84 franchised and 45 company-owned outlets.

The two companies above have one thing in common - their respective founders are a recepient of this year's Agora Awards. Edgar Sia III, president of Mang Inasal, is the awardee for Large Scale Entrepreneurship while Teresita ngan Tian, president of Lot's A Pizza, is the awardee for Small Scale Entrepreneurship.

Other awardees are Sari V. Yap, president of Mega Publishing, for Medium Scale Entrepreneurship; Ma. Belen M. Fernando, vice-president for marketing, Alaska Milk Corp. for Marketing Management; Jonathan Yang Dee, president of Alliance Tuna International, for Export Marketing; Fama Francisco, General Manager for Baby Care Innovation, Procter & Gamble, for Overseas Marketing.

ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc. and Sun Cellular received the award for Advocacy Marketing and Marketing Company of the Year, respectively.

The Agora Awards is an annual project of the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) which is given to men and women who have shown excellence in their respective category. By the way Agora is a Greek word which means "an open place of assembly" either for military, political or commercial purpose.

This year's awards is now the 30th having its inception in 1979.

Congratulations to all the awardees. May they strive for expansion so that they will continue to provide jobs and contribute to the development of the country. Hopefully, the awards will also inspire other businessmen to go for better management in order to garner an award in the years to come.

Wow Paquaio, Namakyaw

2009-11-16T14:01:00.001+08:00

Here are the headlines of Philippine broadsheets:

Philippine Daily Inquirer : Greatest Fighter in his era is a Filipino

Philippine Star : Pacman's Magnificent Seventh

Manila Bulletin : Last Man Standing

Malaya : Pacquaio Wins by KTO in 12th

Manila Standard Today : Pacquiao Philippine Rockets to 7th Heaven

Oh Ah this is one of the greatest moments of Filipinos. We can not be more proud of our race.

Pero alam nyo ba kung ano ang susunod na laban nya? Balita ko, lalaban sya sa election 2010 sa pagkakongresista ng Sarangani Province. Payag ba kayo?

Teenpreneurs Challenge

2009-11-16T06:01:00.000+08:00

During the past 2 days (November 14 and 15), students from different high schools all over Metro Manila showcased their products in an exhibit held at SM Megamall. Dubbed as "Teenpreneurs Challenge", the exposition is an initiative of the Entrepreneurs School of Asia (ESA) and the Institute for Social Entrepreneurship Education (I4SEE). On display were fabulous bags, clothes, accessories, food products, and other hand-made items.

The expo was a culmination of a three-month challenge whereby the students formed teams to develop new products together with their mentors and respective product owners. These teams attended workshops on product innovation, marketing, leadership and teamwork.

Mindful that business can be a powerful tool to fight poverty, the students were challenged to become agents of change by being more socially and environmentally aware. These potential future tycoons are learning very early the basic tenets of being a social entrepreneur.

Filipino Best Entrepreneurs

2009-11-14T08:37:00.001+08:00

Recently, the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards were given to the following:

1. Jesus Tambunting - awarded the Entrepreneur of the Year Philippines 2009. He will represent the country in the World Entrepreneur of the Year '09 to be held in Monte Carlo, Monaco on June 1, 2010. Tambunting is the Chairman and president of Planters Development Bank.

2. Eduarda V. Ayo - awarded the Small Business Entrepreneur for demonstrating excellence in managing a small business with less than 100 million pesos worth of assets. Her business is seed production and rice farming and milling. She is now into integrated farming that includes breeding goats, cows and other poultry animals.

3. Justin S. Uy - awarded the Manufacturing Entrepreneur for building a sustainable fruit business that exports dried mangoes and other fruit products to many countries. His company is Profood International Corporation.

4. Gemma N. Bullos - received the Social Entrepreneur Award for pioneering in the water business for poor communities. She is the founder of the A single Drop for Safe Water. She is also a song writer and was able to build a global peace movement called Million Voice Choir.

5. Antonio L. Tiu - awarded the Emerging Entrepreneur for excellence in managing a business with more than 100 million but less than 1 billion asset. He is the CEO of AgriNurture, Inc. (ANI) which is involved in trading and processing of fresh fruits and vegetables.

6. Corazon D. Ong - received the Woman Entrepreneur Award for her CDO brand of meat products and which is now promoting the San Marino brand of corned tuna.

7. Kenneth C. Cobonpue - selected as the Innovation Entrepreneur for applying innovative approaches to business management. His use of indigenous raw materials to create fabulous furniture items earned him worldwide accolade and his products now being exported to many countries.

The Other finalists are:

1. Mylene R. Abiva who is involved in the business of providing educational materials
2. Dustin V. Andaya who is earning millions for selling roses and other flowers through the internet
3. Mary Grace Arboleda-Young for promoting coffee from the Cordillera Mountains
4. Henry P. Cureg who is in the printing business
5. Michael L. Escaler with his trading activites in agricultural products like sugar and fertilizer.
6. Bonifacio P. Fernandez who found money by exporting charcoal
7. Antonio I. Gloria - the man behind Unitel Productions, the producer of short advertisement and movie trailers
8. Marianne G. Quebral who pioneered professional fund raising
9. Ricardo E. Reyes Jr. - the founder of the familiar Ricky Reyes Hair Salon.
10. Carlos C. Salinas the best friend of seafarers
11. William Tiu Lim of Mega Sardines fame.
12. Salvador V. Veluz of Buddy's Pizza and Restaurant.

You see, the Philippines is not really lacking in business talent. Sabi nga, maraming magagaling na Negosyanteng Pinoy!

Hope to meet and interview them in the future.

2nd AHPADA Expo

2009-11-13T09:20:00.001+08:00

I was privileged to attend the exhibit of the 2nd ASEAN Handicrafts Promotion and Development Associations (AHPADA) last month. The exhibit was organized in celebration of the United Nation's declaration of 2009 as the International Year of Natural Fibers. The picture above is a glamourous hat made of natural fibers.

This is the booth of the Philippines. Many fantastic handicrafts made of natural fibers were on display. Other countries which participated were Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea.

These mannequins are also made of natural fibers specifically abaca and bamboo.

The Philippines is blessed with many natural fibers such as abaca, pineapple, coconut coir, ramie, and bamboo. These plants can be developed to become big industries for the benefit of farmers, traders, designers, and manufacturers. I was hoping to find products made from water hyacinths and saluyot but there were none. Perhaps the organizers will include these two fibers next time.

To Be Or Not To Be In Business

2009-11-11T21:47:00.000+08:00

One of the reasons why there is so much poverty in our country is the lack of bold or daring Filipino entrepreneurs. Many of our countrymen would rather find a good paying job than venture into business. How often have we heard that most Filipinos go to school in order to have a good job later. In short, Filipinos are trained to be become employees! That is why when you ask a Filipino child what he or she wants to become in the future, the answer would likely be doctor, lawyer, engineer. Most probably you won't hear any child wanting to be engaged in business.

Nowadays many educators and government officials want the situation to be changed. They want the pursuit of profit to be inculcated in today's youth. The subject entreprenuership is now being integrated in high school and college curriculum. In fact, some colleges and universities offer a course in entrepreneurship.

One of the best argument to be an employee rather than a businessman is job security. In business, one can lost everything including his or her shirt so to speak. Yet in today's environment where job vacancy is scarce as can be gleaned from the long lines during job fairs, the only alternative is to go into business.

Well, to be in business is not really easy. It entails lot of hardwork and perseverance. Aside from the myriads of problems especially for start-ups, it may take a long while before profits can be realized. Indeed, starting a business is not for the faint-hearted.

Still, nobody would dispute the benefits to be gained from business. Aside of course from accumulating much money, having the power to control others, and being famous, there's the feeling of self-fulfillment, the joy of giving employment to others and the chance to contribute to the development of the country.

Want to become rich, powerful, and famous? Try being an entrepreneur!

Glamorous Products from the Philippines

2009-11-09T14:35:00.000+08:00

It seems that the perception about the Philippines as a non-competitive country with regards to manufacturing is becoming true. Many well-known manufacturers have already left the country including Colgate-Palmolive, Caltex, Intel, and now Goodyear. And then those who are left behind are not expanding. It seem also that there are less and less businessmen investing in manufacturing. The reasons are many, such as undeveloped infrastructure, high power cost, inefficient bureaucracy, and what else, graft and corruption. All these make products made in the Philippines uncompetitive in the world market.

Well, the problems besetting the Filipino manufacturers are real. Yet I, for one, believes there is a way out. Let's produce high quality products that do not compete on price alone.

Let us focus on quality. Let us train and equip the Filipinos with design skills. I believe the Philippines can become a design capital not only for handicraft products but also for industrial products as well. It is often said that Filipino engineers and workers are world-class. It is for this reason that Filipinos are deployed in factories in many countries.

Let us name a few glamorous products where the Philippines can become a formidable competitor:

1. Designer clothes and footwear
2. Jewelry
3. Furniture and home furnishing
4. Handicraft items
5. Textiles and fabrics from natural fibers
6. Processed foods such as organic and halal products
7. Herbal products like medicines, essential oils and fragrances
8. Industrial products with unique designs

Of course there is a need for a strong support from big business and the government especially in the areas of marketing, technology transfer, and financing. Yes we can do it.

Promoting the Philippines

2009-11-07T05:45:00.000+08:00

The Philippines is no doubt one of the most blessed countries in the world. It has rich natural resources and varied wonderful tourist attractions. Yet millions of its people do not enjoy a standard of living that is worthy of a dignified person.

Is there hope for a better future? Of course there is, provided every Filipino must act now.

There is a need to promote our country - our beautiful land, our glamourous products, and our wonderful festivals. Above all, our people must change. We have to patronize our own. Perhaps before travelling abroad, why not visit one of the idyllic islands in the Visayas? And in going abroad, why not wear Filipino-designed clothes and accessories? While enjoying oneself in one lazy afternoon, why not sip duhat wine from one of the towns in Quezon Province? These are some of the things we can do to help in making the Philippines a more progressive country.

For government officials, it is really high time to make a massive push for industrialization and export. Without factories in the countryside, there can be no decent jobs for the millions of unemployed Filipinos. There is no other way to achieve a sustainable economic growth of at least 7% if integrated industries are not located here.