Simbang Gabi....

December 15, 2007--Instead of tomorrow early morn, Misa de Gallo (Rooster's mass), was held earlier, this night, in our local parish, for the folks of our subdivision who wishes to attend and complete the nine day mass without having to wake early morn.

The church was full of chirping of his and hellos from the good people of our community as we waited for the priest who came just in time. Aaahhhh! it was indeed a good beginning for us.

Misa de Gallo, or most popularly known in Filipino as Simbang Gabi (Night mass), is a nine day novena mass in preparation for Christmas. This is a very important tradition as it is an act of showing devotion to one's faith and the high anticipation to the Nativity of Christ. Usually it starts at the sixteenth of December 'till the twenty-fourth or Bisperas ng Pasko (Christmas Eve), starting as early as four in the morning. . But besides passion behind the mass, there is also a traditional Filipino belief that completing the mass may mean God granting a faithful's favor or wish.

A faithful's wish....

I have had my part in wishing and completing the mass. So far there were wished that were granted and those not. This time, though I am very much aware that I won't be able to complete it--to give way to my mom and dad who wishes to attend the mass as while yours truly will be taking with them in watching over my grandma--I still kept hold of my faith in God upon granting my wish (an unselfish wish that right now I cannot tell).

Misa de gallo gave a good start earlier as we were led by a priest from Bangladesh. I must admit, though at first, I was a bit worried whether I'll have a difficult time in understanding what he spoke (due to his accent), I found his homily's message clear....

It was indeed very enlightening to listen to his homily. Behind the wandering and chattering of children at the back, where I am seated, I find myself awake and zealously listening to his words. It was indeed, I must admit, one of the best Simbang gabi that I attended.

He started off the homily with a little trivia of where the Misa de gallo started--that it dated back during the Spanish era. Then he mentioned the three decades of the filipinos' state during those times when this nation was under the Spaniards rule. It was then that he had connected this to the Exodus where us, God's children, has seen the light as we break free from all that has oppressed us. That was indeed a reminder of appreciating a speck of light in the dark where we truly see its beauty.

The message of the homily? Attending mass isn't just about asking for favors, but actually reflecting and awaiting Jesus Christ's coming. In the end, as we break free, we must always keep hold of faith and give thanks to the Lord for every bit of blessing he has given, no matter the quantity.

Tomorrow will be my parents' turn to attend. As I type this, I bear in mind the faith I have so pledge my confidence to--the faith in God that he'll be answering this prayer of mine. And this faith I offer to him in thanks for all the kindness he has given me and my family--thanking him for giving me blessings enough for me to share....

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Reference:

Christmas in the Philippines

Makati Standoff on Probe

It's been a week since the incident in the Manila Pen. Presently, Trillianes and his men, including civilians with them in the siege, are kept in Camp Bagong Diwa as they are trialed at court for rebellion. And last night, after deciding to watch the news, I was lucky enough to be one of those late night TV enthusiast who are watching the PROBE....

Last night's Probe features the unseen footage of the Standoff in Makati, starting with the walk out of Sen. Trillianes and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim from the court. It may have appeared to be rash but as I saw the supposed civilians joining them and later on putting on red bands with the Magdalo symbol, I was intrigued (was it really rash or planned?)

There was a call for change by the two men of the hour.....

And there were those who followed....

Everyone was surprised at the action done by Sen. Trillianes' group especially as they entered the Manila Pen. The next scenes became more tense as Sr. Supt. Jaime Calunsod came in to convince the group to surrender and PNP Dir. Geary Barrias was there to tell the civilians, including the media to get out. This was followed by phone calls to the media men in the Pen, from their respected offices, to get out.

There were media men who came out and found the group of armed soldiers getting ready for the war. But with some media men, still many decided to remain including known faces like Fr. Robert Reyes who said that though he's not part of Trillianes' group, he'll still stay there with them.

Media men seems to be everywhere. There were those waiting for further statement from Trillianes, those by the fire exit shooting a video of the tank trying to break in the pen, and those posted by the upper lobby with some Magdalo Soldiers, securing the media after they have heard the warning shot, assuring them that the men outside cannot, of course, risk the lives of the remaining civilians (media). But they were wrong for sooner than they have said it tear gas was thrown in....

The next scenes were chaotic as media men gets a dose of tear gas, covering their noses with damped towels, as they suffered from its inevitable effect . It was also because of this scene, plus the continuous shooting of the AFP outside that Sen. Trillianes and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim decided to surrender.

They were coming out alright, but with the second shot of tear gas, the group, with the media, went back to the Rizal room where Trillianes' group had engaged themselves while in the Pen. With everyone packed in the room like sardines, and with the news from the few media men who first came out, the whole room began to feel tensed that the divisions of networks were forgotten (who cares who gets the exclusive). At that point the media men helped each other with their equipments, hiding whatever piece of equipment they can hide (including cellphones), as news from outside came to them, warning of confiscations.....

Confiscations? Why were the SAF (Special Action Force), confiscating the media equipment.

As I further watched the footage, I can't help but pity the media, including Trillianes' group and the civilians who stood with them, as they are escorted out of the Rizal room. It was indeed very disappointing to see how the SAF acted towards the group--their bombarding command, the guns, and their not so considerate attitude, as the group is commanded to go down the stairs with the whole pen dark. One of the camera man, present in the group even turned on the lights of his camera with the Bishop, assisted by Lim and Fr. Reyes, and others more, going down the stairs. But this too faced the angry command of the group's escorts which ended with the lights being turned off.

Everyone was treated like criminals. The media, who were just doing their job, even faced the cruel reality that their freedom to express had gone to chains that very moment. With Sen. Trillianes, led first outside the pen, the media were left to defend their rights which ended with cuffed hands and a ride at the bus to Camp Bagong Diwa.

At that moment I felt a chill--a chill which I never thought I could feel at the staggering sight of the media. But with the thrilling chill also comes the spirit of brotherhood as I saw the media men's unity, especially with other media men, as they are parked outside the said camp, handing boxes of water and packs of food to those in the bus.

There are some situations that, though we may find it as unreasonable or foolhardiness yet in the end will serve its purpose. Everything is willed by God. As I've always believed, everything, even a disappointing situation is a blessing....

I've seen what I need to see....A proof of what is evidently still protected by those who claim the power over the law, instead of abiding it.

The media has shown strength during the time when their necks seems to be tied up. I pray that their freedom will not submerged into frailty like what history has shown us....

Beware and Be Aware!

"Beware and Be Aware!"--this has been the text message sent to the victim shown on tonight's episode of XXX (a weekly investigative show in the Kapamilya station). A victim of harassment as she is blackmailed by a guy whom she just met through texting.

After seeing tonight's episode of XXX, I felt relieved that I, even with the encouragement of friends in the past, never took seriously any of those strangers who once bombarded my cellphone--asking to be text mates....

Tonight's episode states of a 23-year old girl who is being blackmailed by her text mate. The blackmailing started after their first meeting where the suspect invited her for a drink at a friend's house. After getting her drunk, the next was history--a history which the victim forgets the next day as she woke up, finding herself already in front of their house.

It took a text message from her supposedly newly-founded friend to remind her of an event she'll regret for the rest of her life--an event that started her misery.

She met her text mate again showing her what was saved in his cell phone--a sex video starring the suspect and her. Threatening to release the scandal via the Internet, the girl agreed to the suspects demands: firstly to break up with her boyfriend and lastly to make the suspect her boyfriend.

...'till time came when she had enough of him.....

After learning that he was once again at his game, this time blackmailing a minor, she took courage and approach the XXX team--after she made contact with said minor victim.

Learning that the minor was asked 100,ooophp so as not to show this new sex scandal, the entrapment operation was planned. Using the minor as bait, as she sent a text message to the guy telling him of the said payment, they agreed to meet at a fast food. There, after she handed him the marked money, the group was called to catch the culprit and as he was brought to the police station, he came face to face with the complainant herself--his victim claimed-girlfriend.....

While some are lucky enough to meet their respective prince charmings through texting, sad to say there are those who becomes unsuspecting victims of people whom they thought are there to make friends.

It's sad to think that with the fast paced advancement of technology, giving new innovations that has given ease to our daily duties, there are those who abuses it giving havoc to someone's life. But when there is yin, there is also yang (and that positive view in technology is from the media)....

Let this be a lesson--a lesson that should be kept in the minds of today's youth. Learn to be objective in the things you do. It is not wrong to make friends through chatting or texting, we just have to always put caution first. And remember, that in this advance age, where complexity gives ease, be responsible enough and put to right every use of whatever God has given us--knowledge.....

Tension in Makati

MAKATI--It was around pass twelve noon when news came about Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV together with Brigadier Gen. Danilo Lim, walked out of the Makati City court room to call the Filipino people to withdraw support from the present administration.

My mom and Tita Menen were presently watching Game Ka Na Ba? on television when the news came, suddenly cutting off the said show. I was in my room doing some stretching, trying to kill the chill I was feeling from the coldness the weather brought in earlier. Thinking that the flash report may be regards to the weather condition (after Mina and the comeback of Lando, and of course the seen low pressure), I went out to see.

It was indeed a shock to see Sen. Trillianes, together with Magdalo soldiers, walking on the streets of Makati, rather than a weather forecast, in the news.

We were about to take lunch as well, but instead of me, enjoying the adobo my mom cooked, I ended eating less and feeling all heated with anticipation with the news, which seems to be taking long for a flash report.

After lunch and washing the dishes, I immediately entered my room to do some typing, but with my grandmother going back to her bed, leaving the television on while my mom was then taking a bath, I went to the living room to turn off the television--but I ended up watching instead. So I was glued to the television, after I saw that Sen. Trillianes, and the rest of the Magdalo were in the Manila Peninsula. They have taken over the place....

It was further shocking for me to see what was going on at Makati. People staying at the Pen were already checking out, while the lobby, especially the second floor, where Trillianes stayed, was filled with reporters. It was reported that the police were giving Trillianes and Lim 'till three in the afternoon to surrender or they will use force on him.

As I was watching this, I can't help but have unsettling feeling towards this issue: should I be disappointed or somewhat moved by what they were doing. But as my mom went to the grocery and with nothing but people coming asked to go out of the pen, I decided to take a bath, feeling rediculous in thinking what my judgement should be.

After the very cold bath which didn't last long than usual, I was at the television again--this time the civilians (mostly media), were locked inside. Only a few had a chance to go out at the employees entrance of the Pen. They weren't allowed by the Magdalo to go out at the main entrance after the armed forces outside the pen gave a warning shot. This was to secure the civilians of have any casualties in their group. All couped up, they were placed in a secured place were they were asked to just lay there--protected from any stray bullet from outside.

With this scenario, I can't help but pity, and at the same time admire, the media men who still, even with the threat of danger, try to cover the story. There, as they were grouped, curled on the floor, tear gas suddenly filled the place. Luckily they were nearby the comfort rooms and immediately washed wit eyes with water then decided to get a moving to another location.

I can hear the systems engineer of GMA--Allan Guttierez, as he called for a certain "Phillip" to move. Later on he reported that they were in the basement and that the effects of tear gas was really taking more effects on their senses, especially their eyes....

It wasn't long 'till the announcement of Trillianes' surrender due to the civilians inside. The military were already shooting at the building and barraging at the front entrance. And with the tear gas filling the place, putting more devastation on the people there, to surrender was the only option left--after all, he's a senator and it is indeed right to place the safety of the people he pledged service, first.

At that time, I began to feel relief with the senator's decision. The media trapped inside has faced enough trouble alright. But it is their job and for that I admire them.... But what's this?

After Trillianes and Lim were arrested together with other personalities who were with them in the hotel, one of them Former Vice President Teofisto Guingona (and I think I saw the "running priest"), I can't believe the details aired on television about media people being cuffed and placed on a bus--these were the media who were left trapped inside in the Pen. OMG!

Media arrested?

In their explanation, administration officials says that they really weren't arrested, but for the sake of ensuring that all the Magdalos are caught, thinking that they may be disguised as media men, they were to taken to be interrogated.

Then why the confiscation of their belongings? and why the handcuffs?

This was the time when I certainly believe that everything happens for a reason--and what happen to the Pen happened for the reason of showing the people something that is very unreasonable at all--unreasonable action which can cause people to have a reasonable reaction....a violent reasonable reaction....

If they were just to interrogate the media, why cuff them? why point guns at them? why confiscate their equipment? why not check their IDs to be sure? why oh why have they done this. That is truly not good at all....

They could just have interrogated them at the Pen. And besides, media men can easily be verified because of their IDs. There respective offices can be checked as well. They could all just be gathered in a room at the pen where they can sit and relax from the tension...not add another....

And why the curfew? I don't know if I can accept their reason....I smell something fishy....

Media men, at the time when the forces of the administration, tries to break in the pen, are civilians. They are not uniformed men who can shoot back. Yes, they were asked to go out, and they were, but thanks to that "warning shot" they never got out. hala!!!!

I don't know what the officers were thinking that time...but I do know one thing though, this is the day when I saw rules broken by those who tries to prove it's powers and those who claim it's powers....

It seems that what I thought to be a suicidal attempt (uncertain and a rash) by Trillianes earlier, can be of something useful to trigger a certain spirit in me....something that Filipinos have shown through history....

This is one night where I saw the media whether kapuso or kapamilya, foreign or local, unite for a something more than just a coverage of the call for pagbabago (change)....

For this was a night when I saw what the people needed to see....

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Related Articles:

Standoff in Makati (A Photo Essay)
Makati Standoff (from inquirer.net)

Warning! Typhoon Mina coming this way!!!!

It's already been a year since Typhoons Millenio and Reming caused such a devastation in the Bicol Region (especially in Albay where many died due to a grave mud flooding). Now Mila, another typhoon, who threatens to get even stronger (on its way to becoming a super typhoon), is coming the Bicol Region's way--threatening another devious incident in the said area.

I spent almost eight years in Sorsogon, after my family decided to be based there, where I also finished my college. After graduating year 2006, I came back here in Manila with my mom while my dad and my siblings are still there in Sorsogon, since they are still in school (two of them already in college while the youngest is in high school). When the tragedy in Albay came blasting it's way on television and on the papers, I felt as if I'm part of those who were devastated.

It's is no joke when I say that as I was staying in Sorsogon I felt the impact of poverty more than I was here in Manila. Life there is more simpler than I was expecting. Looking on the brighter side, and thankfully I've seen this, those who have families who can-afford are not jerks that loiter and make the people around them feel more deprived. But looking at the situation in terms of poverty, I can't help but feel shattered with the present situation the region is facing.

Typhoons has been a number one problem in the region that there are some who are not that alarmed with the said nature's wrath. Then came Reming which really made quite a trauma to everyone.....

Here comes yet another typhoon. I fear for the people and pray that Mila (typhoon) won't become a super typhoon, further more, that it will not hit Bicol. People there have finally set life in good condition, after their agonizing situation. May the tragic incident from last year not come about this year...and I hope that all my loved ones, especially my dad and my siblings, be safe.....

May God send his angels to watch over them....

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Related Articles:

Typhoon Mina at Inquirer.net

The Bombing of Batasan...

November 13, 2007--It was past eight at night when the news flashed on television: An explosion occurred at the south wing parking lot of Batasan Pambansa Complex....
It's been two nights ago when I saw the news about Batasan being bombed. After the Glorrieta blast I just never thought that the House of Representatives would face such a tragedy--then again, no one can really tell. This only puts questions on their security, lacking the strict measures it should present.

News flashes came continuously that night, that even my plans to sleep earlier came to extending my presence in front of the television as I checked the latest updates. My sleepy eyes became full alert in shock with each update the television shows. It seems that no network would want to give it a time off--then again, who wouldn't. After the disturbing news on Glorietta, Batasan was the least place I, and I believe the public, expects to get into this kind of horror. With the Congress there, security should have been tight, right?

According to reports, the blast came from a motorcycle placed at the south wing's parking lot. It was also said that it was triggered by a remote control, timing the blast to the time congressmen where coming out, especially Rep. Wahab Akbar of Basilan, who was one of the three person killed that night. There were also seven others injured including Representatives Luzviminda Ilagan of the Gabriella Partylist and Pryde Henry Teves of Negros Occidental. Unfortunately, came next morning, November 14, at 3pm, another victim died.

Was Akbar really the target, or was it all planned to hinder something? I cannot help but ask since the day after the blast marked the decision of the lawmakers to the impeachment complaint of Pres. GMA, where the said complaint was denied with the vote of 43-1, all 43 are from the administration. This decision came about after the said three-paged complaint was said to have "Lack of substance". Then again, Akbar could really have been indeed the target since he is from Basilan, the said place where the Abu Sayaff is. This speculation came about after a text message came from a said Abu Sayaff member where the said group was claiming the bombing. But it soon ended after the Abu Sayaff denied this saying that Akbar was a follower of their group....

Another stir in the life of us Filipinos. Oh when will this end....
Speculation as to who dunnit and on what motive, should first be placed on hold while investigations are still on going. Right now police should be careful with regards to their statement in their findings. Most importantly, security should be more tight, not just in government offices but also in every public area. We've gone through a great ordeal grieving for the victims of Glorietta--now we face yet another shattering news on The House of Representatives....PLEASE....We should put action to this problem.

After the Glorietta blast, last week was already full of distressing news that made conscience rise more to the level of its awareness of what agony meant for others and how it can affect us all, topping the list was Mariannet Amper's suicide, next was the accident of the Saguisags which led to the death of Mrs. Dulce Saguisag, and the ambush of a COMELEC official and a death threat to yet another. Yet with these tragic events I am in no position to ask God why these things have to happen. The bombing of the Batasan, whether it is intended for one person or the congress as a whole, is indeed a bitter realization that because of selfish intent, even to cause death at those unknowing innocents, is a must just to accomplish their goal...A Sad fact indeed....

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Related Articles:

Congress Blast

Philippine lawmakers throw out impeachment bid against President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo - The Associated Press, November 13, 2007

Doubt on Mariannet's death....

Last week may have ended rather sad with young Mariannet Amper's burial--the tragic story of a young girl who committed suicide out of her depression in their family's impoverish life. But this week got me more suspended in her case as not just blames, but also doubts, started to arise with regards to what pushed her to do such an act....

News, last night, may have been filled with squabbling politicians over Mariannet's death, but one thing is truly intriguing, as it had been staggering. Last week, even with the start of it's news, there were already people who questioned why Mariannet committed suicide. Poverty alone may have not been the reason why, they said, though still it really was a big hit that made people realize the seriousness poverty here in the country. Then again, with the suggestion of autopsy, and the response of the family with regards to how the news have exaggerated their life, I can't help but think that maybe there was another reason to Mariannet's actions.....

Was she abused?

No one knows--for now. But one thing is for sure, Mariannet Amper has really caused such a wave of distraught over the whole nation--a big wave indeed that is waking up every sleeping conscience, not just in this nation, but on every person who lived in this planet that has heard of her death.

It is indeed a surprise for a country known to be populated by optimists, to have such an issue. But 'till we really figure out the truth behind the doubts, let this be more of an eye opener that we should begin to move, even in our own way, to eliminate poverty in this nation....

Mariannet Amper: Death Driven by Poverty....

A few minutes ago, something staggering caught me speechless as I watched the news.

Brgy. Ma-a, DAVAO CITY: Life is too short and it became shorter for 12-year-old Mariannet Amper as she hanged herself to death.

Just recently, Pres. GMA announced the improvement that the government made with the rate of poverty decreasing. The next morning was might have been indeed a big slap on her face with the news of young Mariannet from Davao who committed suicide because of poverty.

Flashed on the news earlier was a younger brother crying in front of the casket where his sister lies. It was him who saw Mariannet's suicide as he entered the room where he found her hanging. Too young, and small, to rescue his sister, he immediately called for help. How devastated his cry sounded. Such is a cry that would pierce any person who hears it.

It was only with the discovery of her diary that they found out the reason for Mariannet's action. There, she had written her grief about her family's situation: how her parents argued a lot, her mother forcing her to work at a noodle factory and her not attending her classes anymore. It was indeed shattering when they showed what she had written regarding her absences which dates October 6 of this year: "Parang isang buwan na akong hindi pumapasok kasi hindi ko binibilang mga absent ko, hindi ko namalayang malapit na pala ang pasko...." (It feels like a month since I last attended school, I haven't even counted my absences that I didn't realize that Christmas is fast approaching....).

Her classmates cried about what had happened to Mariannet. It was then that they told the reporter about her telling them once how she wants to end her life. They even showed on the news the chair where she once sat during class--the chair that will never be filled with her again, except for the memory of the girl who wished of becoming a nurse some day to help get her family out of the agony of an impoverish life.

The news about Mariannet is truly bothering considering that because of poverty, a young girl claimed her life to escape its despair.

I feel for the Mariannet. She's just one of the millions of kids who faced such a burden of being poor--while there are those who just wastes their fortunes on lavish-nothings. There are millions of Filipino families who lived with just a dollar a day (or forty pesos a day). Mariannet Amper death has brought about the staggering truth that many are still deprived of a better life--especially their kids. When will this end? I do not know. But I hope, someday, people will see that in each step we take-forward to success, we must look back at those left behind and learn to share blessings. I don't mean giving alms, but rather by teaching and guiding. I hope the government will do their part to give aid to the injured not just temporarily but permanently.

Mariannet Amper may not be the first to have done such an action....but I pray she's the last.....

Wasted Relief.....

Such was the horror that struck Albay when super typhoon Reming went to pay a visit there.

It's been a year since Reming caused such devastation which led to thousands of people dead and left homeless. Schools and gymnasiums, then weren't even enough to shelter the inflicted folks of the storms. Much more was the food and clean water. Roads were closed and other goods were scarce.

My brother at that time was in Tabaco, Albay. And with all roads, out of Tabaco, closed, my brother, together with some friends who also live in Sorsogon, took the long trek home by foot, where they faced the the aftermath-horror of the mud flow tragedy. Lucky for them my dad and my uncle found a way to enter Legazpi.

I was here in Manila with my mom when it all happened. And though I'm from Sorsogon, I felt life sucked out of me as I saw the distressful state of the people there. The loss, the cold nights and hunger.....

A year after the agony.... A year after the whole nation gathered to place comfort..... a year since then, I faced the television to discover such disappointment......

Earlier this evening, I was about to make myself a cup of coffee (yes, coffee at night--I'm like that since college), when the flash report showed which got me and my mom's blood boiling. At the mention of Daraga, Albay, and the issue there, I felt like crying--with disappointment and anger. Such a waste--after discovering the piled packages of relief goods stored from last relief operation, which are now useless.

WASTED!

There boxes of canned goods and sacks of rice. Packages of blankets and other stuff that could have been used. But the food, alone, left there in that storage to rot instead of feeding the hungry, was a huge waste. Discovering such a pile to have expired last July, was really the biggest disappointment. After all, there are still many people needing those things, especially those times, when food was the number one priority.

If they were planning to store they should have checked the expiry dates. Then again, why were they storing large amounts of goods if there were still plenty to feed? Wasted....truly WASTED!

Let this be a lesson.....

In Memoriam of Merry Making

Yesterday, cemeteries have been packed with people visiting the graves of their departed loved ones. Besides the usual rosaries, candles and flowers, most of them are holding containers of food or guitars--for their picnics. Everywhere there are relatives hugging and laughing, each telling how they've been since the last time they all saw each other. There are even those who brought along pillows and blankets agreeing to stay there for the night ( Though this year it seems there are fewer groups who did that ). There maybe some who doesn't understand as to why Filipinos celebrate All Souls Day this way still, we do it anyway ( Unfortunately we stayed in the house and just lighted candles and prayed).

In tonight's news, they aired the story of this morning's activities in Angono, Rizal's cemetery. Just like yesterdays views in other cemeteries here in Manila, there were merry makings from left to right. The only difference Angono had was that the celebration was more like a fiesta. Part of their programme for the day was a "raffle" for the people who were there, and games for the kids. Now theirs was more fun....

Now, others may ask why we Filipinos celebrate this way....

In an interview with one of Angono resident who was also present in the cemetery this morning, here's what she said: "We really celebrate All Souls Day in November 2 here in Angono. We have fun altogether for we rejoice with the fact that our loved ones are finally at rest and with our Creator in heaven...."


It is a custom for us to visit and pray for our departed loved ones during All Souls Day, but it is not also bad to have fun while staying in the cemetery. True, we enjoy ourselves not only because relatives come together during this period--it usually takes events like these to finally have a reunion--but rather because of faith itself. Filipinos are known to be religious (no matter what religion we belong to), The fact that we very much believe that there is heaven gives us the joy for our departed loved ones as we have prayed for them to the Lord. Truly they are at peace....

A Moment to Reflect....Shattering Glorietta 2

After a claimer, a fire and new reports on bodies found, Glorietta is back to normal--but not the nation.....

It's been three days since the bombing. Presently counts on dead bodies found were now eleven, and the claimer to the bombing, Sheik Omar of the Rajah Sulayman group, doesn't seem to be who he really is.

As I read the Sunday paper, my heart went out more than last Friday to the victims of the explosion. Though the following morning after the bombing went back to normal for Glorietta, normal seems to be far from happening since there are still uncertainty as to where the explosion originated.

Was it a terrorist? an accident? or a diversion to cover for the issues faced by the government?

Yesterday made it rather confusing, especially today, as the said terrorist's father spoke saying that his son is in another country and that the voice on the phone call wasn't his son's at all. It was also followed by a report saying that after they've investigated the said terrorist, it turns out that he was not at all the man he claims to be and that he was but a dummy of a group.

Tonight's news also covers an explanation from a group of chemical engineers saying that the explosion may not have been caused by methane (after there were speculations that the explosion may be coming from an LPG). After their explanation as to why they arrived to that belief then I guess people can cut the idea that the explosion was but an accident....

Right now, all I can think of are the lives that were shattered that horrible day at Glorietta. They were but Innocent people who came to the mall to have fun--meet with loved ones, spend time with families, play around--but what appeared to be a great day at the mall turned out to be a nightmare.

What is the truth behind the explosion? who may have caused such an act? Are they sleeping well with the thought of their unknowing victims? Can they still smile with the faces of grieving loved ones popping on the news?

Prayer vigils are being done presently by groups to show their support for the sake of justice.

With the explosion of Glorietta, the whole nation grieved....

Keep hold of faith for in God's good time justice will prevail....

Shattering Shopping!!!

MAKATI CITY--Earlier this day, Glorietta 2 in Makati was shattered with an explosion leaving more than a hundred killed and injured.

I have just finished washing dishes, and sat down to watch an noontime show when a flash report break in. It was about the explosion in Glorietta. At that time, as a phone patched reporter told what had just happened in Glorietta, it was undeniable that the background of the phone patched was filled with cries of panic and pain.

Is it a terrorist attack?

A diversion tactic?

This evening, PGMA's statement asking for the people to unite, especially those who are against her, was aired. It was also added that an investigation is on it's way as to what caused the explosion. There were two things that has said to caused the explosion--LPG from one of the restaurants and a bomb, that's why bomb squads were there to survey the breakage of the mall.

There was one thing that pondered on our minds as news that evening came--THANK GOD IT'S NOT A WEEKEND!!! Definitely if it were, then more people could have been injured--or died. As of this evening the reports of injured people grew higher, while eight are reported dead. A call from the media asked for viewers who think that relatives might have gone to Glorietta that day to come immediately to the Makati Hospital where the victims were brought.

This is but a tragic day for all... But as a call out from the news this evening was said about going back to our usual living, (I hope I got the idea right), not just for here in NCR but also all over the Philippines, was something to remember for that at least will help in keeping the whole nation strong during times when we are shattered.....

I hope and pray that GOD will provide us with more strength than ever....

For the victims...and for the whole nation.....

Seeing Beauty in Ashes

In Joel Osteen's book "Your Best Life Now", ashes are pictured as painful experiences in life.

Since I've had my hands on that book, life, as I am very much aware, is never the same. I may still be struggling with myself (insecurities and lack of self-esteem), still little by little I saw how my way of thinking has change. This is for me, as also stated in the book, is seeing beauty in ashes--where GOD uses every discouraging situation in our life to our advantage.....

News this week started with the headlines of Among Ed (Fr. Ed Panlilo) and the 500,000php given to him after a meeting with Pres. GMA. Coming out is really something BIG! After he had been on the front pages of tabloids, with him winning the Governatorial position in Pampanga last May elections, he's once again placed there as he told the nation of the 500,000php that he received after meeting PGMA, as a palace personnel told him that he can use it for baranggay projects. Though some local leaders who also attended seem to stay quiet at this issue, except for Gov. Jojo Mendoza of Bulacan who also admitted to receiving the money, it seems that this revelation has somehow opened doors for issues not only concerning the President's questionable actions, but also about the plans for the once burdensome lahar at Pampanga.....

Finding Beauty in Ashes....as in literally ashes.

I was in first grade when lahar from Mt. Pinatubo caused such a wide devastation in Pampangga. Since then, going to Tarlac seems to be passing by the dessert everytime we came to Pampangga. But what seems to be a curse is now a blessing....Among Ed, after winning the elections, has seen a blessing in a curse.....

It's been months since I read about Among Ed's plans to use the lahar to help in developing Pampanga with using it for quarries. Now, after the news of Among Ed telling the public about the money he received, news of his plans for the town he leads is once again shown on TV.....

The least we could all do is be thankful--for every situation, both painful and triumphs, are all blessings. Here's a toast to Among Ed! As he teaches us that man has a choice to do what's right as long as there is fear and faith for GOD. After all it is GOD who turns beauty out of our ashes....

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Related Articles:

Among Ed Panlillo: Yes to a good kapampangan leader

Saying He Can't Lie, Fr. Ed Admits taking P500,000

Among Ed given P.5M by Palace functionary

Miracle in Pampanga

A Tune so Right...Finally!

LAS VEGAS NEVADA--It may have been October 6 there in the US, but for us Filipinos, it's October 7. Mark the date, not just because Pacman won the boxing match against Barera, but rather, finally the Philippines' National Anthem was sang correctly--and clearly...

For many times, we've been hearing comments from the National Historical Institute (NHI) regarding singers who sang our national anthem, not in accordance with Section 37 of Republic Act 8491 which states that "The rendition of the national anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe." It was Pacquiao's night, then again, it was also Kyla's night. The way she sang the song made my hair stand. It was full of life and pride and love for the country, Now that's singing....The song was sung precisely not as a singer just singing it but rather as how any Filipino would and should. Strong and Proud!!!! Actually, come to think of it, the Filipinos there sang with her--showing the strength and pride more....It was definitely the Filipinos' night....

I have to admit, I'm grateful we have that law. There maybe those who may never understand as to why we need to have it, now why there was such a law as this. Why can't anybody sing the national anthem the way they want it?

This is but of my own understanding. Uninfluenced by anyone except for my pride in the race I belong....

It's all in our history....

The Filipinos have been held captive in their own country for so long. Our ancestors fought hard to finally give shine to the Filipinos' life--the freedom it deserves...and so it came...

It was June 5, 1898, a week before the declaration of independence--Julian Felipe, a local pianist in Kawit, Cavite, came in the house of Maximo Inocencio (one of the thirteen martyrs) and was asked by General Emilio Aguinaldo, the leader of the revolution, to play a march written by a Filipino in Hong Kong. However Aguinaldo was not satisfied and asked Felipe, instead, to compose something that could instill courage and patriotism in every Filipino's heart, recognizing his skills.

On the day of June 11Th, the day before the declaration on independence, Felipe came to the revolutionary leaders and played the song he composed and was approved as the national hymn. The song was called "Marcha Filipina Magdalo".

The music Felipe composed was played as the flag of the Philippines was hoisted at the window of Aguinaldo's mansion. It was renamed "Marcha Nacional Filipina" and immediately became the National Anthem. Still the song lacked words 'till came the year 1899, when a young soldier named Jose Palma wrote the poem "Filipinas" which became the march's lyrics.... (click here to see more on the history of the Philippine National Anthem)

We carry the blood of heroes....

Liberators....

Men with strong valor....

Many times have we Filipinos proven the strength that we carry in order to raise us to the top.
In every fields we venture...a Filipino stands out to make the world his/her stage.

That was what the National Anthem is about--the reason why it was composed in such a way. A march. A tune that could inspire and give courage....A song that shows the pride we take to conquer feats.

After the revision of the National Anthem's words from Spanish to English to Filipino, 'till another Filipino revision of the song, now the National Anthem is known as "Lupang Hinirang", still carrying the same strong, proud and courageous tune.

With Pacman winning the battle against Barera, the Filipino stood proud....

As Kyla sang the national anthem, the Filipinos sang along....

Now that's unity....

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References:

http://david.national-anthems.net/ph.htm
http://www.inquirer.net
http://www.gov.ph

Inconvenient About the Truth

Tonight is very cold....and it has lasted this way for more than a week....


Earlier this evening, as I savored the pasta my mom cooked, I can't help but feel the chill my feet were feeling as the breeze coming in from the window, entered the house. At that time, my mom, together with an aunt, was talking about the ocean rise that happened in Bataan and Cavite that day (because of Tropical Storm Ineng), where the folks of some baranggays living near the sea, evacuated, fearing that the rise of the water might mean a coming of tsunami. Their conversation went on with how nature seems to be getting more destructive with it's storms and and earthquakes. This was followed with the discussion of a video which me and my siblings saw just last summer about Al Gore and his lectures on Global warming....

An Inconvenient Truth really shook my world ever since I saw it. Honestly the truth is really inconvenient sending chills deep in me. The video is no horror flick where you get to see creatures of the dark and blood all over the scene, but no doubt this is more than any horror flick--where we are the creatures of the dark and the remnants of our ways stands as blood spilled all over the scene.


The movie was indeed very informative. Al Gore really presented it very well--very well in fact that it has changed my ways, though still I'm a work in progress....The ice caps are melting, Though for some, as I've heard on the news, it was good for those traders, giving short distances for travelling ships, towards their destinations, still lives are at stake here....

I don't know if it's right to excuse the ignorant. Poverty may have deprived them of education yet is it right not to blame them for not being able to understand the trash each one has done to contribute in times of nature's turmoils? And then there are the learned--educated enough to educate the ignorant. I must say shame on them for there are still those who are well knowledgeable on things yet they do not do there contribution....Still come to think of it, doing our part to save the planet we so love, needs each and every one's hard work, driven by conscience. Things like these are learned from experiences and just common sense. The trash that are piled in sewage, blocking drainage, raises floods during rainy seasons. Illegal logging of trees does this also with the addition of landslides....these are but some calamities that take lives like snatchers riding motor bikes--first thing you were walking, next thing your bags are grabbed with the thief zooming away with it....


Everything starts with oneself....as I do mine, I pray that the rest can do their part.....

The Life Lived by Others

There are those who smile....

There are those who cry....

Sad but true--life is difficult and it's getting more difficult for others.

I have seen a lot of dramas on TV showing poverty at it's worst, or have they? Well, watching dramas might make you cry but wait 'till you get a load on documentaries by those at public affairs whether the kapamilya's or the kapuso's--then there are also those made by students as their works are shown on DOKYU.

Amateur or professional videos are not of importance as long as people are informed....

Pictures of a family re-cooking food from the garbage pile while sheltered under the overpass.

Batang bakaws, stealing fish from the market to sell.

Malnourished kids, getting sicker and sicker, 'till they are breathless.

Poverty, an issue that seems to never fade and getting worst.

It is like a transferable disease. A disease that gives birth to illnesses like prostitution, robbery, and murders. A disease that seems so hard to cure.

There are times I ask myself who should the blame be placed on: the government? the rich and mighty? or the poor themselves? It is like adding insult to injury, yet sad but true, everybody has there share....

There are the corrupted in the government. There are intimidators among the mighty. There are the lazy among the poor. Now tell me whose fault is it.

This is one issue that I believe will never be solved if we all try to look for someone to blame rather than looking for the solution. A motivation. An action. Playing deaf has made us all useless, what more if we act blind and crippled. People who can't even look at other's difficult situation is more ignorant than those deprived of learning. Hope is just within our grasp--all we have to do is channel through our FAITH.

Life can be unpredictable at times. But it is still up to us if we wish to wage a good fight. There are times when we think life is going downhill for us yet let's take a moment to see what we have all along--God has given enough blessings for us to enjoy....and to share.