12/28/2011

Litratong Pinoy#165 Tapos (End)

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I knew that the arrival of the firedancers signaled that the lighted floats were getting near and the Lamdag Dabaw (Christmas Light) parade was also ending.

Pilipino:
Alam kong ang pagdating ng mga mananayaw ng apoy ang hudyat na malapit na ang mga karosa ng mga ilaw at palapit na ang tapos ng parada ng Lamdag Dabaw.

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And I was right because right afterwards, these beautiful and colorful floats came after the dancers.

Pilipino:
At hindi naman ako nagkamali at sumunod kaagad ang mga nagagandahang karosang ito na punung-puno ng iba't ibang ilaw.

12/25/2011

Ruby Tuesday#129 Christmas Lighted Sleigh Ride

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Want a Christmas-lighted sleigh ride?

This is the 2nd year that our city is having the Lamdag Dabaw (Christmas Lights) parade. The parade started along R. Magsaysay Ave. and passed thru C.M. Recto Ave before culminating at the People's Park.

There were more people who watched the light parade than last year. Unfortunately, the parade started very late that we became impatient and tired. Nevertheless, it was really fun watching the floats and the walking lighted characters.

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A Christmas-lighted red pumpkin ride.


This is my entry for:

Go here to see more.

Christmas Bokeh

Finally, I did the Bokeh photography. For a long time, I wanted to try it but things got busy and it has gotten the backseat in my memory bank. The get-together with two of my photographer-friends this week gave me a chance to do it. So, here're some of my shots:

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By the way, Bokeh or boke in Japanese is the blur or out of focus area of an image. This is a photography technique usually used to emphasize a certain subject in the image.

12/20/2011

Ruby Tuesday#128 Hawaiian Christmas Party

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This was the backdrop of our stage for our office Christmas Party. The last time we had our branch's Christmas party was about four to five years ago. Because of budget constraints for the past years, we had our Christmas parties by our own group/division. So, the branch party was such a welcome change.

This is my entry for:

Go here to see more.

12/19/2011

Help For Cagayan De Oro And Iligan

I was clueless about what happened last Friday night. Busy with preparations for our office Christmas party, I thought it improbable that Typhoon Sendong will affect much of the southern Philippines considering typhoons are rarities in this part of the country.

Saturday morning, I was uploading our Christmas party photos on Facebook when I saw the horrendous flash flood victim photos. Initially thinking that they were victims of the past Ondoy and Peping floods, I said a few prayers for them until I started reading the accompanying posts. The photos were of victims of the Friday night’s deluge of flash floods in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan!

Let us pray and help the victims of the flash floods of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities. Go here on how to help the Sendong flood victims.

12/18/2011

Sunday Stealing#107

Today we ripped off a blogger named Tom Baker from the blog Morning Erection. (Tom points out that you shouldn't read much into his blog's name. It's a great blog.) This is an original meme and it's very first time posted. Tom asked us to rip it off and of course we are grateful! Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!


Sunday Stealing: The Community Meme


Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. As a blogger, what do you draw inspirations from for your posts?
Current news and issues and just about anything that interests me.

2. If you could swap blogs with another blogger for a post, who would you switch with and why?
Hm...too many to mention. There are just too many great bloggers out there.

3. If your blog had a theme song, what would it be? Why?
Can't think of one right now.

4. What is your writing process for a post?
If some idea crops up and I can't make a post right away, I try to take note of it so I don't forget. Then, I make the post as soon as I could get the chance to get online.

5. Your blog requires a cute, new, mascot - what would it be?
Garfield.

6. Do you feel you express your "true self" on your blog?
Yes, I think so.

7. What is your biggest online pet-peeve?
Spammers.

8. If you could live in a fictional universe, where would you live? Why?
A universe where people can fly and move quickly. I want to see more of the world, that's why.

9. You're having a bad day, you're upset, you're angry, or you're sad - what is your go-to comfort?
Gym, movie watching or eating.

10. What is your favorite inspirational quote?
Live life to the fullest.

11. If they were to make a movie based on your life, who would play you, your leading lady/man, your best friend, and your rival?


12. Do you think the world is going to end in 2012?
I hope not.

13. If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?
My frankness.

14. What is your favorite season and why?
Summer because the weather is always sunny and it's usually the time for travels.

15. You've been bitten by a vampire. Would you fight it with all your undead being or would you embrace it for all it is worth?
I'd probably fight it with all my undead might.

16. Have you personally met any of your blogger friends?
Yes, I met some during a bloggers summit years ago.

17. What does your favorite pair of underwear look like?
Clean.

18. Have you ever drank something right from the container in the refrigerator knowing other people will have to drink out of the same container later?
Yes, at home years ago when I was younger.

19. What is your favorite word and explain why?
Fighting. A favorite word I got from some Korean teleseries. It encourages people to fight.

20. 2011 is soon coming to a close, is there anything you'd like to do different on your blog in the year 2012?
I've been thinking of changing my template.

12/15/2011

In A Rut

I didn't update my posts here for the past days because I was too busy with work, too lazy to let my mind work and just been having less drive to blog anything about. I guess, it's a stage when any writer or blogger gets into sometimes. For whatever reason, I am trying to get out of this rut by trying to be more active in taking pictures in the hope of posting some of photos that I like. It's a good thing that there are several parties coming up in the coming days for me to enjoy taking photos.

Hopefully, I'll be able to update my posts here more next week. Let's wait and see..

12/12/2011

Ruby Tuesday#127 Red Christmas Balls

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I found these huge Christmas balls along the halls of Abreeza Mall.

This is my entry for Ruby Tuesday. Go here to see more.

12/09/2011

2012 Philippine Holidays

Finally, I got the list of the 2012 Philippine holidays. For what are this? For travel plans, of course! Here it is...

Under Proclamation 295 issued by Malacanang late Thursday, January 23 (Chinese New Year), which falls on a Monday, has been declared special non-working holiday.

"The joint celebration is a manifestation of our solidarity with our Chinese Filipino brethren who have been part of our lives in many respects as a country and as a people," President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, himself of Chinese heritage, said in the proclamation.

Although Malacanang said "23 January 2012 may be declared as a special (non-working) day without detriment to public interest," the said date is included in the official list of holidays. In 2012, there are six long weekends.

Complete list of 2012 Holidays:
A. Regular holidays:
New Year’s Day January 1 (Sunday)
Maundy Thursday, April 5
Good Friday, April 6
Araw ng Kagitingan April 9 (Monday)

Labor Day May 1 (Tuesday)
Independence Day June 12 (Tuesday)
National Heroes Day August 27 (Last Monday of August)
Bonifacio Day November 30 (Friday)
Christmas Day December 25 (Tuesday)
Rizal Day December 30 (Sunday)

B. Special (Non-Working) Days
Chinese New Year, January 23 (Monday)
Ninoy Aquino Day, August 21 (Tuesday)
All Saints Day, November 1 (Thursday)
Additional special (non-working) day November 2 (Friday)
Last Day of the Year December 31 (Monday)
C. Special Holiday (for all schools)
EDSA Revolution Anniversary
February 25 (Saturday)

12/08/2011

Litratong Pinoy#164 Golden (Ginintuan)

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This gold-painted structure is located near at the General MacArthur Landing Memorial in Paco, Leyte.

Pintadong ginintuan ang istrakturang ito na matatagpuan kalapit sa parke ng pagdaung ni General MacArthur sa Paco, Leyte.

12/07/2011

Here Comes Tom Cruise!

As one of Hollywood's big celebrities, Tom Cruise's absence never wanes his popularity. Now that the latest installation of Mission Impossible is out, my friends and I are really looking forward in watching the movie this coming December 15.

I liked the previous installments of the Mission Impossible and some its TV episodes. With Tom Cruise still on the lead,  who is also known for his daring stunts, the latest installment will certainly disappointment. So, here comes Tom Cruise and we're excitedly waiting.

12/06/2011

Adele's Rolling In the Deep



This song keeps playing inside my mind. I first heard in the gym while working out and it got stuck in my head. Now, it's my current favorite:) Love the lyrics too!

12/05/2011

Ruby Tuesday#126 Red Alien

Is it a red alien wreaking havoc in the city? No, although it looks like one from the back. He was one of the participants of Davao's First Lamdag Dabaw last year.

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For more Ruby Tuesday entries, go here.

12/04/2011

Davao City's Pasko Fiesta Is Up Now

This is the 2nd year that the city's Pasko Fiesta will be celebrated and several activities are lined up for this event. Last year, I was only able to watch the Lamdag Dabaw, the event's equivalent to world-famous Electric Light Parade with Christmas-costumed participants. For those who are interested to check out the schedule of the said events, go here.

In the meantime, my Canon cameras shall be cleaned in anticipation of the several colorful shots that I will be making around the city.

12/03/2011

Sunday Stealing#106

Today we ripped off a blogger and blog called BlueLifeMemories. It's long so we will do it in two parts. She states she stole it from a friend, but did not say which friend. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!


Sunday Stealing: The Blue Memory Meme, Part One

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1) If the whole world were listening to you right now, what would you say? Christmas is all about the birth of Jesus, not all about shopping!

2) If you could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be? The Pope

3) You just got a free plane ticket to anywhere. You have to depart right now. Where are you gonna go?
Call my boss to ask permission, pack up my bags and my Canon cameras and go to Italy or Spain.

4) What do you think about most?
Nowadays...it's all about a relationship that has gone sour.

5) You have the opportunity to spend a romantic night with the music celebrity of your choice. Who would it be?
Adam Levine of the Maroon 5. Wooot!

6) You can erase any horrible experience from your past. What will it be?
The death of my father.

7) What's your strangest talent?
I don't think I have one.

8) What would be a question you'd be afraid to tell the truth on?

Secret..tehehehe!

9) Ever had a poem or song written about you?
Nope. If somebody did, please tell me now!

10) When is the last time you played the air guitar?
Hmm..a few months ago.

11) Do you have any strange phobias?
None, so far.

12) What's your religion?
Catholic.

13) What is your current desktop picture?
An island with coconut trees.

14) When you are outside, what are you most likely doing?
Nowadays, I think, I've been paying bills too often.

15) What's the last song you listened to?
Carpenters' I won't last a day without you.

16) Simple but extremely complex. Favorite band?

Maroon 5, Queen, Savage Garden, etc.

17) What was the last lie you told?
That I didn't feel hurt when I felt really devastated.

18) Do you believe in karma?
Oh yes. I've seen it work several times.

19) What is a saying you say a lot?
Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

20) What is your greatest weakness; your greatest strength?
Weakness, procrastination. Strength, frankness.

21) Who is your celebrity crush?
Too many. All time crushes are Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt.

22) Give me the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word: heart.
Love.

23) How do you vent your anger?
There are so many ways...eat, workout, shop, read and pray, pray, pray.

24) Do you have a collection of anything?
Yes, I collect keychains, books, travel photos, refrigerator magnets and souvenir t-shirts.

25) What is your favorite word?
None.

12/02/2011

PhotoHunt#159 Ripped

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Kadayawan is not only famous for the fruits, the sights and the sounds of the festival but also for the celebrity-guests. These celebrities usually rode the Kadayawan floats during the parade. One of the celebrities I saw had the ripped muscles any woman would swoon over hehehehe! and he's cute too!

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Giant TV Network GMA's popular primetime TV show, Amaya, has its own float during Kadayawan festival. The float was one of the Kadayawan floats that people really flocked to during the Kadayawan floral float parade. Marian Rivera, Sid Lucero, some ripped-muscled and scantily-clad male casts were there too. The ladies were equally sexy too.

12/01/2011

Christmas Is On!

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For most Filipinos, Christmas season starts when the "ber" months start. So usually it's not surprising for some Filipino families to start their Christmas preparations in September. By that time, Christmas songs over the radio can be heard on air and malls would start displaying their Christmas decorations.

For my family though, our Christmas decorations come out at the start of December.So, let's start decorating! Christmas is on! Merry Christmas in advance to all!

11/30/2011

Litratong Pinoy#163 Pagdating (Advent)

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He was famous for the words, "I shall return." and indeed, Filipinos held on to that promise during World War II. To commemorate his return to the Philippines, a memorial of General MacArthur's landing along with his fleet in Leyte was erected.

Facts about the memorial (source:www.thetravelmart.net)
Situated in Red Beach, Palo, Leyte, the monument marks the spot where General Douglas MacArthur landed with the American Liberation Forces in 1944. The statues of the liberators stand in a lagoon, 1.5 times bigger than lifesize. It is also the site of the 50th Leyte Landing Anniversary Commemorative Rock Garden of Peace. A beautiful beach can be found in the area.

Pilipino:
Kilala siya sa mga katagang "Ako'y magbabalik." at pinaniwalaan ito ng nakakaraming Pilipino noong Ikalawang Pandaigdigang Digmaan. Sa pag-alala ng kanyang pagdating kasama ang kanyang mga sundalo, isang memoryal ang itinayo sa Leyte.


Ang monumento na nagtatanda sa lugar ng pagdating ni Heneral Douglas MacArthur kasama ang puwersa ng mga Amerikanong sundalo noong 1944 ay nasa Red Beach, Palo, Leyte. Ang mga istatuwa ng mga nagpalaya na tumatayong 1.5 pang mas malaki sa tunay na taas na tao ay nakatayo sa isang maliit na look. Dito rin makikita ang mabatong hardin na nagpapaalala ng ika-50 anibersayong ng Leyte Landing.

11/29/2011

Tuesday Travels#20 Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum


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The entrance fee took us by surprise. It was P200 per three persons and P30 per camera. Considering that there were four Canon cameras and one Sony digital camera among the four of us, we thought we would just take the photos from outside instead of going inside. The place looks rundown outside and I wondered what happened to the entrance fees that they've been collecting. The place would have been pretty if it had been maintained properly.

According to the locals, Tacloban's Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum was ordered built by then First Lady Imelda Marcos. It was situated just beside People's Center, another building from the Marcos era.

Here are some facts about the Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum (source:www.travelmart.net)
Located in Real Street, Tacloban City. Paintings of the 14 stations of the Cross done by Filipino artists, wooden bas-relief of the legend of the First Filipino man-woman (Si Malakas at si Maganda); tastefully decorated guestrooms of varied Filipino motifs; image of the Holy Child; a collection of original paintings by Fernando Amorsolo; spacious ballroom; priceless collector’s items.

11/28/2011

Holiday For November 30

Another holiday is coming up this week and I'm glad because work is getting more hectic as the year is coming to a close. November 30 is Bonifacio Day and it's a national holiday. Thank goodness for that.

Here are some facts about Andres Bonifacio from wikipedia:
Andr̩s Bonifacio y de Castro (November 30, 1863 РMay 10, 1897) was a Filipino nationalist and revolutionary. He was one of a founder and later the supreme leader of the Katipunan movement which sought the independence of the Philippines from Spanish colonial rule and started the Philippine Revolution. He is considered a de facto national hero of the Philippines.Bonifacio is also considered by some Filipino historians to be the first president of the Philippines, but he is not officially recognized as such.

11/27/2011

Ruby Tuesday#125 No Stopping

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There is no stopping us even with this sign which was installed at the San Juanico Bridge. We wanted to take photos, lots of it. So, we had no choice but get out of the car hurriedly to take some photos.

San Juanico Bridge has long been considered the longest bridge in the Philippines spanning about 2.16 kilometers from Tacloban, Leyte to Sta. Rita, Samar.

11/26/2011

Partner Requirement

An officemate just broke off with her boyfriend and started talking about how it was hard for her to maintain the long distance relationship with her ex-boyfriend who was a seaman. As our talk with two other lady officemates went along, we started to ask each other's partner requirement.

The one who had just broken up with her boyfriend wanted a guy who looks innocent or what we jokingly called "naive bordering to foolish looking guy", a God-fearing person, hardworking and someone that they can level with and talk to. The other lady wanted somebody who is taller than her, bald-headed, a guy who likes children and a guy that she could talk with any topic she would like to discuss. On the other hand, my partner requirement is a guy that I have the same interests like traveling, photography, movies and just being active. He should be hardworking, kind, a guy that I could talk with anything, somebody who is emotionally available and who will not and cannot take the things about us for granted.

I realized then we all wanted the same thing from a guy..somebody that we could talk with. Surprisingly, sometimes that the hardest thing that we can't find nowadays.

11/25/2011

Canon Photoskwela

Once again, Canon is having the Canon Photoskwela. For photographers, professional or amateur, just go to Activity Center, Abreeza Mall this coming November 27, 2011. The event will start at 10am up to 3pm.

To register, just email star_canon@yahoo.com and indicate your full name, contact details and Canon camera model.

11/24/2011

Litratong Pinoy#162/PhotoHunt#159 Handwritten (Sulat Kamay)

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These gift cards are older than me. They were handwritten and they came from the gifts received by my parents during their wedding day. My mother was able to keep them through these years. To preserve the memory of that day better, I decided to scan these gifts cards. I wonder where are the people who gave the gifts that my parents got during that day. I am sure, some of them are gone now.

Pilipino:
Mas matanda pa sa aking ang mga tarhetang ito. Ang mga ito'y naka-sulat kamay pa at ito'y mga tarheta ng mga regalong natanggap ng aking mga magulang noong araw ng kanilang kasal. Naitago pa kasi ng nanay ko ang mga ito at napagdesisyunan kong i-scan para naman mapreserba ang alaala ng araw na iyon. Nasaan na kaya ang mga taong pinanggalingan ng mga regalong natanggap ng mga magulang ko? Siguradong ang iba'y wala na.

11/23/2011

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Happy Thanksgiving day for my relatives and friends in the US. Anyway, let us not be thankful for this day but every day of our lives considering that each day is a new day of miracle.

For some of my friends and relatives in the US, I am sure some of you are already planning your Black Friday deals in advance. Hopefully, you'll get the best Black Friday deals that you've been eyeing lustily for days hehehehe!

11/22/2011

Tuesday Travels#19 San Juanico Bridge

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I can now tick off San Juanico Bridge from my bucket list. Finally, I was able to walk through most of its 2.16 kilometer length with my friends for almost two hours. The weather was crazy that Sunday (November 20) but excitement ruled more as only from the books did I previously see the famous bridge. Rain and sunshine showed off several times the entire two hours that we were there but we were determined to enjoy the view that this majestic bridge could offer. Cameras clicked almost non-stop even if it was raining. Our hired multicab driver drove by us three times going from Tacloban to Samar and back twice before we decided to finish our San Juanico Bridge adventure.

For those who haven't been there, it is a must-visit! The bridge is truly beautiful, rain or shine. Not surprising because it was supposed to be a gift from then President Marcos to his First Lady, Imelda Marcos, who is a native from Leyte.

Here are some facts about San Juanico Bridge from wikipedia:
The San Juanico Bridge, part of the Pan-Philippine Highway, stretches from Samar to Leyte across the San Juanico Strait in the Philippines. Its longest length is a steel girder viaduct built on reinforced concrete piers, and its main span is of an arch-shaped truss design. With a total length of 2.16 kilometers (1.34 mi),[1] it is the longest bridge in the Philippines spanning a body of seawater. It is considered one of the most beautifully-designed bridges in Philippines[2]. The bridge has 43 spans and medium size boats can pass beneath its large main arch the top of which rises 41 meters above the sea.[1] Construction commenced in 1969 over San Juanico Strait from Cabalawan, Tacloban City to the municipality of Santa Rita, Samar, with completion in 1973


11/21/2011

Ruby Tuesday#124

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These are part of the flower bouquets sold at the market. I took the photo during All Soul's Day to buy flowers for my father. The prices were too steep during this time but I wonder now how much these flowers cost these days. The florists may be having an early Black Friday sales considering there are no special occasions for the flowers nowadays.

11/20/2011

Breaking Dawn And Traveling

I wish I can watch the latest Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn, today but am on travel once again. I could only read the blog posts about the movie and I think, the movie is keeping to its promise of being a good watch. Anyway, with a hope that there will be some free time to watch the movie on our destination, am reading all I can about the much-anticipated wedding of the year, the Bella Swan-Edward Cullen marriage.

I wish I brought along the book, Breaking Dawn, to read while on travel. In that way, I could revisit the scenes before watching the movie.

11/19/2011

PhotoHunt#158 Wet

Sagada is not only known for its almost mystical rice terraces, very good hiking trails, ancient hanging coffins and limestone cliffs, it is also known for its majestic caves.

Sagada

The photo was taken inside the beautiful Sumaguing Cave, one of the more well-known caves if not the most popular cave in Sagada. Inside the cave are gigantic stalactites and stalagmites and for those who're planning to visit this cave, expect to get wet when you get inside. Its walls and floors are wet from dripping water and they actually glisten because of the minerals. Below the cave is a small pool for bathing (if one dares to rappel down the pool). The trip was a bit scary but really awesome and really worth it.


This is my entry for PhotoHunt. Go here for more.

11/18/2011

Time For The Bucket List


The movie, The Bucket List, with Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson made me think that indeed life is too short to be unhappy and miserable or life is just too short to let yourself chained to somebody or something that makes you sad and miserable most of the time. So, I made a promise to strive to always be happy, do good and make a bucket list for myself but somehow I got lost into the daily grind of the corporate world but recent changes in life, the death of my father and the loss of someone I truly hold dear made me face the future unpleasantly and with much wariness.

It would be easy to curl into a ball and lull myself to sleep to forget the grief and the heartbreak but reality always kick me hard back to wakefulness. One time while staring into space, the bucket list came back into my memory. Slowly, I started to write down one thing that I wanted to do on a small piece of paper and then, I wrote another and another.  Now, I have more than ten small pieces of paper gathered on small plastic rectangular box waiting to be discovered and to be enjoyed.

Just like in the movie, my bucket list would have been much more fun and life-changing if it is being shared with somebody. I would have loved to have someone go with me on my adventures from my bucket list but since I don’t have one now, I’ll just do it alone or whoever would come along interested enough to go with me.




11/17/2011

Litratong Pinoy#161 Basahan (Rag)

It is not easy being too kind and too giving sometimes. You're only given attention if you're only needed like these rags. They were hanged there by our neighbor outside. Rain and sun came and went on them and they even got dirtier but they were always there. They can only get out of there when they are needed.

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Mahirap pala ang sobrang mabait at mapagbigay minsan. Naalala lang kung kailangan ka na gaya nalang nitong mga basahang ito. Isinampay lang ng aming kapitbahay sa labasan. Naulanan, naarawan at nadumihan, andyan sila palagi. Kinukuha lang pag ginagamit na.

11/16/2011

Tuesday Travels#18 Agong House, Kapatagan

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It is an hour away from Digos City proper and considered a part of Sitio Kapatagan. Standing on the slopes of Mt. Apo, Agong house showcases well-known Davao artist, Kublai Millan's designs and sculptures. Agong house  has become a popular tourist destination among locals especially when it was known that the owner allows visitors to see his vacation house.

Shaped like an agong which is a musical instrument used by the Muslims and the indigenous people from the southern part of the Philippines, the house is a masterpiece in itself.  The garden is also quite an art piece too with a breathtaking view of the Mt. Apo and surrounding mountain range.

11/15/2011

Ruby Tuesday#123 Mr. Sho-Li Ballpen

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I call him Mr. Sho-li, the funny Chinese guy from a comedy show when I was just a kid. Mr. Sho-Li started as a character in a TV commercial about Chinese soup years ago. He became too popular that a spin-off comedy TV show was created for him. I loved watching that show.

Mr. Sho-Li is a ballpen given to me by a friend. She saw me throwing covetous glances towards Mr. Sho-Li and his friends who were standing on her ballpen stand. She made me choose and I picked him. He's my favorite among the bunch.

11/14/2011

What Should I Do To Marry A Rich Guy?

I found this from Facebook and not sure who originated this one but it has a good lesson to be learned so I thought I'd share this here..

"A Reply From CEO of J.P. Morgan To A Pretty Girl Seeking A Rich Husband".. !

A young 'n pretty lady posted this on a popular forum:

... ----------------------------------------------------
Title: What Should I do to Marry A Rich Guy?
----------------------------------------------------

I'm going to be honest of what I'm going to say here. I'm 25 this year. I'm very pretty, have style 'n good taste. I wish to marry a guy with $500k annual salary or above.

You might say that I'm greedy, but an annual salary of $1M is considered only as middle class in New York.

My requirement is not high. Is there anyone in this forum who has an income of $500k annual salary? Are you all married?

I wanted to ask: what should I do to marry rich persons like you?

Among those I've dated, the richest is $250k annual income,'n it seems that this is my upper limit.

If someone is going to move into high cost residential area on the west of New York City Garden(?), $250k annual income is not enough.

I'm here humbly to ask a few questions:
1) Where do most rich bachelors hang out? (Please list down the names 'n addresses of bars, restaurant, gym)
2) Which age group should I target?
3) Why most wives of the riches are only average-looking? I've met a few girls who don't have looks 'n are not interesting, but they are able to marry rich guys.
4) How do you decide who can be your wife, 'n who can only be your girlfriend? (my target now is to get married)

Ms. Pretty

A Philosophical reply from CEO of J.P. Morgan:

Dear Ms. Pretty,
I have read your post with great interest. Guess there are lots of girls out there who have similar questions like yours. Please allow me to analyse your situation as a professional investor.

My annual income is more than $500k, which meets your requirement, so I hope
everyone believes that I'm not wasting time here.

From the standpoint of a business person, it is a bad decision to marry you. The answer is very simple, so let me explain.

Put the details aside, what you're trying to do is an exchange of "beauty" 'n "money" : Person A provides beauty,'n Person B pays for it, fair 'n square.

However, there's a deadly problem here, your beauty will fade, but my money will not be gone without any good reason. The fact is, my income might increase from year to year, but you can't be prettier year after year.

Hence from the viewpoint of economics, I am an appreciation asset, 'n you are a depreciation asset. It's not just normal depreciation, but exponential depreciation. If that is your only asset, your value will be much worse 10 years later.

By the terms we use in Wall Street, every trading has a position, dating with you is also a "trading position".
If the trade value dropped we will sell it 'n it is not a good idea to keep it for long term - same goes with the marriage that you wanted. It might be cruel to say this, but in order to make a wiser decision any assets with great depreciation value will be sold or "leased".

Anyone with over $500k annual income is not a fool; we would only date you, but will not marry you. I would advice that you forget looking for any clues to marry a rich guy. 'n by the way, you could make yourself to become a rich person with $500k annual income.This has better chance than finding a rich fool.

Hope this reply helps. If you are interested in "leasing" services, do contact me.

signed,
J.P. Morgan CEO...

11/13/2011

Sunday Stealing#105

Today we ripped off a blogger named Tense Teacher from the blog Tense for a Reason. It's long so we'll do it in two parts. She stole it from The Coffee Table. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!


Sunday Stealing: The Madness Meme, Part 2

Cheers to all of us thieves!

23. Do you ever walk around the house naked? Half-naked, yes.

24. If you were an animal what would you be? Why? Cat. Because I can be independent, aloof and also knows how to have fun.

25. Hair color you like on someone you’re dating? Natural black color.

26. If suffering an injury, would you rather be left blind or deaf? Neither. I'd rather have all my facilities intact.

27. Do you have any special talents? Hmm..I can speed read.

28. What do you do as soon as you walk in the house? Check who's home already and check if there's something amiss.

29. Do you like horror or comedy? Comedy is much preferred.

30. Are you missing anyone? Yes.

31. Where do you want to live when you are old? Same city preferably with my own garden.

32. Who is the person you can count on the most? My mother.

33. If you could date any celebrity past or present, who would it be? Hugh Jackman.

34. What did you dream last night? I didn't dream of anything.

35. What is your favorite sport to watch? Tennis, mostly.

36. Are you named after anyone? Yes, St. Therese.

37. What is your favorite alcoholic drink? None.

38. Non alcoholic drink? Coke or rootbeer.

39. Have you ever been in love? Yes.

40. Do you sing in the shower? Sometimes.

41. Have you ever been arrested? God forbid, no.

42. What is your favorite Holiday? Kadayawan festival holiday which happens every 3rd week of August.

43. Would you ever get plastic surgery? I don't think so.

44. Have you ever caught a fish? Yes.

11/12/2011

PhotoHunt#157 Two

There was just one hanging bamboo bridge in Brgy. San Miguel, Bohol the first time I went there years ago to try it. Back then, only the locals and the curious cross the bridge that span part of Loboc River. But this has changed because early this year, I went back with my mother and was surprised to see that they've added another hanging bamboo bridge and that makes two hanging bamboo bridges. They are wider than the old one. For tourists, crossing the hanging bamboo bridge costs P10 per person.

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Easier to watch the people crossing the bridge but actually, a bit difficult to actually do it especially if there's rain. The bamboo can be slippery and the swaying can make one dizzy. Still, it's fun!

This is my entry for PhotoHunt. Go here for more.

11/11/2011

Seize The Moment!

The doctor told me that the disorientation that I have been intermittently feeling sometimes was caused by some sort of anxiety problems.

About to deny the diagnosis, I took stock of what I have been doing since the past few months. I have been busy with work, mostly. I traveled with my mother. Photography gained my attention and learning a new hobby was exciting. I tried starting my journal again but only put in a few pages and forgot all about it afterwards. Outwardly, I could've looked quite busy but at the back of my mind, I can hear my brain cells whirring and worrying about the household bills, the loans I took up when my father was hospitalized, my mother's health and advancing age, a relationship that should have moved on but cannot and at the same time, some small part of me also started worrying about my health and age, my status of why am I not married yet when in fact, I chose not to. Add to that, there are still moments that I mourn and miss my father and so on and so forth. I realized then, that yes, am having some anxiety problems. Not very visible because I have an active life which is quite a help but still, they are there.

I know now how it is to start growing old or how it is to start approaching middle age. Not there yet but getting there for me. With that thought, I promise to just seize the moment and be happy with what I have. If I can't, I need to pray more for the strength to just move on. C'est la vie! Seize the moment!

11/10/2011

Was It Real For Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries

I must admit I find Kim Kardashian unreal even if she is being called the reality TV mogul by some people. I caught the Kardashian curiosity after reading the news about her $2 million engagement ring or was the engagement ring? Given the shell life of Hollywood marriages, I got curious enough to follow the Kardashians on their reality TV show to see the guy who dared to buy the expensive ring.

Kris Humphries seems a nice guy and for a guy who bought that $2 million wedding ring for his bride, he must have really believed in what they had and thought that their Hollywood marriage could be different from the others. Sadly, celebrity life took a toll on their marriage and it only lasted for 72 days. I wonder, was it real for the two given the short span of their marriage?

11/09/2011

Litratong Pinoy#160 Gulong (Wheel)

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The Singapore Flyer is a ginormous ferris wheel located at the Marina Bay, Singapore. It is 42 stories high and is considered the tallest ferris wheel in the world. It takes about 30 minutes for the ferris wheel to complete its turn. The Singapore Flyer was built for three years and has the best views of Singapore and neighboring islands. There are restaurants and souvenir shops below the Singapore Flyer for the visitors.

Pilipino:
Ang Singapore flyer ay isang napakalaking ruweda na makikita sa Marina Bay, bansang Singapura. Ang taas nito ay apatnapung palapag at sinasabing pinakamataas na ruweda sa buong mundo. May mga tatlumpung minuto para makumpleto ang ikot ng ruweda. Ang Singapore Flyer ay ginawa sa loob ng tatlong taon at may pinakamagandang tanawin ng Singapore at mga karatig isla. May mga kainan at tindahan ng mga "souvenirs" sa ilalim ng Singapore Flyer para mga bisita.

11/08/2011

Ruby Tuesday#122 Red Chrysanthemum

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We had a long weekend holiday to commemorate All Soul's Day. Aside from the required cemetery visits, I did some cleaning around the house. Tired and bored, I decided to take photos of the flowers that we were to bring to the cemetery. We had different colors of chrysanthemums, baby's breath, roses and a decorative plant that even the florists did not know its real name. Anyway, here is one of the chrysanthemums that I did some macro shots on.

This is my entry for:

Go here to see more.

11/07/2011

Tuesday Travels#17 Bukidnon's Overview Park

Bukidnon Overview Park
Overview Park's helipad
The Overview Park is located Brgy. Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon. A project of Department of Public Works & Highways, it features several statues done by Davao sculptor, Kublai Millan. The statues of the tribal people of Bukidnon were scattered all over the park. The park itself is has a very good view of the municipality of Quezon and its surrounding areas.


This is my entry for:

11/06/2011

Driving Safely With Honda HIDs

Despite the fact that the Honda is one of the most beloved of all contemporary cars, it is consistently at the center of innovative additions. The newest trend that has developed over the past few years is Honda HIDs. These are specialized lighting systems that give an intense light, enabling the driver to see well beyond what a standard halogen can do. HID, or high-intensity discharge, is a headlight created to have a wider and extended reach to give a better viewing space during night time driving. This is created by heating a special inert gas called xenon.

Honda HIDs are not only a beautiful and effective addition to your vehicle, they are also simple to install and only need an additional ballast mounted in a safe and secure place. The ballast is utilized to change the 12v DC power output of your car to a rate that can heat the xenon gas that your vehicle could not otherwise do.

Along with the Honda HIDs there are also the increasingly popular LED lights that can add a substantial benefit to your automobile. These are bulbs that are highly energy efficient, long lasting, and due to the reduced manufacturing costs they are now inexpensive. Together, combined with the HIDs, these two lights create a nearly magical bluish white glow.



As you consider purchasing Honda HIDs take a moment to think about what its full benefit can be. These are not simply attractive lights that will add style to your Honda, but they are also capable of protecting you and your loved ones. If you consider that nearly 90% of what we judge as important information used in driving comes from what we can see, the idea of driving with limited sight because of an inferior halogen lighting system seems crazy. In addition to this, the fact that there are a smaller amount of other drivers on the road during the night time hours does not seem to help. According to statistics there are 60% fewer drivers at night, yet 40% of those injured during night time accidents result in death.

The fact remains that even though these are wonderful looking lights that add prestige to any car, it is an added bonus that they can be an assisting tool for survival.

Sunday Stealing#104 The Madness Meme Part I

Today we ripped off a blogger named Tense Teacher from the blog Tense for a Reason. It's long so we'll do it in two parts. She stole it from The Coffee Table. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!



Sunday Stealing: The Madness Meme, Part 1

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. Have you ever licked the back of a CD to try to get it to work? Nope. Does it work at all?

2. What’s the largest age difference between yourself and someone you’ve dated? 11 years.

3. Ever been in a car wreck? Nope, thank goodness.

4. Were you popular in high school? A bit, I was a choir member so our group was always part of our school's activities.

5. Have you ever been on a blind date? Almost but never.

6. Are looks important? Not entirely, character is more important.

7. Do you have any friends that you’ve known for 10 years or more? I have some.

8. By what age would you like to be married? It should've been in my 30s.

9. Does the number of people a person’s slept with affect your view of them? Not really.

10. Have you ever made a mistake? Yes, we all do.

11. Are you a good tipper? Sometimes.

12. What’s the most you have spent for a haircut? P250.00 with blowdry and shampoo.

13. Have you ever had a crush on a teacher? Nope..

14. Have you ever peed in public? Never tried that.

15. What song do you want played at your funeral? Haven't thought of that yet.

16. Would you tell your parents if you were gay? I think so.

17. What would your last meal be before getting executed? All my favorite food and the dessert should be durian.

18. Beatles or Stones? Both.

19. If you had to pick one person on earth to die, who would it be? I can't do that.

20. Beer, wine or hard liquor? Wine.

21. Do you have any phobias? None.

22. What are your plans for the future? I am thinking of taking up graduate studies or some business or entrepreneurship seminars.

11/05/2011

PhotoHunt#156 Light

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I've attended the wedding photography workshop a few months back. It was fun, exciting and I've really learned a lot from it. A teacher of photography once said, photography is knowing how to use light to your advantage by making good use of it to produce a good photograph. Well, I tried it on these pair of rings by doing a macro shot of them.

I used my Canon DSLR 550D for the photos. So far, this camera has made my photography journey fun and quite a learning experience for me. 

11/04/2011

November 7 Is A Holiday

Once again, we have a long weekend this week because November 7, Monday, is a holiday. In celebration of the Eid'l Adha or the “Festival of Sacrifice” for the Muslims.

I hope I can do some local travel in a nearby town, preferably Lake Sebu but nothing's confirmed yet because all my travel companion-friends are busy with their own schedules. Anyway, speaking of travel, Cebu Pacific Air promo just came out tonight. Local travels from Cebu to Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Boracay, Clark, Bacolod, Butuan, Dipolog and Dumaguete is only 0.88 while international flights Manila to Kota Kinabalu, Brunei, and Ho Chi Minh is only P888. Sale period is up to November 7, 2011 and travel period is on January 1 to March 31, 2012. Go to www.cebupacificair.com for more details.

11/03/2011

Curious With Kardashians

I just had to laugh and then, cluck in wonder. I was just starting to watch the Kim Kardashian-Kris Humphries wedding on cable TV this week and the news broke about their divorce broke. What?? That was short of a multi-million dollar wedding!

My curiosity and boredom with TV shows took over a few weeks ago. So, I started watching Kim and Kourtney Take New York. What with the Kardashians being always visible on TV and internet that even if I don't care much about reality shows, I took a few minutes to watch this family go about their celebrity lives. For awhile, it was interesting watching them living a somewhat charmed life but I got bored with all of it because reality shows (except The Amazing Race) really bore me to the bones, with or without celebrities on it. Then, I decided to watch the much-anticipated Kim Kardashian-Kris Humphries wedding on TV just because I want to see Kim in her wedding gown by Vera Wang. Well, it seems that the wedding was just for the show and money because just after more than two months, the marriage is now in crumbles. What happened to for better or for worse, till death do us part thing?

11/02/2011

Litratong Pinoy#159 Sementeryo (Cemetery)

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Every All Soul's Day, our family visits 3 cemeteries. This is why we really try to prepare early to avoid the magnitude of people visiting the cemeteries. The Chinese cemetery may not be as big as the other cemeteries that we visit but its traffic flow is better, and there are stores that clog the streets. This make our All Soul's Day much better.

Pilipino:
Tuwing Araw ng Patay, tatlong sementeryo ang pinupuntahan ng aming pamilya. Kaya't maaga pa ay nagkukumahog na kaming naghahanda para hindi abutan ng sobrang dami ng tao. Sa sementeryo ng mga Tsinoy, hindi man kalakihan kaysa sa ibang sementeryo na pinupuntahan namin ay mas maayos ang daloy ng mga sasakyan at limitado rin ang mga tindahang nagpapasikip sa mga daanan kaya mas maayos ang takbo ng aming Undas.

11/01/2011

Tuesday Travels#16 El Nido, Palawan

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Palawan is my most favorite place in the world. It's not home but I consider it paradise. Nowadays, Palawan is beset of abuse from man. News about mining, illegal fishing and more abuses have been destroying the place that is considered the last frontier of the Philippines. I am praying and hoping that these culprits be brought to justice and their evil deeds be stopped before the place a lot of people call paradise will turn into something ugly.

The photo was taken while we were doing our island hopping at Bacuit Bay, El Nido, Palawan.

This is my entry for:

10/31/2011

Ruby Tuesday#121 Red Mickey Mouse

I think, people wearing Halloween costumes is increasing every year. Not that I am against with it, it's just that it gets me wondering if people are actually missing the real sense of Halloween, the paying of respects to our dead.

Anyway, I saw this Red Mickey Mouse on the stands of Gonuts Donuts. They just opened a new branch in Abreeza Mall. I didn't try this one though but instead opted for their ube-flavored donuts. Yummy but too sweet for me.

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This is my entry for:

Go here to see more.

10/30/2011

Sunday Stealing#103


So we are asking you to join us starting Wednesday. We know it's a long way to Hump Day and Jennifer's next W.T.F. Meme on Wednesday. So if you like these questions, write a note to join us starting on this Wednesday! We have nothing to do with her meme, other than enjoying participating in it. So I was happy when she gave me her permission to promote the blog in search of players. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The W.T.F. Meme

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. One of my favorite TV shows recently changed the actors who played two characters. Have you ever been bothered by a TV show or movie series changing actors who play a character you love?
I used to get bothered when I was younger but as I grow older, I learn that things really change for better or for worse.

2. A coworker recently shared a link to a blog listing the "five things you should know before dating a journalist." As a journalist, I can honestly say the writer was spot-on. What are some things people should know before spending time with you?
Hmm..that I like to be active and spending time together doing something is better for me most of the time than just staring at the world spinning around, that I don't like watching TV too much, and I still like Andre Agassi after all these years. 

3. What is something you often do without realizing that you're doing it?
Lately, I've been promising myself that I'd sleep early but I still end up sleeping very late.

4. Who has the capacity to make you angrier than anyone else in your life, and what in particular does he or she do to make you so angry?
Nowadays, my nieces. They are at the stage where they like to test any adult's patience to the max.

5. If a fairy waved a magic wand and gave you the house of your dreams, where would it be and what features would it have?
My dream house would be on a hilltop overlooking my city and/or a body of water. It should have very good security (CCTV, motion detectors and the works), a garden and it should be located where it is easily accessible to essential amenities.

6. What’s a belief that you hold with which many people disagree?
I believe that there's a limit in financially helping somebody especially relatives if they are not helping themselves. My mother and brother and some relatives don't believe in that.

7. I used to talk in my sleep. In fact, I could carry on a conversation with someone when I was fully asleep, and my mom used this fact when I was a teenager to find out if I did anything wrong and was hiding it from my parents. If you were talking your sleep tonight, what do you think you would say?

8. The fourth installment of the "Twilight" movie series ("Breaking Dawn Part I") will be released in theaters soon. Movie theaters started selling advance tickets for midnight showings months ago. Have you ever attended a midnight premiere showing of a movie?
Yes, years ago but I've forgotten the title of the movie. Although I'm looking forward to the latest installment of the Twilight movies, I'd rather go to the regular showing.

9. On Tuesday, tigers, lions and bears were let loose in Zanesville, Ohio, by their owner before he committed suicide, leading to a hunt in which 49 of the animals, including 18 endangered Bengal tigers, were killed. How would you react if you saw "Caution exotic animals. Stay in your vehicle" being displayed on a road sign?
Heck, follow the sign. I still believe that they should've tried drugging the animals than killing them.

10. If a company opened a theme park aimed at adults, what would you name one of the rides?
Stress shout-out ride.

11. Imagine you just moved onto Sesame Street. Which puppet would you want as your new roommate?
Big Bird.

12. Have you ever had a weird crush on a famous person that didn't make sense to you?
Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise. Both famous and married and I still have a crush on both of them. That's nonsense.

13. If you get ten minutes to interview any celebrity of your choice, who would you like it to be?

Lady Gaga or Barack Obama.

14. You've just won the complete DVD collection of all the movies starring one actor or actress. Which actor/actress would you pick?
Tom Cruise. He's had some really good movies.

15. Actor George Clooney recently told People Magazine that he doesn't use Twitter "because I will drink in the evening and I don't want anything that I could possibly write at midnight to actually end my career." What is something you've said through social media and then regretted it?
So far, I haven't regretted anything yet but George Clooney is wise with his decision.

16. VH1 has re-introduced its hit show "Pop-Up Video," which gives behind-the-scenes facts for popular music videos. What musician would you be most interested in learning behind-the-scenes facts about?

Too many but I'll mention the top three: Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Madonna.

17. If you stumbled across someone's personal written journal that was accidentally left in a public place, would you read any of the content?
I might browse a bit but not read them all.

18. What is the title of a self-help book that you'd never want to see on a store bookshelf?
There are too many self-help books out there that should've not been there. So, I can't of one that I would not want to see on a bookshelf because likely, it'll be there or on the internet.

19. Many media outlets have been asking this question a lot this week... Which Halloween costume do you think will be overdone this year?
The witch, the vampire and the skeleton.

20. Should a marriage license have a renewal date or expiration date, like a driver’s license?
This has been the subject of debate a few months back when a politician suggested the marriage license renewal. I personally agree on it.

10/29/2011

PhotoHunt#155 Broken

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I thought this cone-like chandelier was made of broken glasses. To satisfy my curiosity, I took closer shots and found out that the chandelier was actually made of feather-shaped glasses stuck together to shape like a cone. The chandelier was inside one of the function rooms of a well-known hotel in our city.

This is my entry for PhotoHunt. Go here for more.

10/28/2011

Early For Halloween Costume Party

A former officemate came in today wearing an all-black attire, high heel wedge and with a fully made-up face and dark shady eyes. She looked all set for a party and it was only late afternoon when she came in. What completed her attire was she was carrying a scythe. It was a plastic one but it actually completed her early Halloween costume.

She told us that her co-passengers in the jeepney she rode on our way to the office also made fun of her. She said that the driver said she looked scary enough even in broad daylight. Anyway, she brought along with the scythe her godson's Halloween costume. Apparently, the boy was afraid of scary Halloween costumes that her mother and godmother decided to buy him one so he can wear them for the Halloween party that night to enlighten him that those costumes are really unreal and made-up.

10/27/2011

Litratong Pinoy#158 Matamis (Sweet)

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Sigh..how enviable! The sweet smiles and the sticky stares. Instead of continuing to get envious, I chose to just look at them behind my Canon camera and just shoot their photos along with my photographer-companions.

Pilipino:
Hay!! kainggit! Ang matatamis na ngitian at malalagkit na titigan. Kaysa naman patuloy sa katitingin at mainggit sa kanila, tinitigan ko nalang sila sa likod ng aking Canon camera at sumabay nalang ako sa paglilitrato sa mga litratistang kasama ko.

10/26/2011

Tuesday Travels#15 Lamdag Dabaw: Davao City's Pasko Fiesta

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Davao City's Pasko Fiesta started just last year. It was a one week celebration and was held a few days before Christmas. One of its highlights is the Lamdag Dabaw or the Lights Festival. It was held in the evening and the one in the photo was one of the participants.

This is my entry for: