My corner

Dilemmas of Growing Old

I immediately remember my grandmother after only reading a few lines of the article below. At a certain extent, events flashed back as to how she had sacrifice for the family during our younger years. And as a payback, I personally took care of my grandmother before she died at the age 87. Imma, as most of us fondly call her, suffered minor stroke in 1999 before she died in June 2002. This was the primary reason why she needed special amount of care and attention since she was half-paralyzed. During my presence, I would serve her meals, assist her in her daily daily bath, and would dress her also. My grandma was so comforable with how i handle her needs, compared to my other siblings. It was really fulfilling really.

The letter below was purposely addressed by a parent to a child. As grown-up, the parent was seeking a little amount of patience and understanding once the parent reached old age. It pains me to hear incidents of ill-treated and helpless oldies. Yes, we need to make a living, but our responsibities could not be equated with money alone. There must be quality time and physical presence at time. As the old adage say, "Life is just a cycle" - what have we invested will be reaped also.

Mahal kong anak,
Sa aking pagtanda, unawain mo sana ako at
pagpasensiyahan. Kapag dala ng kalabuan ng mata ay nakabasag ako ng
pinggan o nakatapon ng sabaw sa hapag kainan, huwag mo sana
akong kagagalitan. Maramdamin ang isang matanda. Nagse-self-pity ako sa
tuwing sinisigawan mo ako. Kapag mahina na ang tenga ko at hindi ko maintindihan
ang sinasabi mo, huwag mo naman sana akong sabihan
ng "binge!" paki-ulit nalang ang sinabi mo o pakisulat
nalang. Pasensya ka na, anak. Matanda na talaga ako.
Kapag mahina na ang tuhod ko, pagtiyagaan mo sana
akong tulungang tumayo, katulad ng pag-aalalay ko sa iyo
noong nag-aaral ka pa lamang lumakad.
Pagpasensyahan mo sana ako kung ako man ay
nagiging makulit at paulit-ulit na parang sirang
plaka. Basta pakinggan mo nalang ako. Huwag mo sana akong
Pagtatawanan o pagsasawaang pakinggan.
Natatandaan mo anak noong bata ka pa?
kapag gusto mo ng lobo, paulit-ulit mo 'yong
sasabihin, maghapon kang mangungulit hangga't hindi mo nakukuha
ang gusto mo. Pinagtyagaan ko ang kakulitan mo.
Pagpasensyahan mo na rin sana ang aking amoy. Amoy
matanda, amoy lupa. Huwag mo sana akong piliting maligo. Mahina na ang
katawan ko. Madaling magkasakit kapag nalamigan, huwag mo sana
akong pandirihan. Natatandaan mo noong bata ka pa? Pinagtyagaan kitang
habulin Sa ilalim ng kama kapag ayaw mong maligo.
Pagpasensyahan mo sana kung madalas, ako'y masungit,
Dala na marahil ito ng katandaan. Pagtanda mo,
maiintindihan mo rin. Kapag may konti kang panahon, magkwentuhan naman tayo,
kahit sandali lang. Inip na ako sa bahay, maghapong nag-iisa. Walang
kausap. Alam kong busy ka sa trabaho, subalit nais kong
malaman mo na sabik na sabik
Na akong makakwentuhan ka, kahit alam kong hindi ka
interesado sa mga kwento ko.
Natatandaan mo anak, noong bata ka pa?
Pinagtyagaan kong pakinggan at intindihin
ang pautal-utal mong kwento tungkol sa iyong teddy
bear. At kapag dumating ang sandali na ako'y magkakasakit
at maratay sa banig ng karamdaman,
huwag mo sana akong pagsawaang alagaan.
Pagpasensyahan mo na sana kung ako man ay maihi o
madumi sa higaan, Pagtyagaan mo sana akong alagaan sa mga huling sandali
ng aking buhay. Tutal hindi na naman ako magtatagal.
Kapag dumating ang sandali ng aking pagpanaw, hawakan
mo sana ang aking kamay At bigyan mo ako ng lakas ng loob na harapin ang
kamatayan. At huwag kang mag-alala, kapag kaharap ko na ang Diyos
nalumikha, ibubulong ko sa kanya na pagpalain ka sana ....
Dahil naging mapagmahal ka sa iyong ama't ina...

Melamine - Public Awareness

I surmise that most of us are taking an extra care about the recent health advisory regarding the presence of Melamine substance to some selected food products manufactured from China. This is specifically attributed for milk based products but further results also elicited that even canned goods were also contaminated with it.

This has been the recent scare not only in our country but also in global arena and to lessen the chaos, there have been promulgations to pull out the products in the market which were found to be positive with Melamine. List of products were named and even circulated in the internet to get rid of possible health hazards for public consumers.

At the height of this health scare, I gave Sasah a bar of chocolate but days after, she informed me that she has a dilemma of eating the same. I cant give her the assurance at that time, but because of this public awareness - she even asked me for another goodies - this time Kisses - no pun intended. Lucky enough, that the Cadburry started with "0". =)

The article was exactly copied - thnx for the unidentified author of this.

The whole world is scared of China made "black hearted goods". Can you differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China? Let me tell u...the first 3 digits of barcode 690.691.692 are MADE IN CHINA 471 is Made in Taiwan .

This is our human right to know, but the government and related department never educate the public, therefore we have to RESCUE ourselves.Nowadays, Chinese businessmen know that consumers do not prefer products "made in china", so they don't show from which country it is made. However, you may now refer to the barcode, remember if the first 3 digits is:

690-692 then it is made in China.
00 ~ 09 USA & CANADA
30 ~ 37 FRANCE
40 ~ 44 GERMANY
49 - JAPAN
50 - UK

So guys, know your numbers...

Promotional Post

I am fully aware that Lin, the elder sibling of my gf, sasah, is doing beadworks as part of her living, but never did I see a single creation until I ushered Sasah to their home at Imus saturday night. I was surprised that she was really talented in her craft. There were hundreds of finished accessories on top of the dining table, probabaly due for shipments locally and abroad. They were really amazing and artistically made. Without any biases, I mgiht say that stuffs were not just the typical ones available at malls.

I think, items could be personalized as well depending on the occasions and events. As part of promoting her superb skills, i am endorsing her online shops. So guys, check these two sites. For those who wanted to get personal discussions with her, i am posting her instant messenger rosecelinejavalera@yahoo.com

http://simplylin.etsy.com/

and

http://linlingo.multiply.com/

To make it more convincing, i posted two of her many handmade accessories. Don't you worry guys, i dont have premium for this post - it's totally gratis. =)

A Fishy Afternoon at Ocean Park

I got the chance to visit the Ocean Park near Manila Hotel yesterday afternoon. It's my first time to see artificial underwater ecosystem at a cheaply ticket cost of only P400.00, around USD$9 for foreigners. I might be candid enough but the value for money was quite less as far as I am concern. The total perimeter was quite small and i didn't feel I was really under the water world. I noticed that some plants were synthetic, the rocks were sprayed with colors, the plastics covering were seen in some parts and the structures were not handicapped friendly.

Probably, the management is still working on for the betterment of the fishy attraction. Forgive me but, I didn't find if the pool of experts really sat down as to how the overall structures were arranged and built. At any rate, I wanted to encourage my fellows to visit the attractions. It's a must see for us Filipinos. =)

I took some of the fish families using my cellphone. Enjoy!! =)

One Month After

Time flies really so so so fast. Sasah and I mark our 1st month of being a couple today. Yehey!! But why am I at work and is there no celebration at all? Will I not be giving her bouquet of roses or even a romantic missive penned by me? No dates at all, huh?

Well, my princess is bound to Bukidnon for three days to do some work related stuff at around 10 in the morning. But nay, we already advanced the big event yesterday and also the reason why i wasn't around. It was really a fun filled day the the whole moment we were together. The superficial conversations, courageous sharing of thoughts, the laughters and surprises - it was really great!And yes, I gave her flowers with a a letter I personally wrote late afternoon of the 22nd September.

Part of our itenerary were buffet lunch at Saisaki, watching Righteous Kill at Rockwell Power Plant (thank you Menchie for the passes), and visiting the Ocean Park with her cousins and relatives in the late afternoon. Maybe these were the main reasons why I am nursing a sore legs. Lots of walkathon.

I started to miss her and I just received a txt message that she got herself in the airport already. Thanks God for the guidance. Physically, yes I cant have her but her presence is round the clock. The memories of yesterday are more than enough reason to sustain my sanity during her absence. I might also deal with my pending school works to lessen the emotional attachment with her.

Sigh!! I will start to work. I might get suck by my boss. =)

Behavior and Trust that Build the Organization

In light of public expectations relative to the delivery of work in the government service, individuals should observe certain degree of behavioral attitudes and acceptable practices that will help the organization as whole in attaining its vision and mission. These corporate ways of doing things, be it written or not, and the deeply rooted organizational culture defines what kind of organization we are, both in the local settings and in the global arena. These serve as an intangible asset for the individual associated in the organization and will ultimately leads to a lasting public perception.

We, the human capital of this organization, and the BSP are only one in spirit. We have shared responsibility in building and creating an atmosphere conducive for outstanding behavior and laudable practices. We at the BSP, as public servants, must possess a high level of uncompromising character in fulfilling our sworn duties and responsibilities. We are called to thrive at better ways of doing things, initiate innovative measures, and uphold ethical values in the delivery of our most sought service.

We are bound to showcase leadership behaviors that would contribute in the effective and efficient work accomplishments. From top management down, we are entrusted by this organization an equivalent amount of responsibility and it is our part to enrich this organization in an exemplary manner. And as leaders, we must be able to adapt in a dynamic fast pacing environment but still remain anchored in our rich core values.

Presently, the theoretical concepts that made BSP as an epitome of excellence are already placed in practice. We could not have gained citations and recognitions without the presence of our strategic business planning, the bank’s commitment to invest in systems improvement and researches, and in improving the operations from events in the past. The steadfast support of BSP is ever present in our professional endeavor and in individual journey.

We are all leaders in our own rights and it’s been said that the most effective leaders not only inspire others by example; but they also take a personal interest in the learning of others as it becomes a healthy avenue for mentoring. We have numerous leaders and a diminishing population of bosses in this organization. Admittedly, it makes a huge difference between a boss and a leader. At BSP we must cultivate numerous leaders and less of bosses. We must encourage leadership. A leader, who models learning, who mentors learners, who manages learning and who monitors learning. These are the key behaviors of a good leader.

My fellow employees, as the chosen committed partner in the upliftment of the countryside, we should strive to ensure that the decisions we make can withstand a high level of scrutiny. Confidently, we are demanded to display superiority in knowledge and be still humble at heart. We must embrace no less than an outstanding performance in our dealings with our clients and associates in the industry. Sometimes, they can seem cranky, and it may sometimes sound too much demanding of them, but let us all be reminded that they do provide for our paychecks and our benefits, such as sick leave, maternity leave, health insurance and three-weeks of paid vacation time each year. And what about all the new equipment we’ve been getting lately? They paid for that too and a lot more. So the next time you see them, give them a great big smile to show how much you appreciate them. Doing good is goodwill and it is our subtle way of expressing our debt of gratitude to our principal clientele – the general public.

Our company takes ownership in the global corporate citizen. We should acknowledge our failures and learn from it. It is incumbent upon us to do good for the citizenry because the public is our paramount concern and so we must take good care of the fiduciary relationship we are privileged to have. Our foremost commitment is for the public who compensates us generously. We build trust by honoring our commitments. We must deal honestly in our transactions and we should be transparent in our business practices.

My co-BSPers, people see BSP in us and at times we are not who we are in our personal walk. There is a thin line which separates us from the world-class identity of our beloved institution and thus, with uncompromising character, each of us should thrive to meet the best practices, each of us must close the gap of detrimental divisiveness, and each of us must continuously elevate the bar of standards we have started. And as a collective response to the pressing economic turmoil coupled with the hovering moral bankruptcy of our colleagues in the government sector, we should continue to promote for behavioral excellence and practices at all cost so that we could have a stronger pillars against the test of time.

Thank you and good day.

Havaianas at Stake

My friend still owe me to date a pair of Havaianas for the favor I did to him last December 2006. I don't know exactly if it was a favor but we agreed that in case he'll be accepted for the job, the the flip-flop would serve as my perk/service premium for endorsing him to the subsidiary of the company where I was previously connected. He got in to the job - ended his long profession as a bum - and had already raked hundred of thousands for the bonuses, compensation, and has gone to the various places in the Philippines likewise, but even a dummy Havaianas has not delivered on me.

From time to time, I used to remind him not for the sake of owning another Havaianas as a collection item, but to make him check his integrity. People sometimes tend to make promises without the intention of fulfilling it. Just for the sake of getting they want, they would utter spoken words out of heart. How do we really walk with our talk? This is just a matter of P850.00 i think, but I won't personally stake my virtue for that petty amount alone.

One time, as I make my usual promise check to him, he instead sent this as his response and to me the message was very audible to my ears - no more Havaianas. =)

Pangalan: Havaianas
Lugar na pinanggalingan: Sao Paulo, Brazil
Pagbigkas: ah-vai-YAH-nas (Brazilian Portuguese), hah-vee-ah-naz (American English), OMG!-hAH-va- yaH-naZz! ! :-) (Filipino).
Materyal na ginamit: Malupit na goma (High-quality rubber).
Presyo: Hindi ko alam. Ganito na lang, 1 pares ng Havaianas = 100 pares ng Spartan.
Mga nagsusuot: Mga konyotik at mga mayaman.
Malulupit na katangian at kakayahan:

* Masarap isuot.
* "Shock-absorbent" Malambot ngunit matibay.
* Makukuha sa sandamakmak na kulay, disenyo at burloloy.
* Maaaring isuot sa loob ng Starbucks.
* Mainam na pang-japorms.
* Mainam i-terno sa iPod at Caramel Macchiato (or as some call cenner agents say: Cup-of-Chino)
* Mapipilitan kang maglinis ng mga kuko mo sa paa.
* Maaari ka nang mag-dikwatro sa loob ng mga pampublikong lugar at sasakyan.
* Magiging "fashionable" ka kapag ikaw ay nagkukuyakoy.Olats na mga katangian:
* Mahal* Mahal* Mahal
* Nakakasira raw ng pedicure--sabi ni Malu Fernandez.

Pangalan: Spartan
Lugar na Pinanggalingan: Metro Manila, Philippines.Pagbigkas: spar-tan (American English), is-par-tan (Filipino).
Materyal na ginamit: Pipitsuging goma (Low-quality rubber).
Presyo: Wala pang 50 pesos. Isang pares ng Spartan = 20 piraso ng pan de coco.
Mga nagsusuot: Ako at ang masa! Nyahaha!
Malulupit na katangian at kakayahan:
* Maaring ipampatay sa ipis.

* Maaring ipampalo sa mga batang suwail at damuho.
* Pwedeng ipanglusong sa baha at putikan.
* Pwedeng ipamalengke.
* Mainam gamitin sa tumbang-preso.
* Mainam gawing "shield" kapag naglalaro ng espa-espadahan.
* Mainam isuot sa siko bilang proteksyon habang naglalaro ng picha.
* Mainam na pambato sa picha o shuttlecock na sumampid sa puno.
* Mainam na pangkulob sa pumuputok na watusi.
* Kapag ginupit-gupit nang pahugis "cube," e maaari mo nang gawing pamato sa larong Bingo (kadalasang makikita sa mga lamay)Olats na mga katangian:
* Madaling magkawalaan kapag hinubad dahil halos pare-pareho lang ang hitsura.
* Masakit isuot kapag may mga balahibo ang mga daliri mo sa paa.
* Minsan kapag ipinambato mo ito sa picha o shuttlecock na nakasampid sa puno, e nadadamay pati yung tsinelas.

Sense of Productivity

I feel quite productive for the accomplishments I’ve done yesterday. It was Manila Day and since my office is situated in the heart of the city, I enjoyed the privilege of not attending to work in commemoration of its foundation. Some of my to-do-lists were things that were long been scheduled to be performed but I just don’t have the luxury of time given my work schedule and other extra curricular activities.

I initially planned to wake up early, but the post typhoon breeze of Frank stretched my regular six-hours of sleep to 8 in the morning. I had to put the blame on myself also since I took my bed rest past 12:00 midnight Monday night. I promised to run only a number of episodes of Prison Break but can’t help on the thrilling and exciting jail breakout of the lead cast. They were still under chase - Season 2 Episode 19...

At any rate, here are the activities I myself did.

Around 8:30, I fixed my bed and afterwards I helped preparing our breakfast - Dennis’ special version of omelet and fried luncheon meat. Dennis was taking as the lead chef and I was again watching in-between and Bren was the lone expectator. Bren joined us in since he is also working somewhere in Manila area. Good job!!!

At 11:00, Dennis and I went to GSIS. It was my business at first to facilitate the replacement of my e-cared but Dennis went along with me for his card activation for future loan transaction. I was informed however that Union Bank would do the replacement of my card. I went on the nearby branch and signed up for my request after paying P300.00 for the re-issuance of it. Two-thumbs up!!!

Before lunch, we reached the office of Institute of Internal Auditors at Valero, Makati. Dennis had some personal business while I thought of getting my membership ID that was issued in 2006 I guess – at last after two years. Nerissa, a former officeamate at Land Bank, also dropped in the office and we had a short chat during our stay there.

Next stop was Glorietta for our meal. Thanks Dennis for sponsoring my food – nice pick at Teriyaki Boy. After the lunch, we already parted ways. I had less than 30-minute window shopping at electronic stores located in Greenbelt area. I was looking for iphone but I had not seen one since the Mac store isn’t supporting the unit according to the salesperson - too bad for me.

I headed back to our condo to wait for my sister who was on her way to Manila. Few minutes after 2, she informed me that she was already boarded on a cab going to my place. She handed me the things that were to be given to my other sibling working in Sucat.

By 3:00, I went again business district of Makati to see my special friend. We arranged last week that we’ll be having a lunch but I was informed around 10:00, that she had an unexpected meeting that ran long and requested if we could just instead have a late lunch at 3:00 - I think she was referring for a timely snacks? LOL. We dined in a near by restaurant and took time to update our lives. We ended nearing 5:00 in the afternoon and she returned to work.

Around 8:00, Bren and I went Sucat to deliver the package for my sister. I met my classmate in college, Leanor, and she sponsored Bren’s dinner. I was not that familiar on areas going south and our taxi fare totalled P250.00 including the toll fee just for one way. I’ll just take the public transportation the next time I paid visit.

What an exhausting day for me for me and by 10:00……. snoozzzzzzzzeeeeee

Brain Glitch

I’m engaged in a deep assessment if I could still depend to my memory these days. Though, it hasn’t brought me any trouble or mess, I am so particular about its passive performance lately. Perhaps, I am just too unoccupied at work thereby giving me an opportunity to be cynic to the infinite prowess of the brain. I’ve been considering to take medical supplements on a regular basis coz I’ve been very poor on recalling events, persons, and indispensable stuffs that I normally do. I also have a pea-sized dilemma if I could still perform well in my studies given this memory gap of mine.

For this week alone, I’ve forgot, in one way or another, to get a handkerchief at my closet, spray my favorite scent in my body and suit the leather belt to my pants. They were quite accessories though and I somehow managed even during the absence of the identified instances but today - I can’t help but to doubt my brain. I obliviously stepped-out from the condo without a personal property that anybody can’t outlive today – my cellular phone. I just noticed it when I got myself inside the office and I was hoping that it would be the worst of this week but as I was praying with my faith-group this early morning, the name of my officemate slipped to me and I momentarily paused during that time and discretely asked the person next to me before I proceeded.

For most of us, we have the intuition that prompts us with the idea that something is missing in us the moment walk-out from our individual dwelling place. There is this generous spirit that makes us uncomfortable in case we left something undone or we failed to do a routine. This self-motivated hindsight gives us an instant precaution that we have not perfectly done things. At times, we will just be conscious about it when we will already make use of that thing.

During my teeny years, I used to have a journal of the things happening on my life. I made my to-do lists for the next day and for the couple of months using an improvised journal. I blotted the activities ahead and it served as my diary coz I wrote about my frustrations, joys, and fulfillment at the same time. I have the propensity to overlook events as scheduled even. I was on that habit for couple of months I guess until the passion vanished.

My occasional memory glitch might be the result of me not getting so young – an early manifestation of old age. It might be a reminder also that I have not utilized it under its full capacity. It’s a wake up call to lessen watching the sequels of Scofield of Prison Break and Kent of Smallville. It’s high time to indulge in informative readings in preparation for my demanding school tasks. I patch of reality that I could gain more in reading than watching.

Me and Public Service

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In light of public expectations relative to the performance of work by each government employee or even those affiliated in the private sectors; individuals should observe some degree of norms, traditions, and customs to somehow elevate the standards though not to meet the best practices among the industry but just even at par among others.

Pubic service or in Filipino language coined as “Serbisyo Publiko” demands much from the public or in general being its foremost clientele. The level of bar var

ies differently when an individual opted to work in the government workforce. It adopts the concept that public service is a fiduciary in nature or based on the trust of the public.

Having been connected in the government for more than three (4) years, exclusive of my one (1) year and three (3) months under contractual status, I have witnessed how government employees perform, act, and conduct their respective job assignments in their own perspective.

To start with, never in my consciousness, had I dreamt of being included in the workforce in the most often lambasted sector of the society, the government. Much has been poked and said as to the bureaucracy, corruption integrated in the system. I actually foresee myself, during my early days, in the private sector or be landed among most successful companies in the region armed with ideologies and dynamism being a young professional.

At first, I didn’t fail myself with all I had built in my lucid mind. I joined the pioneer company in the credit card operation in 2002 right after hurdling the comprehensive and rigorous Certified Public Examination administered also of the same year. Work excitement then turned boredom only in the few weeks of my work. In short, I resigned for nearly four (4) months in total.

But fate turned otherwise as I planned, my career with state run institution started when I accepted the entry level job at Land Bank of the Philippines on November 2002. That was when I had a patch of being a public servant with much more ideologies originated from the frustrations I had with my previous employment.

During the first few days in the performance of my duties as an auditor, I was apprised of the relative complexities being in the government service. Among of which and on top of the office rules and regulations issued internally, we were briefed about the intervention of Civil Service Commission, being the state arm in the overall supervision of all public servant within its jurisdiction.

The appreciation of what has been uttered were relatively nil or if not totally none. I was that time more concerned of developing harmony with my newly gained friends and acquaintances.

Realizing the importance however, I reviewed the norms and conducts in my chosen field. I looked back and tried to inculcate the virtues not only by mind but also by heart. I developed deeper appreciation of the values I have to observe in the delivery of my audit engagement.

I upheld that my utmost consideration is the public being my employer in its literal sense. The general public was the one who paid my salary and my subsistence. I performed my audit engagement with certain degree of professionalism that could not be compromised. Though majority of my audit work plan dealt more of the bank employees and internal processes, I also interacted with the private individuals and corporate clients professionally.

During the scope of the audit planning, I practiced judgment in selecting sampled accounts so that my audit report would surface the condition of each lending centers under the audit. Audit reports were prepared with transparency and justness. Political accounts were included in the samples to elicit deviations relative to the restrictions incumbent to credit facilities to government accounts. This would address political neutrality among the constituents within the area.

I became responsive to the expectations and needs of the general public. Public concerns were immediately acted upon and elevated to the higher authorities for resolution. I became more nationalistic and patriotic by performing my job with pride among my peers here and abroad. I committed myself to the service in spite of all negative stories hovering with colleagues in the public serivce. I learned to live simply and within my means.

These were my declarations I had with my previous employer which I am still bound to observe now that I belong to much prestigious institution, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The responsibility is more daunting but as long as I live with the principles and ethical actions provided in the law, I should fear no man for God is the ultimate judge who weighs more than the bar in existence.

Life Insurance - For Sale

My appointment last night almost slipped to my mind. Yesterday, I was pretty pre-occupied on the scheduled bowling tournament after the office hours and I was a bit stressed to accommodate additional tasks afterwards. I was thinking to take an early night rest but upon reaching home, Dennis asked me if I did receive the text messages from Gerwin? OMG, I felt very sorry for myself for not being unprofessional – unattended meeting. But nevertheless, I managed on it just on the right time.

Though still exhausted, I intently listened on the to Gerwin’s business. He is new friend who introduced me about the importance of having a personal insurance in my behalf. He is a pastor’s kid, a passionate mountaineer, and Manulife senior sales associate. At first, he informed me on the features and the blah blah blah of it. How much would I be paying, the return of investment, the relative dividends, and other information. For a matter of 30 minutes or less we ended up and I got the gist of what I have to know.

This time, I have a great desire to own one or maybe additional two at my name. I wanted to secure the future of my family and my loved one’s in case unexpected events happened on me. I yearn to give them a pleasant lifestyle in my absence. I don’t want to burden them monetarily in case of accidents and demise. I have strong conviction to posses these things, but I have the greatest obstruction to facilitate these dreams. I am short of finances to pay the premiums incumbent therein. I haven’t considered it in my cash position for the next one year I guess.

I believe that there’s a proper timing for everything. It may be running a business, settling early, pursuing career shift, securing attractive insurance policies, and lots more. It takes a lot of values and hardwork to succeed in every endeavor. It may not be the appropriate period on me, but I will fulfill what’s best and would be beneficial for my family - a promise written in my heart and not in any contract forms.

Education 101

The opening of school year 2008-2009 is just few sleeps away for the students as far as conventional program is concern. This season, scholastic institutions are wide-gate open for the enrollees, transferees and new students. Parents are taking the last minute savings to defray the escalating cost of education. Late shopping spree is surely at craze in the malls and even in the low-priced offers at fly by night markets. Incoming freshmen in the secondary and collegiate level surely nurse mixed emotions of excitements and fears. On the other hand, old students might be complaining that the vacation is quite short and that new sets of ordeal have set to come.

My observations are not founded weak I guess. Those remarks are anchored according to the best teacher in life, experience. I have strong conviction that those comments still uphold much in this time. It may not exactly surface the majority of the population, but the mean distribution is within the tolerable error. It is because, I, myself experienced all of the identified scenarios during my schooling.

I’d like to give the full credit to my parents for the intangible treasure given to me. I am so grateful that my parents didn’t give up in fulfilling their obligation. I am so thankful for their undivided heart for us to complete our education. That inspite the pressing financial difficultly in our younger days, the more they became stronger in spirit. Though they were monetarily broken oftentimes, they valued the education the most. I saw their unflinching desire for us to finish, probably because they were deprived of it.

At my age, I am still student myself. I am presently pursuing post business graduate studies at UP-Manila. I hardly planned of it but it was a hard-pressed decision last year. I thought that what I had was enough, but circumstances challenged my capabilties. I figured that this is anyway a two-way process for continuous learning and in preparation for career advancement. The only difference is that, I shoulder the expenses out of my earnings and no longer dependent to my parents.

At the end of the day, education is a key for self-survival in this hard times. My parents started the legacy and my part to continue to my generations to come. I will embrace with my parents virtues - strong and fearless.

The Wooden Ski Champ Invades YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAWD6b2AB94

I got a phone call from Alvin, my teammate during the sports fest, and he informed me that our superb performance and routine was already uploaded in the YouTube. During the lunchbreak, Alain, Teris, Rhea and I were only entertaining that idea and here it comes...

So guys, for those who missed my participation..catch the above link...

Blessings Upon Blessings

I have two things to be grateful today!!! First my wooden ski team brought home the gold medal during the BSP sports fest last Saturday and my laptop is already operational after it bugged down last week.

Cheers to the powerteam of 2008 wooden ski!!! Starting from the left and with all smiles, Sir Gerry and Noel of DLC, Mau of DER, me, and Alvin of DES. I'm pretty sure that the jovial mood are still in the air, right?

Guy, though we are already tanned in color, the gold medal elucidated us even just for a couple of minutes during the awarding ceremony. LOL!!! It was really an incredulous execution and performance for all of us. The hardships, the early morning ordeal under the heat of the sun, and the blisters in our feet are worthy to be remembered anyway. Until next year cup...

BSP Mini-Olympics

This coming Saturday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas will hold its mini-olympic at Rizal Stadium from 12:00 noon to 5:oo in the afternoon. It would be a day of excitement and fun for the five competing sectors of the Bank. The real althletes and frustrated ones would be showing their innate competencies not only in numbers and policy making but also in the hard core. The bigwigs of the monetary authority of the Philippines would be seen cheering for their own respective groups likewise.

Personally, I already had my first participation last year and it was surprising on my part that BSP employees value sports and recreational activities that high. There was a camaraderie and sportsmanship althrough out the game proper. Long before the actual competion, each team has been preparing for this half-day affair. Each sector hired experienced and titled coaches with almost daily limbering either at 5-storey roofdeck or at the venue proper. Team captains monitored the attendance and stringent training process was also undertaken to condition the body.

My sector, Monetary Stability Sector, has been preparing since January in the hope to pocket the overall championship. Last year was a pretty good bid for us since we clinched the third slot from being the underdog for a quite number of years. This coming Saturday, my sector would showcase a superb performance of all time. We are determined to win and conquer the overall championship.

Guests are welcome so join us if you are free!!! Come and witness my exceptional stint!!!

Intensive Care Unit - Laptop

I have a huge stressing problem as of this writing. It started Sunday morning but I was pretty confident then, until I caught myself helpless already this day. I could no longer contain the irritation within me coupled with the disturbance of unattended deliverables. I was more shaken on the figure involved on it. It could lead me indebted for more or less 60K if the result favored me not. I just fervently pray that results would secure my intensified fear.

Anyway, the company issued laptop in my name completely bugged down. How shocking, isn't it? During the last two days, my computer glitches unpredictably but went working during office hours. I tried to bring it home for two nights but it went practically futile to run the DVDs at home. I was hoping that it would observe the same routine this morning but I was wrong. Another single attempt to power it on placed much burden on me.

Since it was issued to me mid of last year, I’ve lost count how many times my computer gone treated for minor malfunctions including virus attacks. To my stupidity, I also accidentally toppled a cup of soup over it during the last quarter of last year which freaked me out terribly. I surfaced a composed reaction but I was trembling inside. That time, I ran immediately to the IT help desk to seek their expertise.

But around 9 this morning, I once again sought the assistance of our techie people in the Information and Technology Department to raise my concern. Per their initial assessment, I was informed that the operating system might have been corrupted and simple reformatting would suffice. Late this afternoon however, I had it tested using spare parts secured from my officemate’s laptop. The problem was more bothering to know. From mere reformatting, the caused might have been triggered from the faulty motherboard. The one who inspected my stuff even got noticed of the soup traces I’ve mentioned. OMG!!!

I just hope that things would just work favorably in me. I look forward that it would be returned without any material cost in me. I don’t want to be financially broken out of it. I’ll be crossing my fingers hardly until tomorrow. May I also seek your collective prayer in this. Thanx in advance. God speed!!

May 2008 CPA Exam

A couple of hours from now, the agony of waiting for those who sat for the May 2008 Certified Public Accountant’s (CPA) examination would be ended. It would be the culmination for the nearly six-month of hardships and enormous sacrifices dealing with the calculator, review materials, and books most often. No more burning the midnight candles for some but majority would nurse the heartbreaking feed of not making it. The moment of truth would pave way for merrymakings and celebrations but would also bring traumatic stress for almost two-thirds of the examinees.

For a matter of one day or more, the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC), a government arm commissioned to administer licensing exams, would again transform thousand of lives across the country. Truly, many have been called but only few would be chosen to survive in the almost 4-day of rigorous ordeal. Only the fittest would have the opportunity to obtain the elite identification of becoming a CPA. Only few would yell cheers in the vicinity of Morayta in Manila and many would shed tears also. At the end of the day, it would result for two façades of life – either victory or temporary defeat for each one.

My story wasn’t that ancient this time and I could still rely on my processor on the details of how I acquired the title. I was a fresh grad from the promdi when I decided to undergo the strenuous review at Manila. To cut the story short, I took the CPA examination twice during October 2001 and May 2002 and without further stressing the obvious, I didn’t make it during my first attempt to bid for the title. I could still enumerate the throbbing events reckoned from the moment I heard that the result of October 2001 was already released. I was so broken when the news reached me first. But I had a resolute will to become CPA. I figured that the 3-letter word affixed on my name would be the zenith of having an Accounting degree. There was emptiness in me that I didn’t have it – thus I pursued for the second time. I felt intimidated.

Through God’s grace however, He gave me the lifetime achievement of having the elusive title during my second bid. He allowed me to prosper from the downfall with much recognition on my part. I experienced the incomparable bliss of hurdling the most arduous mental exercise of my life.

I am pretty certain that my story has a closer resemblance to anybody of you. Once defeated but took the challenge to flourish. I hope that this would inspire hundreds of individual who had the same fate like me. I hope that they would remember that “There is always a victory in defeat.”

Congrulations to the passers and happy job hunting!!!

Too Near yet so Far

i still try to warmth within me

strech the numb arms to comfort me

breath the thin air to sustain me

yet, the breeze struggles me

it lashes deeply within me

i may not endure long

until when will it last?

i pray it will weaken

i pray it will fold

Gone in the Wind

I am 2.1K less richer, according to my self-imposed measure, because of unforeseen event that happened last Friday afternoon. I was practically oblivious that I already don’t have my 10-year old possession. It was also a delayed awareness in me that that my wallet could no longer be found only at around 7 pm after I finished playing badminton. I checked my knapsack, inspected the locker where I lodged my things, and returned to my office drawer but efforts seemed futile. I jogged my memory to refresh the day’s activities but I ended up frustrated. My night was practically ruined and I began to entertain multitude of possibilities, including not going to Batangas the same night for a weekend escapade. I was pretty disgruntled about the hassles incumbent about the cryptic disappearance of my wallet. I was even more saddened that I placed a little amount of skepticism towards my officemate.

Over a decade, my wallet was truly a loyal partner that never deserted me through my thick and thin days. It served as the deaf witness of how much I struggled in life for the last years. It had a complete memory of my lavish and impulsive expenditures during abundance. It had a proper accounting of the people I extended assistance. More, it had a precise number of Xs’ photos that I had framed in it. My possession was part of my history but much of my desire to prolong our togetherness; the burglar took advantage of my absence probably around 430 in the same day. The culprit ended almost a decade of amity to advance his/her personal interest.

I was contemplating until this time that history tries to repeat itself since the MC Jim wallet was acquired back in 2nd year college for the reason that somebody pick-pocketed my first gifted money keeper. The incidents slipped in my consciousness and both wallet were loaded with some purchasing power. I guess that I might have a benevolent blood in me for the two-count of generosity and the culprits were good enough with their lucky pick anyway. LOL!!

I’ve done some precautionary actions to protect my interest likewise. After few minutes of fretting moments, I immediately placed a call to the providers of my two credit cards to take appropriate measures for possible attempts of fictitious transactions. I figured that were five various identifications such licenses, ATM/Credit cards, School ID, and other magnetic items inserted at my wallet. I still have high hopes that could be returned to me this day, Monday.

But amidst the trouble times, I’ve experienced that God’s grace is truly present even in the downsides of life. Oliver, an officemate, got himself in the same jeepney where I was boarded. I told my story and asked that if he could lend me P1,000.00 to defray my weekend expenses. He nodded unhesitantly and granted my favor. God didn’t not end up manifesting His majesty and even extended through other people in my condomate. I relayed to them the adversity and I wasn’t expecting that God would also move through previous planting of goodness. Albert handed me his partial payment of P1,000 for the lease deposit I personally advanced last year. I was truly blessed after contemplating the sovereign power of God.

A Brand New Day

I am for sale only for today!!!

Yes, you’ve read it vividly. You were not mistaken about my unexpected bid for advertisement. I could be cheaply taken home at P4,500.00 or even less depending on the gift of gap of yours to haggle. The winning bidder could even have summer time discount depending on the terms of payment. If you are affluent enough however, you could have me easily at the comfort of your fingertips. My promotion has no hidden charges or incumbent facilitation fees to bring me home. All cost inclusive and no regulatory tax due therein once the transaction is consummated.

My apology if I might have confused you already. I could have possibly given you the wrong impression with the marketing campaign I employ. You might have perceived also that I have made a drastic career shift overnight and that I am making filthy money at a bargained price. On the contrary, I am still an accountant by profession and perhaps would still be my lifelong craft. I am fulfilled with how I am being compensated by my generous institution. But, folks, I just feel that I’m pretty marketable knowing in mind that I am almost brand new today. From head to toe – I have new possessions just recently acquired. I have new sets of belongings that made me extra confident today. Overall, I am preppy looking with my Italian linen polo barong, 100% cotton fabric undershirt, semi-pointed black pair of shoes, and my silky pair of socks.

I don’t mean to proud out of P4,500.00 worth of new accessories suited on me. I surmise that the aggregate cost of yours could have surpassed mine even thrice or more. I hope that you won’t raise your eyebrows with my seemingly uncalled fuss. I’d just like to showcase a corporate decorum and project a good looking attitude at a reasonable price. I am not very brand conscious individual, but I go after prim stance without sacrificing my finances either. I am quite thrifty when it comes to spending by the way.

At any rate, I robbed a little time to make this post though it sounds superficial at all. I have set aside my pending work to paid tribute for the abundance of blessing from God firsthand. He is responsible for the things I am enjoying right now. More, i would just like to complement myself also and to capture the frenzied moment in me. No other agenda or whatsoever. =)