orangemonk3y

Pardon the Hiatus

2011-12-05T19:21:00.004+08:00

Pardon the big space in this blog. The writer is currently trying to find rainbows.

(Photo from Google.)

A Farewell Letter of an Assistant Manager

2011-09-29T21:44:00.001+08:00

Dear Eduboxers:

I want to take this opportunity to THANK YOU all for being a part of my Edubox life. I'm happy that I was used as an instrument to help you in getting this job, improving your skills, or in any way.

In any case that I have offended or hurt you, I ask for forgiveness. Nothing personal is meant.

I pray that each teacher, IT, maintenance, team leader, and manager of Edubox will continue to prosper--all for the glory of God. May the Holy Spirit guide your sometimes confused heart. Be strong in Him and not in all the earthly wealth.

Tomorrow will be my last day, sadly. Pray for me and my family.

I love you all!Ü

"Only those who dare to fail greatly

can ever achieve greatly."

- Robert F. Kennedy -

Impuissance

2011-08-09T21:36:00.007+08:00

Tonight I will talk about a co-worker who's also my friend. We used to be seatmates who had our employee secrets, which I'm sure could be your secrets, too, namely accessing prohibited sites, video streaming, and the like. We used to cover each other before, literally, from our approaching superiors.

There was no 30-page Employee Manual then; no types of offenses; no prohibited sites. Nothing.

One grave feeling that an HR can have can be caused by a former seatmate's acts. Researching on how to dismiss this person legally simply brings back memories of laughter and mischief. No matter how my heart tells me to save her from such a disciplinary action, her actions are just grounds enough to keep my mouth shut and my body still.

I Love This Ad

2011-08-09T10:29:00.001+08:00

What's Keeping Me Busy?

2011-08-08T22:56:00.002+08:00

(Photos taken from Google.)

Our Summer Vacation Part 2

2011-08-04T21:36:00.005+08:00

“...the wise traveler learns not to repeat successes but tries new places all the time.” – Paul Fussell

Four young men trudging under the heat of the sun, feeling the wind, the sand, and the water. Do I want to do what they are currently doing? An honest answer is no. My feet have been sunk into the waters for a long time, and my spirit yearns for something new.

A cultural getaway, perhaps? I have never been to this far Northern area of the country which is famously known as Vigan. It's such a shame that a foreign traveler might have been here, but I, who live in this country, have not.

Which one would you choose--an island experience like in the photo of the four walking men or the uniqueness of moments with that four-legged creature?

As for me, the most important matter is I would be with someone very dear to in either of these places.

Our Summer Vacation

2011-08-02T13:37:00.002+08:00

August 1 and August 2 are the most glorious days of our company as we call these days our summer vacation. Since the Korean students don't have classes on Monday and Tuesday this week, all the teachers along with the managers don't have work as well.

As much as I want to jump for joy, the weather in the country nails me here in my room. Two days of no work could have meant two days of beach, sun, and sand. But reality bites, our summer vacation means Cumulus Nimbus clouds, heavy rainfall, and flooded roads. Two typhoons are currently guarding the Philippine archipelago.

Looking at the bright side, on the contrary, I like the cold wind that blows in my window. The raindrops that shower the ground halts my dog from planting seeds on a stray bitch. The free time I have gave me a chance to re-do my room, re-plan my future company's marketing plan, and most especially, to accompany my mom to the hospital for her radiology therapy. Albeit, I'm still thankful for our summer vacation. ^_^

My Backyard

2011-08-01T15:37:00.005+08:00

This is how I want my backyard to look like--a peaceful runway with a private jet quietly parked in a background composed of mountain silhouettes and blues of the sky.

Planning is the Best Way to Jump Start a Dream

2011-07-31T10:39:00.003+08:00

After this term, I'll be getting two subjects again with four units. My last term would just be with one subject then I would be finished with the Pre-MBA subjects. Yay!

Patience is Not What You Think It Is

2011-07-29T22:41:00.010+08:00

Words of encouragement in times of patience-extracting bosses, disheartening circumstances, screaming dreams in society-guarded buildings, and eye-absorbing monitors;
And, lastly, in times of heart breaking moments when you see the person who was once yours but now giving himself to someone else. You still wait, however, because you know that the only way to get him back is to wait. The only way to wait is to love.

Thai Lantern Festival

2011-07-27T20:03:00.005+08:00

Forgive me in this entry for I will be showing how big of a Disney movie fan I am. I will be talking about one scene in one movie though--"Tangled."

I thought that only in movies can I see lanterns flying in the sky. As much as these lanterns are symbolic in the film, they are very real in Thailand which is known as the Loy Krathong Sai or the Thai lantern festival.

Here is a photo of that festival which I

took from Google. Even in this picture, the Thai lantern festival looks magical. What more if you would see it in person? This year, Thailand will be celebrating this event in November along with the queen's 80th birthday. Even three months from now, I can already feel the excitement in all the travelers around the world.

Surely, this year, the country will be full of avid wanderers who want to witness such a magical activity as the Thai lantern festival. Well, I hope to be one of them.

Tornado, Second Presidential SONA, and Earthquake

2011-07-26T09:27:00.006+08:00

Before the second Presidential SONA, a tornado hit the south which is a very rare or weird thing to happen. But, it did!

(Photo by Greg Torres)

For busy employees who did not have the luxury of a non-working day yesterday, here are the videos of the second Presidential SONA courtesy of GMA News TV:

This page requires a higher version browser

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

This page requires a higher version browser

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

This page requires a higher version browser

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

An aftershock of the second Presidential SONA hit the south again later at night; actually, early of July 26, 2011. I felt the 5.9 magnitude earthquake cradling my bed and swinging my coats by the hanger at exactly 1:15 AM.

What a weird series of events, eh?

First Day of School

2011-07-25T22:50:00.003+08:00

Everybody has a dream--may it be as small as a blanket in a cold night, as useless as a new Facebook account, or as big as a new house. One of mine is to get a MBA degree. I actually stated in this blog that I want to be an international MBA graduate.

But, what is a dream for if we don't do anything to achieve it?

Since my pocket doesn't have $10,000 nor my brain has the Math ability (yet), getting myself enrolled in my country's top business school with $285 per subject is the best I can do. And, on my first day of school, I got this--an emergency fire drill. Truly the best education, isn't it?

Happy Friday!

2011-07-22T13:31:00.003+08:00

Happy Friday, everyone!

Enjoy the weekend. Two days of rest for hardworking employees like you. ^_^

Happy Office Shoes, Happy You in the Office! Part 2

2011-07-21T22:43:00.002+08:00

I like Cinderella, I really do. She has a good work ethic. I appreciate a good, hard-working gal. And she likes shoes. The fairy tale is all about the shoe at the end, and I'm a big shoe girl.

- Amy Adams -

The Art of Letting Go

2011-07-20T22:12:00.009+08:00

"I don't want to own anything until I find a place where me and things go together." - Holly Golightly -

No one can really fathom how many bottles of beer to drink, cigarettes to consume, meals to skip, night outs to go to, new friends to meet, or workloads to finish until one can finally move on. Aahh...moving on. Is it really the hardest thing to do?

If you would come to think of it, moving on is easy. Delete the number in your cellphone, erase all the pictures and songs that remind you of that person, then go on with your life. I think the pain here comes from letting go. That's because even if we say we have moved on, admit it or not, the pain still remains.

This 26th year, I have moved to a new resting place--the so-called boarding house which is a walking distance from my office. I think what I want to achieve here is not the independence, but more on the letting go. I want to practice the art of letting go.

This year I chose to live in a different place because I want to strengthen my heart to win in the battle of letting go. There are just some things we need to let go to fully move on and start as a new, clean slate--tabularasa.

No matter how painful it is to let go, there is always a first step to it. I have just taken that first step. When would you take yours?

(Left) I can't sleep without my Oinky. (Right) I need to wear those shoes on Friday.

I'm ready for the week.

Chocolitos Chocolate Crinkles on My Birthday!

2011-07-19T22:51:00.003+08:00

"There's nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with chocolate."

- Linda Grayson -

I think the Chocolitos chocolate crinkles I gave out today to the employees made my birthday more special. At least, even only on this day they would look at me and think of chocolates rather than what they usually see on my face every day--memos, HR notice, pre-employment requirements, reports, and orders.

Classic Heart Tattoo

2011-07-18T19:19:00.004+08:00

Classic Heart Tattoo

I will get myself something very new and daring this 26th year of my life, but I have to choose.

Each classic heart tattoo has its distinction, but both unique designs comprise my personality as a whole. Could you help me? Which one is better for a tattoo on the back, just below the nape?

Classic heart tattoo design credits go to their own makers. ^^

Ligo Na U, Lapit Na Me

2011-07-16T00:24:00.003+08:00

A story of falling in-love? Sex? Growing up? Well, I really have no idea because I haven't read this book of Sir Eros Atalia yet. Since busy workers don't have time to read, the Cinemalaya movies 2011 are just on time. On Sunday, this will be my schedule--to watch the first movie written by our professor, Sir Eros Atalia.

As a Thomasian, I'm very proud of you, Sir Eros Atalia!

Happy Office Shoes, Happy You in the Office!

2011-07-13T21:40:00.005+08:00

Ever wonder why women are crazy about shoes?

Ever since high school I was collecting shoes. Back then, I was the sporty type so I collected rubber shoes. During our prom, instead of buying high heels for my dress, I bought a pair of comfortable blue Reebok. I just used mom's heels then. Smart, huh?

While in college, I sort of lost track of shoe collecting because my life was too focused on books.

Upon entering the employment world, I started hunting for happy office shoes. I thought if I would get these shoes, I would be a happy employee, too. Among shoe types, the ballerina shoes were my favorite because they were like beds of roses when I walked from the subway station to my office (MRT station to Emerald Avenue in Ortigas). That was then.

Currently, I like heels the most particularly those in 4 inches. These happy office shoes give me more confidence when I talk to co-workers and to the bosses. I really didn't realize that this type of footwear can boost morale until I tried them on.

Working for three years in my present company, I have been buying the same old affordable shoes (read: brandless). After a few weeks or so, I would need to buy again because the design would pop out, the threads would lose, or the leather would be torn by the weather. Then, my office morale would go low because I couldn't face my teams in torn footwear. I felt ashamed thinking that my subordinates thought I was too poor to get good shoes. So, I realized that I need to find quality and happy office shoes.

More than the short-term relationship, I'm ready to build a longer one with the happy office shoes that I would find. Nowadays, I prefer comfy Chanel ballerina flats and elegant Feraggamo heels. I actually found these:

How do you like them to be your happy office shoes? Do you think they could make a happy you in the office? I do! Don't worry about the budget; these are factory over-runs so they are much cheaper than the original prices. Not bad, right? Branded and trusted quality in a very affordable price.

What is There to Travel For?

2011-07-12T20:41:00.004+08:00

My 26th birthday is coming. Simply count seven days from today, and that ends my silver life.

What have I done to make my silver year extra special? You guessed it right--nothing. Just like any ordinary employee out there who wakes up to go to work and sleeps to wake up to go to work, I have no other life. You could slightly read my tone there. I am bitter. Hahaha! But, I don't blame my work-bummer life on my day job.

Partly, I am to blame because everything that has happened and everything that is happening is my choice. Life is a plethora of choices, and we define our path with them.

Now, I am longing to do something fool and bold. I want to travel far, alone but not lonely. I actually got an offer for a cheap price to go to Anawangin Cove in Zambales. I have been wanting to visit this island because of its pure majestic view, but I got no company. Since I'm growing old, I want to act old which means to be more independent. How's that for a goal this 26th year, eh?

Budgetwise, I still need to pray for it since I got to save for the next semester. But taking into consideration that it's my birthday, and I need not be pressured or stressed by anything, I really want to go. Can I go?

You might ask, what is there to travel for? For some, travelling might mean going to places. But for me, there's something deeper than that. I long to travel because I want to discover something. More than just the destination, I want to discover what travelling really means. And as to what awaits my discovery, there's only one way to find out.

Cinemalaya Movies 2011

2011-07-11T21:55:00.003+08:00

Reposted from Para-paraan:

One of the Cinemalaya movies 2011 is "Ligo na U, Lapit na Me." The story was taken from the book written by my professor in college, Sir Eros Atalia. I haven't read the book yet, honestly. But, I will support him with this one. If you want to experience non-commercial / non-standardized Filipino films, watch the Cinemalaya movies 2011.

17 July/Sun, 3:30PM at the Bulwagang Pambansang Alagad Ng Sining (CCP MKP Hall)

17 July/Sun, 6:15PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

18 July/Mon, 3:30PM at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theatre)

19 July/Tue, 6:15PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

21 July/Thu, 9:00PM at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theatre)

22 July/Fri, 6:15PM at the Bulwagang Pambansang Alagad Ng Sining (CCP MKP Hall)

23 July/Sat, 12:45PM at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theatre)

Ticket price is P150 per screening. Student price is P75.00 per screening. Day Pass is P500 valid for one day, while Festival Pass is P1500 valid for the entire duration of the festival. Tickets are available at CCP.For more information and inquiry, please call CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or 832-1125 local 1406 and 1409.

Japanese Movies 2011: Eiga Sai August Schedule

2011-07-05T14:51:00.003+08:00

Reposted from Clickthe city:

UP FILM INSTITUTE, UP-DILIMAN, QUEZON CITY

AUGUST 17 (Wednesday)
Summer Days with Coo (138 mins) 12:30 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 3:00 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 5:30 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 7:30 PM

AUGUST 18 (Thursday)
Your Friend (125 mins) 12:30 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 3:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 5:15 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 7:30 PM

AUGUST 19 (Friday)
Climber’s High (145 mins) 12:30 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 3:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 5:30 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:30 PM

Summer Days with Coo (138 mins) 12:30 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 3:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 5:10 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:30 PM

Admission for these Japanese movies 2011 is free!!!

Japanese Movies 2011 (Eiga Sai 2011: The Japanese Film Festival July Schedule)

2011-07-04T18:20:00.007+08:00

From the time of Akira Kurosawa, which we learned from college the most popular classic Japanese film-maker, there has not been so many names that have reached this person's achievements. Or maybe, none to common employees like us who don't have the luxury of time for film screening. It's not too late to get updated on the Japanese films though. I have listed the latest Japanese movies 2011 below. Click the synopses if you want to read some.

Japanese movies 2011 reposted from Clickthecity:

SHANG CINEPLEX CINEMA 4:

JULY 1 (Friday)
Opening Night by Invitation at Cinema 2
Departures (131 mins ) 7:00 PM

JULY 2 (Saturday)
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 1:00 PM
Departures (131 mins ) 4:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 3 (Sunday)
Summer Days with Coo (1:38 mins) 1:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 4:00 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 4 (Monday)
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 1:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 4:00 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 5 (Tuesday)
Your Friend (125 mins) 1:00 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 4:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 6 (Wednesday)
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 1:00 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 4:00 PM
The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones (139 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 7 (Thursday)
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 1:00 PM
Climber’s High (145 mins) 4:00 PM
Your Friend (125 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 8 (Friday)
Your Friend (125 mins) 1:00 PM
Yunagi City, Sakura Country (118 mins) 4:00 PM
Departures (131 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 9 (Saturday)
Departures (131 mins) 1:00 PM
One Million Yen Girl (121 mins) 4:00 PM
Villon’s Wife (114 mins) 7:00 PM

JULY 10 (Sunday)
Summer Days with Coo (1:38 mins) 1:00 PM
Feel the Wind (133 mins) 4:00 PM
The Chef of South Polar (125 mins) 7:00 PM

ADMISSION for these Japanese Movies 2011 is FREE!!!

What's on your desk?

2011-06-30T16:34:00.003+08:00

This is how my table looks like today--the usual scenery every end of the month; that is, if you remember or have read my R Rated post. Not to mention all the phone calls needed for the marketing department and all the meetings for the HR department.

Though these papers may look daunting, they remind me that I am so alive and so back on the track after getting lost last year. So, if you have a lot of things to do in a little time, don't fret. Relax and breathe deeply. Your tasks only tell you that you are a good, responsible, and trusted employee. Kudos to all diligent workers of the world! ^^

Boss Etiquette 201: In Fairness

2011-06-22T22:56:00.005+08:00

In my previous post: Boss Etiquette 101: Work Ethics (Not All Bosses Have It), I mentioned how dreadful I was to have a single sight of my superior every day in a place I call my second home.

Though this blog is my only way to let out and let go, I still apologize if I acted unprofessionally, talking behind his back. Like what I have mentioned, forgiveness is inevitable. Now, here's a list of boss etiquette, which, if you are a boss, too, you might want to adapt to keep the loyalty of your subordinates. Needless to say, this list is to redeem my boss from my scornful emotions.

Boss etiquette 1. Funny--his presence alone defines this word. He is a funny person and makes people laugh all the time even without meaning it. He makes me laugh all the time.

Boss etiquette 2. Great Encourager. You can always talk to him about your job and goals. He will not say anything but encouraging words like "I know you can do it." "You are very good." "You are very smart." And if he is not satisfied with your work, he goes "This is not your work." "Your work is much better than this." No matter how simple these sentences are, they can be powerful for any subordinate.

Boss etiquette 3. Provider. He's a good provider. He always invites his team to eat together where we can all enjoy the food and laugh.

Boss etiquette 4. The best thing I like about this boss is that he recognizes even the smallest efforts. He makes sure that before you go home he'd tell you, "Good job today!"

Whether you are a starting team leader or a country manager, the list of boss etiquette presented here, based on my superior's performance, will definitely help you build a good relationship with your team. That is, if you do not act otherwise.

Growing Up Growing Old

2011-06-10T23:48:00.002+08:00

Someone asked me a very common question today: "When will you grow up?" I did not answer, but I could have said, "Maybe, never. Growth cells stop once you're over the age of 18, don't they?"

However, the question is stuck in my head. Am I acting too childish?

Weariness is the feeling that I hate the most at work. For two years I haven't felt this way. Working in my current company has been my second life next to my own family. Serving those people and the bosses has been part of my every day.

I was happy doing what I was doing until the day of comparison came. The new bosses came. They had their own competition and issues which did not or supposedly must not include us Filipinos. But, such a petty issue affected us.

Once a happy servant I was, but now all the enthusiasm seems to have left me. The only reason I can think of is that darn competition and comparison. I hate such a word--comparison.

This word seems to have crippled my working mind, body, and spirit. I'm currently on a week sick leave because of an infection. How good can it get? And, I have been thinking of leaving the company for good. The only thing that's stopping me is, of course, the income. Where would I get such an income to cover my monthly expenses? I have a condo to pay. Soon, I will have to pay for my graduate studies. These needs are telling me that it's not time yet.

But, how can I work like this? Truly, the quality of my services is going down. I don't know what to do now. I'm still waiting for a Divine Intervention.

Tell me, now, is this weariness a childish act?

Boss Etiquette 101: Work Ethics (Not all bosses have it.)

2011-04-20T21:17:00.008+08:00

"Who cares?!!" Only if you could shout these words to that stout, clumsy, and uncouth person who seems to know nothing but walk around, sit with feet on the table, and scratch whatever private part he has in public, whom people simply call the big B-O-S-S, I know you would. But, surely, you can't. You wouldn't. You must not just for the reason that you thoroughly know the words "WORK ETHICS."

No matter how painful it is to see him everyday and adhere to his commands, you have no other choice but to do so. But, let us try to get back on the roots of that grudge you have. How did it all start?

The first day the boss came to the Philippines, he was aloof. He was not so into you because you were no one but the assistant. After some time, he learned that you were a dependable person. You had answers to all his questions. You had information in all research works he asked you to do. You were a perfect employee until the day you did not finish the videos that he told you to do.

While for you, you were not late in the submission because videos take 60 days and it was only the 30th; While for you, you had a choice whether to produce the video or not because you were not paid to do so; More importantly, you used your own video equipment and he did not pay for any rent; While for you, he had no right to demand and shout at you just for that video because it was not [again] paid and is not part of your job description; the boss did not really care.

So, you ended up making the video with a very low quality. You gave a CD without any container. And, you promised yourself that he or the company can never use your video equipment again. (After all the videos you made for the company FOR FREE, you'd just end up getting shouted at for something you offered PRO BONO. What-the-F?!)

Because forgiveness is a must, your life moved on as though nothing happened.

That was until the day he asked for another video, which he is not willing to pay. Well, it's not a matter of being paid or not anymore. It's the fact that this person does not respect your personal business. Just because you are his subordinate in his company, he thinks he can use everything of you including your personal things. Besides, the video he's asking for is not even for the company but for his marriage proposal to his girlfriend whom, by the way, he pronounces to the public, he loathes to wed.

To make the story short, I denied his request. For one, my video camera costs 45,000 pesos, my videography service costs (well, a low price) 9,000 pesos, and my time, dedication, and effort are priceless, and he simply does not give importance to all of these.

But wait! That is not the ending yet. Because I denied his request, he became aloof again. He was irate to me. He even excluded me in an important company project. Now, define power tripping.

I don't know what he's up to. But whether he's giving a chance to others or trying to strip me off the glory of an efficient employee, who cares?! If he's doing the former, then I support him. For the latter, however, I think my WORK ETHICS is enough to give him a hard time.

Are You Looking for a Fun Job?

2011-04-12T13:24:00.004+08:00

Are you a graduate of school year 2010 - 2011? If yes, then keep reading. Otherwise, still read on because this post is for all job hunters out there. I won't be posting all the jobs in the world though; just the ones I find exciting. Yes, you heard it right. I am posting some exciting job openings.

The Mega Publishing Group offers several positions this summer. Here are some of their exciting job openings:

(Reposted from the Mega website.)

1. ASSOCIATE EDITORS

(MEG and LIFESTYLE ASIA TRAVEL)

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Associate Editor assumes the Editor-in-Chief’s duties in his/her absence, supports the Managing Editor in the maintenance of the magazine’s overall look, voice and content, and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the magazine. He/she also enforces strict compliance with internal timetables as well as art and copy or production deadlines to guarantee the timely delivery of the magazine.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduates of Journalism, Creative Writing, Communications, Literature or any related course;

At least 2 years of editorial experience with excellent writing and copyediting skills;

Superior organization skills; dependability and punctuality in submitting deliverables;

Self-starter; good eye for composition, color & detail.

2. EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

(INSIDE SHOWBIZ)

BASIC FUNCTION:

he Editorial Assistant is primarily responsible for the coordination of resources necessary for the completion of the magazine.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate of Journalism, Communications, Creative Writing, Literature, Humanities or any related course;

Preferably Female with at least 1 year of editorial work experience;

Able to do writing, editing and layout;

Must be a highly organized person who is also willing to do administrative work;

Articulate, Creative, Sociable, Committed to Excellence, Driven, Energetic, High Integrity, Well-connected, Fashionable, Detail-oriented, has Fine Taste and has High Tolerance for stress;

Has interest and/or exposure in media or entertainment.

3. FASHION ASSISTANT

(MEGA)

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Fashion Assistant coordinates and assists in fashion shoots. He/she represents MEGA Publishing Group in pre-production meetings, pictorials, events, and other official undertakings.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate of Journalism, Communications, Creative Writing, Literature, Humanities or any Fashion course;

Must be able to write articles and do research on fashion trends;

Must be a highly organized person who is also willing to do administrative work;

Articulate, Creative, Sociable, Energetic, High Integrity, Well-connected, Fashionable, Detail-oriented, Good communication skills.

4. ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Advertising Account Executive is primarily responsible in obtaining sales for the Ad pages of assigned magazine titles of Mega Publishing Group. He/She handles the procurement of sales leads, product presentation, account servicing and closing deals and ensures that all documents relative to the client’s advertising placement are complete and satisfactorily executed on time.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate of any 4-year course;

At least 1 year experience in sales – preferably with exposure in fashion, retail or realty and marketing;

Excellent written and oral communication skills, inter-personal relations;

Service-oriented; charismatic, articulate, creative, sociable, committed to excellence, highly driven and energetic, morally sound, stylish.

Wait a minute! Before you go to a job interview, remember these tips.

Lateral Promotion or Lateral Move?

2011-04-06T20:34:00.007+08:00

Have you heard of lateral promotion and lateral move in your office? Perhaps, you hear the word "promotion" all the time. You even see it in your dreams. But, I'm sure that you have just encountered the word "lateral" here. Let's define these two terms for you.

A lateral promotion means you will have another sets of responsibilities, which could give you more authority and independence in making decisions, sans the topic of salary. In other words, more work and responsibility but no additional pay. This kind of a promotion has one pro: you will have a higher title at work, which means you will be respected and recognized. The best thing about a lateral promotion is you will be a vital part of your organization's decision making process. Your ideas and thoughts will be valued. Meanwhile, the only con side of this lateral promotion simply lies on the money. The additional responsibilities might not be worth your current salary. Period.

On the other hand, a lateral move means you are transferred to another department or given a job which is different from your original job, still, sans the topic of money. For example, you might be changed from being the admin Assistant Manager to being the HR Associate. You will have a totally different job description, but you are still in the same company.

In the perfect world, you will not like either a lateral promotion or a lateral move. Who would want a bigger responsibility with a not-so-big pay? Not you--dreamers in the prefect world--of course because you think that a great responsibility comes with great pay.

That's what you think. In the real world, when you are seriously looking for career growth, you would take all the experiences you need--whether you are in a small or in a big company. Anyway, it's a question of "career growth" and not of "company growth." Once you have enough experience, that's the only time you can demand for a bigger pay. And, that's the time you are ready to explore a bigger company.

Now, which one would you choose? I say either lateral promotion or lateral move--whichever is presented by your current situation. But the real question is, are you willing to accept such a change? I am!

Dolphin Slaughter in Japan

2011-03-20T22:55:00.003+08:00

Could this brutal killing be the reason behind the Japan tsunami 2011?

Nature Call (Japan Tsunami 2011)

2011-03-12T13:56:00.004+08:00

Shocking as the Japan tsunami was, yesterday's earthquake with 8.9 Magnitude was just a simple call from nature. Shaking the world with that strength, mother earth is trying to tell us something. Have you thought about her message?

For me, I think she wants us to wake up from our illusion. She's telling us that she is not a dead thing; more especially not a plain provider of whim and pleasure. As we've all witnessed, she can also create amazing catastrophes like the Japan tsunami. The earth has its own life, and for how long this life will sustain totally depends on us, dwellers.

No, that nerve-wracking earthquake was not God's wrath so don't blame Him. As funny as it seems, some people nowadays think of God only during these times. But when everything is fine, fancy, and happy, no one dares to call Him. This reality is sadder than death in Japan tsunami.

In Jesus' name, I pray for the families who have lost their lovedones. I pray for the Japan tsunami victims and their country.

As for you, my readers, and for those who care nothing about our temporary home, I pray to you:

If you want Japan tsunami to happen in your country, please do not pick up that plastic bag you threw outside your window. Do not unplug your computer and TV since you're not using them. Do not turn off the light and open your window so that the natural light would come in. Do not plant sunflowers, roses, and daffodils in your empty lot. You can also choose not to plant vegetables for free "fooood" (say with pouting lips). Do not live with the natural surrounding--streets, houses, cars, and your neighbors---on weekends and just spend hours in Cityville, Farmville, Fishville, or Mafia"ville". That will surely reduce your electricity bill.

You can think of more things to protect the earth and prolong its life. The question is, can't you do it now?

Demotivation101

2011-03-10T18:19:00.003+08:00

I just realized. One thing that demotivates me is doing something which is far-flung from my job description.

For the record, I am an assistant manager in an education company which caters to Koreans who study English online. Whatever being an assistant manager means, I am sure that these words do not cover job hunting or career hunting for Korean managers who stay in the country to gain work experience and to learn how to speak in English. Period.

A Dream Chaser's Prayer

2011-03-09T16:25:00.003+08:00

Dear God,

Maybe, this is part of your plan. Maybe, I will grow with the tasks that you will give me.

But, it is not the field that I have chosen. It is not the position that I want. This is not my dream.

Please help me understand. Or, at least help me accept. Tell me if I should go or not.

I trust You.

Love,

Dream chaser

The Impossible Made Possible; Or, not (yet).

2011-02-22T22:46:00.007+08:00

If given a chance to talk to someone who could actually help you make your impossible dream come true, what would you do? I bet you'd run to that person and beg. But, I did not do that plainly because I could not.

At 5:00PM yesterday in Madrid time, which was 12:00AM local time, I was connected to a group of people on the internet. I joined the orientation for, by far, my impossible ambition. It's a prestigious business school in Spain, which is my aspired hometown.

Offering a Master in International Management with specialization in Sales and Marketing, this university has a unique method of business methodology, and my favorite is the chance to join companies from around the world. The IE Business School ranks first in España and sixth in Europe. In my world, this institute loudly ranks E-X-P-E-N-S-I-V-E. The master that I want costs €29,000 not to mention the €5,000 for that international internship program and the €120 admissions fee. Talk about first world education.

But, I'm not losing hope. I have staked this year as the era of the impossible. I'm still in the second month of 2011, and I still have ten months to work, wish, hope, pray, and pray more for all the impossibilities to turn around. Just like what Adidas says "Impossible is nothing."

For Your Eyes Only

2011-02-18T21:07:00.010+08:00

I was dreamlessly last night when the woke me up with a bright smile.

I rushed to the shower and drove myself to the office. By , pinned me down. Twelve hours have passed and I am still here.

Everything is becoming .

My back is actually aching now, and all I want to do is .

How I Spent Yesterday

2011-02-15T22:45:00.005+08:00

Unlike everybody else, I did not want to spend yesterday with someone. I wanted to own the Valentine's Day this year, so I grabbed it with an open heart and ended it with gratefulness. I just wanted to set aside the drama this time. Here's a list of what I did yesterday:

1. Watched my favorite love movie "50 First Dates."

No matter how you tear the past out of the pages of your life, there will always be a trace of that missing page.

2. Sang a love song: "Forever"

I worship you my God. I love you. I love you.

3. Listened to my Father's love song for me: "At the Cross."

I changed the lyrics a little bit though.

"I tore the veil. I made a way when I said that it is done."

4. I ate lots of these! More fats, please! hehehe

5. Finally, I gave out little hearts. I felt better when I gave my presents than when I received mine.

To the One I Love the Most

2011-02-14T01:03:00.005+08:00

Dear you,

Six years have passed, and you have spent every Valentine's Day with someone you call Love. I cannot blame you because that is what the world tells you to do--spend it with a special someone whom people call boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, darling, sweetheart, or lover. This day is made memorable with flowers, chocolates, serenades, movies, or an exciting trip. Either you or he gives the surprise. Lucky you if both have exerted effort. At the end of the day, you are thankful you have Love just like everybody else.

This year's heart's day, however, will be different. Totally different. It will be far from cheesiness and all sweet talks; far from surprises and togetherness; yet, very far from bitterness and sadness. You will not need anything or someone for that matter to feel special. All you need is you because today is your day. Your time. Your money. Your way! You can watch a sweet movie and cry. You can read a poem outloud. You can eat a box of Royce. You can buy some fragrant flowers, or better yet, pick some from your neighbor's garden. Best of all, you can love fully sans the expectations and disappointments which are simply spelled as "pain." After spending [literally and figuratively] this fictitious holiday [for and] with someone for six years, you can take this time as 100%-ly yours now. Do not listen to the world, and own your Valentine's Day.

Lastly, thank you for spending this day with me.

Love,

orangemonk3y

(a letter to self)

For Singles and Looking. Definitely Not for Me.

2011-02-13T01:51:00.003+08:00

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT...

A SPEED DATING EVENT

(Reposted)

Time	Sunday, February 13 · 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Location	PEABERRY CAFE 511 Capitoline Hills St. BF Resort Village

Created By	Richard Espiritu, Cher Tanchico

More Info	Calling all SINGLES out there. Are you tired of being alone and depressed during Valentine's Day? Are you tired of the same old dating crap? Do you believe in love at first sight? Don't you worry, this event is especially for you who is in search of that special someone. Our mission is to have participants gain new acquaintances or even meet your soulmate. This speed-dating event will be catered with sumptuous food from Peaberry Cafe to get you comfortable with your peers and enjoy the night with a cup of coffee. For RSVP please text or call: 09159609888 09278251099 or email us at ctchiq@gmail.com

Tickets for SALE!!!

2011-02-08T01:18:00.003+08:00

I'm selling two Patron tickets. Leave a message if interested. :)

What's My Next Step?

2011-02-08T00:18:00.002+08:00

The Parable of the Bags of Gold

(From: Bible Gateway)

14 “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,a]" style="font-size: 0.75em; line-height: 0.5em; ">[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.
19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’

21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’

23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’

26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.

28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

How Do You React to This News?

2011-02-07T23:18:00.003+08:00

If you hear your father's story about your mom's newly discovered breast cancer, how would you react?

If your 10-year old brother seems to lose focus on everything because he is bothered by your mom's condition, how would you react?

If your mom tells you that she has breast cancer, how would you react?

I simply stayed calm and listened to the story. I just smiled. And, I listened again.

My family has not fully absorbed the situation yet. We all believe in the power of prayers. So if you are reading this, I am, from my heart of heart, asking you to offer a prayer for my mom. Thank you.

How a Single Workaholic Spends the Love Month

2011-02-01T02:05:00.004+08:00

As expected, I will not have a date on Valentine's Day. What day is it? Oh, wow! Monday sickness! Like on normal Mondays even in the love month, I would surely convince myself that my bed is not the only thing in the world that gives me happiness and peace; that I am the Superman of the company so being absent would mean management disability; that I earn Php100,000 a month; and, that I would bore myself to death if I'd spend this day at home. (You know I'm just kidding on the second and third reasons, right?)

Actually, I am not really expecting this Valentine's Day to be so special for me. But, I want it to be special for those I know who love me--at the workplace, my friends, and my family. I don't plan to do anything big. A simple hug or "I love you" might work. For workmates, a simple understanding and listening could make a difference. I like the love month to be magical in a humane way.

That's it. It may sound boring, but the love month for me is far from high school definitions because I know that love, like a morning dew, springs anywhere. I just hope you'd stop your "emo-nesss" for once, and give your self a chance to be happy--happy not because a man completes you but because you are a woman who is complete even without a man.

Working with You is Killing Me, But...

2011-01-30T00:49:00.004+08:00

If you have a superior whose presence brings nothing but nuisance in your life, then I feel for you, dear.

My boss is more than 5 feet tall, stout, and Korean. Eyeglasses seem to be staples on his face. He wears a blue collared polo shirt and black pants on most days of the week. He blows his hair off his eyes whenever he talks to someone. His voice box seems to have a surround-sound-THX-Dolby effect around the management office whenever he's on the phone. And, he likes the R and SH sound like he says "Pi-yer" instead of Pia, "shirt" instead of sit, "shit" instead of sheet, "shrink" instead of think, and you can actually guess more words.

I hate two things about him--his "touchiness" and demands. I hated it when he peeked into my slit when I was wearing my high-slit Thai pants. I hated it when he was so closed whispering to my ears. I hated it when he put the bread on my tummy almost near my you-know-what. I hated the smell of kimchi and cigarette when he talked to me. Lastly, I hated it when he said I disappointed him because I did not give him the report he wanted (which I did and gave him more than he asked for; he asked about felt papers only but I made a report on noise-absorbing materials; now, he's demanding that I search on the construction of those materials) and the videos of our events (which were not paid, by the way).

He is my boss, and he has the right to demand. This is what's killing me. He can make me feel worthless, useless, and like I am not doing any work at all. He can shout his lungs out for the D word--disappointment, and I can't do anything. No matter how I want to answer back and walk out, I need to keep my composure as a civil employee. Or else, I might transform into a ruthless dragon and lose my job in one click of a shutter.

I surely don't want that to happen, and I know you don't either. So when you hear your boss again, do some brain exercises before you open your mouth. Think. Fast-forward your imagination to what will happen if you choose to be your untamed self in front of your boss. At that moment, you can surely have all the power of prophecy. Like Nostradamus, predict the future in an instant--You = Jobless.

I truly understand the nuisance. But, I guess that's what superiors are for. After all, we owe our promotion and salary increase to them, don't we?

So, how's this week going?

2011-01-25T17:44:00.005+08:00

To define my week in pictures, here's the visual side of my previous entry.

the R Rated week power "drainers"

my R Rated week "combatants"

R Rated Week

2011-01-23T19:18:00.003+08:00

Oh no! It's not what you think.

PR (Performance Review), WR (Weekly Report), TWR (Teachers Weekly Report), GMWR (General Manager Weekly Report), and OIR (Overall Incentive Report)--now you know why I call it the R Rated Week.

The last week of the month is the busiest for all the team leaders and the management. It's when we do all summary reports and computations not to mention the payroll, the noise-absorbing material research, the internet problem, the absences, the delinquent teachers, and the client complaints. I don't need to to list down the specifics of each category. Just think numbers and 140 plus employees versus four managers only. With this, I think somehow you're getting the pressure.

Yes, pressure goes side by side with stress during the R Rated week; and mind you, these two are in their strongest power at this time. No matter how I want to run away, my sanity keeps me pegged. I am not saying I am Super Woman. Like you, my mind power does not always work against stress which is why I have my stress buster!

What better way to fight stress than have a pletora of comfort food on your desk while working? M&Ms Peanuts, Pasta Marinara, Peaberry Cheeseburger, Salad, Buko Pandan--food! Glorious food!!! I am not on a diet "yet." Summer is still too far to cut my food into half. Besides, I can't think of any better stress buster for this R Rated week. Well, I'm sure you can think of other ways to de-stress. Massage and spa, coffee, your mom's presence, your husband's hug, your friend's' laughter, and more.

As for me, the R Rated week is just any normal week. My table shows a havoc of papers every day. So whether it's R Rated week or not, my strength remains. Thanks to my brain power, my family, to God, and to Enervon! :))

A Year-End Reflection

2010-12-31T23:04:00.003+08:00

Yes, I think I'm welcoming 2011 naked. As I write this last entry for this year wrapped in my towel, I know I won't be done in an hour; Unless, of course, if I decide to celebrate the New Year in the real world and not here--in our virtual universe.

Before 2010 closes, let me list down the highlights of my life:

In January, I opened my Time Deposit account, and I surprised mama on her birthday with a special dinner with a bouquet of flowers.

In February, I went to the Hotair Balloon Festival and, finally, reached the southern part of the Philippines--Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao. Most especially, I got my Peanuts the dog.

In March, I started spending time with friends again--which I was not able to do because I was in a relationship.

In April, I got my braces and credit cards. This was also the month when my ex-boyfriend appeared in my life like a lost mushroom from deserted forest.

In May, I went to Boracay with my best buddies with a broken soul. I wanted to keep my current love but he was pushing me away. All his actions seemed to be a disappointment to me. That was because I expected too much of him. Later did I realize I was already planning his life for him. I wanted him to do what I wanted for him. But at the back of my mind, I was actually thinking of myself--my future with him. I wanted him to be the perfect future that I pushed hard enough in the present. So, the relationship was gone.

In this month, a lot of things happened--all the bad and the good. I chose myself over a love that seemed to be lost somewhere at that time. I chose to be happy. The sad part was my happiness was very selfish. I did not think of all the people I have hurt just to get the happiness I thought I deserved. We all deserve to be happy, and we can be happy in so many ways. But if we are happy only in our world while others are hurt because of this happiness, then it is not worth it. At the end of the day, what brings us peace of mind and soul is what matters the most because one day we will all go back to our Father's place where "emotions cannot be stirred" anymore. All earthly happiness passes away.

In June, I got no note for myself. Nothing significant happened to me except for the fact that I was shallowly happy. I was hurting at the same time. The question of breaking up was there. Did I make the right choice?

In July, I was depressed. Super depressed. I thought I was happy because I got myself back after a 6-year relationship. But, that was just a thought. I could not work. I did not eat. I was starving myself to death because I wanted to drain my energy--the energy that was diverted fully to someone who did not deserve it. And, my heart was broken because I hurt the most special person in my life. In this month, I was grateful to my boss who gave me a 4-day off to get back on my feet.

And, like the Phoenix, I did. I started again. Four days were fast and on these days, I had to face the consequences of my repulsive actions.

In August, I just got the chance to dance with a total stranger. I was so into Koreans or Chinese guys. I enjoyed it. I had fun having myself back--on my own and no one to think about. I was sooo single.

In September, I got two jobs. I planned to save for my studies. I thought of getting at least a 30K-salary, and actually got it. Sometimes, I got more than that. I felt so alive again.

In October, I got my article "White Water Rafting" published in the ZestAir in-flight magazine. This was my last article for this year. Plus, I got two teams to handle at work.

I loved November because I leveled up in my cooking skills. I cooked Sinigang na Chicken and Menudo. That was it, yes, because as expected, I got lazy. (lol)

Now, December is here. It's done, actually. My notebook shows a list of my total assets. December is money month. The best thing I've done was purchasing a 15 thousand airplane ticket to Hong Kong for me, my mom, and my sister. I got sad, from time to time, because I'm supposed to save for my graduate studies. Traveling, however, is one drug I can never say no to. It does a lot of things to me. It makes me forget about heartaches. It opens a whole new world for me and reminds me that the world is full of possibilities. And, I will never stop until I get to the other part of the world.

I guess that's about it for 2010--I've never been so insane, so adventurous, so depressed, so happy, and so strong ever than this year. I thank the Father for His amazing grace, immeasurable mercy and forgiveness, and most of all, for his undying love.

Happy New Year to all! 2011, here I come!

A Warm Greeting to All!

2010-12-25T13:07:00.006+08:00

As we celebrate this day, let us all reflect on the sins that we committed (deliberately or not) and the hurts we caused other people. In our moment of repentance, truly, the man of this day--Jesus--has an everlasting answer: "It is done."

All the happiness and love to all of you not only today but for the rest of your lives!

(if you are you)?

2010-12-11T10:55:00.004+08:00

When I can be me, blessed and free

Why shouldn't I be happy (if a man does not love me the way I want it)?

When I can love myself more; and my family and friends love me unconditionally

Why shouldn't I be happy (if a man ignores my effort)?

When I can be free of any obligation to any man; when my family & friends can share more laughters & company?

Why shouldn't I be happy (if a man forgets me)?

When I can forget him, too, and be the richest woman in the world

Why shouldn't I be happy (because of you)?

When you bring more pain than bliss, more hell than heaven, more frustrations than completeness

Why shouldn't I be happy

(For the image, I give the credit to snul.)

Happy Peppero Day! Happy Birthday, Dear Amy!

2010-11-11T22:39:00.003+08:00

(click here) Happy Peppero Day!

A Letter to Amy:

Thank you for listening to my problems, sharing your opinion, and keeping my secrets. I know they are safe with you. You are one of my good friends.

Thank you for being real and fun. Your laughter relieves me from work stress.

Thank you for believing in me. Your hopes and dreams inspire me to be better.

I can't add more. I'm just grateful that you have become part of my teaching life--a great part in that matter.

I love you! :))

Salary Expectation

2010-11-06T15:13:00.003+08:00

One common question in application forms or during interviews is this: "Salary Expectation."

What do you usually write? Where do you base your answer?

When I applied for a job for the first time, I put P15,000 to P20,000. I just heard from my classmates in college that this was the standard salary for all new employees. I had no idea where to base my salary expectation on. I ended up getting P10,000 in my first job as a web content provider. The employer told me that that was the standard price for an unexperienced job-hunter like me. I gladly accepted it while I brainwashed myself to charge P5,000 or P10,000 more on the experience I would get from the company and work itself.

So my experience in the web content field paid off when I got a home-based writing job which gave the same amount (P10,000) in UK Pounds. At least this time, I did not have to travel for four hours everyday; no tax; no deductions. I was getting the entire amount. When my productivity slowed down, I hired four to five freelance writers to give me content. So, I was left with P5,000. That was enough to pay for my movie and food trips.

My second company was giving P15,000 to P20,000 compensation and so I put it in my salary expectation. But since this field was far from web content, the call center company gave me P14,000 as my basic. This time, I charged the remaining P6,000 on the incentives, night differential, and referral fees. I got all these in my two-month stay but the amount did not even reach twenty gran.

The third and current company offered me P16,000 as basic compensation agreement. This was just enough as a salary expectation. For the first month, I got enough. On the second month, I was offered to extend my teaching hours so I climbed to P18,000 (not to mention my 8,000 peso home-based writing sideline). After a few months, I was hitting P19,000 to P20,000. So, I finally reached my salary expectation after one year and plus months of working.

In the case of this third company, two factors helped me reach the compensation I want: work experience and my major (Literature). Both showed that I am good at English, which is the most important factor in being an ESL teacher.

After a year, my salary was hitting P20,000 to P25,000 when I got 23 students a day plus my promotion as a Team Leader. I felt unmotivated and unhappy from time to time especially when I got to think of other fields I want to enter like Advertising, Production, and Magazine. I made a promise, however, which would tell me when to quit: if I get lower than P20,000, I would quit without hesitations.

After four months, my compensation was fixed to P25,000 when I got promoted as an Assistant Manager. It swings to P30,000, sometimes, when I have bonuses and incentives. But when the TAX issue came in, this became P22,000--the lowest I got since the said issue. Then, I was back to my basic salary expectation which was twenty gran.

Honestly, I was demotivated by this. But, I got a bright idea on how to fix my salary to P25,000 and up. I extended my hours of work to four more. I am working part-time and full-time which is equal to 13 hours a day. I do not mind the long hours because whether I work part time or full time, I still work this long. I just made a way to compensate my work. If I did not do that, I would end up frustrated every payday.

So if ever I would get another job, I know where to base my salary expectation on:

1. Relation of my major to the new job

2. Relation of my work experience to the job

3. Years of experience in this field

4. Last salary

5. Standard salary of this kind of job

For newly graduates, I suggest you swallow your pride and accept the offer; rest assured, that company would help you hone your skills in that field. Low salary but good work experience will do if you are a newbie in the employment world.

For other job-seekers, make sure you put a rightful salary expectation. Meaning, it is not too low and not too dreamlike. Follow my five bases of salary expectation if you belong to this group of job-hunters.

On the Korean Influence

2010-10-31T00:14:00.006+08:00

If you are not in Korea but you see a lot of Koreans and stuff on TV and more especially once you step out of your house, that means you must read this.

What does influence mean? Is it good or bad? Even before I started working in a Korean company, I have been a fan of koreanovelas (korean dramas). When I worked, I started to want to learn the language and the culture. Now, I want to learn how to cook their dishes. It's nothing like I'm so into Korean nowadays. I just want to live at this moment of my life 100%-ly. Since I'm with Koreans everyday, I think it would be a pity if I don't learn the language, culture, and food. It would mean I haven't lived my life fully. But, does this mean I am being influenced by this other culture?

What drives my desire to learn the foreign culture? Does it spring from the Filipino trait of being flexible like the bamboo trees?--that we bow to every power that conquers the country? According to my high school History teacher, this trait is good because it means we can easily adapt to a different environment. In college, this trait is one of the reasons of Filipino diaspora. But now that I am working in this foreign company, I realize that such a trait is not always good.

Because Filipinos are like bamboo trees, we were easily conquered by some colonizers namely the Spanish, the Japanese, and the Americans. Because Filipinos are like bamboo trees, the international community never looks at us as a powerful country. In fact, my boss said only 3% of the world power comes from Filipino minds. I know most of you would say at least there is 3%! But, when will we stop acting like bamboo trees that whatever comes, comes and whatever goes, goes? Are we going to always bow and just stand again and bow and stand again to all foreign power that enters our country and infiltrate our culture?

When I was in high school, we were asked to identify the Filipino culture by what we see around us. Most answers were McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King, Jollibee (of course), Cali, Coke, Pepsi, Thalia and Fernando Jose, "Friends," and Jansport or Nike. Thinking back, how many original local brand did I mention? Most of these are American and Spanish. Is this the Filipino culture?

In college, we went to Baguio for a writing workshop. As writers, we needed to search for our roots and write from it. We had the Pinikpikan with the local tribal band which played a modern tribal song (if you get what that means). I said modern because of the rhythm; tribal because it was just a combination of sounds from local musical instruments. We also did a local dance. We went to Tam-awan Village the next day to see some tribal costumes and local arts. So, is this the Filipino culture?

Yes, the last part was a small portion of the vast scope of the Filipino culture. In percentage, the Cordilleran experience was just 1%. What is the other 99%?

If Dr. Rizal were in my place, what would he do? Would he continue serving this foreign company? Would he be happy making a foreigner rich and richer? From my memories of Dr. Rizal from films and books, he learned different languages. He went to other countries and learned their culture. I'm sure he watched foreign plays as well. Have you ever wondered what Dr. Jose Rizal was thinking of the Spaniards when they were still here? I wonder what Dr. Rizal thinks of another country's influence. How would he explain the missing 99% of the Filipino culture?

Whenever my Korean bosses talk to me they use this phrase "in Korea..." or this one "in Korean culture..." They like introducing their culture to me. They also like talking about how they eat, what they do on this occasion, how important a woman's knowledge in cooking is, how to say it in Korean (to an adult or a boss specifically), etc. They are very specific when it comes to their culture even in merely holding a glass while an adult is pouring a drink or receiving a gift from an adult or a boss (always hold and receive with two hands and bow your head). I think with their strictly followed customs, the Korean culture is very visible.

So there are the magic words--"strictly followed customs." If we faithfully do our customs like "mano," "siesta," and what else? Will our culture be preserved? Or shall we just preserve them in films, plays, and paintings? Shouldn't we follow them because they are customs? That is to show respect to our ancestors who brought these customs.

I follow the Korean customs nowadays because I serve a Korean company. If I do the local customs to preserve the Filipino culture, they will not understand me. That is not a good impression and it will hurt my career path. But my question is, have you ever thought of Koreans or Spanish or Americans for that matter doing "mano" especially in the workplace?

A Lesson from Death

2010-10-24T03:47:00.006+08:00

The whole point of this entry does not go around that incident. There was one important lesson I learned from this teacher--once the brain has decided, the heart cannot do anything but to stop beating no matter how much it wants to beat for something.

On October 5, 2010, I rushed a teacher in the hospital thinking that her condition was nothing serious. After all, it was not the first time I rushed an employee to the E.R. But these words made me panic and shrunk my throat that I could not explain the situation to my manager--critical and ICU.

On October 6, 2010, she was diagnosed with stroke and asthma. On the next day, the diagnosis was finalized with Aneurysm. She underwent a brain surgery, but by 4:00 in the afternoon, her brain totally gave up. The doctor said she was fighting because her heart was stable. Her heart's condition showed willingness to live whereas the brain performed otherwise.

On October 7, 2010, at around 4:00, she was declared dead.

In my own interpretation, this means that "brain over matter" really works. The brain is the commandant of our body. If it thinks sickness, then the body follows. We soon feel weak; our temperature will go up; and so on. If it thinks sleep, then we feel drowsy. If it thinks frustration, then everything that we do will seem to be a frustration. Whatever the brain absorbs and believes in happens because the body follows its commands (consciously or unconsciously).

The same goes when you think you are in-love. Your body longs for that person; it wants to see and feel that person; and it feels all those high school kind of butterflies in the stomach. Having said that, the same process happens when you think success. The body knows exactly what to do once your brain knows exactly what it wants. Thus, if you don't have a successful career or even a successful love life now, it simply means your brain has not fully decided on anything yet. Or, maybe, your brain chooses not to follow what your heart desires.

So, what do we do in this case? I will give you a direct answer: let your brain do its job--thinking. Once it has decided to do something, let it be for the brain knows more than the heart feels. I guess that's why God put the brain on top of every body part. Otherwise, He could have put the heart there.

How the Assistant Manager Rushed an Employee to the ER

2010-10-08T01:54:00.008+08:00

Don't panic. Don't panic. Don't panic. Stop panicking! Stop walking round and round without knowing what you need to do.

Finally, snap!

That was my conscious mind the other day when we rushed a newly hired teacher to the nearest emergency room. She. She was pale; mouth bubbling; gasping. Her eyes were closed. Her hands were stiff. Her nails were dark. Her body, which was very skinny and small, weighed double that even a huge man could not carry her properly.

Thanks to one of the team leaders who had a car that day, we were driven in a black Ford Escape to the nearest hospital. Inside, she laid un-peacefully. Her mouth was silent, but her body was screaming for help. Nobody knew what her heart was keeping.

Nobody knew what her heart was going through until the doctor said it was being filled with water, and so were her lungs. Nobody knew what really happened to her. Her seatmate even thought she was just kidding around when she fell on the floor because they were having a normal conversation at that time. Earlier, she was roaming around the office like every employee did. She was sitting in her station doing her job like a normal person--like someone who simply follows the working world system.

Nobody. Nobody in the office was ever ready to see such a scene, hear such news, and feel such worry (especially me.)

In the emergency room, the day was so normal. Not a lot of patients. It was a good thing for us. She was taken cared of immediately. But the scene got more unexpected. The nurses put the hospital robe on her. Gas mask. No; not working. Suction, yes, because her mouth was getting filled with saliva. ECG. Tube, which doctors call laryngoscope, to directly get through the air passage to help her breathe. Adult diapers for the liquid that was filling her vital organs. Morphins to make her calm when she woke up during the laryngoscope process. She panicked because she didn't know what was happening and why she was there. I think that was the last fully forced action her body did aside from biting the suction. And, all we could hear from the nurses were "Don't bite. You are in the hospital. We are treating you."

Then, she was a little bit stabilized. But, we still needed to contact the relatives because the patient must be brought to the ICU as soon as possible.

Intensive Care Unit. I don't really know what happens inside that room. All I know is no one ever gets out alive. And, if luckily someone does, it's a very rare case.

The whole scene of this emergency finally sunk into my mind when I heard my Manager's voice and I was trying to explain. It was either words were too afraid to come out from my mouth to tell the situation or I was too scared to accept the fact that it was really happening. My cracking voice simply said to the huge man who carried her: "You talk to her. I can't do it."

But hearing from the doctor that she was a little bit stabilized, I was able to smile. I spent three hours in the emergency room searching for a relative's number, screaming at a stranger who couldn't care less about the sleepy Wednesday afternoon, waiting for the relatives, and finally, meeting them speechlessly. If my eyes could speak, they wanted to tell them that I was really sorry for what happened. I felt sorry for what is happening in their family (dad was stroked; the teacher just submitted her resignation letter to take care of her dad; but then, she was in a comma).

3 Lessons learned: 1. Panic is the word you must not entertain in this situation; 2. Just because a person looks normal, it doesn't mean she is healthy; Lastly, 3. We must be happy all the time because we never know when our life will end. I don't want to die sad. Do you?

Success? Enough Said.

2010-10-05T02:20:00.007+08:00

If you want to be successful, don't trust anybody else to make that word materialize. Trust no one but yourself. Depend on no one but yourself because success begins with it. You can never be a master of anything if you do not master yourself. By that I mean knowing when to control your emotions; when to speak your mind and when to shut up; when to keep fighting and when to give up and accept loss; when to say that around you is messed up but you're okay; when to push your limits and when to fully discover your potentials.

In the corporate world, I simply mean this: Success is totally based on Your performance--not on the seemingly selfish management or on that promotion you never had. Mastering yourself is the only way to this path. It sounds easy but, let's see. Can you challenge yourself to have perfect attendance for three consecutive months? Or better yet, for five months. What's best is have a perfect attendance for a year at least. Now, tell me honestly, have you done this?

I admit I haven't done it yet. I have perfect attendance for five to six months, yes, but for a year? It's a heck of a challenge to wake up one day without looking for a valid reason not to go to work.

Can you come in an hour before your shift? Yes, not 30 minutes, but an hour. For this one, ha! I can face you chinned-up. I have been doing it for a year. I can even come to work 2-3 hours earlier. That was the time when I would simply sit on the floor and talk to my colleagues--back when I was an ordinary employee. But now that I'm in a position, I can still come early but I choose not to. I hate hearing voices calling my name when it's not my shift yet.

I come to work early these days so I can plan my whole day. But far from being lucky, I am faced with some non-stop calls every morning, asking questions which did not even cross my mind. "Mmm...why this teacher...mmm...no comment for three weeks...why?" That teacher is expected to have her comments everyday. I am not the checker. I am not the team leader. Nobody reports to me about it, why do you ask me why? The answer is simple: the teacher neglected her duty. And, why do we have to look for another person at fault when the one responsible is very clear? Enough said for hating to come to work earlier than my shift. Nonetheless, I still need to and will come to work early.

Lastly, can you stand up for what you say during the interview?

"Yes, I will give you perfect attendance. There will be no reason for any absence." (But 2 days later, she doesn't come to work because of her niece. Not even her sister--her niece.)

"Career Objective: To find a company where I can contribute my knowledge and skills." (Why don't you try to contribute your professionalism first? During contract signing, you agree to everything. But after realizing that you are not earning enough money for all your woos, you complain left and right.)

"Career Objective: To find a company that will enhance my skills and provide a career ladder." (Why don't you go to school? There, you can literally enhance your skills.)

And about the ladder, you think too much of that. You don't pay much attention to the C word. You are always in a hurry to climb when you simply cannot say yes to all these questions. Now, stop defining success. Stop chasing success somewhere else for it does not live outside but inside the word Self. There, enough said.

Dreams Come True

2010-09-19T00:44:00.008+08:00

For you, this entry might be useless for some reasons--you're not a KPop fan; you think that Koreans are invading the Philippines; or you simply hate the smell of Kimchi. But for me, in this cyworld of mine, seeing Jung Ji Hoon in person dancing his Hip song in front of me simply substantiates my belief that dreams come true.

He starred in many shows including "Full House," "I'm a Cyborg," "Speed Racer," and "Ninja Assassin." He is a great dancer, a charming singer, and an actor. For many producers, Jung Ji Hoon is a fully packaged artist, which makes him useful in many money-making events. Currently, Jung Ji Hoon is in the Philippines to mainly showcase his talent as an actor. He is shooting for a drama in TV 5. On top of that, his side trip as a singer and dancer made my dream come true.

Being the day when one dream came true, Jung Ji Hoon's concert entitled "Intensity" on September 11, 2010 was an unforgettable event in my Korean-full life. I am not a fan of the entertainment world, but this guy just beats that principle. His amazing passion in dancing and everything he does simply makes me put my guards down and my hands up.

All dreams will come true if we will just believe. I did! I believed I would see my one and only favorite Korean artist--Jung Ji Hoon or well-known as Bi Rain. The picture of us meeting each other was far from the normal meet and greet dreams of fans though. I have been thinking that I would personally meet him at the age of 50 or so--an age when he cannot do his breathtaking dance moves anymore and his face is full of wrinkles. I don't have any reason why I think that way, but perhaps, that idea shows how much of an avid fan I am. However, God is really good. He allowed me to see Jung Ji Hoon while he's still strong, unwrinkled, and turning his hips left and right--going down. This preserved picture in my mind alone makes me more strongly believe that dreams do come true no matter how simple they are.

Bi Rain Concert in Manila (FREE VIP tickets)

2010-09-09T16:38:00.003+08:00

The most awaited KPop artist is finally in Manila. Such a dynamic entertainer, Bi-Rain is one of the well-known Asian artists who have been successful in his chosen career--singing, dancing, modeling, and acting. Name it and Rain can surely do it!

Upon hearing this event, all Filipino fans, including yours truly, jumped for joy especially when some generous organizations gave away FREE VIP tickets such as Smart Communications (which is a major sponsor) and Philippine Kpop Convention. I know you want one, too! So, here's how you can win free VIP tickets to Bi-Rain's concert on September 11, 2010 at 8:00pm in SM Mall of Asia open grounds:

[reposted from Azrael)

1. Post a blog post about the concert, mention where to buy tickets and etc. you can get info here at my post - KPOP: Intensity : RAIN and U-KISS concert this September 11, 2010 (Official Press Release)

2. Mention this contest in your blog post with direct url link of it.

3. Post your blog url here in my comment box of your blog post as entry, in my blog with this contest blog post

4. One lucky winner will get the VIP ticket. I will raffle 10 finalist and then choose with the best and creative blog post. Winner will be contacted via email, and mobile, and must meet me on Sept 11, 2010 2 hours before the concert. Winner will be announced this Sept 10 at 11:59pm.

What's more? If you win free VIP tickets, you can also get a chance to meet and greet this great artist!

Truly, the long wait is over. It is RAINing in Manila. This "Intensity" concert is sponsored by Smart and TV 5. Featured artists also include U-Kiss and our very own Christian Bautista.

In case you are unfortunate to win the contest, you can always purchase the ticket from Ticketworld. Call 891.9999 for inquiries. Ticket Prices:

VIP
Gold
Silver
Bronze

PhP 4,635.00
PhP 3,090.00
PhP 1,545.00
PhP 515.00

Planning is a Key to Success

2010-09-06T01:00:00.004+08:00

One key to success is planning. Since it's the first days of September, I have my plans written in my note book for this month:

1. Learn Korean (I can use it at work.)

2. Meet Rain (Abba will make a way.)

3. Get the Team Leader's Incentive. (More $$$)

4. Improve my team's standing. (First team)

5. Work. Work harder. Work my best. (to achieve no. 6)

6. Pay credit card fully. (to achieve no. 7)

7. Get an apartment. (to achieve no. 8)

8. Learn how to cook Filipino dishes. (to achieve no. 9)

9. Be independent.

For a second thought, these plans are not for September only. They can extend until October or November. Extending time for your plans is not a problem at all. The more important thing is your commitment on accomplishing each one in your list.

My Little Secret (Love in the Workplace)

2010-08-26T15:18:00.007+08:00

♥

♥♥

♥♥♥

You are on this page, gnawing every word I have written, because of one thing and one thing only--you might be eyeing on someone in your office. He could be

that ordinary co-employee who has been your friend since you joined the company; he could be that old friend whom you have realized you are in love with; or, he could be that distant, cold-looking yet goosebumps-giver Big Boss. No matter who that person is, I am sure of this: you keep your love in the workplace as a secret from anyone.

There are many reasons why we need to keep our love in the workplace as a secret and there are reasons behind those reasons. (Yes! Redundancy at its worst.)

1) Intimate relationships are not allowed in a workplace. The management does not allow this because it may cause distractions to employees. Emotions can do a lot of things including casualties in case the couple encounters a relationship problem. Apparently, it may affect work.

2) An assistant manager cannot have any kind of intimate feeling for her big boss. No matter how much she has researched and found out that he is single (according to his Facebook page), he still is not. It's just that his girlfriend does not have an account. It's a heartbreak for the assistant manager, but it's called FREEDOM for the big boss. In this case, love in the workplace, for the assistant manager, sucks!

3) A public figure cannot simply pour her heart out to anyone. In the showbiz world, there is one rule: trust no one; love no one. Otherwise, you will end up enslaved by trying to please the whole world and, eventually, you will get frustrated. Worst, depression might crawl in and lead to your resignation.

4) A P2000-peso plus plus gift does not mean he likes you and you are special to him. It could either be a kind gesture on his part or an obligatory act because he is the boss and you are his minion. Simply put, do not assume!

But if you, my dear reader, are in love, there's nothing I can do with that. Being in love is good because it fires up this energy inside you to do even the impossible. Love in the workplace, however, has two sides--good and bad. The good thing is you can choose--keep it as a secret or tell the whole wide world about it. The bad thing is no one will understand you either way.♥

Growing up

2010-08-05T20:53:00.005+08:00

All I want in this silver life is change. I want to change my lifestyle--from drinking every night, smoking every 20 or so minutes, partying with friends to something different; my skills--from letters to numbers; my impossibilities--I want to do all the things I think are impossible to do for me; my company--from friends who always drink at night and give me Winston gold or green to those whom I will pray with, talk with, and enjoy life lightly (heavenly); and lastly, my house--from a huge 6-bedroom, 3-floor, custard mansion to a small space that has its own comfort room and a sink for the kitchen.

This want is not that simple, I know, and everyone is telling me to stop what I'm thinking. That it's crazy to get an apartment when I have a house to which I don't need to pay rent. Well, I already have an answer to that. I made a table with three columns--a comparison of expenses and savings: stay in the house, apartment, get a car. Among these three, the third one is the most alluring and the most expensive at that. The first column promises a getaway during South Korea's winter break (but highly needs saving discipline). Since I know myself too well, I want to resort to the second column--APARTMENT. Anyway, it's just more expensive by a thousand than the first one.

If you were on my shoes, which one would you follow: 1.) House with a not-so-sure South Korea getaway; 2.) Apartment with a lot of time for self growth (read: cooking for myself when I don't know how to cook, washing my clothes, cleaning my "house," designing the interior of my "house," buying a sofa bed for me, watching TV or reading when I'm bored without anyone bothering me, singing anytime I want without caring that other people may be disturbed, walking around in my night shirt and underwear with my "I don't care." expression, and best of all, getting loca on anything without any reason at all.); 3.) A second-hand car that will put me to double debt? Choose.

Growing up starts with a simple decision-making. This line has been in the part of my head that has been telling me to stop where I am and start there. Start from what I have right now and start making good decisions--grown-up decisions. But from where I am, there is no self growth space available. The only space I'm living in a space for "spoiled brats." Yes, I am a spoiled brat (not too much though). Still, I don't care about anything but my office clothes and my bed. That's all. Tell me, is there growth in this kind of space?

What I feel now is that someone in my heart wants to be a little bit far from everything--for it to grow. It needs a space it could call its own. A blank space where its buds could display different colors.

But, I'm still afraid.

Then again, fear is just one obstacle that can push me to have this one thing I want in my silver life--change.

Silver Birthday Today

2010-07-19T20:58:00.002+08:00

I'm celebrating my silver birthday today. I am sooo in love! God loves me very much. Thank you, Lord, for the 24 years of happiness, satisfaction, challenges, sadness, pain, mistakes, and lessons. Thank you for your unfailing love.

Dear Father God

2010-07-15T02:18:00.002+08:00

Look at your daughter. Look at where she is right now--wanting to be by your side again but too weak to move. Look at the mess in her life. She is full of guilt, sin, and sadness.

If I'd tell the truth, would everything be the same?

I need You.

On Hiatus

2010-07-13T10:54:00.000+08:00

Pia Layoso is traveling somewhere--a remote place where no one could ever enter and nothing could ever crash (not even the strongest man on earth.) I will be there soon--a place where distance means not going straight or left or right but going into. That place which has been too far from me, from everyone--that place called self.

Some Videos from A Friend

2010-07-12T22:21:00.001+08:00

I don't know where the "Embed" button from these sites but I just have to save and share these videos.

http://video.nate.com/212202538

http://video.nate.com/211716623

Lessons on Superiors

2010-07-09T01:16:00.004+08:00

The trend nowadays is "Rebel! Revolt! Let's go against the president or whoever the superior is!"

People think they gain power by having this kind of attitude. In a democratic country, being brave is helpful. However, let's talk about the company world. Having been a struggling Assistant Manager for almost a year now, I have learned 10 important lessons on superiors:

1. They like to be the "boss," so let them be.

2. When they talk, let them. They will stop when they feel like no one is listening anymore.

3. When they tell you to do something, do it right away. Or else, they would tell the other managers that you are inefficient.

4. They like to be friendly with all employees, but they also like to say something about their shoes, skirts, headbands, or lovelife.

5. When you get depressed of life's f*ck ups, they expect you to recover right away--like three days after the break up or one week as the maximum time.

6. They will help you when you need it, when you ask for it, and when they want to show you they are great.

7. Their decisions are based on the benefits of the company as a whole, but most of the time, they are greatly influenced by personal relationships.

8. Sometimes, they love you so much because you do everything for them. But when you screw up once, they will hate you forever.

9. They will say "yes" to your requests but always with a condition. ("This will be the first and last time for that request. Don't wait for me to snap on you." Then she smiles.)

10. When they give out rules, talk about something, share their opinions, they like you to believe them. So though you totally believe otherwise, a little pretension does not hurt.

These lessons on superiors are merely based on personal experiences. They could be true to everyone else or not.

Revolt could still be present in some companies these days, and I say one reason for that could be a bad superior. So whether you are a manager, a president, a leader, or even a simple rank and file employee, take these lessons on superiors seriously. Otherwise, you will be OUSTED!

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III

2010-07-08T22:25:00.003+08:00

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III

June 30, 2010

Quirino Grandstand

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.

Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.

Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.

Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.

Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.

Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa – nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din – talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?

Ngayon, sa araw na ito – dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.

Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.

Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago – isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.

Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago – isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.

Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster – ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.

Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.

Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.

Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.

Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.

Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.

Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.

Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.

Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.

Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:

· dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;

· serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;

· tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.

Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.

Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.

Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili – lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.

Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.

Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.

Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.

Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.

Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.

To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.

Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all – may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?

Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.

Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.

Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.

Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.

Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.

Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.

Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong – kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?

Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.

Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito – ang ating mga volunteers – matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa – nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.

Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.

My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!

Letter to Myself

2010-07-06T22:40:00.001+08:00

My Struggles:

1. If I don't fight for you, will you still fight for me?
-> You should fight for me if you really love me. It's the only way to prove it.

2. If I don't fight for you, will you still fight for me?
-> Yes, you will fight for me. But, you could still change your mind.
-> My doubt is bigger than your love.

3. Will I let go now?
-> Your proof of love = none
-> My doubt = many

4. When do I know if I need to let go already?
-> If I feel like letting go already, then I must let go. I must not be scared. God is ready to catch me. He will take care of everything.

5. What do you really, really want now?
-> I want you to be with me all the time.
-> I want to face life with you.
-> I want to get over you "again."
-> I want to forget --happy or sad memories.
-> I want to be stronger on my own.
-> I want to be happier -- evryday.
-> I want to be whole--with God only.
-> I want to appreciate life's gifts.
-> I want to be Me. Again.

untitled

2010-06-06T18:06:00.000+08:00

stillness comes in spaces between silence and breath,
finding answers to questions like a lost arrow in the woods
as dark as a night bereft of stars and smiles.

stillness walks in the alley of forgiveness

finding words in the walls of sighs like an ellipsis lost in a sentence,
incomplete; no subject; no verb--only adjectives trying to be positive.

the sky turns grey when stillness lies

it bawls when stillness' tied

when stillness' flies, beads of tears fall simply from its eyes.

Rest Time

2010-05-20T03:04:00.001+08:00

been stressed and tired these days.

it's just time to rest for a while.

ON ELECTION DAY, God wants you to know that...

2010-05-10T03:18:00.000+08:00

ON ELECTION DAY, God wants you to know that... a Wise Ruler has one simple belief which is as strong as St. Peter's rock. This belief is the reason that he wants this job opportunity which entails God’s wisdom only.

Let's look at your candidate's belief:
1. GIBO - GALING AT TALINO (Narcissism much? These two words direct to himself and nothing but himself.)

2. NOYNOY - HANDA KA NA BA SA PAGBABAGO? (This statement tells you that ever since the world has begun, the Philippines has been poor. So, he declares himself as the SAVIOR. Jesus accepted death to save the world. The Hacienda Luisita victims forcedly accepted death when they tried to save their family's future. Will Noynoy give his family's wealth including Kris' Louis Vuittons and Fendis to the poor?)

3. GORDON - TAMA NA ANG SALITA. IBOTO ANG GAGAWA (This statement does not show any belief of the Philippines' low status and poverty. But rather, it shows a plan--to shut up and get the job done right.)

4. VILLAR - TAPUSIN ANG KAHIRAPAN (Long belief that the Philippines has been poor. What has he done to change it? Houses, businesses, OFWs, Education--check! But, he claims he's also a SAVIOR. Will he give up all of his land properties just to pay the country's debt and relieve the unborn from forced poverty?)

5. ERAP - PAG MAY ERAP MAY GINHAWA (Definitely believes that the Philippines is casino-rich, and the people are idiot so they will vote for him. Again.)

6. EDDIE - BANGON PILIPINAS (An understatement that reiterates the Philippines' super low status. He believes it; I don't.)

Funny Job Interview Answers

2010-04-25T05:29:00.004+08:00

If you are looking for some job interview tips, this is not your page.

Here, I will share some funny quotes from different interviewees. If you want to ace that upcoming interview of yours, better listen to what these applicants say. Let their answers be your job interview tips.

Position Applied for: Online English Teacher

Question 1: What is teaching for you?

Answer 1: Teaching is when you teach children.

Answer 2: Teaching is sharing what you know.

Answer 3: Teaching is a teacher's job.

Answer 4: Teaching is I teach, you know?

Question 2: What is dedication for you?

Answer 1: Dedication is when you dedicate yourself.

Answer 2: Dedication is your passion.

Question 3: What is the difference between Dedication and Passion?

Answer 1: Can you combine those two both of them?

Answer 2: Can I go home now?

Question 4: What is your favorite Grammar Rule?

Answer 1: My rule is I like to have dedication at work.

Answer 2: Subject-Verb Agreement.

Answer 3: Subject-Verb Agreement.

Answer 4, 5, 6, ...20: Subject-Verb Agreement.

Question 5: How do you like the English Language?

Answer 1: I like it very much.

Rephrased: How are you with the English Language?

Answer 1: I'm fine with it.

Answer 2: We're okay. (So, you're friends huh.)

Job interview tips are rampant on the internet. Most of them are for general job seekers, but what I have here are some notes for those wanting to be an online English teacher. When you read these "answers," I hope you understand why I put them in the funny category. If you're having a hard time understanding why, then this job is not for you. Try to find some other job interview tips to help your braincells identify the problem in these Question and Answer moments. Or better yet, apply now so I can add more quotes to my funny job interview answers collection.

What Happened to the Woman Who Kept Her "Standards?"

2010-03-31T01:29:00.004+08:00

(This entry is an additon to my previous post, and dedicated to you who don't want to lose your job.)

After five months of working her ass off [read: fighting with the upper managers because her standards are not followed; shouting at the managers who cannot approve her request; and having resentment at her team leader because her baby dog died], only her spirit remains in the office. Whenever I go to her station, I can still feel that aura which once dominated the room. That is why I keep binding and casting everyday:

"In the mighty name of Jesus, I bind and cast all the evil spirits in this room. I bind and cast them at the foot of Your cross to be gone forever. I ask for Mama Mary's mantle of protection to cover us. And, I ask the Holy Spirit to fill the void that the evil spirit has left behind."

I know she'll remember me, and yes, I will remember her. Among the hundreds of interviewees I had, she's the only person whom I regret hiring. Though I want to forget her, I can't. Her character is too strong to just ignore that is why she's in my page now.

That's what she is to me--a character in my office diary. Despite the disrespect I got from her [accepting the fact that she's way, way too old to be my Subordinate], I still thank her for the lessons I've learned:

1. She made me realize that you can blame your manager for your dog's death, and be resentful forever.

2. She also taught me that your status of employment depends on how you conceitedly keep your own "standards."

3. She gave me a reason not to hire applicants who wear market slippers, 3/4 jeans, and a plain shirt despite their work experience and qualifications. Wearing such during the interview, now I realize, gives questions like "Are you really a college professor?" "Did you really train in the states?" "Have you really worked for 10 or more f***ing years?

Gah! So many lessons! But among which, the most important is very simple:

FOLLOW HER FOOTSTEPS TO LOSE YOUR JOB IN NO TIME.

Redefining Good Work Quality

2010-03-17T02:02:00.002+08:00

Imagine a round woman—more or less 50 years of age. Her hair is short which hardly reaches her earlobes. Her eyebrows are darkened with a black pencil and they look like unfinished 2D drawings of lightning above her black eyes in which you could never see any element of humility. Her round face is not lined with wrinkles except for the eye area. She always wears a red lipstick and a blush on which are never simple on an ordinary day. Her shoulders are not broad but her arms are—the sleeveless blouses that she wears everyday just cannot hide those flabs. She often dons jeans and sandals at work.

If only you could hear her brag about her being a college professor and see the way she dresses at work, you will surely think twice. During the interview, she was the most noticeable applicant because of her attire—a plain T-shirt (like the normal shirt I wear at bedtime), “3/4 jeans,” and rubber slippers with fat heels (the one moms usually don for wet market shopping).

But, why did I endorse her for the final interview? I had one reason then: she was an experienced English teacher and she seemed to promise good work quality. She was trained not as a teacher anymore but as an evaluator who rates the English tests taken by students.

Good work quality? She had it. Her English skills are great! But, let us redefine good work quality. If you studied abroad and you have high standards, do you have good work quality? If you were a college English professor for long years, do you have good work quality? If you know better than your superiors, do you have good work quality? If you say yes to all these questions, think again.

This woman has always been present at work, but she always requests for leaves and half-days or undertimes. She does her tasks quickly. She never complains about her salary. She can do everything save for two things—listen and follow. She could listen sometimes, but she could not follow because she stands by her standards. She follows sometimes, but she simply listens by ears and not by heart. Because she has her own standards of good work quality, she was cut from the company.

Now, let’s get back to good work quality. With her situation, good work quality can be defined as the combination of the employee’s and the company’s standards. Yes, you may have your own standards and they could be high because of your training somewhere in the middle of out there, but you must always meet the standards set by the company. Who knows the clients and their needs best but the company itself? These standards are set by the company to get through its target market and protect its reputation. Otherwise, let the employee do everything including marketing, planning, advertising, and managing clients. This is the good work quality that you should have. This is the good work quality that that woman does not have.

So if you are the type of an employee who rebels against the management because you want to preserve the standards you have learned from your training in Mount Tralala, think of this woman—50 years of age. Her hair is short which hardly reaches her earlobes. Her eyebrows are as dark as the woods burned for nothing.

Third Chapter: How to be a Manager and Some Office Diaries

2010-03-16T02:23:00.006+08:00

You might read this or not. If you do, maybe, you are just a bored person who happens to have clicked a link which directed you to this site, and most probably you will close this window after reading a sentence or two. You may be just anyone who is bored of or rather pissed off of office stuff--paper works, interviews, absent employees, problematic boss, paper works, interviews, absent employees, problematic boss, paper...and the same s* goes around everyday. I'm not saying that I'm bored in the office or I'm pissed off of my daily routine. A big No-No! In fact, I am enjoying my current status for only one thing: I am learning. Despite the back pain and the back pain (because that's what this job has been giving me lately), I am grateful that I am in my position right now.

I am not the Manager. I'm the one behind that person, the Assistant Manager. And, yes, I am still struggling to be one since I got promoted six months ago. When I realized that I am blessed, I promised myself to serve God through my work--through my co-employees and my bosses. But sometimes, everything just gets on my nerves and I become a monster, which is very unlikely of me. This makes me think then. Am I on the right path? Am I with the right people to learn from? Am I learning the right things--how to manage people properly; how to make the right decisions; how to be a manager--a good one!

Thus, this new chapter in my blog comes in. How to be a Manager and Some Office Diaries will contain mostly about me learning the grips of a managerial position, feeling the emotions that an assistant feels, expressing my unheard [chartered] ideas, sharing some office controversies and gossips, and basically writing my unprescedented state of mind on various topics which could be about personal or too personal experiences, politics, showbiz, or travel. You can't choose, of course, because this is my page.

I'm just hoping that somehow, no matter who you are, may you be my accidental reader or my avid follower; a certified bum or a bored employee or a self-declared self-employed; a confused fresh grad or someone who's planning to chase your own dreams, I may share something important with you. Something that is basically my secret.

New blog or Stay? Hmmm...

2010-03-09T22:42:00.002+08:00

I've been thinking about creating a new blog. No, I won't leave this blog. It's just that I have a lot to share about my new job/post which I think some young leaders can get lessons from...Or, it's just a wishful thinking that people could learn from me.

Well, there's nothing wrong with the idea of sharing experiences/situations on being a newbie Assistant Manager. I have a lot to share about funny interviews, colorful personalities, employee management, and even boss management.

I still have time to think about it. Hmmm...
Or, maybe I shall just stay here.

I got an idea! (hope I have time to manage this blog.)

Should have been sleeping by now...

2010-03-08T01:29:00.002+08:00

I will wake up early tomorrow.
Since the first day of March, I have been waking up early (or have been forcing myself to wake up early) because of many reasons. However, my top reason is to avoid the feeling of being pressured because it brings stress to my day. I wasn't like this before. I cared about the time but I wasn't really bothered whether I was late or not.

But these days, the direction of the wind has changed. I hate the feeling of being late. I hate thinking that I need to do a lot of things but I have so little time. I hate the idea that some people are expecting me to arrive early everyday. I just hate it all!

What can I do now? I'm tempted to stay late because of my laptop. harhar! I wanted to read the Sidetrip magazine, but this laptop is just alluring. Thanks to my dear honey, I got this for a reasonable price. Thanks to Edubox, I got enough bread on my table. And thanks to my family, I have this motivation to keep moving forward.

Well, tomorrow when I wake up, it will be a new day. I pray that all hurts and wicked doings of last week has vanished, and I pray that my colleagues will find meaning to whatever they are busy with everyday. That's it for tonight because it will be two in the morning in 17 minutes, and I should have been sleeping by now.

When Friendship Turns Ugly

2009-11-20T19:11:00.007+08:00

Teacher: Jun, can I tell you something?

Jun: Yes.

Teacher: Teacher is sad today (draws crying eyes on the whiteboard).

Jun: Why?

Teacher: I will tell you the story (starts drawing stick people). This is teacher. This is teacher's friend. Teacher and friend are very happy together. (Draws a stickman) But one day, friend has another friend. They are very happy together. So, teacher has no more friend. Teacher is alone. Do you understand, Jun?

Jun: (draws a stickman in front of my stick-image) Teacher boyfriend. No more sad. Teacher is happy. (He draws a heart for teacher and her boyfriend and a broken heart for friend and her boyrfriend. He also draws an ID for teacher saying "Pia good teacher/manager.")

I was just so happy that this student touched my heart. He always wants me to smile. He even wants me to eat when I say I'm hungry. I lurve this kid!

Where Have All the Flowers Gone?

2009-11-05T22:24:00.006+08:00

I really have no idea what to write here.

It has been a month since my last post. And counting all my posts in 2009, 43 or so only imposes that I am not an avid blogger anymore. Whatever caused my lost of interest in blogging is yet I have to figure out. Or perhaps, it's not lost of interest but rather lack of time. The latter is more appropriate I think.

Since I got promoted two months ago, I totally lost time to write. I have been working for 10-12 hours since then, which has given me this kind of life: sleep at 2-3am; wake up at 11am; at the office by 12pm or 1pm; go home at 11:10pm; arrive at 11:30pm; dinner at 12am-1am; and the cycle goes like that.

That is also the reason why I still have one pending article for ZestAir. But looking back to that place--my topic--I think of nothing but sad pictures. Hurtful words. Bitter memories. No matter how I try to focus more on the positive side, the pain of that moment was just too strong to paralyze my hands.

My brain works sometimes though. Ideas come into mind and lots of things to say, but words still struggle to come out. The feeling is nothing far from being constipated--having something stuck inside your stomach so heavily that it gives you restlessness. In the end, you have no choice but to let it all out.

So here I am, starting to write again, but still wondering where all the flowers have gone.

Just sharing a quote

2009-10-01T00:43:00.000+08:00

"I can hide that pain that I feel and make others think that I can move on. But I can never deny the truth that the person who hurt me is still the person I wish to love me."

L.O.S.T. (or simply TIRED)

2009-09-27T01:41:00.002+08:00

I don't know whom to hold onto anymore...
I don't know what I want now.
I don't know what to do because I don't know what I must do.

the Battle

2009-09-03T00:39:00.003+08:00

(Warning for grammarwhores: this is how you overuse the conjunction "but.")

I am at peace with whatever I have right now.
But I want something. Something which can wait or not.
I want answers.
I want CLEAR answers.
I'm still loving, but it's not for other people anymore. It's for myself.
This love is becoming selfish, and that is the battle that's going through inside me.
I want to love more. But the more I push myself, the more my heart distances itself.
But if I succumb to the call of selfishness, I don't know if I will be able to handle it. I don't know if I can stand alone. But I want to know.
This is my new prayer, but I don't know if it's right.

Capping Off the Sad Week

2009-08-30T12:36:00.002+08:00

Bacolod is growing in my heart as a sorrowful city. It is becoming a city of hopeless hopes, where children are born endlessly and grow up without faith in God;
ungrandted wishes, where hearts' desires seem to be thwarted by reputation;
untrustworthy friendships--after five years, my best friend and I started to talk again to catch up with our lives. We started to share secrets and do the things best friends do. But it's just sad that everything turned out to be worthless because I felt my trust was abused. I don't know. Maybe, it's yet to be proven by time;
and lost loves, where two beings cry out to have a chance together but time and people won't give them that chance. I can wait, or not.
I must forget it. God has given me the gift of new Love, and I shall cherish it.

After my trip to that city, every single day of last week my brain was crushed by thoughts of the people who make my life both worth-living and miserable. It was full of "happy" but illogical ideas. Every single day, my heart was wrapped with worldly wishes thwarted by reputation. Thoughts like leaving another person for another; ruining my dreams just to get that chance, just to live the life I "thought" I lost since I moved to Manila. I know, everything is unclear.

But "prayer works best when nothing works at all." On Thursday morning, during my prayer time, I dropped all these sorrows in "Something For God To-do" Box and traded them for His Joy. What a wonderful feeling! That was a sweet moment between God and me. I was like a child sharing my problems to my Father.

And, what was God's answer?

On Friday, my mind was battling with my heart. I wanted to quit my job and just have another life. But God has equipped me with enough wisdom so my mind won. And I realized that doing the "right" thing always pays off when someone uttered these words: "Congratulations! The decision was unanimous. You are the new Assistant Manager."

Though I was shocked, I knew I was experiencing God's Love at that moment. He has never failed to make me feel worthy and important. God has never failed to put a smile on my face whenever I am so down. And when He does that, it means BIG SMILE =)

I'm sharing this not because I want to boast my new promotion. I just want you to know that whatever you're going through right now, God is watching you. He is waiting for your call. His SFGT Box is waiting for your problems. He is willing to give you rest from those sufferings, and He is willing to solve your problems. But remember, He does it in His time. Not yours. Whenever you're caught in the middle of complicated situations, think that it is God's opportunity to give you a BIG SMILE. So don't wait; call His name and Pray. You'll see. You'll be smiling before you know it.

Remotivation Needed

2009-08-17T22:35:00.002+08:00

"If you want to be happy, set a goal that
commands your thoughts, liberates your
energy, and inspires your hopes."

hmmm...what could it be? Money?

Pwede!

100K by December?

Pwede!

200K Next year?

Pwede!

No-more-angst kind of job?

Pwede!

Lahat naman pwede. Basta may motivation.

Every Move I Make

2009-08-06T16:57:00.003+08:00

Every move I make, I make in You
You make me move, Jesus
Every breath I take I breathe in You
Every step I take, I take in You
You are my way, Jesus
Every breath I take, I breathe in You

Waves of mercy
Waves of grace
Everywhere I look
I see Your face
Your love has captured me
O my God, this love
How can it be?

*These are quiet times for me. Yes, it sounds impossible with all my dreams, hopes, wants, and plans for the future. But, I take these times to be quiet so I can hear His voice more clearly. I listen, listen, listen very carefully.*

A Life of Your Own

2009-07-31T01:41:00.001+08:00

For YOU:

If you can produce at least 5K-15K a month...
If you want to reach Greenbelt, Glorietta, and Makati Med with a simple walk...
If you crave for an urban hotel-like living...
(skylounge,gym,theater,pool,and all that)
If FREEDOM is what you have been screaming...
Then, a first class Condo Unit is all you need.
0% interest for 24 months.
Bank Financing is available after 24 months.
No Tax.

This is not a joke. It's time to live the life you've imagined!
Contact me @ 0905-554-4161
pialayoso@yahoo.com

My new baby!

2009-07-28T11:21:00.004+08:00

I wished for just a 200-peso necklace, but I got this:

Thank you, honey!

My Birthday Wishlist

2009-07-14T20:07:00.003+08:00

*shout out to my friends and lovedones! kidding!*

I just want to post this because I'm having a brain diarrhea.

1. Necklace. silver or gold kahit peke. kahit 39.75 lang sa SM.
2. Body Shop White Musk cologne, perfume, or lotion.
3. Yun lang. hehehehe :D

I'm alive, alert, awake, enthusiastic!

2009-07-06T22:09:00.002+08:00

Finally, I have accepted that You and I don't exist anymore.

You were the first person I chose to love; yes, the one to whom my world went around. Your presence used to intoxicate me--brought my whole body to numbness until I totally succumb to despair. Just one call, even just a five-minute conversation made me want to relive the past as though pain was not part of it. Because of you, I learned what happiness, hope, patience, trust, and naiveness in their purest sense are. I experienced waiting, hoping that I would see you in six months, convincing myself to stay happy even if I was longing for you,

Die. Die. Die.

2009-07-03T16:49:00.002+08:00

I wanna die just for now, just for an hour just to stop my brain from thinking...
I'm getting tired of waiting...thinking...and working...
I just want to hybernate...

I am a Roller Coaster

2009-07-03T02:04:00.003+08:00

I'm in the middle of this line:

(+) ____________________________________________________ (-)

I, standing amid the line
of moving on or going back
like a roller coaster running
as fast as it can as though
it has never pass through the same trail
--a space full of rust, a love lost,
now wonder.

Wow! I See My Name and My Pwet in the Magazine!

2009-06-27T09:38:00.008+08:00

Yesterday, I finally got the June-July issue of 7,107 Islands Magazine.
I was disappointed because National Bookstore doesn't have it. But thank goodness! I found it in one of ATC's magazine stands; in front of Havin' A Baby shop. I was excited to see the article itself and how it was edited. After reading it again, I was glad that I could still recognize my sentences and words. From 1,500 words, it was cut to 1,201--not bad considering that it's my first time to submit an article to a magazine; and, the pay is still high. hehehe. Another surprising thing about the magazine is my picture. Though it's just my back, hey, it's still me!
If you want to read my article on Potipot Island in Zambales, get a copy of 7, 107 Island Travel Magazine.

Here are the pictures:
CORRECTION: All photos were taken by Ryan Espiritu. I just forgot to submit his name. :)

I messed up my mind; I don't wanna mess up other people's lives.

2009-06-26T16:59:00.002+08:00

So there, something like past luv is haunting me... I know it's just the "romantic feeling" that made me addicted to it and now I'm trying to forget it and move on.

Currently, my mind is so messed up.

I want you though it's wrong.

You can be my bitter-sweet mistake.

I want it. I want it all.

But...

It's just not right.

You are not right.

You have never been right.

You can never be right.

Period.

Some Office Pics

2009-06-05T23:08:00.012+08:00

Since we were both bored with the Newspaper, we just drew each other's faces and here's the result:

This is Mia and her Dolphins:

The Edubox TLs sans Ms. Wily and Sherill:

Change the Topic

2009-06-02T00:47:00.004+08:00

Puro na lang seryosong thoughts ang meron dito. Puro career at future. Ngayong naglalakbay at nag-eenjoy ako sa kasalukuyan, eto muna ang matinding Must-Read Comparison na dapat nyong mabasa--mala-Hatton versus Pacquiao ang labanan nito:

(galing sa email ni aki)
Havaianas Vs. Spartan

Pangalan: Havaianas

Lugar na pinanggalingan:São 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:Depende. Ganito na lang, 1 pares ng Havaianas = 100 pares ng Spartan.

Mga nagsusuot:Mga konyotik at mga mayayaman (na noong una ay nababaduyan sa mga naka-de sipit na tsinelas at sasabihing, 'Yuck! So baduy naman nila, naka-slippers lang.')

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 I-Pod at Caramel Macchiato
- 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!

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:ang masa (gaya-gaya lang ang mga sosyal at pasyonista)

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 piko
- Mainam na pambato sa picha o shuttlecock na sumabit sa puno
- Mainam na pangkulob sa pumuputok na watusi
- Kapag ginupit-gupit nang pahugis 'cube,' e maaari mo nang gawing pamato sa larong Bingo na
kadalasang makikita sa mga lamay ng patay.

Olats na mga katangian:
- Madaling magkawalaan kapag hinubad dahil halos pare-pareho lang ang itsura
- Masakit isuot kapag may mga balahibo ang mga daliri mo sa paa
- Minsan kapag ipinambato mo ito sa picha o shuttlecock na nakasabit sa puno, e nadadamay pati yung tsinelas

Happy Teacher's Day!

2009-05-16T02:14:00.009+08:00

Though our manager said it was Teacher's Day, I didn't feel its importance at all. Apparently, that's because our students are as far as staying on the computer screen everyday--that I can't do anything no matter how much I try to touch their heads when they're sad or tap their shoulders when they're sleepy or give them chocolates when they do their best.
And, they are not as sweet as Filipinos.

That was the case until one of my 24 students today sang a song. He sang heartily like he always does--eyes closed at times, falsetto for high notes, and some dance steps when he likes the beat. The problem was his song was in Korean. I didn't understand a word, so after his song, I chuckled and said "What does that mean?"

A short moment of silence.

"Teacher. Thanks," he replied.

I didn't ask him to sing a song for this special day for teachers. I was just trying to entertain him while I was doing something else, so I asked him if he had a song for me. Then, he just replied "Teacher's Day song." Then he sang.

I wish I could upload his video. I'll do my best to convert it. hehe.

PLUS: Living in the Present Pays Off

On the 7th of May, I celebrated my 1st year with my current company. That day was nothing special except that it was payday. *smiles mischievously* As of today, I have been here for one year and nine days--which count as my longest stay in a company.

I'm surprised with myself, actually. Unlike before, I hate absences and lates these days. I also don't want lousy work because I don't wanna get complaints. Funny how my professionalism has matured even in such a simple job. Well, I guess people don't need big companies to have personal growth. We just need to challenge ourselves to discover the limits of our body, mind, and spirit. Once you yourself have accepted that challenge, growth will eventually come like Wall-E's tiny plant in a ragged shoe.

That growth alone is good enough for me. But God, who has always been listening to my deepest prayers, has a special bonus. So on this special day for teachers, He gave me one big news--something I have been waiting for (since my friend Aimee read her Tarot cards in January of this year and said I would receive good news at work.)

A promotion. Nine team leaders including me. Ah...finally, career growth.
Thank you, Lord!

What's on the Edge?

2009-05-08T22:13:00.003+08:00

"Come to the edge, he said. They said:
We are afraid. Come to the edge, he
said. They came. He pushed them,
And they flew...""

Though I love teaching, it wasn't part of my plan to be a teacher. But still, I landed on this job. When I resigned as a web writer, I wanted to be in a call center to have an intense English training. Yes, I got in and the training was [if not the best] good. But I hated the job--explaining phone bills to Sprint line owners. And, I didn't want to be a bum again either. That is why I'm here.

I don't regret it though. I feel sad at times, yes, but my days here are passing as if it is my first day everyday. It's a good sign because that means I'm enjoying and learning. I think enjoyment and knowledge are the most fundamental factors why people stick to their jobs (setting money aside.) I'm still here. So, what's next?

Here's what I want to do--I want to go to the edge. Staying here makes me feel I still have more angles to explore. I have a lot of things to discover about the business, the field, and myself. When I say "edge," that means I want to reach the utmost level of this career.

Who says there is no growth in being an English teacher? Apparently, that belief is wrong. Though I feel stupid sometimes because my mind tends to shut whenever talking about other subjects ("What can you say about company lay-offs?") *Pia: nose-bleeding* It seems like my brain's only good for ABC.

But despite of that, I'm still happy with what I'm doing. Being a teacher is a fulfilling job especially when you see that your student is learning. If your student wasn't talking before but now he's already typing on the screen and answering in sentences, that's one good reason to be happy.

My journey to the edge of this career begins today. I'm not scared of what might happen to me. I don't care if I fail because I know that I would surely learn in the end. What I'm afraid of are simple matters--regrets and moments when I would feel numb and static. When I reach this level, that means I have come to the edge. And, that would be the time to move on.

Blame It on My Workaholic Brain

2009-05-02T15:49:00.006+08:00

I woke up this morning feeling the pain in my head for sleeping at 5am. I couldn't go back to sleep because of the light and my workaholic brain just wouldn't stop thinking. It thinks about everything and anything most especially of what I would become in the future.

These past few days, I have been contemplating on what I really want and what God wants for me. Thanks to the recently concluded YFC Camp in which I gave the first Talk (God's Love and His plans for us,) my brain stopped for a while. Finally, I have come to realize what God wants for me. Simple: to be happy in everything I do.

Funny, but I learned something from my talk.

I have been thinking of quitting my current job and going after my dream job. But now I don't have to make any hasty decision. I'm still happy with what I'm doing, and I feel that I'm growing as a professional and as a person. So, as long as I'm happy and learning, I will stay.

I don't know what the future brings, but I'm doing my best today to make it bright. I know there's a good future for me because I believe in God's promise (Jeremiah 9:11.) I don't have to worry about it because I know that God has prepared everything for me. And when I'm ready, He will lead the way.

As for now, I'm enjoying what I have--still feeling excited for God's surprises.

3 Trips to Choose From

2009-04-30T20:27:00.002+08:00

Since my first summer getaway went well, I feel like I want more! So here are the three trips I'm currently working on:

1. May 2-3 - Beach in Quezon
Budget: 800 or less

2. May 16-17 - Mambukal Falls in Bacolod
Budget: 5000

3. May 30-31 - Beach in Laiya, Batangas [company outing.]
Budget: more or less 1000

I will share the deatils once I have finalized all the plans for each trip.
*Notice to my friends: May 23-24 is still vacant.* ^_^

Life Update and a short leap of Faith

2009-04-15T12:13:00.003+08:00

This post is just an update on my life:

-> Right now, I'm working on some travel articles to be published in a magazine. I have submitted one already. If ever, that will be my first published article. I'm so excited about it.

-> I have finished my compilation of studies entitled: "Pedagogical Approaches for Online ESL Students" for my current company. This study is for my co-teachers especially those who do not have a formal teaching background. Though this presentation contains 99 Powerpoint slides, I'm sure they will appreciate it because all topics included are very helpful. Plus, it's easy to navigate by simply clicking on the links.

-> Dad had a sudden operation because of appendicitis. He's currently recuperating.

-> I had my first summer getaway in Zambales. We checked in Bakasyunan sa Baybay Dagat for a night. I don't know why the reviews about the place are so positive because for me, the place lacks a lot of good things. I and my friends had the same review: there's really no reason to travel 2-3 hours just to stay in Bakasyunan. It's an ordinary beach resort. It doesn't even offer good beach water. Yes, it's clean and well-developed [good cottages and facilities], but the beach is just the same with the low-end beaches in Batangas--dirty white sand, not-so-clear water, and jellyfish.

However, thanks to Potipot Island and Ocean Adventure for turning our nearly upsetting escapade around. The island was as good as Boracay in terms of beach water. Though it's under-developed, it's a good place to spend a summer weekend.

Meanwhile, Ocean Adventure was exciting. I loved the divers (GO Sergei!) and the dolphins. The sea lion show was a bit boring because it's too serious. But overall, the Ocean Adventure was a good way to end our Zambales tour.

So far, that's it. Still no update on my career quest. But I'm not losing hope. I'm simply taking my time and working on things one at a time. I'm keeping my faith.

Money. Money. Money.

2009-03-18T20:09:00.003+08:00

My Vessel of Honor calendar reads like this today:

"What the world believes to be the basis for happiness--namely, the accumulation of wealth and possessions--God considers to be the basis for sorrow."

How funny! Whenever I flip the page of this calendar, the Bible quote directly hits me.

These days, my aura has been low for many reasons. But looking closely at my depression, it is mainly caused by money. I'm upset because I want a lot of things in life:

- travel all over the Philippines
- own a travel agency that has several branches all over the country
- have a walk-in closet
- get a new desktop for my family
- transform our house in Bacolod to an apartment building that has a pension room on the uppermost floor
- develop our property in Antipolo
- have a legal property in Tagaytay
- and so on...

Along with the depression I feel from these want-to-haves is the frustration I feel from career-hunting. Honestly, now, I don't know where to go. I really am intrinsically schizophrenic. I want to be this and that. I want this and that. I'm getting tired of just wanting. Getting those things sounds better.

Well, maybe, I'm just being too impatient or too greedy. But either way, I'll still be depressed. How can I be patient and not too greedy?