Litratong Pinoy#95 Estranghero(Stranger)

I love to travel but I don't want to be a stranger in my own country; this is why whatever others say that it is cheaper to travel to foreign countries like Hongkong, Singapore and etcetera, I still make it sure along with my friends to travel around the Philippines every year.

Pilipino: Mahilig akong magbiyahe kaya lang ayokong maging estranghero sa sariling bayan kaya naman kahit sabihin pa ng karamihan na mas mahal ang mamasyal sa Pilipinas kaysa pumunta ng karatig-bansa gaya ng Hongkong, Singapore at iba pa, sinisiguro kung taun-taon kasama ng aking mga kaibigan ay nakakapasyal kami dito sa Pilipinas.

Ngayong taon ay nalakbay ko ang:
This year I was able to travel to:

Banaue


Sagada


Mt. Pinatubo


Batangas


I hope I get lucky to travel again this year. Come on, let's travel!

Pilipino:
Sana, palarin akong makapagbiyahe pa ngayong taon. Halina, biyahe tayo!

Charice Pempengco: Pyramid

Have you heard of the song, Pyramid? It's upbeat, it's danceable and really well-done. It's the latest from Charice Pempengco and it's really doing well in the Billboard for weeks now.

Like Ariel Pineda, the diminutive girl with the big voice is making the Filipinos proud. I'm really happy to see both of them doing really well internationally in the music scene.

Click here to see Charice's new single, Pyramid.

Another Aquino for Philippine President

It looks like the Philippines is going to have another Aquino for a president. Already, four presidential candidates of the 2010 Philippine election have conceded their defeat in favor of a scion of the democracy icons in the Philippines, Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III.

If only Gibo Teodoro opted to run for the senatorial seat instead of running against his cousin, Noynoy Aquino, I am sure that he could've won as a senator resoundingly.

I wonder if Kris Aquino would make good of her promise that she would live abroad should Noynoy wins.

In the meantime, I do hope that Joseph "Erap" Estrada who is running on second on the presidential race, will now concede his defeat soon and not just wait for the Congress' canvassing results.

Ruby Tuesday#49 2010 Philippine Election Day

Yesterday was the 2010 Philippine Election Day. Eligible voters flocked to their voting precincts to cast their votes and choose the next generation of leaders. There were more people in the voting centers when we got there and if my observation was right, there were voters now than before. Probably, people were more curious about the first ever automated election to happen in the country.

My prayer is that people voted wisely and without fear from any man. Our votes today will decide for the country's future and the next generation.

Updates on Philippine 2010 Election

Today is the Philippine 2010 Election and I wish every Filipino good luck. May we choose wisely for the betterment of our country and countrymen.

For any Philippine election updates, go to these links:

• ABS-CBN Halalan 2010
• GMA News Eleksyon 2010
• BlogWatch
• Decision 2010
• AES Watch Citizens Election Monitor
• 100Araw.com
• #JuanVote
• Election 2010 Updates

For those who're not sure of their precincts yet, just check www.comelec.gov.ph

Good luck, Philippines!

Sunday Stealing#43 The Speed Dating Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Nige Lowrey at the blog Nige's Page a' Rage. He states that he was nicking one of Rol's memes, but did not leave a link. 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. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Speed Dating Meme

1. What's your favorite Dr. Seuss book?
The Cat in the Hat, The Grinch

2. If you could live in any home on a television series, what would it be?
The homes of 90210 series of years ago.

3. What's the longest you've gone without sleep?
24 hours

4. What's your favorite Barry Manilow song?
He's one of my favorite singers so a lot of his songs are my favorites. The one that crops up in my mind right now is Even Now.

5. Who's your favorite Muppet?
Miss Piggy

6. What's the habit you're proudest of breaking?
Not working out.

7. What's your favorite website?
Too many. Google comes first.

8. What's your favorite school supply?
Pens and notebooks.

9. Who's your favorite TV attorney?
Ally McBeal (Calixta Flockhart) and Attorney Bobby Donnel (Dylan McDermott) of The Practice

10. What was your most recent trip of more than 50 miles?
Banaue, Sagada

11. What's the best bargain you've ever found at a garage sale or junk shop?
So far, none yet.

12. Where were you on September 11, 2001?
At home watching TV. I initially thought it's just a TV show until I realized it was a real thing.

13. What's your favorite tree?
Fire tree

14. What's the most interesting biography you've read?
Jose Rizal, our national hero

15. What do you order when you eat Chinese food?
Noodles.

16. What's the best costume you've ever worn?
None so far.

17. What's your least favorite word?


18. If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Georgia, because I like the name.

19. Who's your favorite bear?
Winnie the Pooh.

20. Describe something that's happened to you for which you have no explanation.
Right now, it's about my father's recently discovered illness. He has been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma and no matter how the doctors explain about it, we can never really know why and how are we going to tackle it.

21. If you could travel anywhere in Africa, where would it be?
Anywhere in Africa where I can see lots of wild animals roaming free.

22. What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Rice and veggies.

23. Where do you go for advice?
Close friends, internet and books.

24. Which do you use more often, the dictionary or the thesaurus?
Dictionary

25. Have you ever been snorkeling? Scuba diving?
Yes, several times on snorkeling. Done scuba diving once and I want to try it again.

PhotoHunt#87 Mother

I noticed that whenever a kid gets lost or being seen walking alone unaccompanied, the first question that pops up in people's mind is "Where is your mother?". Somehow, it's a universal feeling that mothers will be always be there for their kids no matter what.

These local boys (as can be seen on the right part of the bridge) were playing on the bridge but I never really minded them as I took pictures with a friend. I was thinking they were used to this bridge more than I do and they won't be having any trouble.



But when I saw this little girl crossing the hanging bridge at the back of our Banaue inn without an adult accompanying her. My first thought was, "Where is your mother, little girl?" I looked around thinking that somebody would go after her but nobody came. The bridge was about a hundred feet high above a steep ground but she was just oblivious of the danger she could be in.



I was momentarily relieved when I saw this lady talking to her as if she was trying to convince her to take her home but then, the little girl continued running across the bridge after their talk. It was only after the little girl passed through the bridge and went up the stairs to the houses that I breathed a sigh of relief.



To all mothers today especially to my mother, thank you so much for everything and HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

Can't Be Tamed by Miley Cyrus

Have you seen Miley Cyrus' new music video, Can't Be Tamed? It's upbeat, edgy and a different Miley Cyrus has emerged.

Her legion of fans will be surprised that the girl-next-door image of Miley is starting to shed off via the Can't be Tamed music video. As for me, I felt like it's Britney Spears era all over again. Not complaining though as the song is quite danceable.

Litratong Pinoy#94 Bulaklak (Flower)

I saw this flower stall  in Plaza Miranda, Quiapo. At that time, there were a lot of people at the plaza. It was messy, noisy, colorful and there were too many things to see, which include these flowers that somehow gave color and joy among the maze-like surroundings.

Nakita ko itong tindahan ng bulaklak sa Plaza Miranda, Quiapo. Ang daming tao noon sa plaza. Ito ay magulo, maingay, makulay at maraming makikita, kasali na itong mga bulaklak na kahit papaano'y nagbibigay ng kulay at saya sa masalimuot na kapaligiran.

Pacquiao-Mayweather Fight?

Now that Mayweather defeated Mosley, what’s next? If only Mosley defeated Mayweather, the story of a possible Pacquiao-Mayweather fight could have died down. Or could it?

Nonetheless, it is interesting to note that Pacquiao is now agreeing for a blood and urine test prior the fight. The same tests that he turned down before agreeing to the Pacquiao-Clottey fight which happened last March 2010.

Pacquiao-Mayweather fight will surely be quite an interesting bout as both boxers are touted as the best pound for pound boxers of the world.

Ruby Tuesday#48 Flowers of Caleruega

These are some of the flowers I've seen in Caleruega Church, Batangas. This one below was standing off right the ground. Not sure if it's a dragon fruit flower but it sure caught our attention.



The flower on the photo below was hanging from a vine. I initially thought it was a poinsettia hanging off the side of the building but upon closer look, it looked quite different.



This is my entry for:

Go here for more Ruby Tuesday entries.

Mandatory Pag-IBIG membership for OFWs

It used to be that Pag-IBIG membership for OFWs is voluntary with terms of 5, 10, 15 and 20 years. However, with the new Pag-IBIG Fund Law of 2009, OFWs are now covered mandatorily.

This is really an advantage as it is a common knowledge that a lot of Filipino overseas workers find it difficult to save for their future or old days inspite of working abroad for several years. With the mandatory coverage, our OFWs will have no choice but to save which in the long run could actually help them and their families during times of need.

Under the mandatory coverage, there are various benefits to be had for the Pag-IBIG members. These are:

Savings. Remitted members’ contributions earn dividends, tax-free and government guaranteed. Last year, Pag-IBIG declared a dividend rate of 5%, which is quite high compared to bank interests which barely reach 3% in most cases.

Short Term Loans. These loans are available for active members of at least 24 months to help in their financial needs. Loanable amount is about 60% to 80% of the total contributions inclusive of dividends of the borrower payable in 24 months.

Housing Loan. Members with good standing can avail of home financing loan with an interest rate of as low as 6% to 11.5% payable in 30 years. Maximum loanable amount is P3 million. Housing loans cover the following loan purposes: purchase of foreclosed property, lot purchase, ch

For more details, check out Pag-IBIG Fund’s website at www.pagibigfund.gov.ph

Sunday Stealing#42 The Question Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Haruechan at the blog Haruechan's Journal. She states that she took it from diek09. 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. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Question Meme

01) Are you currently in a serious relationship? No

02) What was your dream growing up? To be a doctor and to travel the world.

03) What talent do you wish you had? Dancing.

04) If I bought you a drink what would it be? Coke or iced tea or pineapple juice.

05) Favorite vegetable? Mongo beans.

06) What was the last book you read? City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

07) What zodiac sign are you? Libra.

08) Any Tattoos and/or Piercings? Explain where.Just my ears.

09) Worst Habit? Procrastinating.

10) If you saw me walking down the street would you offer me a ride? Sure.

11) What is your favorite sport? Tennis, badminton, boxing.

12) Do you have a Pessimistic or Optimistic attitude? Both but I strive to be optimistic more.

13) What would you do if you were stuck in an elevator with me? Pray that we get unstuck immediately.

14) Worst thing to ever happen to you? Being dirt poor.

15) Tell me one weird fact about you. That I have tons maybe thousands of printed photos.

16) Do you have any pets? Yes, 7 cats and 2 dogs.

17) What if I showed up at your house unexpectedly? Then, I'll welcome you.

18) What was your first impression of me? Funny and interesting.

19) Do you think clowns are cute or scary? Scary.

20) If you could change one thing about how you look, what would it be? Right now, my hair and my teeth.

21) Would you be my crime partner or my conscience? both.

22) What color eyes do you have? Black.

23) Ever been arrested? No.

24) Bottle or can soda? Bottle.

25) If you won $10,000 today, what would you do with it? Donate to charity, house repair and travel a bit.

26) What's your favorite place to hang out at? Bedroom.

27) Do you believe in ghosts? Yes.

28) Favorite thing to do in your spare time? Watch movies or read books.

29) Do you swear a lot? No.

30) Biggest pet peeve? People who borrow something and forget to return it.

31) In one word, how would you describe yourself? Learner.

32) Do you believe/appreciate romance? Sure.

33) Favorite and least favorite food? I have too many but right now, my fave is pizza. The least favorite..anything fatty.

34) Do you believe in God? Oh yes.

35) Will you join us this week for Wednesday Wickedness? (Bud has on a mission to make this Wednesday's most popular meme. Please play this week so I can stop promoting it.)
I'll try :).

PhotoHunt#86 Black Walls of Capas National Shrine

The black marble walls looked mysterious under the bright, blue summer sky. They are mute reminders of the thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who died during the Bataan Death March and their subsequent stay in Capas Concentration Camp or Camp O' Donnell.





The walls were etched with the names of the dead soldiers.

These photos were taken at Capas National Shrine, Tarlac. More photos here and here.

This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

Legs Spread Wide

I have been a commuter all my life. I prefer it that way, it’s easier in my pocket and to the environment (really!). With that, I have seen a lot of happenings inside the bus, the jeepney, the train, the plane and whatever public utility vehicle I have used.

I believe that there is an unspoken code of ethics that commuters follow. One such thing is to pass the fare from the paying passenger to another passenger until it reached the driver. Another thing that is expected to do as a commuter is to give space as much as one’s body and butt can allow to another passenger so the driver can immediately restart the vehicle to move along.

These things may seem easy enough to follow but it can really be surprising to see how some people can get really obnoxious about it.

Last week, I boarded a jeepney on my way home. The jeepney was fairly full and there was just barely enough space to squeeze in my butt. People started to adjust their space to accommodate me. As I looked around with my arm grasping the overhead metal handhold, I saw this fortyish guy sitting by the jeepney’s door lost in his own world while sitting almost sloppily with his legs spread wide and both of his arms hanging loosely between them. The guy infront of me with knees clipped together while already rubbing knees with mine looked at him with the evil eye but Mr. Legs-Spread-Wide couldn’t care a hoot what’s going on with his jeepney mates.

I tapped him on his arm and told him to move a bit (which actually meant that he should clip his knees together and seat properly). His answer was one that could start wars and also manifested that this country still has a long way to go in terms of cooperation and sense of participation. He laughed while saying sarcastically, “How can I move a bit? There is just no space to move unless you want me to get off the jeepney.”

Holding on to my patience, I answered back to Mr. Legs-Spread-Wide, “If you could just clip your knees together and not spread your legs wide (in my mind: like you’re trying to air out your balls), there’ll be more space for us here.” I heard somebody giggle and the guy in front of me smiled; but Mr. Legs-Spread-Wide just laughed and did not move. As for us other passengers, we adjusted our butts to accommodate each other until we reach our destination. Mr. Legs-Spread-Wide must have felt refreshed upon disembarking from the jeepney.

Litratong Pinoy#93 Tied(Nakatali)

There was a rope tied from the Sunken Cemetery of Camiguin Island to the wharf several meters away. This was being used to pull the boats laden with passengers during strong windy days. It was said that it would be easier to use the rope than paddle when the wind would get stronger.

Pilipino:

May lubid na nakatali mula sa Libing na Sementeryo ng Isla ng Camiguin hanggang sa daungan ng mga bangka ilang metro ang layo nito. Ito raw ay ginagamit nilang panghila ng kanilang bangka lulan ang mga pasahero tuwing malakas ang hangin sa dako roon. Mas madali raw kasi ang gumamit ng lubid kaysa magsagwan kapag malakas ang hangin.

This Weekend: Iron Man 2 and Mosley vs Mayweather

There is so much to look forward to this weekend and am just so relieved that this coming Monday (May 3) is a non-working holiday.

One of the things that I am looking forward to is Iron Man 2. It is coming out this Friday. I liked Robert Downey very much when he was younger in Chances Are, a romantic-drama-comedy movie in the 80s. I kind of got used to seeing him in that genre and this was why I had doubts of him as Tony Stark in Iron Man I. But when I saw the movie, he erased all my doubts. Now, I am really looking forward to seeing Iron Man 2 this weekend.

Another exciting weekend event will be the Mosley vs Mayweather bout. Mayweather would’ve been Pacquiao’s opponent but due to their irreconcilable differences, the fight never materialized. Mayweather may not fight against Pacquiao someday soon but am sure, the Mosley vs Mayweather will be just as exciting.

Ruby Tuesday#47 Butterfly At Caleruega

I saw this butterfly perched on a leaf. It was on a potted plant near Caleruega Church's receiving area. I actually talked to it to stay put as it was busy fluttering around. Good thing, it decided to rest a bit.





This is my entry for:

Go here for more Ruby Tuesday entries.

The Back-Up Plan

The movie The Back-Up Plan felt like it was made for a friend. Years ago, a friend was desperate for a child and actually pursued the endeavor relentlessly thru several boyfriends. She already thought about having an insemination but it was too expensive for her. She ended up adopting a baby.

Anyway, back to the  movie The Back-Up Plan. Jennifer Lopez' character, Zoe, was desperate for a child but she was unmarried. Determined to have her wish, she got inseminated through a sperm bank. On the day of insemination, she accidentally met Alex O'Loughlin's character, Stan. By the way, O'Loughlin is definitely yummy. He took a liking of her and pursued her. Zoe was starting to fall in love with him but things got complicated as Stan learned of Zoe's pregnancy and seemed not to like children.

This movie is Jennifer Lopez' comeback movie. As always, JLo was gorgeous here (arghh..i'd love to have her abs) and she really can be funny. The plot is not something new but the movie gave some good laughs especially the natural childbirth scene. I never heard of the Australian actor, Alex O'Loughlin, but he definitely can light up the screen.

I actually like The Back-Up Plan more than Date Night of Steve Carell and Tina Fey which I watched last week.

Sunday Stealing#41 The Fandom Meme

Today we ripped off a blogger named Cypsieman2 at the blog also named Cypsieman2. He states that he got the meme from Elle White. We can't provide a link because he did not. 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. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Cheers to all of us thieves!

Sunday Stealing: The Fandom Meme

Rules: We all are fans. Be it Star Trek or Twilight, you are a fan of something. Pick a subject, book, TV or movie series. Now tell us all about it!

1. The first character I fell in love with: Superman

2. The character I never expected to love as much as I do now: Bella of Twilight Book Series

3. The character I would shag anytime: too many LOL! okay, will try to answer...Superman?

4. The character I'd slap: GMA, that's our president.

5. Who are my 3 favorite characters. Sydney Bristow of Alias and recently, Harry Potter and Bella

6. What are my 3 favorite pairings. Superman and Lois Lane, Kate and Leopold, Mr. and Mrs. Smith

7. Which character I'm most like. I'd like to try Sydney Bristow of Alias. LOL!

8. The coolest thing about the canon: which canon is that?

9. The lamest crappiest thing about the canon: same answer at 8

10. My guiltiest pleasure in this fandom: Reading books or watching movies until early dawn.

11. What story I wish I could read (or art I wish I could see): The Vampire Diaries and those arts scattered all over Europe. I'd like to start with the ones in the Louvre.

12. What story I wish I had written/still want to write: Harry Potter and Twilight because I'd probably be super rich by now.

PhotoHunt#85 Addiction

My parents call it addiction...travel addiction. I call it fascination. I am fascinated with traveling. The process of it-preparing for the travel papers, the bookings, learning how to get to the destination and then, meeting different people, seeing new places, learning new things and different culture; the realization that there's a lot more out there. Not just me and my world but also other people, other culture and other world. Yet, we live together in one world.



These photos were taken inside Sumaguing Cave at Sagada during my Northern Luzon travel last month. The cave was really beautiful, almost magical. I was half-scared going in the total darkness with just the gas lamp and the local guide helping us see our way but in the end, the adventure was really exhilarating. An unforgettable experience for me.



This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

Happy Earth Day!

Reduce. Reuse. Recyle. Replenish. Restore. Let's love and take care of Mother Earth. She has given so much and it's time to give back to her.  Happy Earth Day!

In celebration of Earth Day, I found a lot of good Earth Day deals and freebies here.

Litratong Pinoy#92 Press (Pindot)

Press here, press there. Dodong started to wail, Boy did the second voice suddenly. Out of tune? It's ok!! As long as everybody's happily singing, with dancing too.

There is no party without this and always, people fight over the microphone. The videoke that's run by coins.

I saw these videoke machines at the backstreets of Quiapo that is well-known for cheap electronic appliances and parts. The place is just a walking distance from Quiapo church.



Pilipino: Pindot dito, pindot doon...nagsimula nang ngumawa si Dodong, biglang segunda boses si Boy. Sintunado ba? Ok lang yon!! Basta masaya ang lahat sa kantahan, may sayawan pa.

Walang handaan na wala nito at lagi pa, pinag-aagawan ang mikropono ng lahat. Yan ang karaokeng pinapatakbo ng barya.

Nakita ko ang mga videoke na ito sa mga kalye ng Quiapo na kilala sa murang electronics. Ito ay puwedeng lakarin mula sa simbahan ng Quiapo mismo.

Manicurist as Board Member of the Country's Top Housing Agency, Pag-IBIG Fund

Crystal Bowersox's People Get Ready seems to taunt me right now. The American Idol favorite for this season has done a great job in singing that song. I am impressed but the feeling of uneasiness brought about the stupefying news about President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's manicurist making it as one of the board members of the country's premier housing agency is really getting the upperhand right now.

How could it have happened? Why did they allow somebody in the board of one of the most important government agencies in the country with no better credentials than the lowly clerk? A lowly clerk could've been better because they know the intricate transactions of the company. I wonder what the manicurist is feeling right now. I wouldn't be so proud if I am her. I'd probably be feeling totally ashamed and would even tell Ma'm Glo this..."Ma'm, nakakahiya ka!" (Ma'm, shame on you!")

So, for the Filipino people and especially those working in the affected housing agency, get ready!! Keep your guards up and protect the interest of the members vigilantly. Don't let somebody with the initials GMA claw you down. We may never know, what will happen next.

Ruby Tuesday#46 Red Feathery Hat

These feathery hats with handwoven red clothe are usually worn by the Ifugao people. I saw them at one of the souvenir shops in Banaue Viewpoint and decided to take a souvenir picture of it.


This is my entry for:

Go here for more Ruby Tuesday entries.

Ready To Retire With His International Property

A friend working abroad has been calling me for months now. He has been asking for my help to find a residential property as his retirement home. He has been working overseas for more than a decade now and has considerably earned a lot from it. He already bought a residential property for his mother last month but he wanted to buy another one for his own use.

I am really quite proud of this friend of mine. He was already smart as a pin when we were still in high school but he went through a lot of emotional turmoil during his college days. The next thing we knew, he went missing without telling any close friends of his where he was going.

After years of not knowing where he was, he suddenly called me up as well as some of our high school classmates. It was then that we learned that he ended up working as a nurse in the United States. After several years of scrimping, he earned enough money to buy a house. He sold it a few months after. With the good profit he got from it, he started buying one international property after another but still wanted to buy a house from his own home city. Thus, his monthly calls.

He was able to buy international properties by surfing around the internet. One good source is www.TheMoveChannel.com. I just really envy him for having his overseas property as his investment for the future. I really hope someday I can get one. I can dream, can I?

Sunday Stealing#40 The Meme Time Meme

Today we ripped off a blogger named Lonnie at the blog In Real Life No. She does not state where she got the meme. 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. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Meme Time Meme

01. Real First Name: Maria

02. Birthday: October

03. Where do you live: Philippines

04: What are you studying/What are you working as: office employee

05. What makes you happy: peace of mind, travel, books, movies, family

06. What are you listening to now/have listened to last: Forever Young sang by power couple Jay-Z and Beyonce

07. What is particularly good/bad about your blog: It is informative while I'm enjoying doing it but it needs more traffic.

08. An interesting fact about you:I have tons and tons of pictures stored in albums.

09. Are you in love/have a crush at the moment: Maybe

10. Favorite place to be: Home but I really like to travel around.

11. Favorite lyric: Hmm...too many to tell.

12. Best time of the year: My birthday? :)

13. Weirdest food you like: Pork blood stew (dinuguan). It's not really weird in my country, anyway.

RECOMMEND

01. A film: Avatar, nowadays.

02. A book: If you like to travel, Jessica Zafra's Twisted Travels.

03. A song: Terrified as sung by Kara DioGuardi

04: A band: Journey with or without Arnel Pineda.

PLUS

01. One thing you like about a blogger that you have not met: Dynamic, informative and helpful without being too obvious for being money-oriented.

02. Two things you like about yourself: Hardworking and a fast learner.

03. Name three things that you need in a lover: I'll make this four: God-fearing, Dependable, honest and hardworking.

PhotoHunt#84 Covered

I have been seeing this native basket outside some of the Ifugao houses while traversing the rice terraces but did not know what was it for. When I found this again outside the Hanging House Souvenir Shop in Batad, I asked our guide who was also the owner of the souvenir shop what was it for. The answer, a basket to cover their chickens. Can you see one now?



This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

Flights Cancellations Due to Iceland Volcano

Flight cancellations all over Europe are currently ongoing due to the eruption of an Iceland volcano. The eruption caused thick smoke and ash cover that airports were forced to cancel the flights to avoid accidents.

It's a good thing that we're not going to Europe yet (I'm crossing my fingers that we will). Eyjafjallajökull, the glacier volcano in Iceland maybe small but it sure did cause a lot of  worries to travelers and vacationers. I am just hoping that this eruption will be short-lived and will not cause any further damage. I don't want to happen to me what happened to another blogger who was all set to go with his backpacks for his much-anticipated European travel but had to cancel all his reservations and lost some money in the process (due to forfeitures). I would call that expensive traveling without the actual travel.

Litratong Pinoy#91 Words (Salita/pangungusap)

Words are not enough to describe how amazing and beautiful are the rice terraces found in Batad, Banaue. That is why, I'll just show you the pictures.

Pilipino:
Kulang ang ilang pangungusap upang ilarawan kung gaanong kamangha-mangha at pagkaganda-ganda ang mga hagdan-hagdanang palayang ito na makikita sa Batad, Banaue. Kaya, litrato na lang ang aking ipapakita sa inyo.



I was wondering how come there were more foreign tourists than local tourists who visited Batad Rice terraces when we were there. They mostly came from the different countries of Europe and they were really impressed with the place and its people. I wish that more Filipinos could visit this really beautiful place.

Pilipino:
Nagtataka ako kung bakit mas maraming dayuhang turista kaysa sa lokal na turista ang bumisita sa hagdan-hagdang palayan ng Batad nang andoon kami. Marami sa kanila ay galing pa sa iba't-ibang bansa ng Europa at sila'y talagang bilib na bilib at manghang-mangha sa lugar at sa mga tao. Ang hiling ko ay sana mas maraming Pilipino ang bumisita sa napakagandang lugar na ito.



The Batad Rice Terraces can be reached within 2 hours travel from Banaue poblacion. One hour travel by car and one hour by walking through the mountain trails. This is quite different from the one that is shown on our P1000 peso bill.

If you want to visit Batad, a local guide is necessary especially for the first-time visitors. The contact numbers of the driver and the local guide who helped us reach this place is just below this post.

Pilipino:
Matatagpuan ang palayan ng Batad sa pamamagitan ng paglalakbay ng kulang-kulang dalawang oras mula sa poblacion ng Banaue. Isang oras ang paglalakbay sa sasakyan at isang oras din ang paglalakad sa mga bulubunduking landas. Ito ay kakaiba doon sa nakikita sa ating P1000 perang salapi.

Kung gusto ninyong bisitahin ang Batad, kakailanganin ng lokal na tagapatnubay lalo na sa mga bagong pupunta upang marating ito. Nasa ibaba ang numero ng aming drayber at lokal na tagapatnubay na tumulong sa amin.




Contact numbers:
(63)9199268378 - Moises Hipog (Batad guide and owner of Hanging House Souvenir Shop in Batad)

(63)9265143071 - Miguel Mundiging (van driver)

China Earthquake

My prayers go to the victims of the most recent China earthquake. Just read the news about the Intensity 6.9 China Earthquake. The earthquake hit the Qinghai province and there are already 400 reported dead.

It seems that strong earthquakes around the world are getting more frequent. Sadly, they almost always hit populated areas that cause massive loss of lives and damages. I sure hope and pray that these earthquakes won’t hit anywhere here.

Ruby Tuesday#45 Banaue Rice Terraces

Planting season has not yet started at Banaue Rice Terraces. I wish it was while we were there. For sure, it would have been beautiful with all those stairways looking all so green.

For more details and pictures of the centuries-old terraces, go here.

This is my entry for:

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I won! I won!

I had a nice surprise upon returning from my travel last week. I won from Mae's blog giveaway! I am just so happy about it because I've been thinking that I'm really not one of those who win anything on blog giveaways but Mae proved me wrong.

So, what did I get? Well, a Journey's Revelation CD, a DVD of their Manila concert, a Journey keychain, a white tanktop and a cute postcard. Woot! Woot! I'm a big fan of Arnel Pineda. So, this one's really a great prize :D Thank you so much, Mae!

Sunday Stealing#39 The Me Me Meme

Today we ripped this meme off a blogger named Calvin at the blog Calvin's Canadian Cave of Coolness. In fact this is not the first time that Cal has been the victim. This time though, he did not state where he got the meme. 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. Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Me Me Meme

1. Never in my life have I been: to Europe. I wish I could go there someday soon.

2. The one person who can drive me nuts is: somebody who haven't done any  work but who's receiving full salary for several years now. I wonder if his conscience ever bothered him at all.

3. High school was: fun and memorable.

4. When I’m nervous I: talk to myself or sing to myself.

5. The last song I listened to was: it was a church song and I can't recall its title.

6. If I were to get married right now my best man/maid of honor: one of my long-time friends.

7. My hair is: getting thinner as the years go by.

8. When I was 5: I was young, restless, dreamy and playful.

9. Last Christmas: I ate a lot but still maintained my weight due to increased trips to the gym.

10. I should be..: buying a new pair of rubber shoes. My Adidas is getting really worn-out with all those activities I've had for the past weeks.

11. When I look down I see: my tired feet that came from playing tennis for two hours this morning.

12. The happiest recent events were: I walked along the rice terraces of Banaue, explored Sumaguing Cave of Sagada and trekked to Mt. Pinatubo crater lake.

13. If I were a character on 'Friend' I would be: nobody cause I haven't seen that film yet.

14. By this time next year: I hope summer would not be as hot as we are having nowadays.

15. My current gripe is: some house project that is still unfinished.

16. I have a hard time understanding: people who keep griping about their lives when in fact, they should be thankful of what they have.

17. There’s this girl I know that: I admire not only for her singing voice but also for her determination to do well in her choice of profession. Her name is Charice Pempengco.

18. If I won an award, the first person I would tell would be: anybody that's nearest me.

19. Take my advice: It's better to know your country first before you go off wandering to the other worlds.

20. The thing I want to buy: is a new Sony flat TV or a Nikon DSLR.

21. If you visited the place I was born: You would be happy to see that the people are friendly, that the food is abundant and cheap and that the cost of living is very good compared to other cities in the world.

22. I plan to visit: UK and other European countries someday.

23. If you spent the night at my house: you would have to make do with a tight space, the noisy dogs and the playful cats.

24. I’d stop my wedding if: I am not sure what I would be getting into.

25. The world could do without: greedy, immoral politicians.

26. I’d rather lick the belly of a cockroach than: be a politician.

27. Most recent thing I’ve bought myself: is a pair of office shoes, Figlia.

28. Most recent thing someone else bought me: is a DVD of Journey, a white tank top and a Journey keychain. All of them I won from Mae's blog giveaway contest.

29. My favorite blonde is: Cameron Diaz. Is she really blonde?

30. My favorite brunette is: Angelina Jolie, Madonna.

31. My favorite red head is: the mermaid Ariel.

32. My middle name is: my mother's maiden name.

33. In the morning I: like to check out my emails and update my blogs.

34. The animals I would like to see flying besides birds are: flying cats and dogs.

35. Once, at a bar: a guy approached me for a dance.

36. Last night I was: supposed to sleep early but got caught up watching movies on DVDs.

37. There’s this guy I know who: should be retiring and yet, is still holding on to his job but not doing anything.

38. If I was an animal I’d be: somewhere else not here answering this meme questions.

39. A better name for me would be: The Traveler

40. Tomorrow I am: going to be in my new unit.

41. Tonight I am: going to bed early.

42. My birthday is: still months away.

PhotoHunt#83 Vertical

It took us more than half-hour of walking carefully along the Batad ricefields and then, we did another 25 minutes going down the almost vertical concrete stairs and hopping above big boulders before we reached Tappiyah Waterfalls in Batad, Banaue.

The long walk was a killer to my starting-to-get-old knees. The sweat, the rebirth of sore muscles and the excitement were all worth it though. The waterfalls with its cool gushing waters was beautiful.

When we got there, there were foreign tourists swimming near the base of the waterfalls. I almost went in too but stopped short as I didn't have any change of clothes with me.

This is my entry for:

For more photohunters, go here.

Ruby Tuesday#44 SM North EDSA's Wavy Sculpture

One of the interesting sculptures found at SM North EDSA's elevated garden.

This is my entry for:

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Happy Easter!

Happy Easter, everyone!