Read all About It: Pork Barrel Scam

You've got the words to change a nation, but you're biting your tongue
You've spent a life time stuck in silence, afraid you'll say something wrong 

If no one ever hears it how we gonna learn your song
So come on ,come on...Come on, come on

You've got a heart as loud as lions, So why let your voice be tamed?
Baby we're a little different, there's no need to be ashamed
You've got the light to fight the shadows, so stop hiding it away

Come on, Come on

I wanna sing, I wanna shout. I wanna scream till the words dry out
so put it in all of the papers, i'm not afraid. they can read all about it. read all about it oh

Song exercpt from: Read All About It - Emeli Sande

That song is dedicated to all the people who are speaking out about our current SYSTEM.

[ you can listen to it as a background music: Read All About It]

I've read a lot about the PORK BARREL SCAM lately. And from these blogs:  MOMANDPOP and DULZSPEAKS

We all know, that the news is not "NEW". We knew all along our tax are being used that way, but I guess those anonymous comments that gave those mindblowing figures and with rationale made us even go wide-eyed, wide-mouthed, heavens worthy of a shock.

 But here's a view of Social Transformation (which is what I see .... that is happening to our country now).... 

This metamorphosis of the caterpillar or worm to a butterfly is a powerful metaphor for societal transformation.  The people who awake to the new possibilities are like the imaginal cells of their own society. The process of societal transformation starts with the emergence of these individuals who carry with them the seeds of the future. They are "imaginal" in that they carry in their innovation an aspect of the image of the future of their society. These innovative individuals, these bearers of the future become the "deviants" of their own society. They are not recognized as the bringers of good. Rather they are attacked as disturbers of the present, destroyers of self-defeating habits of the old society (the caterpillar) which has been superficially framed as the "good life". In extreme cases, they can be killed. Kennedy, King, Gandhi, Rizal, Bonifacio, Javier, Aquino, and others were killed because they were too dangerous to the system. The auto-immune response of the old society tries to get rid of these visionaries." - Butterfly Effect, Nicanor Perlas

For a background of the "Butterfly Effect" please click on this link --> Butterfly Effect 

My initial reaction to the information given out by them anonymous... was of course.. ANGER.

It made people go screaming mad, some were giving out hopeless comments, that it is the way it is... and all that shizznit... and we cannot do anything about it.

Zilch. Nada. Let's just keep paying our taxes while they go spend the money or sit on it with their stinkin ass and let them go buy that luxury car or that luxury unit next door while the rest of the working class, keep providing for them and while most of our brothers and sisters still live in shantys and we continue to disempower them.

Well, it's a system that has been going on for years.. and if you've read the blog... if we wanna go "due process", our laws were made to protect people just like them.

And we can't possibly do another People Power... because folks.. it's insane to keep and do the same things over and over again and expecting different results.

So too in society at large. We see chaos all around. We can respond in two ways. We can complain and dis-empower ourselves with a sense of hopelessness. Or we can see this as an external symptom that the old order is collapsing and waiting to be transformed into a level of complexity and order. - The Butterfly Effect,  Nicanor Perlas

There are actually two ways to go about it.... (aside from the fact... that we can just sit back and live our own life).
 

FIRST OPTION: The Revolution.
Create different groups.

Ask everyone not to pay taxes. Call on the support of the police officials who are fed up of the system. Military officials who will drop their guns against us and pointed to them corrupt..
One group as mercenaries to assassinate all the corrupt bloodlines and leave no one behind (Wow, just like them dark wars).

Then create a different take over group.  One that carries the voice of the multitude..... now who would that be, would be a whole huge debacle. As we overthrow a system... what would ensure us that the system we place would be the perfect system.... etc.. and many other complications will rise from this. Whuddunit. Bright minds should gather and think about how to go through it seamlessly. And how do you know those underground plans wouldn't be filled with various snakes who can rat against you?

However noble the cause.... revolutions.... that can turn out bloody... cannot be our foundation for a new society that we envision.... for the system that we envision...

SECOND OPTION: Peace is the Way - Butterfly Effect

Well, we have to accept the fact that War cannot drive out War. And that HATE cannot drive out HATE. Only peace is the way.... and only love can drive out hate. only light.. can drive out darkness.

and you can say.. yadda yadda. What is peace to the multitude that is suffering? Yadda Yadda.. how can you say that while the rest of the country are starving? And thats just another bunch of "feel-good" theory.

But, my dear friends.... this is scientifically proven... and in the City that I am living in... we are reaping the results as more and more of us... "USE THIS WAY".

For a background of the "Butterfly Effect" please click on this link --> Butterfly Effect



We can all do this wherever we are..... situated... whether you are a government official genuinely wanting to serve our nation, a student, a mother, a teacher, a farmer, a lover, a healer, a gasoline boy, and insert all kinds of people.....

#1 -  Envision the kind of Philippines you want to live in. How do you see our politicians? How do you see our system? How do you envision the grandest version of Philippines? Do we see ourselves rising and becoming the Tiger of Asia... how do you envision progress? Would you want it sustainable? Go wild. Visualize the kind of Philippines you want to live in..... what are the values that we would carry as a NATION? Are we living up to our PREAMBLE ? (we have one of the best preambles by the way...)

#2 - In your own little way, what can you do ..... that can aid and support this vision? What initiatives will you take on... to address the challenges that we are facing today?

#3 - Connect with individuals who are doing "heart-based" work for our country, for their own city.... and learn from them.. or invite them to work with you....

#4 - Keep in touch with CHANGE AGENTS. People who are willing to go off the beaten path... back to being - what is true in our NATURE. Our Nature as Human Beings on this planet... as caretakers... and a brother's keeper.

#5 - Say these ... 4 positive phrases that work over and over again in your mind like a tape recorder whenever you are not doing anything: I love you, I am Sorry, Please Forgive Me, Thank you. :)

There is another aspect of the butterfly that moves us from the realm of metaphor to the realm of science. There is the so-called "butterfly effect" of the new science of complexity. We often hear how the flap of a butterfly's wings can influence weather patterns around the world. Small changes, if properly situated, can cascade and have large scale effects.

In 1969 Margaret Mead said: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has". She never imagined that barely a decade later her historical analysis would receive empirical support from natural studies in the form of the new science of complexity. - The Butterfly Effect, Nicanor Perlas

Doing all these.. is not easy. It takes courage to.... do what WORKS for everybody. It takes courage to deviate from things that are normal... to going back to our natural state.

I tell you this path... Option #2... is the hardest part.  The easiest part is not to care.. and not participate.. it's also very easy to be evil. For people who stick to evil deeds are the ones who aren't courageous enough to answer the call that their hearts are saying....... but the bravest people I know.. are those people who would FIGHT and STICK TO THE VISION OF THE KIND OF PHILIPPINES WE WANT TO HAVE... and the VALUES that we CARRY as FILIPINOS.

I have high hopes. :) Because, everyday, I meet people who are in the realm of bringing in positive changes, and awesome sustainable solutions to the challenges we have today.
And yes, the old worm cells, will try to eat away.... the imaginal cells... but... let's carry on and keep transmuting everyone... and activate their Imaginal Self....

Carry on. Spread the Love... Give the Love around. :)

Liwanag is Here.

It has been days since Liwanag World Festival ended... but we all know, it is the beginning of something bigger as we have tapped into a larger field. We have garnered enough media attention, to keep the ball rolling.

I'm getting feedback that the whole event was "too much" for the common mind to understand. It seems like people are so used to being in one box that people would try to label and box the event as "environmental", but, no wait... we have politics too... so we are also in that box. And we have the artists which showcased the whole Filipino culture... and there were business people too, the visual artists were there, techie people were behind the whole event as well. So, what is Liwanag? it seems like a ball of many things.... that in order for you to really understand it... you have to experience it. Not just by being in the event... but by getting to know the organizers, the supporters, the people behind the whole thing.

people can't seem to fathom the idea that... in order for us to create SUSTAINABLE CITIES or SOCIETIES we have to gather all the dimensions that would make it so. In our case.. we have identified 7 areas. [ human development, spiritual, ecological, economical, political, societal, cultural ] 

We have showcased all 7 in one event... and that confuses people... because when you make events.. you have to create a certain niche. Yes, i know. But, the event was meant to thread everything together. :) 

But to those who took the risk.. albeit the confusion, the curious, the believers, the visionaries and the revolutionaries.... they would all shook their heads if you missed the event.... many partnerships were being discussed, and future projects are being made.... 

there's more work to be done... but the message during the event was really this: "inner change" comes first..... everyone understood that.

Padyak at Liwanag

Transcripts of Messages from Kuya Jude:

Jan.9: 5:28AM - "Dia na mi karon sa Villasis in a GK site named "Namnama" (Hope). Kahapon pala may nanganak dito, the husband's name is Salvador. And we were received as the 3 magis on bikes. I could not help but notice how providence lead us day by day.  Last sunday we were in Laoag (light) and it's Epiphany Sunday pa - a feast that celebrate Jesus as Light of the world. Whew, its really awe-inspiring. DISGUSTING*!! as Nick would describe it" 

*DISGUSTING - is a MISSION term coined by Nic Perlas as "amazing,stupendous, unbelievable".

Jan 11:
5:37am - Val and I will be staying for another night in QC. Bukas 4am kami magpapatuloy sa Batangas City. Felcon will bike ahead this afternoon. Today we will be meeting with Joey Ayala during breakfast. Lunch with Fr. Pics and in the afternoon with Tony Meloto. We will recalibrate schedule today and upload pictures. 
 
11:54am- Just finished tupi session with Joey Ayala at Tandang Sora, QC. Going to Intramuros to meet Fr. Pics, the biking priest... on commuting mode. Will share pix this afternoon.

Jan. 12: "3:30 pm Text from Jude: left 7am from Joey Ayala's house, Tandang Sora. Fr. Pics guided us from the exit of C5 until Nuvali, Laguna. Here now at Makiling Elem School. Rest 5 minutes. Wish to arrive to Batangas City Port by 7:30pm"

8:30pm: Touchdown Batangas City.

Jan. 13: "We have already finished the whole Luzon (Jan2 treck to Cape Engano Lighthouse. Jan3 Sta. Ana to Aparri. Jan4 Aparri to Sta. Praxedes. Jan5 to Laoag via Pagudpud, Bangui. Jan6 to Vigan. Jan7 to Baguio. Jan8 to Villasis, Pangasinan. Jan9 to QC Circle. We met with excellent bike citizens Papa Denz, TIna and the rest of the members of Folding Bike Pilipinas and the Firefly Brigade. Jan10 Ikot Liwanag, we visited Light Bearers Joey Ayala, Father Picz and Tony Meloto. Jan 11 Tandang Sora to Batangas City. We rode to Caticlan. Today we start our Visayas pilgrimage. As I try to look back, I was amazed at how things evolved, transformed and unfolded. I now see that all these were realized with the help and support of everybody, a Bayanihan in action. I was amazed by how persons, events, things would pop up. Amazed by the level of sincerity, warmth of friendship we receieved. These have energized and made us go on. Nicanor Perlas Movement of Imaginals (MISSION) Firefly Brigade-Philippines We Want Bike Lanes in RP Movement Cycle For Life."

More snippets soon!!

They inspire me and gives me goosebumps as I imagine what they are doing!! Huwaw

Davao City hosts global convergence in 2013

An impressive line-up of world-renowned movers in the different spheres of society will be featured in the upcoming Liwanag World Festival on Creativity and Sustainability happening exactly a month from now. The Festival, taking place from January 29 to February 2, 2013 at the Philippine Women’s College of Davao, builds upon the outstanding achievements and reputation of the first two national Karangalan Conferences held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2005 and 2006. Karangalan highlighted the global and national achievements of Filipinos in many areas of life. More than 5000 people, including visitors from other countries, attended these two conferences.

The Liwanag Festival is now taking this success, giving it a new context and making it relevant to the second decade of the 21st Century—providing groups and individuals a creative space and opportunity to come together and share solutions to societal problems confronting us such as climate change, poverty, conflict, unequal distribution of wealth, lack of access to quality and responsive education, lack of livelihood opportunities, inadequate shelter, poor physiological and psychological health, unsustainable development practices, cultural decline, apathy, cynicism, and more. As part of this process, the proponents decided to locate the Festival in Davao City, being a city that is moving towards sustainability, having great leadership and a good track record (e.g. known for its Gender Development Code, Children Welfare Code, Firecracker Ban, No Smoking Ordinance, our own 911 emergency system, among other trailblazing practices).

Some of the topics and speakers in Liwanag are:

“Global impact and message of the Occupy Wallstreet Movement” Seth Jordan, co-founder and co-initiator of Think Outward and Occupy Wallstreet

“Revolutionary Discoveries in the Science of the Heart and Its Relevance to Creativity and Societal Sustainability” Bruce Cryer, Global Director of Heart Math Health Care, a technique created to help people decrease their stress levels and increase their quality of life.

“The New Story of the Universe and the Future of Humanity” Barbara Max Hubbard, President, Foundation for Conscious Evolution

Alongside these guest speakers are Philippines’ own leaders: Maria Ressa, high profile journalist and CEO of Rappler, will elaborate on The Strategic Importance of Independent Media in Sustainable Societies. For civil society, the powerhouse group of Dr. Alyssa Peleo-Alampay, Geologist, Dr. Laura David, Oceanographer, and Dr. Cora Claudio, Environmental Scientist—members of Ten Outstanding Women in the Nations Service (TOWNS) Team on Climate Change will help participants gain a deeper understanding of Climate Change and its impact on humanity. For the economic sphere, Ms. Gina Lopez, Executive Director of ABS-CBN Foundation, will encourage participants to follow their example in Mobilizing Business to Defend Nature; Mr. Tony Meloto, Founder of GK-Center for Social Innovation will likewise share how they Reinvented Philippine Agriculture through Social Enterprise. For the cultural sphere, Surallah Mayor Romulo Solivio, with Sculptor-Artist Kublai Millan, will share their experience onGovernment and Civil Society partnerships for the Rebirth of Culture.

Most importantly, a multi-stakeholder panel from Bayawan City will present Character First: The Liwanag Anchor of Bayawan City's Journey to Sustainability. Bayawan City, two hours away from Dumaguete,  Negros Oriental, boasts the title of being a “Character City,” a member of the International Association of Character Cities and a pioneer Department of Health certified “Healthy City” in the Philippines. Recently, it was recognized by the Asian Institute of Management city as “one of the Top 10 Best Cities to Live In in the Philippines (Small Cities Category)” under its Competitive Cities Survey 2007.

With this festival, the proponents want to emphasize that creativity and sustainability initiatives are alive, healthy and well, not only in Davao City but also in other parts of the country, and, of course, the world. Aside from the plenary presentations, hundreds of pre-registered as well as spontaneous parallel creative workshops, performances and exhibits will be taking place during the entire week, featuring participating individuals and initiatives with inspiring and innovative solutions to current challenges; local, national and international artists such as Joey Ayala (who also composed and performed the official Liwanag Festival theme song); ritualists from different tribes of Mindanao; Bayang Barrios; the Talaandig Artists of Bukidnon; performing artist-activist Juana Change; Sampsa Pirtola from Europe; Hinuguyaw Cultral Dance Troupe; Kaliwat Theatre Collective; Madayaw Cultural Troupe; Bayanihan Dancers, and other surprise artists.

“Two faces of the Philippines, two faces of the world mirrored in two forms of life. On one side, dense darkness amidst suffering and strivings. But on the distant road ahead are pulsing balls of light, like torches blazing trails of Hope – initiatives of some groups of humans in vigil for the herald of a new tomorrow. Brothers and Sisters, Let us glory on these strivings to change the face of the World.”

-The essence of Liwanag Festival on Sustainability and Creativity, as captured in words by Davao-based Palanca awardee Don Pagusara

Liwanag World Festival is initiated by the Movement of Imaginals for Sustainable Societies through Initiatives, Organizing and Networking (www.imaginalmission.net), supported by the Lifebank Foundation, Inc. a microfinance institution providing financial opportunities for the poor, specifically women. For more details about Liwanag World Festival and how to join, log on to www.liwanagworldfest.net. You may also contact Liwanag Secretariat through email: lwfdavao@gmail.com, landline: +6382.286.726, or visit us at: Door A6 2nd Floor, Lakitan Mall San Pedro St., Davao City, Phils. Look for Lilli Arellano 0918.914.1047, Melma Abasolo 0922.832.3244 or Nick Solana 0918.520.1400. 

Another Affair

I've noticed the trending in Filipino movies about infidelity, lately.

At first came in, No Other Woman. And though, I hate to say it, I watched this with my Tita who really wants to watch it with me. You see, she's from a province and it was a rare request, and so I just tagged along. It happened. But, it had a good ending. I guess, I felt it was kinda okay.

Then came..... A Secret Afair. Okaaaaaay. Then... The Mistress.......

What are they teaching kids now?

Movies reflect our culture. Seems like our culture when it comes to commitment....  is slowly going down the drain.

I know probably its all about money..... since I heard: "No Other Woman" earned a lot and is prolly one of the highest grossing films from last year.... (and yeah, I was responsible for 3 seats that time).

But, but, but, oh welll....... just airing this out. I know.. to each his own... and its quiet sad to see, it's slowly probably becoming a "norm".  But, is normal.... really healthy?

And we all know.... that when it hits mainstream... and everybody is doing it..... well, who cares?

Ok, wait till I have myself an affair. And I'll say what's on the other end. But, I clearly know how it feels like being on the receiving end. And it sucks.

Either way, the people on the other end.... will either do the same thing out of revenge, like the one in "The Mistress".... or.... the person will go through his journey of aches and pains... of never wanting to commit na. But, that's life right? It can't all be rosy and rainbows.....

Anyway, this will give more jobs and money  to psychologists, counselors, marriage advisor.... and booze , motels, hotels, make-ups, clothes, plastic surgeries, weight loss products...  etc.

Note: These are just my ideas, opinions and reflections. Nothing against people into secret affairs... because once again.... "to each his own". I'm just concerned, how this will be in the future.

What is LIWANAG to you?

One of my visions for our country, the Philippines is coming true!

And I'm getting the first had experience.

I've always dreamed of inviting people I admire and who inspires me, be they authors, inspirational speakers, or simply doing a great job in creating changes and giving solutions to global challenges!

I remember talking about that dream with Ate M. some two years ago, and I never thought... it would go this way! and something grand!

Anyway... me and my Imaginal friends in MISSION are organizing Liwanag World Festival on Creativity and Sustainability this coming January 29 to February 2, 2012. :)

To start the conversations of humanity..... let me ask this question:

"What is Liwanag to you?"

Please enter your full name or screen name :P
Name - Field/Company/Advocacy

We might just include your answer in our Facebook Page: Liwanag WorldFest, Inc.

Ikepono Seminar in Manila

Ike Pono is coming to Manila on October 19,20,21 & 26,27,28 (6Days -2 weekends) 

Venue at the 3rd Flr Red Cross Rizal Chapter, Shaw Blvd., Pasig City 

For more details text or call 0915-2037480 (globe).

Or just message me here, so I can give your number/details to the organizers in Manila.

I just attended Ikepono here in Davao... (we are on our second weekend), first day and you feel that is already worth what you paid!

Absolutely Lovely Workshop! :)

Open Letter to Save Davao Shrine Hills

Background of why we need to Save Davao Shrine Hills... please check the website: Save Davao Shrine Hills 

PLEASE SIGN THE ONLINE PETITON: Save Davao Shrine Hills 

July 24, 2012

An open letter to all councilors of the 16^th City Council of Davao City

Dear councilors,

“Do not doubt the power of thoughtful, committed citizens to change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever did.” These were the words of cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead in the 1970s. They still reverberate around the globe in places, for instance, where powerful transnational companies wreaking havoc on biodiversity and humanity are being successfully opposed by a handful of determined individuals. Nothing is impossible because everywhere, government, business, and civil society are working together to create a better world. Just look at the wonderful success stories of green cities like Portland (America), Curritiba (Brazil), Malmo (Sweden), Barcelona (Spain), Melbourn (Australia), Bogota (Colombia), Copenhagen (Denmark), Vancouver (Canada), and Reykjavic (Iceland)!

In Davao City, it’s been 6 years since the dynamic team of Barangay Maa Federation of Homeowner Associations started going to the Sangguniang Panglungsod to ask councilors to Save Davao Shrine Hills. Today the campaign has evolved into saving Davao Shrine Hills by turning it into a nature park. We from the global Movement of Imaginals for Sustainable Societies through Initiatives, Organizing, and Networking (MISSION) fully support this wonderful turn of events.

More than 8,000 signatures have been gathered from Davaoenos who want to turn Davao Shrine Hills into a nature park. More support is pouring in. Add to this the political will of Davao City councilors who banned smoking in public places, banned plastic bags in the market and malls, created a bicycle lane ordinance, stopped aerial spraying in banana plantations, and numerous other LGU projects big and small. The spotlight is now on the campaign to turn Davao Shrine Hills into a nature park and the political will of the 24 councilors to stand firm and be united to see it brought to fruition despite all the money already poured in by developers to build subdivisions on Davao Shrine Hills. Despite landowners there wanting to build houses on the dangerous slopes or sell their plots of land!

The Environmental Watch Committee’s beautiful comprehensive powerpoint last July 23, 2012 says it all: there are too many advantages of creating a vast nature park in the middle of Davao City! What are we waiting for? Our children today know far too much about malls, about television shows, and about computer games. Our children today stay at home too much and are far too clean, too careful, too timid, too afraid to try new things, to get dirty, to explore new relationships with other children who look different from them, who speak a different language, and who think and behave differently. A nature park in Davao City will make a big difference in children’s lives for sure. Political will.

Just imagine a nature park in the city – with indigenous trees, flowers, birds, and insects – that doesn’t forbid children to climb and explore, to crawl and examine, to walk and lie down on the grass, to be quiet and mull over the mystery of the sky, to close their eyes and listen to birdsong, to play hide and seek and tag and patintero with all their might, to laugh out loud till it hurts, to shriek in surprise again and again and again, to unabashedly shout for joy! Children need a nature park in the city where they can go on picnics and read without their thoughts being drowned out by loud music over a PA system. Children need a nature park in the city to go bird watching and bike around, and gather under the trees, between the flowers, surrounded by butterflies to talk about their purpose for existing. Political will.

The timing is perfect to turn Davao Shrine Hills into a nature park. This January 29 – February 2, 2013 there will be a Liwanag World Festival on Sustainability and Creativity right here in Davao City that will gather the best of the world’s most sustainable initiatives in governance, in education, in science, in business, and so on. Thousands of Filipinos and visitors from abroad will meet in Davao City to be inspired by each other’s sustainable initiatives whose flames they’ll bring back to their own communities and light up the Philippines and the world. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if the Liwanag World Festival on Sustainability and Creativity will be held in a city that is striving to be a sustainable city in the truest sense of the word ?

Respectfully yours,

Maya Vandenbroeck

Kate Estember

Tina Suelto

Darlene Suelto

Leo Avila

Melma Abasolo

Gina Cembrano

Monica Ayala

Arjun Marapon

Ellen Trazo

Art Suelto

Neng Suelto

Paolo Suelto

Rhon delos Santos

MISSION Workshop and Events

Hello everyone!

I know it has been awhile since my last blog update. There's just so many things on my plate right now... However, I'm doing my best to juggle everything.

Just wanted to drop a few announcements of upcoming Events/Workshops happening around Davao City and some parts of Pinas that I know of:

 

March 17:  (Alternative Education)

Tuburan Institute Parent's Orientation (Steiner/Waldorf inspired school) - 2pm-4pm @ Food Cove NCCC Mall, Davao City (Free)

Contact: Kate - 09177174668 or Maya - 09081535326

March 18: Cleanup/Gardenig @ Tuburan Institute (Morning) 

                   Vermiculture Workshop (Afternoon) 

(details by Ate Kate) Contact: Kate - 09177174668

March 24: (Wellness)

Crystal Enlightenment Workshop with Ms. Riza Regis - 1pm-7pm @ Legaspi Street, Davao City

Energy Exchange: 3,000/head with snack  

Contact: Tina(Me) - 09177054599 or Monica - 09224833948

March 31-April 1:

Workshop:Courage Midsayap - 9am-5pm 

Contact: Kate - 09177174668

April 2-3:  

 Biography Workshop (Fee will be much higher than Workshop:Courage. Prepare at least 1,500/head) - 

Contact: Kate - 09177174668 or Tina - 09177054599/09228020297

April 24-27: Building Spiritual/Sustainable Communities toward a Neo-Proutistic Society @ Blissful Family Village Davao City  (details to follow)

Contact: Ellen - 09154850422

For Baguio Events: 

Contact: Ferdinand Veridiano - 0908-886-8432 and Grace - 09175388630

April 23-24: Transforming our Planet Capacitating Climate Change Communicators and Educators (Baguio) Speaker: Sheila R. Castillo - Tiangco (Reg Fee: Php 3,600)

April 25 - Transforming the Society: Structural Analysis and Social Change @ Baguio - Reg Fee: 1,800

April 26: Transforming our Body: Pollution destroys our Body and Alternative Health Solutions Reg Fee - 1,800

April 27-28 - Transforming Ourselves: Psychological, and Spiritual (non-sectarian) Health and Wellbeing - Reg Fee: 3,600.

I guess that sums it all up! It looks like a pretty rich summer!! 

Days are growing warmer and I'm very excited about the emerging NEW PHILIPPINES. 

So, dear blogger friends and family... I'll see you around in one of those events eh? (I won't be joining the Baguio workshops though. But, yeah those who are Baguio based can join them..it's gonna be fun!!)

2012: Changes and Issues

A lot of things has been emerging around the world today. Everybody knows 2012 is bringing something... to some it can be cataclysmic to others it will be glorious.

With the rise of the information technology..... you get different views from different people. I've been on a hunt as to what 2012 will bring for the past few months... What will happen at the end of this year? Will it be devastating?

But, as I searched and I searched I stumbled onto so many issues... that if I would have stayed in my pretty little bubble, I wouldn't have known about what is going on. I have given up the usual 7pm news 2 years ago and all the big media corporations because I know they are one form of "programming" the ones in "POWER" want us to be in. Media is focusing on issues that are irrelevant.... they keep us blind to what is really happening in the world.

Of course, searching online you also have to be cautious. Because, not everything you see, hear or read about are entirely true. However, I am very grateful that "alternative media" are already sprouting. Giving us information that is not available in mainstream media.

So, what are the pressing issues I stumbled upon?

• Civil Society - Last year, I was following the "Occupy Movement" which got their inspiration from the "Arab Spring". It went from "Occupy Wall Street to Occupy Philippines, Occupy Earth, Occupy the Future to Occupy your Heart". It's amazing how our mainstream media is not talking about this... This was launched by the group Anonymous and a lot of things/groups/organizations sprang forth. But, one needs to find balance in protesting peacefully in the streets. So, a group of people are currently creating and starting initiatives that will sustain us in the future. Whenever I watch the videos of the Occupy Movement, I get mixed emotions... from rage to the 1% and the feeling of hope. Although, in the end.... I know that emotions that comes from love would be 100% times more powerful than rage.
• Information Technology - With the rise of the machines, currently humans are making the "last machine to be invented by humans." If it will be invented... we will be deemed useless. And you can see it rising already. If we lose our humanity by treating people like machines.... then it wouldn't be LIFE at all. You can be amazed how some scientists are so advanced mentally that they begin to think "technology is everything". It will be another Atlantis. -_-
• Internet - with the proposed SOPA/ACTA which censors our freedom of speech.... by merely posting a youtube video or music by a labeled artist, we could be sued and imprisoned for 50 years. 
• Unfair Laws - more and more laws that violates human rights are being passed. US Pres. Obama just signed NDAA last 2011. NDAA states that people can be imprisoned and tortured without due process, foreigners or civilians. Now, what if you were caught under the law of SOPA/ACTA and be under U.S. soil? -_- And the on going debate here in the Philippines about RH Bill and what not.
• Environment - Climate Change. Global Warming to Sustainable Ecology. Solar Power. Coal-Fired Plant. Mining. Landslides. Flood.The debate goes on. Just follow Greenpeace, and other green advocaies.
• Healthcare - Also, earlier last year I saw an issue about EU banning alternative healthcare such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic, and all those ancient healing traditions and will force you to only take "allopathic medicine". Alternative healthcare will be illegal
• Economics - Actually the Occupy Movement tackled about issues in economics. How the money of the world is controlled by the 1%. And how more and more people are in debt due to unfair practices. And yeah the economy of other countries specially the super powers are tethering to the edge and they will create havoc to regain the power back.
• Hyper Consumption - with the rise of various malls as "ground zero for materialism", people are lured into the world of consumerism. You have to buy this and that....  
• Energy - Coal-fired power plants. Nuclear plants. Increasing demand of energy and they need to bastardize the Earth to get it. For what? For money. o_O. And the suppression of the technology of Free Energy.
• Values - what do we value now? It seems like people value money over people. To have more. Our society programs our people through print, tv ads, and with entertainers. We pay entertainers much more than we do our noble professions - such as educators... and priests...

And the list goes on... there are so many issues around.... locally and globally.
Which goes to show.. that 2012 is the moment where we are at the crossroads. Where humanity will choose which side to move forward to.

The old ways are clearly not working. All large institutions are going through changes and transitions (economics, politics). There are so many things happening... internally (within each one of us) and externally (polar shift and galactic alignment).... time seems to fly by.....

with all my search... I think nobody really knows what will happen on 2012. The people in POWER (1%) got their own schemes on how to keep their money and power....
All i know is that we need to be prepared... not out of fear.... but out of love. How?

 

Photo Source: heavenlypage.tumblr.com →

By going back to yourself... listen to your heart.... listen to your inner voice. Follow your intuition. Ask for divine guidance..... Stay grounded, connected to Mother Earth, always do clearing and before going out of your home... "shield yourself".

There will be lots of changes... local ones... devastating sometimes... sometimes giving us hope.... This is an intense year..... and everyone feels it....
whether it will be a challenging one for you or something glorious... it is up to you....

all i know is that the community I am in is gearing towards a sustainable future, something that starts with personal mastery...... and to tap into our Creative Self that is hibernating or sometimes covered by our "programmed self".....

should you want to connect with a community.... do tell me... I can suggest a few available in your city. :)

Save Belo Monte!

I found this over Tumblr. I feel the Chief's heartache because I feel the same way when the government officials of Davao City approved the Aboitiz coal plant here in Davao. It is so sad. :(



The chief Raoni cries when he learns that brazilian president Dilma released the beginning of construction of the hydroelectric plant of Belo Monte, even after tens of thousands of letters and emails addressed to her and which were ignored as the more than 600 000 signatures. That is, the death sentence of the peoples of Great Bend of the Xingu river is enacted. Belo Monte will inundate at least 400,000 hectares of forest, an area bigger than the Panama Canal, thus expelling 40,000 indigenous and local populations and destroying habitat valuable for many species - all to produce electricity at a high social, economic and environmental cost, which could easily be generated with greater investments in energy efficiency.

It was brought to my attention that there is a petition we all can sign to help support these indigenous people and the Amazon. Please take a second to check it out below or comparable petitions that are available. Thank you.

http://amazonwatch.org/take-action/stop-the-belo-monte-monster-dam

OCCUPY Movement

I have not been watching the "TV" for months now... and I was away the humdrum of emails the past week.

However, yesterday when I checked my email... I found messages about the "Occupy Wall Street" Movement. And I am beginning to understand why I'm seeing the: "I'm the 99% picture posted by the people". I thought it was just mere drama.... but no... it's actually happening.

Currently, as I'm blogging they are on Day 21.

#OCCUPYWALLSTREET is a people powered movement for democracy that began in America on September 17 with an encampment in the financial district of New York City. Inspired by the Egyptian Tahrir Square uprising and the Spanish acampadas, we vow to end the monied corruption of our democracy … join us! We're now in DAY 21.

At first you'd think it's just another "rally". And at first glance it might not be genuine and that it is funded by other groups.

Also this is not a movement about whether you are LEFT or RIGHT. I've heard of people commenting about that. It is the current financial system today that is so unjust leaving 99% with no houses, no jobs... and no nothing. I am having mixed emotions while I'm watching the videos surrounding. Don't heed the Government Media (FOX, CNN) they are all BIASED... wanting to program the people that the protestors are just out there to create havoc. Start asking questions.

Why is the world reacting to this? What is wrong with the world?


How is it possible for 6.9 billion people to all want the same thing—peace, happiness, abundance, opportunity, safety, security, and love—and be singularly unable to get it? - global conversation

What is wrong with the current financial system? Should I be concerned? Is there a fair distribution of wealth? Is it really fair for 1% to earn 80% of the money while the rest of the 99% suffer? Is it alright to just stand around and wait for things to happen?

What am I feeling right now? What can I do?

Here is an example of an Indigo Youth voicing out the concerns of people..... Wake up... Look around you...... Please let us not take "liberty"




 FOR BACKGROUND: You can watch Inside Job a documentary about the issues behind WALL STREET.... narrated by Matt Damon released last 2010.


 



I will also be leaving you with this song....





Start looking for your own answers..... don't always believe what MAJOR NEWS STATIONS are saying. You don't know who is behind them. We have YOUTUBE. Find your way to discover the truth...


In this.. We don't want to start an aggressive revolution. This is a call for humanity to be one... to distribute wealth - FAIRLY.... in PEACE....

I know the Media and the Police are trying to be really aggressive but remember ask this question... "TO BE AGGRESSIVE... WHO DOES THIS SERVE?" Take the question deep into your heart.... and go into silence....

I'm sending my love and light to all the revolutionaries around the world...

Let us also SAVE THE DATE for the upcoming worldwide revolution.... :) Will post about that next.

Also add to FACEBOOK: Occupy Wall Street, Occupy Philippines... or whatever Country you are in.

SUGGESTED ARTICLES TO READ (MUST READ):

• Lynne McTaggart - My Wish List For Main Street.
• ADBUSTERS:Occupy Wall Street
• Declaration of Wall Street

Remember the famous quote? 

All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.

It is up to you..... :)

JULIO

July July!

It's amazing the month isn't over yet!!!

This month is sooo jam-packed.

I have been so engrossed being actively engaged in some events that would soon pave way to a wonderful society.

I joined a workshop facilitated by Mr. Nicanor Perlas when July started. And from that workshop we came up with "Cycle for Life". Actually, there's a biking event in Davao done once a year by The FORCE (bicycle enthusiasts) and it is also to promote the bicycle city ordinance we have in Davao. Good thing, with the workshop was Tito Leo Avila who was a former councilor who is actively involved in different environment groups and he still has the connections to continue the said activity. And he realized everyone was just waiting for him to call for action even if he is not in office anymore. And with that taken care of we set off to plan the event.

Aside from that, I am currently the secretary of Rotaract Club of Munting Pag-Asa Davao which means more responsibility and more chances of being actively involved in transforming our society.

One of my friends organized the Davao Live Aid Concert for the flash flood victims...... and we had our own relief operations and created the group Tribu Pagkakaisa, where I experienced synchronicity. How God sure gives the desires of the people.

I have been to three cities in Northern Mindanao the past week, Iligan, CDO and Butuan with mom to spread love.

I feel that times are really changing nowadays. And I am beginning to see the fruits of the Light Workers. The people I am with right now are really the people that I have been looking for a long time ago. Plus, I even dragged a friend in the move..... now she's taking LEAP!!! For the TIME OF HER LIFE!!!

For current events the one thing that can make me super duper incensed last week was the "negative" reports from this certain A BIASED SCBN media company about our City Mayor Sara Duterte. I would say over and over again that violence is the last option.... but then if your children are about to be killed.. wouldn't you do something to protect them? That event made me wonder how weird people can be.... they are quick to judge the Mayor for protecting people but are mum about larger deception especially when it comes to the family owning and monopolizing most of the properties of Pinas. But sheeshhh..... shift shift shift Tina... "I choose to Love......"

I am overwhelmed that many spiritual leaders are also taking their own Leap of Faith.... let's not talk about those who are on "the dark forces" okay? Only those who have been actively participating to spread love and oneness, like Bishop Tutu who always inspires me.

I just can't wait for great things to happen specially in the coming months. The dark forces are losing their power.... as more and more people are awaken to each of their true BEING... that we are LOVE and Light. The people responsible for the LOSE-WIN percentage... which keeps 2% of the world population on top and the 98% below, are losing their power.... times are changing and the numbers to the right distribution of wealth is slowly happening.

Do not lose faith...... Mother Earth will continue it's cleansing.... Stay grounded.... Stay heart-centered..... so you wouldn't be affected by the coming changes.

I am more than positive.... I am enthused, excited, inspired by the coming of something super duper great! Every LightWorker is doing their job and I am just amazed I am part of it specially in taking care of the environment..... The only thing we need to do... is to come together... doing it together .... doing it en masse.

Life sure has many reasons to celebrate...... if you are still having it an emo day..... CELEBRATE!!! Celebrate that all negative emotions are beginning to get out of your system. Celebrate!!!

Loving you all,

Tin

Image Source: Piroska