Happy Holidays!!

Merry Christmas!! (I know it's kinda late. And saying Happy New Year would be a bit too early). So... Happy Holidays na lang!!

WARNING: This might be a long post to make up for the weeks I haven't posted.


I know everyone is super busy with all the parties and get-together's, reunions.... because I sure was! But, I can't talk about how swamped my schedule was because that would be sooo boring. Instead let me bask about those sweet precious moments with people that matter......


It started at Cebu (Plantation Bay/Shangri-La)-Bohol with our DXN Family, the first week of December. Although I had to encounter the "Joker's of our life". I know Batman has only one Joker... and a Deck of cards only has 2. But, our family's got 4 Joker's in our life left. But the Joker's are on a different story. I had fun communing with the DXN Family at the trip. Reconnected with friends from around Pinas. Those travel seminar incentives we have are like some sort of leader's gathering/reunion. Huge. with 325 participants and was even recognized by the Mayor (government) of Cebu. :)



Then there's the get together of my HS Buds Matet and Mona. Matet is a Medical Student and they designed this "Adopt A Child For Christmas" Party.. and so we joined in on the fun. And went to the pool afterwards.

Then another dose of DXN Davao Family Pool Party on the 18th. Super Super Fun!

And then on the 21st... the bonding with the Firstborns. Which was an overnight affair. We spent most of our time on Cris's car. Talking... while the rest of the guys did their thing. Hehe. It was fun.. oooh and what a lovely moon it was!

23rd.... wedding bells were ringing. As one of the "Firstborns" got married. Awwwww. Who is next??? :)

Of course on the 24th-25th... was our the time for the biological family. They visited our home on the 24th and there were constant friends who made their annual visit. And our traditional "exchange gift". Yayyyy! Oohh the faces of the kids with their gifts was priceless.

And yesterday(26th)... we went out-of-town to visit my mom's Aunt who was the one who assisted my mom in finishing her studies when our grand parent's separated.

So... yeah... I saw most of my friends this December except my College Buds. :( But, I'm sure one of these days we will all catch up! :)

By the way.. I'd like to extend my deepest gratitude to Ms. N. for the package she sent me! Yes, she sent one of my wishlist for PM's "All I want for Christmas". :)



It's the 2011 Power Planner (Belle De Jour) over there. *points points*

And yes... it was a fun Christmas... since I finally got the set of Harry Potter series that was my High School fancy!! Grabe. Talk about delayed gratification. And mom put me to sooo much drama that time just to surprise me, I cried because I almost thought I'm not having it this year...

See ? You always get what you want... sometimes it is just not NOW. :P

Enriching Lives and Fulfilling Dreams

Recently, I was asked by DXN's Sales and Training Manager Mr. Paul to host the 11th Year Anniversary of DXN.

My heart automatically screamed yes! (It's not really a dream, but I have this penchant of trying new things and it'd be one for my bucket list.) But, then suddenly my mind was filled with doubt specially when it comes to moments when one has to come up with adlibs. Nevertheless, I said: "Wow! Walang problema. Medyo scary ha. Diba po may mga rehearsals yan?"

I immediately asked for the rehearsals since I'd be needing that because it will be my first time. And it's not some hosting stint where you will be given 500 guests but close to 10,000-12,000!!!!!!!!

And of course, I made kulit to get the script just so I have an idea. But, I only got the draft. So, I scoured for tips online which were not much really. And tried to catch one of my "DJ" friend Aron, but never got around to it.

Three days before the event, I flew to Manila for the rehearsals. There were a few mishaps about the time but nevertheless 2 days before the event, I was introduced to 2 of my co-hosts, Lory, and Roy. And a day before the event, we met Rick and Ami to complete the party of five. Sir Paul was our coach. :) The rehearsal was fun! We'd joke around and try to come up with our very own adlibs since we were free to change what was written on the script according to our personality. :P

(Photo: L-R: Ami, Lory, Rick, Makata, Me and Roy)

Anyway, DXN's 11th Year Anniversary here in the Philippines last November 6, 2010 at Cuneta Astrodome was a SUCCESS!

Of course, it wasn't perfect, we were given the final script on the day of the event. But, we kind of got the idea of the flow already. But during the awarding ceremonies ,we ditched our scripts, since, our DXN director made a few changes. Major changes, that even us as "hosts" were surprised by the whole thing but managed to pull everything off.


(Mom, the Cake, Mr. Ed Hao, and Dato Dr. Lim Siow Jin (CEO))


You see, our CEO was supposed to arrive as a surprise to give the highest award which was Crown Ambassador which will be received by my Dad and Mom. But, Dad was unable to make it so it was Mom who walked down the aisle with the rest of the new Crown Diamond Awardees.

And MYYY GULAAAYY! The reaction of the people. I wonder when will I be given the full video of the whole thing..... mhmmmm

(Photo: L-R: Rick, Lory, Me, Ami and Roy)

Good camaraderie of hosts and the staff was the key to pulling everything off. And that we always focus on what needs to be done and the result in the end which was making 12,000 people happy. One good thing, they say was that there was no "dull moment" or spaced out moment because we would help each other out. Also, the A2Z Band was the besssstttt!!! Rock and Rollllll!!!

I heard it was the best DXN Anniversary! And when 3 of the hot shots were asked to rate the anniversary on a scale of 1 to 10. 1 the lowest and 10 the highest. They gave the anniversary this: 9, 10 and 10.1.

and our CEO was so enthused, he exclaimed: "We should do this every year!"

It was an amazing experience to host the anniversary. We gave our time and effort as pro bono to the company. I actually just wanted the experience and to give back to the company who helped a lot of people make their lives better and fulfilled their dreams. Including mine!


Everyone was in high spirits when it ended. And my energy kind of depleted. I wasn't able to eat that much before the show because it might send me to the bathroom in no time. Nyahaha. How about next year??? Well next year, i'll hit the backstage or be a floor manager! HAHAHA.

Congratulations to all the AWARDEES!! Next year... awardee na ako dapat! Woooo.DAPAT. Universe? Woohooo.. You listening? :)

Actually the Anniversary inspired me to do more. A lot of people in DXN, is encouraging me to do even better. I've seen people who never got a college degree, but now, they look, talk and walk like some guy with a PHD! This business made a lot of household lives better and healthier. Oh, the joy!

In this business, I call myself a social business entrepreneur. Where I am not just in this business to make money.... but I am in this business to change our "society". And it starts by helping people reach their full potential in achieving their dreams and visions for the future! It's better than just making money, right? :)

Credits: My Angels and ESP, Edsel of Kasuotan, Ms. Roma (Hair &Makeup), Ate Alice, Mr. JP Bedia (Coach), Ms. Lhen, Mr. Dennis, Ms. Honey, Ms. Thess, Ms. Anna, Ms. Mechelle, Ms. Rolyn, and more.

April 2008 Trip I

The trip went well (in fact it was great!).

The first part of the trip was spent on four scheduled Leadership Training in different places to be conducted by my mom.


April 12-13 :

The first one was conducted at Malolos, Bulacan. My mom's training is limited to 30 persons only (and that's already the maximum but on some places it would exceed to 35). But this time at Malolos there were only 12 participants (which makes it easy for mom). Less audience is easier.

I also tried a delicacy from Malolos called Inipit *review some other time*. I also visited the ever famous Barasoain Church. I was supposed to take a picture in front but, a wedding was about to take place and so all my plans of being there went down the drain. Hehe. Give way to the bride. :P

April 15-16:

Our second schedule was set to be in Tandang Sora, Quezon City to be hosted by Mrs. Luzviminda's Service Center.

Basically, this group is a great one, most of the attendees are in their youth and they are way beyond people their age already. (Not a lot of youths attend this kind of training though). They are responsive and they ask a lot of questions (which is actually great because my mom encourages questions and clarifications when she speaks). Very interactive. They are also achievers which makes it a plus. Keep it up guys! :)

April 17-18:

The third schedule was held at Willie Mercado's Service Center over at Zamora Street.

Mrs. Lelel was a great host, she made sure we were doing all right and all that. She even drove us at the hotel when our drive wasn't able to make it. I also admired her three kids helping out with their Service Center. You can see they have a tight family bond.

The group here is great as well. Intellectual and Spiritual and so Mom did not have any trouble and actually finished early because they got it just right.

I also admired Mr. & Mrs. Lauron(Crown Diamonds) who attended mom's training. It's quite rare to see a person EARN MUCH and attend trainings. Most people who earn much and are in a high position don't attend trainings anymore. You can see that Mr. & Mrs. Lauron are green mangoes*

April 19

Supposed to be our rest day but mom made time for some of the Network Leaders who weren't able to attend her trainings. It started by 10am ended at quarter to 4 or something.

April 20

en route to Quezon. We took our time getting to the place. Not much in a hurry. I enjoyed the ride.

April 21-22

The last schedule was held at Aramin Resort in Tayabas, Quezon Province. The bond on this group is very tight. Quezon already had it's first batch, which were the "uplines" of the second batch and they bonded during the two nights talking about a lot of things in life. I enjoyed observing their bond here.



April 23


Before going back to Manila we decided to climb the 300 steps of the "Kamay ni Hesus" grotto. Due to the "coding" in Pasay we delayed our going back to Manila by stopping at different places and taking a different, scenic route. I was able to drop by at Lucban, Quezon (to check out the hats once again... but did not get to buy one.. since I don't know where I would store it. T_T), and Lumban, Laguna (the home of the finest barongs).

All in all it was a fun filled trip full of learning experiences. I learned a lot from different people. It's one of the reasons I decided to stay in the Networking Field. You get to understand people more and more and you meet different people and learn from them and at the same time you got to help them out. You give something, they get something. You get something, they give out something.

*Green Mango - mature independent person, attends trainings. leaves their cup empty, eager to learn. coachable. A green mango stays on the tree. It doesn't fall. It wouldn't rot.
*Yellow Mango - immature independent person, don't attend trainings because their cup is full already. they feel they know EVERYTHING. A yellow mango usually falls from a tree and is left to rot. When you stop learning, you start to rot just like a yellow mango.

Cruisin'

Ahoy!

I will be gone once again "indefinitely", which wouldn't matter much since I'm always in and out of the blog world. The real world's calling is much greater nowadays, but fret not I am not leaving the "blog world" since I have so much "discoveries" to share... I just can't place it to words... as of now.

In consequence of my going away, I am missing a "debut" I waited for so long. But that's life... you always have something to offer. You don't always get what you want without something to sacrifice. Rawr. Yhe.. sorry sorry... ikaw ang akong "Isaac" karon. daghan nako utang. Phbbtt.

I'll be seeing you guys in a few weeks time. Seeee youuu!!!!

Road Show - Push, Drive, Explode

The return of the come back! wooo...

Thank you for all the graduation greetings.. thank you pam for -> THIS.

Ate Ann hit it right with her comment that says "Congrats! San ka pupunta? Out of town again?".

As soon as I graduated I hopped on a plane the next day (October 16) and left Davao for 23 days! gooseneck! The longest time me and my mom were away with the whole family. But, it's all for a good cause. :)

I missed a lot of things while I was away. I missed to attend the Road Show that was conducted here in Davao which I wanted sooo much to attend since we will present our production number last October 18. But I had to choose in serving (lovingly) my mom and be her Personal Assistant(Alalay wahaha) while we are in Luzon specifically the South.

I missed the Birthday of my business partner/great friend/blogger Ate Jireh last October 17 but at least I got to celebrate her birthday bash which I will recount one of these days last October 13.

I missed the Blogger's Summit last October 27!!!! One of the biggest events in the blogging society this year! Booooo! I apologize for not being there.... I was really hoping I can come back right away. T_T.

I missed Giovanne's birthday last October 31. Yes, It's Halloween. I also missed my plans to sell our product wearing my uber-outrageous-butterfly costume, just for laughs. I wonder if I could do it next year... Hehe.

I missed Ate Disay and Avy's birthday last November 6, 2007. I was monitoring their birthday... and when 6 came by... I forgot it was November 6.. for crying out loud. And I did not get to greet the two of them ON TIME. Pretty close pa naman sila to me..... SORRRY AVYYYY!!! I really really owe you big time! Kaon na lang ta pizza haaaa??????

For things I missed there is of course a "seed of equivalent benefit"....


We went to Lucena City from the airport to prepare for the two(2) day training. :)


I enjoyed the crowd here. :)

By October 19... we had the first ever Diamond Convention held at Trader's Hotel. It also seemed like a whole day event. This was coordinated by the EDC.

October 20 was our 8th Anniversary and we held it at Cuneta Astrodome. :)

The Alabang crowd is a different crowd but nevertheless their responses to my mom's training were all good.

I guess different places calls for different people... and so Laguna was a different batch altogether. I enjoyed their company by the way...


The males in the Cavite Group are more dominant than the female. This group has less questions compared to Lucena, Laguna and Alabang.


Miss Honey said my mom's presentation in Batangas is her favorite.


The last two(2) trainings Masinag and Cainta was not part of the schedule but nevertheless my mom accepted it because she was requested.


My mom took a long time to lay down all the details in Masinag since the group is pretty not used to "responding" during trainings. She was having a hard time getting answers from them because they don't respond. In the end, they were at least able to let their feelings out.

If my mom had a hard time in Masinag, Cainta on the other hand was pretty easy. This group is basically aware and their comprehension is fast and they respond whenever they are asked.

All in all I met different people and I have seen the "I-am-alive-ill-live-it-this-way" look from them after the trainings. They all inspire me.... to reach out and help people get what they want. I gave a short speech by the end of the session in Lucena (because they asked me.. cant refuse them), Laguna (I was asked by Miss Honey.. cant refuse once again), Masinag (my mom asked me... how can i refuse?) and in Cainta (because the group asked me too).

I am enjoying what I am doing now, because i get to HELP PEOPLE who WANTS TO HELP THEMSELVES. In the trainings, you rarely find people who don't want to be helped because my mom's training has limited slots and so you have "to fight your way in" and those who attended were not forced but are willing. It's better that way than forcing someone to join a training.

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I missed all your blogs!! Super! So I'll be blog hopping in a few while.

Happy Birthday to Dwinny - November 8, 2007. You are now 21. Be happy always and follow your dreams...... have the courage. :)

HAPPY BLOGGING!

Visit Malaysia 2007

Malaysia is actually celebrating their 5oth year of independence. They are having a huge promotion to attract tourists and this year they sure did attract A LOT. Cable T.V. stations have a series of advertisements about "VMY 2007". It is quite fitting to Visit Malaysia this year... and I just love their "One Golden Celebration" song. Super! I wish we could have one as grand in Philippines!

Malaysia

There’s a place not far away
Different faces yet all the same
With a million dreams
In one golden celebration

Malaysia

It’s the place for us to be
It’s the time to feel so free
With a million smiles
In one golden celebration

Malaysia

Come and spread your wings
There’s so much to see
There’s a million colours
Right before your eyes
It’s one golden celebration

*cant find the whole song.. sorry*

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We landed in Penang Island on our first day. It's where the ship "Star Cruise" docks when visiting Malaysia. Very nice place.

Anyway, our main point of visiting Malaysia was because of the farm of a company we are building our future with. We got to visit the DXN farm on our 2nd day(we traveled 2 hours from Penang to Alor Star) .






Right picture: with my parents and the pioneer of Philippines (Tatay Jimmy Quedding) and the pioneer of Mexico.










They say you haven't been to Malaysia if you did not visit "Genting Highlands" and so this was the second highlight of our trip. Fortunately, we got to ride the "world's fastest and Southeast Asia's longest cable car" called the Genting Skyway.




They say it is called the Las Vegas of Malaysia. Their resort features many hotels owned by Genting subsidiaries. We stayed at the Hotel Resort(refer to the picture on the left).

There are also different facilities in the resort like golf courses, shopping malls, concert hall, sky diving simulator and theme parks. Basically, we did not tour the whole place since we were only there for a night from (Sept.19)5pm-8am(Sept. 20). We watched their featured presentation called "FLY". The presentation was not that bad... I enjoyed the introduction where they sang "One Golden Celebration".



On our fourth day we headed to Kuala Lumpur from Genting Highlands. Along the way we visited the batik factory and the place where they sell "genuine leather". Leathers made from cows to stingrays. We also headed to KLCC and visited Aquaria.



We checked in at Berjaya Times Square, a 5 star hotel. It was a good hotel since the shopping mall is just part of the Square. Very convenient and it's one of the things I like. I did not get to tour the mall during our 2-day stay there because there was no time. Only the first 3 floors. Someone told me that there's a big roller coaster in the 5th floor. Too bad, I did not get to visit it.

Of course by this time I also met Dwinny. A good friend of mine. We forgot to take pictures. Tsk. Tsk.

We had our one day seminar in the hotel and also our Gala Night at our last night. Of course, finally I got to meet the "hot shot" / "dragon" of our company of course the one and only owner of our family business, Dr. Lim Siow Jin.


All in all I like their promotion of the "VMY 2007". It's super grand. You see their flag everywhere even on high-rises. I like the lyrics of the song and the tune.

They have big highways and nice "island bars" on highways. Although the weather tends to be a bit more like General Santos City or Cagayan de Oro they have nice paved sidewalks and clean and so that would come as a consolation. Their forests remains untouched and preserved.

Cotton Candy and Peanuts

Before hitting the streets first thing Friday morning I saw a green butterfly fluttering over a flower in our garden and a good thing I had my camera. A good omen for starting the day? Hehe.


One good thing about the Kadayawan Festival is that you have a variety of choices on how you want to spend the day.

What to do? What to do?

• FOOD: If you are into food, you can eat fruits that are on season like mangosteen, durian, lansones and rambutan which can be seen everywhere and they come in very cheap. You can also choose from a variety of street foods downtown - kwek2x, cotton candy, popcorn, fishball, cheese sticks and more. If you want FOOD as in heavy meals.... restaurants have promos and you can see streamers everywhere screaming "Kadayawan Promo" this and that. You wouldn't starve I tell you. There are also Food Fiestas and fairs in different places.

• SHOP: This is the time to SHOP! ALL malls are ON SALE. 10-70% off! Not just malls, even small boutiques and stores are on SALE. Everything's on SALE, I tell you.... even GUESS and other prominent flashy brands.
  

• ENTERTAINMENT: Various artists have schedules to perform in different malls. Be it free or with pay. But mostly it's Free, just take your pick! There are cultural presentations and music festivals. Of course, we have the Indak Indak sa Kadalanan(Saturday) and the Floral Float Parade(Sunday) if you happen to wake up early in the morning. Bring your umbrellas with you.... or just a cap will do. If you don't like crowds.... then I think the street dancing is not for you. (did it just rhyme?)

• PARTY - night street parties are offered everywhere. Everyone's out the night after Indak Indak (Street Dancing) usually scheduled Saturdays. Roads are often closed for the open street discos.

• CONTESTS - if you are a person who loves to win a prize, there are various competitions you can join or just watch. From sports(sepak takraw), photography to dancing and even just joining raffle prizes in different malls.

• TRADE FAIRS - of course trade fairs are always present. Plants, furniture and food. Best day to buy is the last day of the trade fair because you get it cheap....but not a lot of choices. :)
  

Friday: The first day we just walked and strolled the streets. We just surveyed the streets... (as if we are not from Davao and we can't get enough.. hehe).

The unfinished renovated park that used to be called "P.T.A. Park" was temporarily opened for viewing. It was just a few blocks away from our office and we could have dropped by to check the park out but everyone was so tired from walking, we did not get the chance to preview the unfinished park.




Saturday: Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan. You'd hear the tribal music filling the air and a series of shouts. Some roads were closed and most jeepneys would re-route for the day. Be aware of that. Everyone can be seen walking, so you might as well join others. It's best to have someone with you around, someone who can walk tirelessly with the heat and the crowd to enjoy the moment. Just have fun and laugh when you bump into each other. Be in a good mood. :)

Finally, we got around to eating durian after the seemingly endless walking.... with me was Ate Jireh, fellow blogger... a newfound friend. :) Hello Ate!!! :)

I think the open disco was cancelled due to the rain that started out by 10P.M. (I'm not sure). They could've transferred it indoors. Hehe.


Sunday: It was drizzling when we set out for today's "walk-a-thon". I call it that because it seems like we've been walking since Friday. We did not watch the Float Parade because everyone slept through it. We just watched it on T.V. instead. Most of my business partners are "dance enthusiasts" so we decided to meet up at a Mall where there is a dance contest which will be judged by the Streetboys. But, oh boy... the crowd is just too much.

*See the crowd behind?*

The day ended with us eating street foods, cotton candy and peanuts. Which kind of summed up the three days we spent walking around. The bonding moments was sweet like a cotton candy....the heat of the sun hot as a peanut. :)

Kadayawan 07

I remember riding the plane from Cebu last week, and I was gushing about the people in the plane with us which happens to be from different nationalities. I was seated beside a Korean during my Bacolod-Cebu flight and then a German during the Cebu-Davao flight.

When I saw the rest of the people boarding the plane that was scheduled to leave for Davao.... I was wondering how come there were a lot of kids (half-Pinoys) everywhere.. and how we are getting so many tourists and all. Koreans, Japanese, German, American... you name it the plane had it.

When we arrived at the airport, ethnic music filled the air.... a music that is so familiar you would always categorize it as a "Kadayawan music" and I remembered why we are hoarding tourists and visitors and it's because of Kadayawan. Silly me.

It's Kadayawan all over again. Fruits are everywhere..... and they come in cheap. Durian, lansones, mangosteen (which is amazingly cheap nowadays...) and rambutan.

I've been eating rambutan the past few days and gosh you'd wonder why my nails looked like it's a mini pot. (Ok, ok.. that was lame.) I'm planning to eat the durian either today or tomorrow. Good thing our office is just downtown and we(business partners and I) will have it as our base. Haha.

I'm planning to enjoy the 3-fun-filled day activity starting today until Sunday. Haha. See you on the streets! "Kita na lang ta sa kalsada guys!"

For the schedule of activities... I have decided to post the events for the rest of the remaining week..


Kadayawan 2007 Schedule of Events.
Source: Kadayawan.

Hudayakaan sa Kadayawan Food and Music Fiesta
August 3-19
4 PM-12 MN, NCCC Mall Parking Area

Agro Industrial Trade Fair
August 8-23
10 AM-10 PM, SM City Davao

Canon Kadayawan Photo Contest
13-19 August

Ikebana International Flower Exhibit
16-18 August
9 AM-9 PM, NCCC Mall Activity Center

5-Stag Derby
15-18 August
Aquino Coliseum, Cabaguio Avenue

- Daily Events -

15-16 August
Sayaw Mindanaw – Isang Pagpupugay (8 AM-5 PM, CAP Auditorium)

16-17 August
Sayaw Mindanaw – Isang Pagpupugay (6 PM-9 PM, NCCC Mall Activity Center)

16 August
Cultural Celebration: Maranao Tribe (8 AM-5 PM, Rizal Park)
Davao River Festival (8 AM-5 PM, Davao Riverfront)
Forum on Indigenous Peoples’ Education (Grand Men Seng Hotel)

17 August
Cultural Celebration: Ata Tribe (8 AM-5 PM, Rizal Park)
Durian Festival Opening (LandCo Compound)
Performing Dabaw: Homage to Home-grown Artists (CAP Auditorium)
Republic of Davao: The Reggae Combo (8 PM, RMC Gym)
SK Midnight Fun Run (9 PM-12 MN, assembly area: SM City Davao Car Park B3)

17-18 August
MEDSA Mayor’s Cup – An Invitational Golf Tournament

17-19 August
1st National Dog Ultimate Challenge (Damosa Gateway, Market Basket)

18 August
Indak-indak sa Kadalanan (8 AM onwards, View Parade Map)
Daghang Salamat Dabaw! An NCCC Kadayawan Celebration (NCCC Mall Activity Area)

19 August
Floral Float Parade (8 AM-12 NN, View Parade Map)

Post-Kadayawan Activities:
21-25 August
LUMAD: Celebrating Indigenous Wisdom and Creativity (2nd Indigenous Peoples’ Visual Art Show and Auction) – (NCCC Mall)

30 August-02 September
Trade Exhibit – Organized by the Peace and Equityt Foundation Launching the Badjau products of Basilan

City of Smiles

I got back from Bacolod, the "city of smiles" yesterday(August 11). We stayed at Grand Regal Hotel conveniently located in front of Gaisano Mall, hosted by Mrs. Talas a very generous woman and a very great host at that.

Mom and I attended a special business event(August 8, 2007) that was coordinated by Bacolod's Charity Prince Joery Llanera. It was a good show. I had fun.

The next two days (August 9 and 10), mom trained 30 leaders and I had a great time seeing how the training changed their outlook in life. We received a lot of good responses from them and mom said she had a lot of fun with the network leaders. :)

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I never got the chance to tour around the place but at least I got the chance to eat out at two of their best "eating places".

FOOD.

PALA - PALA / HYSKOS


There is an eating place they call "pala-pala" or "tulahan". You get to buy fresh seafood at the back (wet market) and have it cooked at the eateries in front. Just take your pick. The place is near the seashore, that's why seafood comes cheap. The facade of the eateries may look like an ordinary karinderya but oh boy.... their food is great.



TIP: if you want good food, just have it cooked at an eatery where numerous people eat because I'm sure they serve YUMMMYYY food. We ate at an eatery called "Hyskos" twice.

IMAY'S

This restaurant also serves great food. It's cheap (compared to restaurants here in Davao that serves the same food), and very yummy. The interior of the place is good and it has a great service. (Wow! Writing about food made me hungry tonight. *growls*).




I ordered their cheese sticks... and by gum you wouldn't say "bitin" because it's very CHEESY (unlike other cheese sticks I know served in other restaurants here in Davao).





One dish perked my interest was the "porbidang kangkong", because of it's name. It's probably "porbida" because it's hot and spicy. Very Very yummmmyyyyyy..... !!!



I did not get to taste Bacolod's Chicken Inasal which is pretty much popular and Bacolod's known for that... but at least I got to be in two places that serves great food with a low price.

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Till here! Have a great week ahead!!

The Big Day

I've been almost neglecting this blog and all and I'm pretty way behind but sometimes life gets too busy and yes I'm riding the fast train as of the moment with a lot of schedules here and there.





(August 3-4, 2007)
For two days, I've been in and out of Tagum(the new location of the Service Center to be managed by me) to help clean the place up and arrange what my parents planned. Everything looked really great, despite the fact that you had to brush the whole tiled floor which is not a good type of tile because the dirt sticks right away and one has to mop it most of the time to keep it squeaky clean (that was the downside of it all, the tiles which came with the building).

I am sooooo grateful for the support the Legaspi group has given me. Four(Kuya Lauro, Kuya Marlon, Kuya Alie and Kuya Eric) of them went with us to help pull the things out from the old place, mind you that was without pay, it was just pure service. Grabe!



They had fun with the place. People in Tagum are pretty accommodating when they realized there's a new establishment. Being at the heart of the city, everyone who passed by was curious and asked about the establishment and the new occupants which we gladly answered.

When the distributors invited new interested people to visit the place for the opening-slash-orientation most of the distributors were bombarded with questions like "would there be food?", or "naay kumbira?".

Tsk. Tsk. Telling everybody the presence of food would devoid the purpose of the orientation. You would have a place filled with people thinking about free food and not the opportunity that would be laid down for them. We did not say that there would be food for the stomach after or anything fancy catered for them but a few expected there would be. They went out of the office before and right after the orientation muttering a few unintelligible words which would lead to the bottom line that "there was no free food".

We served the prepared snack 30 minutes after the presentation. The food was served for those who were really interested and they were even surprised. It pays to wait but never expect. Hehe.

I was touched when I heard the night before the event that almost all decided to wear pink or shades of pink as a sign of support to me. Awwww.... How sweet. Ate Mari told me, I mentioned it to her once.... I just forgot. But, it was so nice... and sweet of them to wear pink... even the men were all game to wear pink.

Renel and June arrived since they both hailed from Tagum. My friends in ICST wanted to go there and told me they would.... but then they have things to take care of.... pero "thank you sa text message(from Jona and Pearl) and the comment you gave as well Avy." Grabe. I appreciate all those. "Kita kits na lang sa school. Gi mingaw nako sa inyo ba."


Belated Happy Birthday kay Ate Sasha (august3) . Sorrrryyyy. I'm so late grabe.

By August 8, I shall be in Bacolod to assist Mom with her training. Just a few days.. will be back right away.

Enjoy the rest of the week. I will visit your abodes now. Hehe. STAY HAPPY!

Crescent

Kuya Denz and Ate Janz finally the long wait is over.

It was a lovely wedding last night.... what made it even lovelier was the crescent moon and the star.

Anyone saw the nice picturesque crescent moon and star so close to each other last night? Don't mind my picture because my camera is not advanced and can't quite capture the whole lovely scene. Just imagine the crescent moon on the right side and a star shining bright just beside it. It's what you mostly see on pendants and drawing and last night I saw it for real.

They said when the moon and the star are so close to each other someone's courting someone. Uyyyy. It was quite fitting, since the wedding involved the start of wooing each other and courting.

They were both blessed because on their wedding day it appeared and that rarely happens.

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I am definitely having fun with the people in the office. They are all full of positive vibes wherein you can't help but smile the whole time. When you talk to them you learn a lot of things that comes from experience and not just hearsay.

There is meaning to everything we do and we help and encourage each other to do better.

The youths in the office are those people whose interests differs from young people their age. Most young people don't think the way they do. At their age, it is quite admirable to see them working for their future and to think they used to be running down the streets before. People can change their way of life and these young generation proved WE ALL CAN despite our age and circumstance. More about them some other time. Hehe.

I'm Still Here

It's been what? 5 days or something since I last updated.

I apologize for not being around most of the time even to just visit your blogs but once I am free specially after my Thesis defense this Saturday(July 14), I guess I can update and drop by your blogs. At least, I hope. (Or maybe even after this entry)

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New steps everyday and the Recognition Rally is drawing near!!! OMG! Steps are not easy anymore.... it has those pop pop pop things those Japanese and Koreans really do well. Muwahaha. I hope I don't look sooo T.H. on this one. (check the links for some poppin` action).

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Ding dong ding! They are getting married! Ding Dong Ding! Hehe.

Kuya Denz and Ate Janz wish you all the best!!! Woooo!! So many "process" along the way but we are bigger than those processes and always remember that you are BLESSED and each process is an opportunity to grow. We will all grow and learn together.


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We have a new location for the Service Center in Tagum! It's so big inside.... I love the facade and where it is located. :) Watch out for the inauguration!! :P

Enjoy the rest of the week!!! :)

Much has been given

It's been raining cats and dogs during mornings and evenings. And I'm lovin` it... hehe... because I'm always inside the office.

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Everything's moving fast.... well at least, for me. I spend most of my time in the office and a lot has been happening lately. The Service Center in Tagum will have it's new location and a big one at that. Everyone in the Davao Service Center is excited already and ready to conquer the place.

I noticed the favor, opportunity and privilege that was bestowed upon me.

They say.....

It comes, when you are ready.

The universe is aligning and positioning to what I want... and maybe that's why everything is happening fast. I am just amazed about how everything falls into place. New avenues are opening and I am excited because it's not routine like what most people have when they work. IT's so different...... and everyday is a new day.....

But then....

To whom much is given, much is required.

With greater power comes great responsibility.

Of course, one cannot shake the quotes above for they deemed true. Much has been given already for me..... and whatever it is that is required I surely would meet. Dapat lang. I am not trying to worry myself, it's just that I am aware of what these favors have in stored and the responsibility.

I have offered Isaacs(meaning "sacrifices") in my life. Made a lot of things a normal teenage girl wouldn't do and would find really boring. Sometimes, there would be diversions but then my parents would always remind me that there are better things to do and one should be productive and all. I am grateful to have parents, family and friends who constantly remind me to be a better person everyday........

It's true when one says "follow your heart". I did. It wasn't easy, I tell you. It was never easy. Following your heart means a lot of sacrifices. But, you must be clear with what you want..... and I have been clear with it....... and results are showing now.

Nothing is free in this world. Everything has a price... and one must pay for the price before you get what you want.

My goals and desires are coming true..... It also pays to be optimistic.

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Sorry, if I'm slow to make my entries but I do visit your places once in awhile... just not everyday like before.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!

I can Dance!

Been quite busy lately, juggling responsibilities and studies. Too many commitments... at least my life is full of new experiences and challenges.

Our defense is set to be this July 14... and it should not be MOVED! I have an event to attend to after July 14 and I will be VERRRRYYY BUSSYYY!!!

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I love dancing. I love to watch people dance. I dance in my dreams.... but in REAL LIFE? It is something I usually avoid. I do dance if it's something slow(during weddings) and the steps are basic... but nothing more.

I managed not to join the "Araw ng Dabaw" dance my school joined and opted as a props person instead to get additional points.

I managed not to join the cheerleading competition which was choreographed by Avy who is a great dancer by the way.

I managed not to join the Recognition Rally presentation last year....

I was a great escape artist you know...... but then the great Secret said...

what you resist, persists.

and I was so sure I can escape and have my thesis as an alibi for not joining this year's presentation... but Oh boy.. was I wrong.

My mom and I had a some kinda "big" fight. She was saying I could do it and all (di naman sa papresyo or whatever... it's just that the fact the rest looks good in dancing ... and I don't is pure torture.). She said.... I should at least join because at least they would see their upline participate and all... and support... ratatata.... ( I have no problem with supporting.. It's the dancing!!!! )

What can I do? My mom wouldn't talk to me at first.... but then I managed to let her talk to me (after crying) and agreeing to join.

I've been hearing this audio CD most of the time.... and it says:

Everyone has the ability to learn ALL SKILLS. Just practice and do it everyday.... until it becomes part of your LIFE. Every skill CAN BE LEARNED.

The above quote kind of boosted me up... that.. I just have to declare everyday... I am great and all and really believing in it. It will take a few weeks of mind setting.. but once it is set... Aww.. everything would be alright. It should.

Dance practice takes up most of my time. It's usually done during mornings and then evenings... and during afternoon, I assist at the counter (seeee... I support dude!) without pay.

and besides practice ain't boring..*wink* It's actually fun.. I get to bond with the "Special Boys" and my Aunt which I call Ate Disay... since she refuses to be called a Tita, saying she is still young and single. Hehe.

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PBB made a big mistake casting NEL out first before Wendy. Tsk. Tsk. I can't believe it. What a big joke. !!!!

Your tasks and punishments were fun Kuya....... but I don't think a lot was rooting for Wendy.

7 Habits

I was tagged by Kuya Eli. {Everybody's tagging meee haaa... }

Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules.

1. I drink my coffee every morning along with my food supplements (10 capsules and 10 tablets). I love to wait around for my coffee to grow a bit cold and then sip it little by little while reading a book.
2. I have so many notebooks. I collect them along with pencils, ballpens and a whole lot more.
3. One reason I took home study when I was in 4th year H.S. was because I have the luxury to be with my parents on business trips here in Mindanao.
4. During those business trips... I have a notebook in hand and then staying awake all the time writing down places where we passed and stayed. {I wonder where that notebook is}
5. When I was younger my mom would make me sell anything *peanuts, candies, stationaries, ice candy* in our school, which embarrasses me to bits since most of my classmate are rich Chinese kids. But now, it doesn't. In fact, I'm proud when I have something to sell *usually little things, from silver jewelries to fake uso items.*, endorsing it to people I know. Buying little this and that for fun and sell it. Nyahaha. :) And now, whenever I buy something from a thrift store I let my sister sell it to her friends. Hehe....
   
6. My first time to speak in front of many people was at a church service *the biggest congregation back in the 90's till 2001 here in Davao* testifying about my experience of "outreach" when I was 10 or 11. The second time was at a business center.... talking about their products 11 or 12. The third time when I was 16 at another business center *same one I am on until now* But, I was petitioned not to speak by some big shots kuno *who later left our service center* because I'm far too young even if I have every right to speak because I USE THE PRODUCTS. Rawr. Mean people. Now, I am of age... what would they do? Petition me for lack of experience? { In fact, I'm still making my module.. yes one of these days I will speak again.... *in fact my mom nags me all the time to hurry up and speak* but I'm shy... *blushes* hehe}
7. I mingle too much with people older than I am ever since I was 11. Listening to their conversations and sometimes butting in. Nyahaha.

At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

{ Edit: So excited to publish it and forgetting to tag again... Since, I think almost everyone have their own pending tags to do... I shan't tag anyone. Do this... If you feel you want too. }

Espresso Break

Awhile ago Jona,Renel, Giovanne,Avy, and Nessa went to office.

Kape-kape together. Oops actually choco drink yung kinuha nila. Hehe. If they opted for the coffee they would've gone straight to the C.R. Our coffee has that effect of making you poo(sorry, if you're eating) if you did not get to poo for the day. Which is actually good, since it eliminates the toxins of your body... and thus we call that "deTox". Haha.

One reason they visited the office, is because it's where Jona, Renel and Pearl (who was not present that time since she measles) would have their OJT. So, they talked with my mom, hope they learned a lot. Ahihi. -_-

Oh and before we arrived at the office we got Paul's Christmas Cards straight from the U.K.!! Thank you Paul!! In behalf of everyone from ICST! We miss you!

Anyhow, I'm launching (haha parang LIBRO anoh? Book Launch) my NEW REVIEW BLOG.

So that I only have to login once. I don't have to login at Multiply or Friendster for the reviews. Although, I'll go there once a month and post at least one review so that it won't be inactive.

Tomorrow will be our first meeting for our THESIS 1. -_-

Anyway, just drop by.. @ ESPRESSO BREAK

See you. Have a nice night.

Holiday Leave

I am again "on-leave". Not just blogging, even mailing/ircing,chatting... etc. Anything "internet" related for two weeks. :) A very early holiday leave.

To them that ask where would I be... I'd be leaving for Manila tomorrow (dec.5), and then to China (dec.8). It's an all-expense paid trip by DXN, we can't resist. Haha. Im leaving with my parents.

I might be updating once in awhile on this same post IF EVER i get the chance to.

I'm leaving you with some random ICST convos i overheard.
(Original convo in Bisaya. I did not write the Visayan version. *tired* hehe)

June: Hey guys! Let's all get voter's ID.
Tina: Yeah, let's!!
Avy: So we can vote. Weee
JV: Yeah, because I'm already 19, and I haven't voted ever since. :(
June: Huh? You were far from 18 the last election! Duh!

Renel: Tat Tat Tararat Tat Tat Tararat (Paris Hilton's Nothing in this world tune)
Giovanne: Tarat tarat Bom Tarat tarat. Tararat Tararat Bom Bom Bom.

Jv: Kane, is Giovanne's face perfect?
Gio: Sige Kane, You won't have a face anymore... It's perfect right?
Kane: *smiles*
Jv: Haha. Meaning?
Gio: Well, silence means yes!
Jv: Haha
Suico: What are you guys talking about?
JV: I was asking about Giovanne's face, is it perfect?
Gio: I'll treat you an hour in Dota.
Suico: Perfect! Perfect.

NOTE: Andoy owns an Internet Cafe where most of the ICST studes go everyday for a couple of games.

Andoy: I'm hungry. Treat me for lunch. I dont have money...even just a peso.
Eng2x: Huh! First class net cafe, and then no money? You're like Perucho.
Andoy: Haha. Perucho cries when he can't go home to Panabo.
Eng2x: Eat with the teachers. Ask Sir Mj for food.
Andoy: What? Sakim yan! He wont even give me a passing grade.. how much more FOOD?!!
Sir MJ: What?! You dont even attend my class.
Eng2x: Dah! You don't show up, that's why!
Andoy: Why did you react Sir? We are not talking to you... right Bap?
Bap: Right!

Mean guys. But they were just fooling around and Sir MJ knows it.

King of Fruits

I attended a "Year-end Gathering of Diamonds"(Mindanao) yesterday. We had a visitor from Riyadh(Mr.Sulaiman), from India(Mr.Frajith), from Indonesia(Miss Lisa), and the DXN staff from Manila(Mr. Ferdie, and Mr Tom)

Anyhow, one cannot leave Davao City without tasting the ever famous "durian" and of course our "native chicken". But since, we were so full for native chicken.. we headed over at "Durian Paradise".

Durian = "Smells like hell.. but tastes like heaven"

"A rich custard highly flavoured with almonds gives the best general idea of it, but there are occasional wafts of flavour that call to mind cream-cheese, onion-sauce, sherry-wine, and other incongruous dishes. Then there is a rich glutinous smoothness in the pulp which nothing else possesses, but which adds to its delicacy." - Mr. Alfred Russel Wallace

But once, you get used to durian... and an avid eater of durian.. you'd go gaga over the smell. Once you smell it, you'd want to know where it is from. It's like seeing a mango with bagoong.

Mr. Ferdie: I'd have someone to make you a perfume.
Miss Lisa: Really?
Mr.Ferdie: Yeah, durian scent.
Miss Lisa: Haha. The people would not want to talk to me.
Mr. Ferdie: Yeah, they would run away from you.


It was really Miss Lisa's idea to try out the durian offered by Davao, and she was even teased by Mr. Ferdie.

Mr.Ferdie: We need to climb a mountain.... so that we can eat. Are you up for the adventure?
Miss Lisa: I like that! I like that!
Mr.Ferdie: Ay aba.. naniwala.

Durian is not new to Indonesians, since they produce them too. But, it was new for Mr. Tom, who covered his nose while eating. I wanna take a picture... but due to formality and all that I opted not to, and besides I was eating that time and a handful at that.

Durian is believed to have warming properties liable to cause excessive sweating. Durian should be paired with Mangoosteen since it produces a cooling effect. They are more like partners. Mangoosteen is also abundant here in Davao. It's also good to eat it with a softdrink of your choice. If you're from DXN and wants to eat durian, you must bring Andro-G so that it will reduce your body temperature.

Mr.Ferdie: Go and eat more.
Miss Lisa: No.. I already had 4 seeds. It's already hot.
Mr.Ferdie: Did you bring Andro-G
Miss Lisa: No.
Mr. Ferdie: Then, just take a bath, and shower the heat away.
(*everyone laughs*)
Mr.Ferdie: Or if you want there's swimming pool in the hotel.

If you eat durian.... better get the arancillo. It's a bit small compared to Puyat (which is veryyyy big.. and you can't eat 2 more seeds..) Arancillo is creamy, and it has this bittersweet taste. I cant explain it. And yeah it has a sherry-like taste.

TIP: After you eat durian, you better wash your hands along with the seed of durian. Use the seed like a soap when washing it with water to take the odor away. To know that it is effective, smell your hands before and after washing.

Dont think about the smell. You'd be missing out a lot, if you don't at least get to taste a durian. :)

Mr. Ferdie: I'm taking this out and bring this to Manila. I can't eat durian in Manila, because it's so expensive. 1 durian would cost me 500-600. tsk. tsk. This is really good for shake. Mix it with milk and cocozhi. Ahhh, heaven.
Miss Lisa: But, that's not allowed in the hotel.
Mr. Ferdie: Oh... right. I wonder why they don't allow durians in hotels.
Mom: Because some of the guests hates the overpowering smell.
Mr. Ferdie: I'd still bring this.
Miss Lisa: And what will you do? Eat it in front of the hotel. *Laughs*
Mr. Ferdie: I dont know... I'd let them find a way to keep this.