Hello, July!

 It's the middle of 2026 and you're looking... uhm, exhausted, er, excited!

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by PAM

Ambient temperature, check.  Ground nutrient, check.  Special occasion, check!
Finally completed all the 'permissions' to bloom!

My favorite month has landed!  Welcome to 2026, July!  Woohoo, let's go!  

I have been waiting for our Vietnam Roses to bloom since April this year, just like last year and the year before last, but they haven't.  Well, until today, that is.  It's wonderful that the 'pretty little  

things' showed themselves on the day that I am celebrating the anniversary of my introduction to the world through God's love and goodness.  This year... uhm, I move an inch closer to 'dual citizenship', which is closer than I ever imagined. I have mixed  feelings, but most of it is gratitude, a big chunk is happiness, and, not surprisingly, a considerable amount is excitement.  I can't wait, actually!  

The last months have been so 'chaotic' in the Philippines.  People in the government kept hurling extremely stinky rubbish at each other, while the Filipino people run back and forth to avoid getting hit by rubbish in the face.  And yet, no matter how much we avoid it, we get hit anyway.  It's incredible how utterly useless people in our government are... well, most of them anyway, especially those who have no notion of decency or self-awareness, and those who are so unfortunately devoid of common sense and the ability to think - and think well and intelligently.  The word 'service' is not in their vocabulary and mission in life even if they occupy the 'seats of public service'.  They turn the 'seats' to a place for self-indulgence and personal gratification... and, yes, corruption - exercised in the most brazen and extremely shameless ways!  

Lately, the whole country is being pummeled, too, by nature's forced reaction to humanity's unmindful actions to try lording over nature.  Filipino people are reeling over earthquake, typhoon, and what have you.  But the biggest hardships are the man-made ones, and the most catastrophic are those caused by people in our own government.  It has become so frustrating to watch them unleash one foolishness after another as if they have no responsibility to... at the very least, avoid being foolish!  I guess, this is the biggest peril of democracy.  We get the foolish leaders that foolish citizens choose... and the whole nation suffer the consequences.  

So, yeah, while July brings with it the freshness of our blooming Vietnam Roses, the country look exhausted, frustrated and ambivalent.  And yet, I believe that the very message of God in allowing our pretty little Vietnam Roses bloom at a time when I am beginning to feel disappointed is HOPE.  We must not lose hope.  There is hope... Jesus is hope, and He is alive!  He is in our midst, and our faith in Him shall see us through to this dark days in our country's politics.  One day, when the time is right, the Truth shall emerge from the darkness, and we, as a nation shall recognize it.  And the Truth shall unite us in hauling our country from the rut it's in, and we shall emerge victorious!

In the meantime, I shall celebrate this special day, rejoicing amid the colorful beauty of our Vietnam Roses.  I shall offer a prayer of thanks, and I shall allow God's grace to fill my heart with hope, faith and joy!

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Image credit:  All the photos in this post belong to me.  I took all of them, and processed them minimally for this post.  They may not be used for other purposes.

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Saturday photo

 

Stunning...

Yep, 'stunning'. That is all that I'm gonna say to describe how I feel about this photo. The view certainly left me speechless, I just had to capture the moment from where I was standing... at Diamond Hotel Manila. I was there for a week - for work. And, this view gave me the most compelling reason to limit work strictly until 5:30 pm. I just had to watch this view unfold right before my eyes.

The Manila Bay sunset remains to be one of the most spectacular scenes one would ever find in this part of the world. Too beautiful for words! But the fact that it took me nearly two months to share this here indicates how work has once again taken over my life, and it's absolutely ridiculous! Nothing beautiful about that to be sure... and yet, these days, I feel I have no choice. But right now, this very moment, I just had to free myself from the bondage of work and reconnect with 'my soul'. And so, here I am. Ah, stunning!

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Photo credit: I own this photo. I took the shot and did the processing with very minimal color enhancement to remove the glare from the glass window.  This may not be used for any other purpose.

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Philippine Independence Day 2017

Happy Independence Day, Pilipinas kong mahal!

Nine years, a decade, and a century of national 'independence'... won from our national heroes' sacrifices - amazing!  It is, indeed, a source of national pride. 

And yet, here we are, after 119 years, we are still taking those 'baby steps' towards true 'independence', mostly from our own enslaving lack of national pride, utter selfishness and self-serving brand of leadership, and absence of love for our national identity.  Many of our leaders represent us in the international arena with utter lack of dignity and shame - in words and in hysterical temperament.  They claim that that's just the way they are... which is fair, and yet, aren't they supposed to take care of our collective pride as a nation by representing our dear country with dignity?  Don't they realize that the world's view of our leaders is the very same way our entire Filipino population is viewed?  Is restraint in hysterical speech too difficult to achieve?  It is true that it's not what one says that matters the most, it's what one actually does as a leader that defines one's leadership.  And yet, in this day and age of 'extreme freedom' of expression aided by irresponsible, abusive and unscrupulous use of social media, any good intention can be twisted until the Truth is no longer recognizable, especially by those who are too lazy to use their intellectual faculties to discern the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.  And when the truth is lost in the chaotic and self-serving interpretations of 'freedom of expression', then misunderstanding ensues.  When this is not abated soon enough, it could lead to unrest, and escalates to violence.  We don't have to wait for any of these to happen.  We can soothe and heal wounds by being diplomatic, honest, truthful and respectful in our language when we relate with others.   

Our national heroes offered their lives to secure our independence, that we may enjoy the blessings of our incumbent rights as human beings.  And yet, we are squandering their gift of independence by enjoying our rights while consciously neglecting the responsibilities that go with them.  Civilization and sustained progress can only come when we learn how to enjoy our rights while being mindful of our responsibilities, and doing our best to always be considerate of others, respectful of others, and sincerely caring for others.  After all, as our very own, Jamie Rivera, famously sang, "we are all God's children".  We may not agree as to God's name... and yet, we all (most of us, anyway) believe in an Almighty One that stands above all of us... and that the Almighty One loves us all equally, and wishes the very best for all of us.  Therefore, why can't we wish the same for one another?

God and our heroes have done their part.  They have handed us this gift of "independence", not without tremendous sacrifice.  Now, we are responsible in taking care of it, making it flourish to our advantage, and to the advantage of those who will be coming after us.  

Indeed, now, we are 'independent' for no reason... unless we can 'invent' one.  It's all up to us.

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Image credit:  Thanks, Google, for the loan of today's 'doodle'.

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Saturday photo

'Team Engineering'

It's been an incredibly productive two-and-half days... full of excellent ideas expressed without reservation, in full honesty, with pure love for our dear Institution and for one another, in all the lightness of humor that brightens up the mood at all times... all ensconced in one Vision.  I believe that's what being a 'Team' is all about.  Simply fascinating! 😲

I thank God for the privilege of leading such a Team. 🙏  I may not have done enough good things in my life to deserve this, and it will always be a mystery to me why I was chosen by God to receive this 'gift'.  Still, I accept the responsibility that goes with it as I have done in the past... and, as always, I commit myself to our wonderful 'Mission'... although, I cannot guarantee that I won't be irritated by 'this and that' issue every now and then.   

Perhaps, I need to keep reminding myself that maybe I deserve to enjoy the moment, too.  After all, I worked hard and sacrificed a whole lot to put together this incredible Team, and to help achieve what it has so impressively achieved in so short a time, considering the humongous challenges that we had to confront when we started. 😩🙌 Yes... perhaps, I need to own those, too... perhaps, it's the best way of expressing appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to God.  I guess, I am just too conscious of what St. Thomas Aquinas said that it is "better to illuminate than merely to shine".  So, I am more interested in making sure that what we do leaves a lasting and positive impact to our stakeholders than claiming 'glory' and receiving awards for our accomplishments.  In the end, it's all about pleasing the One who gave this gift, and safeguarding the integrity of the gift rather than basking in the shining glory of it all.  Anyway, no award in the world is commensurate to the feeling that comes in knowing that we have done our very best... and we have made a difference in the lives of many, and not just our own, in the process!

'Team Engineering' - it's my Team! 😎

***

About the photo:  Taken during the three-day Planning Workshop of the 'extended' Execom of the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Santo Tomas in Green Canyon Eco Art Resort at the Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, Philippines.

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Sunday foodie

A little sweetness from Italy...
...to wash away the bitter taste of peace and order situation in Southern Philippines.

I was inspired by this on-line post on NY Times, "My Rome: Still a classic beauty", to reminisce about Italy.  I know it's only been a few months - four months to be exact, since my visit to Italy.  The memories should be quite fresh. Therefore, 'reminisce' may not be the most suitable word to describe the longing that I feel, just thinking about the places and the wonderful people that I met there... not to mention the food! 😋 

'Classic beauty'... how very appropriate, how very true though.  Having seen three other places besides Rome, I imagine that applies to most places in Italy.  I wish very much to go back.  I wish it's as simple as closing my eyes, and opening them in the middle of Rome.  And yet, my heart is glued to Manila as news on the Resort World Manila incident continue to unfold, and the peace and order situation in Marawi, Mindanao remains precarious.  Sometimes, I wonder, what are we, actually, fighting about?  I understand that there are many annoying things happening around us, and there are many annoying,

even infuriating, people that usually challenge our patience but, certainly, there are more wonderful and beautiful things to celebrate about - as one global community.  Can we not just concentrate on the latter?  Surely, it's easier.

One such 'wonderful' thing is this featured chocolate in this post, which is the cremino pistacchio cubes of Venchi.  It is a three-layer treat comprised of a layer of milk pistachio gianduja between two layers of white pistachio gianduja.  It is made in accordance with the traditional Piedmont chocolate making where hazelnut paste (gianduja) makes up roughly a third of the confection.  It tastes heavenly and it provides that silky sensation in the mouth that definitely enhances the experience of indulging one's chocolate craving.  It's soft enough to melt in the mouth yet firm enough for a clean bite.  So good, indeed! 😋

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Photo:  A photo of cremino pistacchio by Venchi, which I bought in a Venchi store in Bologna, Italy during my visit in January-February 2017.

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Saturday photo

A candy for the eyes and the imagination...
...'so close, and yet so far'.

What?  

Has it been a full week now since my last post?  Hmm... what can I say, I'm getting better at this, ain't I? 😛 Used to take a full couple of months in between posts for me since... uhm, four years ago?  Has it been that long now?  Yep, four years ago when there was ample time to express one's self... four years ago when there was work-life balance. Hmm... feels like forever! 😣 

Speaking of work-life balance, I was really excited when I was called to a Planning-Workshop with peers.  No, I'm not a sucker for this sort of things... of course not, hello!  Every single second in my workplace is a 'planning-workshop' of sorts + action all at once. So, I do have my daily fix of this gig just because my workplace is all that challenging... and I do have a brilliant Team that makes the whole scene thoroughly delightful.  So, a very 'structured' gig is not really my cup of tea.  It's just that the venue was out-of-town, about three-hour drive from the City.  It was a lovely beach resort that I haven't seen in about twenty years.  I 'googled' it, and it wasn't anything I remembered from twenty years ago.  It was much more beautiful now, and that got me all excited!  😊

So, I joined the activity in good spirit... only to feel my excitement deflating and going south every second of the three-day gig.  I never even saw the sunset, and never got to dip my feet in the beach... just because we worked from 7:30 a.m. (yeah, even eating breakfast felt like 'a lot of work') to 8:00 p.m. (yep, dinner felt like work, too).  In the evening, I felt exhausted and brain-dead, that I just wanted to curl in bed and drown my 'sorrows' in music. 😫 Yeah, that definitely made me feel like a 'boring, buttoned-up principal' from the 'old school' rather than an 'innovative engineer' around really cool buddies who think outside-the-box and knew how to have fun... while hard at work.  

Well, I guess, there is a variety of things that make a variety of people tick.  Therefore, no point in bringing 'em together and insist on singular thought process... and still expect 'em to get many things done?  That is either 'brave' or 'naive'. 😐  To be fair, I don't really know what the 'formula' is, and I'm sure people tried so hard to be productive.  What I do know is that this particular formula does not work... not for me, anyway.  What can I say, the 'I-got-this-so-let-me-be' detached nature of millennials has caught up on me?  Then again, that's just me... and I'm not all that perfect.  So, I guess I'm the 'odd' one.  And yet, I feel like coaxing people to, "come on, now... it's the 21st century.  Outta the box now... it's really nice out here!  Come and see!" 😃

I'm probably just being cynical, sorry... so don't mind me.

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What I think

But, I think I know what happened there.  Someone was trying so hard to express their gratitude and affection to a squad that they built with blood, sweat, tears and a decade worth of energy, but were 'forced' by obstinate circumstances to leave behind their squad... just when the squad needed them the most.  Like the great 'general' that the squad leader is, the 'general' wanted to prepare the 'captains' to a fierce battle ahead.  More than that, the 'general' probably wanted to have the squad all for itself for a few days to assure them that they are ready for the battle, too... and to just bond, just share a heap of laughter over just-all-fun conversations.  But administrative 'facilities' do not allow even 'generals' to do this, so our 'general' opted for good ol' Planning-Workshop.  I think that all everyone in that Planning-Workshop really wanted to do was to just bond with the 'general', too!  'Cause ya know, there can't be a kick-ass captain without a kick-ass general!  Then again, in the first place... a 'squad' is not the same as a 'Team', y'see.  If you ask me, I prefer Team.  I do have one in my own workplace, and it's awesome!  So yeah, Punta Fuego was a classic case of 'the right people with the right feelings but in a mismatched circumstance'! 

The featured photo was one of the ONLY TWO photos I've taken in the three-day gig... and I'm a sucker for photos of beautiful sceneries!  Somehow, the beautiful sceneries were not enough to inspire creative juices to flow.  What a shame!  My fault entirely, I must admit... although I did enjoy a 30-minute dip in the infinity pool. And even that, did not inspire 'proper documentation' through photos.  But, yeah, there were two or three (maybe four, even five, actually) kindred spirits that made the whole 'ordeal' bearable though, God bless them! 😇

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What I wish

Do you know what's fun?  Well, it's the Graham Norton Show!  That episode with Dan Stevens after Matthew Crawley's demise in Downton Abbey was hilarious (well, most parts, anyway), so was that episode with Benedict Cumberbatch, Eddie Redmayne and Bryan Cranston; and that episode with Hugh Jackman, Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy.  But this here (below) is, I believe, one of the very best episodes.  You're welcome!  😎

    Graham to Hugh: "It's an odd look for a man, but you carried it off."

    Hugh to Graham:  "...so, I brought my favorite wooly jumper, but not my red 'lippy',
                                which I left at home."

    Bill: "Lippy?" (laughter)

    Hugh to Bill : "Yeah, 'lippy', what's that mean in America?"

    Bill to Hugh:  "I dunno!" (laughter)

    Matt to Graham: "I think that the key to my performance (in "Behind the Candelabra")
                              is I borrowed Hugh's 'lippy'."
    Graham to Matt:  "It gets around."
    Matt to Graham:  "And I was actually asked to wear wooly jumper in every single scene."

    Hugh to Graham: (sounding disgruntled) "How many guests have walked out of the show?"

Maaan, comedic banter at its best... such good time, indeed!  See, Punta Fuego could've been this fun! 😎😊

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About the photo:  Taken from the reception hall of the lovely Club Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines. 

Video credit:  Thanks, YouTube, for the video link.

***  

Feeling low...

...but not feeling lowly, thank God!
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by PAM


There are things in this life that are simply beyond our control.  Many people make their choices based on what they see... as far as their eyes can see, without making an effort to peek at what their hearts do see.  Love is blind, true love  is... and it should be.  And yet, unwise judgment stems from blinded and muted heart as well. Many people listen to their own counsel, no matter how skewed this is and with all the hallmarks of narrow mindedness; or to a saccharin-sweet tongue's twisted counsel, rather than to what the signs of times scream at their ears.  And many people say what others wish to hear rather that what others ought to

Moving on to a 'place' where one can grow and flourish.

hear...to placate themselves, to win others' good favor regardless of what is on the line.  In these situations, trying to do what is right is tremendously difficult.  It is like finding a little mustard seed in a thick tangle of hay - a futile effort, indeed.  Therefore, rather than insisting to look at things from a pair of pink-tinted spectacles, it's best to be pragmatic sometimes.  To shield one from devastating disappointment, it's best to take things with a grain of salt... take a step back and let God work His miracle to 'untangle' things.  

In the meantime, life should not stop, the 'tangle' should not stop one from continuing to grow and flourish... somewhere else - away from the restricting trap of the 'tangle'... especially when one's own rope is free, and not a part of the incredible 'tangle' of malice and lies, nauseating falsities from shameless band of flatterers, unscrupulous actions to fulfill one's ambitions, and shocking acts of selfishness. Yes, observing how these things evolve to a great tangle of mess can make one feel really low in spirit... but one has a choice - always: to join the lowly tangle, or to move on and find a fertile ground where one's seeds of good intentions can grow and flourish to mighty trees with generous leaves of cooling shade, a respite for tired souls... including one's own tired soul. 

I have a choice... and I am moving on. 

May the good Lord guide and protect those who choose to steer clear of the 'tangle'.

***
Photo credit:  This is a photo of one little part of Burnham Park in Baguio City, Philippines, taken from the balcony of a hotel room across the park.

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Decision 2016...

...and, it will be for six years!

The day has finally come, and we are to make a national decision that will spell the next six years for us.  May we all be guided by the Holy Spirit in choosing our new leaders.  

I hope for the very best for my dear country!  

God bless the Philippines!  

God bless us all!

***

Image credit:  Thanks, Google, for the "2016 Philippine National Elections" doodle.

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2016 Philippine National Elections: Wisdom shall prevail...

...hopefully, because the Filipino can! #RoRo2016, #roxasrobredo
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by PAM


As the national elections approach... within a few hours now, there is "silence" as the "undecided" contemplate their options.  While I have not expressed my preference in writing yet (at least, not here), I have been wearing my choice for President-VP on my wrist - and it's the Roxas-Robredo tandem, the Liberal Party's bet comprised of Sec. Manuel "Mar" Roxas II and Camarines Sur 3rd Distict Rep. Leni Robredo.  And, mind you, my choice has nothing to do with the incumbent President, Benigno C. Aquino III, and his endorsement of the Roxas-Robredo tandem!

As I am in the Education Sector, and I firmly believe that the bright future of any country lies in how the national leaders make use of education to serve as the lifeblood of the country, the education and human resource development program of the candidates for national office is very important to me.  As the nation's 'lifeblood', the education system should be 'healthy' and 'flowing without 'obstruction' to 'deliver oxygen' throughout 'the body', and maintain healthy 'bodily

Sec. Manuel "Mar" Roxas II, discussing his education and human
resource platform to the members of the Coordinating Council
of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA) in February 2016.

functions' that keep the nation active and vibrant, always receptive of the necessary reforms that will move it towards sustained progress.

So far, the Roxas-Robredo campaign is clear in expressing the candidates' belief that, in ensuring "inclusive growth", the national government must put in place and prioritize a Program that provides "equal opportunities in health, education and other human development outcomes" across the population.  In making sure that all Filipinos have access to these opportunities and that they are actually able to take advantage of these, they are enabled to be productive citizens of the nation and to effectively contribute to nation-building and to sustained progress.  While other President-VP ticket would echo the same, none of them is as clear as the "RoRo2016" tandem in their proposed strategy to achieve this: with the national government as mere enablers and the provincial governments as anchors and implementers of such Program.  

The Presidential-VP campaign of the Davao City Mayor, Rodrigo Duterte, and Sen. Peter Allan Cayetano, kept on mentioning their plan that favors "Federalism", but it is not clear how they wish to accomplish this.  Perhaps, they are hoping to propose similar platform as that of #RoRo2016 tandem, but have no clue how to do it, and are more concerned to utter the "soundbites" that voters who prefer to be entertained by catchy phrases rather than be informed want to hear, hence the vague "federalism" utterance... and their supporters cheer like there was no tomorrow!  Mind-boggling, indeed!

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To be ruled by a strongman?  Never again! 

Speaking of things that boggle the mind, sometimes it exasperates me how we, Filipinos, think.  We always say, we want "change"... and yet, when there is opportunity to actually change, we make a "U-turn" and dash towards our old ways that, in the first place, made us wish for "change"! 

For instance, the www is laden with incredibly horrific things that Mayor Duterte said during the campaign and did as Mayor of Davao City, which show his utter disrespect for democracy and human rights, and were summarized by The Economist here and here. He seems to take pride in his lack of respect for the law, which contradicts his claim of being fierce "law-enforcer". And yet, hundreds cheer him to mind-boggling glee everytime he steps on the stage in his trademark devil-may-care macho swagger that puts the likes of Erap Estrada to utter shame.  Perhaps,what  capture the imagination are: (1) his largely 'comical' way of bashing people in the government and our political system in a manner that is very much in tune with "stand-up comedy" that Filipinos so love, and (2) his use of 'taboo' cuss words, which seems to invigorate the suppressed law-abiding but impoverished members of the masses and the champions of their cause.  And yet, this is the national election where we decide the future of our country for the next six years, not a stand-up comedy that brings temporary relief from the challenges of our daily struggles through the metro traffic, paying sky-high taxes, and putting up with the spoiled brat antics of Pres. Noynoy and his sister, Kris Aquino, among other things.

Obviously, Mayor Duterte does not only have the makings of a "strongman"... he, in principle, admits to being one!  And, while Mar Roxas does not posses a strongly compelling track record for a sterling performance in public office, just some brilliance that is always-up-there, but never the gold standard in leadership, he is the better choice.  Roxas has been very much the gentleman from the perceived "aristocratic class" in the Philippines who walks away from brawl whenever he can and

A new day dawns upon us as we take off to a bright future...
...let's stay on our wings and soar. #roxasrobredo, #RoRo2016

prefers to serve in the quiet and understated vicinity of policy making and playing the architect of a robust developmental framework.  In the national elections of 2010, he gave way to Aquino, who was more popular then.  This is in order to ensure the implementation of a development framework for the country that he architect for his own presidential campaign.  Aquino won that election, Roxas did not make it as VP... the rest is history.

In his six-year term as President, Aquino went on to exact revenge on his political enemies, and left governance to his cabinet, with Roxas always taking the "political bullet" that was meant for Aquino: in crossing swords with the Catholic Church on Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012 ( or "RH Bill"), on balancing Aquino's political vendetta on the Marcoses and Romualdezes and responding to the needs of Typhoon Yolanda victims, on the plight of the Fallen 44 soldiers in the Mamasapano clash, and on the high irregularities and massive corruption at the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), just to name a few.  Aquino used "Cory's yellow EDSA shield" and the public attention demanded by the excruciating noise of his youngest sister, Kris, to protect himself while exposing Roxas to the onslaught of brutal criticisms. And yet, Roxas went on quietly and patiently about his job... eyeing 2016 as his way of finally leading this country to the glory that it so deserves.  

Alongside Roxas in this election is the woman whose husband, the late former Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Jesse Robredo, who also took the "political bullet" meant for Aquino, and went on to serve with integrity and humility:  Rep. Leni Robredo. The late Sec. Robredo had it worse than Roxas because Aquino himself could have stopped that "political bullet" from hitting Sec. Robredo then, but he did not - in favor of his callous friends.  Fortunately, Sec. Jesse Robredo's track record as a public servant was so sterling in quality and unassailable in integrity that the "bullet" went ricocheting on Aquino and his favored friends.  Throughout Sec. Robredo's ordeal, his wife, Leni, silently stood by him, serving the people in the grassroots in Naga City where Sec. Robredo was a beloved six-term mayor before serving in the Aquino cabinet. When Sec. Robredo was killed in an accident, Aquino was stunned by the overwhelming grief of the nation.  It was a great moment for the Filipinos: in silence, they watched the political circus, but when the time called for it, they showed that they favor and value integrity in public service.  It was Roxas who ran and stood side by side with the Robredo family in their grief.

Like Roxas, Rep. Leni Robredo is a quiet worker.  But, unlike Roxas, Rep. Robredo is in touch with and understands fully the sentiments of those in the grassroots.  This makes her the ideal partner for Roxas.  She works on the ground while Roxas works the drawing board and fuel the development think-tanks.  Both are intelligent and honest public servants who serve with unassailable integrity.  If Roxas has yet to demonstrate fierce decisiveness in going after thugs in the government, it is because he has never had the opportunity to be on the helm.  As member of Pres. Aquino's cabinet, he always had to do a balancing act between what needs to be done and what the Aquino core circle desires.  And, he is too much of a gentleman to overstep the bounds of his authority.  His time to demonstrate his leadership has finally come, and Filipinos are contemplating to give him this.  However, he has to make sure that the vengeful Aquinos do not influence him in any way because if he does, he, too, will lose sight of what the nation really needs.

Pres. Aquino leaves a prosperous, thanks mostly to Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's robust economic long-term plan and Roxas's economic platform used by Aquino, but morally disillusioned country; and his endorsement of Roxas and Robredo, especially Roxas, is clearly a "kiss of death".  But this is the time when Filipinos have to wield collective wisdom, and recognize the sincerity in Roxas's

A leadership in bloom... a country moving on to greatness.
#roxasrobredo

desire to serve.  People must see the brilliance in leadership that is quivering to show and illuminate the country to a bright future! The Filipino people must recognize that his time to lead has come.  As for the VP race, the choice is VERY clear:  Rep. Leni Robredo.

Mayor Duterte's campaign has been "entertaining" - that much is true - if not exasperating for the morally upright and ardent believer of democracy and human rights.  However, it's time to make a decision:  do we march on forward under the leadership of the true architect of this economic progress that we are experiencing now, and bring it further to the grassroots for true inclusive growth; or do we make a U-turn and go four decades back to be ruled by a strongman in chaos and fear?  

To be ruled by a strongman?  We've been that road before... NEVER AGAIN!

Therefore, the choice is clear: we move forward!  But we move forward with a leadership that is not colored by the "vindictive yellow"... because, when colored as such, it would be impossible to actually move on.  Cory Aquino's color was yellow... that yellow of defiance with integrity, that yellow of spiritual resilience and hope, that yellow of justice but with healing and reconciliation, that yellow of joy in honest service to the nation, that yellow that meant faith in God. It was NEVER a vindictive yellow!  Otherwise, there could never have been an EDSA revolution in 1986... 'people power' - peaceful and no bloodshed.  It's a pity that Noynoy Aquino, of all people, does not get this... and now, he leaves office, happy for rounding up his enemies... but he lost most of what matters most - the 'borrowed' principle that he could've owned.  Where's the joy in that?

God bless us all!


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Saturday photo

Green and... peace.

The last one-and-a-half days were spent in some peace and contemplation in a leisure

camp in Tanay, Rizal, Philippines.  The camp is some meters above the noisy Metropolis, surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountain range, and overlooking Laguna de Bay.  It's green everywhere with patches that were drying from the heat, but it's peaceful and beautiful enough for a short spiritual Retreat where contemplation is encouraged.  With on-going constructions, the camp is still work-in-progress but, already, it boasts a mix of nature and man-made structures, complementing each other with some harmony.  The design did feel cohesive, flowing nicely from one activity place to another, maintaining access to the beautiful view.   

Overall, it was a good enough place for some rest and respite from tiring city life... but not from the climate change-related heat, which is inescapable, anyhow.

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About the photo(s):  The photo/s was/were taken in a leisure camp called Ten Cents to Heaven in Tanay, Rizal, Philippines.  It's about one-and-a-half hour drive from the City of Manila.

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Philippines...

...is 'my' Philippines!
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by PAM


If there are things that I consider "worth it" in enduring this incredibly uneventful stretch in the personal 'satisfaction section' of this awfully boring "life" I'm living right now (there, I said it!), one of them would be the opportunity to serve this country that I love.  Since the time I was able to actually dream... I mean, really dream, serving my country has always been up there in my list.  Can you blame me?  I grew up reading books on our national hero, Jose Rizal. And, yeah, having studied in government-owned Elementary and High Schools, where the the daily recitation of Panatang Makabayan (or the Philippine Patriotic Oath) was the norm, did this to me as well! :)  It's almost like a 'romantic relationship'. Then again, what do I know about romantic relationships, especially with an uneventful personal life with no giddy-happy 'episodes' in the 'screenplay' for the rest of the foreseeable future of this boring 'production' I'm in at the moment?!  Man, I don't even see a simple vacation in the horizon - the relaxing kind, and no work connected to it in whatever way - even when I'm already panting with exhaustion here!  

Alright, love of country and rant should not be in the same post.  So, let's start again, shall we? :)        

We need to protect our sovereignty, we need to protect OUR seas!

Two days ago, I had a good opportunity to sit in a symposium on Maritime Security at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM).  It was hosted by the Philippine Navy, in collaboration with the AIM.  I guess it was organized, amid all the issues the Philippines is facing regarding the West Philippine Sea, in order to gather as many representatives of different sectors in the society as possible to duly inform them... and later pitch in for the just and peaceful resolution of the issues.  

Prominent personalities in Philippine politics were there, such as Senator Leticia Ramos-Shahani, Associate Justice Antonio Carpio,  and the former Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Rafael Alunan III.  Congressmen Roilo Golez and Francisco Ashley Acedillo are among the four speakers and four reactors who led the discussions, ably moderated by Prof. Mario Antonio Lopez.  The Symposium was more than what I expected... the discussion was relevant, cerebral, and brief but fierce!  Almost the kind of stuff that engineers enjoy participating in.  Nice to speak with soldiers, I guess, particularly the Navy... they go straight to the point, which was nice.  The lawyers in the group are mostly very sharp... more of public servants and social scientists, or business people, rather than 'hardcore' lawyers... so, the discussion went well, and didn't go round-and-round endlessly in a circle. :)  I feel we have accomplished something there... at least, I went home satisfied with my notebook brimming with useful info.  Some plans formed in my head, too, on what the role of engineers and Engineering Education Institutions might be in attaining Maritime Security.  So, yeah, I enjoyed that one.

It looks like I am blessed with another opportunity to serve my country.  Good!  :)  I'll deal with my life's boredom a little later... or, at the same time. :)  Optimism... we gotta have it if we were to survive this tightly 'scripted life'!  I prefer the more spontaneous and relaxed life any day... and I'm going to have it soon - it's happiness!  Optimism....  

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Photo credit:  I took all the photos.

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Saturday photo

Finding beauty... beyond ugliness.

Whenever an opportunity comes to enjoy having the luxury of time, I usually spend it just staying in the house to read or listen to music... or traveling.  Traveling re-boots my mind, giving it a fresh start.  And, if I have a choice, I prefer traveling by land.  I like taking long drive a lot.  It gives time to be away from it all... think, reflect... and gain freedom from the 'slavery' of work without feeling entirely disconnected from the world.  Unlike traveling by sea or by air, traveling by land gives you the choice to stop and enjoy the sights more... it allows spontaneity, it gives meaning to randomness, and it allows one to stop and rest as needed.  Yep, it gives one the feeling of truly on vacation.  But what I like most about long driving is having a variety of views on your window that seems to go on and on... forever.   

A few months ago, my sister and I traveled by land to IIocos Norte, which is about 500 km north of Manila, or about eight (8) hours of travel time.  The road gave the feel of the vibrant beach life on the left side of the road, and the serene ambiance of living on the foot of the mountain on the right side.  At some point, I noticed a row of tattered structures on the street amid dry grass, and they seem to go on, mocking the vacationers who are looking to be allured by the beach... but I also noticed a hint of blue through the holes of the tattered structures.  So, we decided to halt, park... and walk through the ugly dried grass.  What we found beyond the 'ugly' view took my breath away!  It was the blue sea, made to look even bluer by the green mountains that line it close to the road.  My sister and I stopped, and sat there for a some minutes, just admiring the view... and I thought, "ah, vacation, this is what you are all about - gorgeous!"

My sister asked me what made me decide to check the place out when it looked scarily ugly from the other side.  I said, "I'm a teacher, remember?  This is what we do... find beauty when there seems to be none, convert a rough stone to a precious gem."     

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Photo credit:  I took the photo.  It was taken between Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte along Manila North Road.

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Reunion with FPAAA, and re-discovering Ilocandia...

...where the Filipino culture is immensely preserved.

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by PAM


An opportunity to connect with old friends, while learning a good deal of new technologies in Agriculture, Engineering and Food Science presented itself a few months ago in the form of a conference: The Fulbright-Philippine Agriculture Alumni Association

(FPAAA) National Conference on Agriculture and Fisheries and 10th Anniversary Celebration. 

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FPAAA... bending towards my root

Receiving the invitation/announcement on my e-mail a few months ago made me feel a bit nostalgic... the memories of those days when I was making a big decision whether to stay in the Academia and, therefore, pursue doctoral studies, or cross to the 'other side'

Reminiscin' how it all started 12 years ago.

and practice in the Industry, came rushing in.  I remember praying very hard for guidance. It was tough in the beginning... and then God answered my prayers.  A number of very good opportunities to study abroad came knocking on my door... I was overwhelmed!  But the one thing that made me decide to go for doctoral studies was when I received a letter from the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF), the Fulbright Commission in the Philippines, in the Summer of 2001.  I was told that I got the scholarship grant that I applied for, commencing Fall 2002. And then the Cornell University opportunity came, too.  The rest is history.

Needless to say, it was truly frightening to be making such a big step... but my PAEF friends were there to walk me through it all... and so were my Cornell friends and mentors later.  Therefore, when the opportunity to meet with my PAEF friends and mentors came, I just had to grab it!  So, I did.  

This year, the conference had the theme, "Sustainable Agriculture Productivity and Entrepreneurship through Science and Technology".  As the FPAAA members are leaders in their respective fields in the country, it was easy to get lost in the beauty and fluidity of discussions - very, very satisfying... both in content and manner of discussion, not to mention the inherent idealism and sense of humor of FPAAA members. Yep, I'm proud to be a member, and I'm glad I joined the event!

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Ilocos Sur... a beautiful transformation

The FPAAA event was held this year at the Teatro Ilocandia at the Don Mariano Marcos State University in Batac, Ilocos Norte.  I had a choice between flying over there for less than an hour, or driving for seven to eight hours.  As I haven't visited the Ilocos region for

green + blue + some brown = relaxing drive.

about a decade now and I was curious how it progressed over the years, I decided to go for a roadtrip with my sister.  As it turned out, it was a very good choice! :) 

Before reaching Ilocos Norte, we had to go through Pangasinan - where I was born, La Union and Ilocos Sur.  The roads are terrific... so much better than a decade ago - a real progress, I must say.  The green scenery along most of the way was intoxicatingly beautiful... a welcome respite from the 'concrete jungle' that's Metro Manila.  The long drive through La Union was relaxing, with the beach - Philippine sea - on the left side of the road, and the green Ifugao mountains on the right side... both sides of the road were lined by a row of pretty houses with their front yard sprayed with

Vigan... a blend of the past and the present.

foliage of tropical colors.  Oy, it made me think of retirement! :)      

Vigan, Ilocos Sur was something else though... ah, beautiful beyond words, that's what it is!  The old houses, especially along Crisologo St., were fascinating.  I remember being awed by them a few years ago... I was awed again this time.  They pretty much mixed up old with new stuff now, welcoming progress... and yet, the rustic beauty that define Philippine Architecture of the not so ancient years were as defined as they can be.  There were more colors this time... and yet, the charm of the old bricks and the inviting call of the decaying woods of the old structures that seem to say, "come, I have a story to tell you," were as irresistible as ever!  My sister and I were completely drawn.  Just beautiful! 

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Ilocos Norte... ah, Philippines, my Philippines!

Seeing Philippine heritage and cultural artifacts being preserved like a beauty in a time capsule in Ilocos Norte can bring tears to any sentimental Filipino's eyes - it was beautiful!

Fort Ilocandia... full of luxurious 'secrets'.

My sister and I stayed in the famed Fort Ilocandia in Laoag City.  The Fort is a place where Ilocano cultural heritage, including Ilocano cuisine and vibrant tropical foliage, are showcased.  The structure of the hotel is massive... like a fortress.  It seems to hide something behind its walls. And, indeed it does!  It hides a beautiful dwelling, an oasis for the tired and spent... far away from it all that ones zaps energy.  A relaxing and rejuvenating environment that you can privately own, albeit temporarily.

The corridors echo luxury... they were all lined with classy works of art that seem to remind you to walk with a mixture of graceful elegance and curiosity of your surroundings.  It was like being in a different world.  But, it was still a hotel first and foremost... therefore, amenities for relaxation, entertainment and adventure were in place... and luxuriously, too!  But that's without

Laid back beauty.  Aw, retirement...
...I'm so looking forward to enjoying you!

having to spend a "king's ransom", mind you.  And so, my sister and I enjoyed our stay immensely.        

The beach at the back of the hotel was absolutely alluring at sunset, and it beckons with a cheerful greeting at the break of dawn.  It offers a breath of fresh air and a chance to forget your worries by offering its fine sand where one can walk barefoot - without a care in the world. Just irresistible!  

Paoay is a completely different story, except that, like the other places in Ilocandia, it also teaches its visitors with the rich history of the Philippines.  It is home to one of the most photographed churches in the Philippines: the Church of Paoay, which has been the symbol of Catholic worship in the region since the early 18th century. The church is also of historic significance as it was used by the Katipuneros during the

The Church of Paoay.

Revolution against Spanish rule, and by the guerilleros resisting Japanese occupation in World War II. 


The short drive from Fort Ilocandia to Paoay (about 15 minutes) go by faster than it really is because of the "little-town-charm overload" as one takes in the surroundings.  The lazy expanse of green land that separate the two towns relaxes one's eyes to sleepiness, and the quiet elegance of the little town is too beautiful for words.  It cajoles one to want to stay on an extended vacation, that's for sure! :)  Too bad, I cannot stay long... too many things await me in my work place... not that this trip is not work either. 

Ah... retirement, what is taking you so long??

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What's for next time?

Nope, I haven't even covered half of my fascinating short trip to Ilocandia... haven't even spoken about the other ancient churches in the region, and the food... but I have work to do! :(  Therefore, I'll stop here and pray that I find time to write more about my trip in another post... and perhaps, share more photos.  Later....

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Photo credit:  I own all photos in this post.

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Happy birthday, Mama Mary!

Seat of wisdom, pray for us.

We had to travel back and forth between Manila and Manaoag, Pangasinan yesterday to have an early celebration of Our Lady's birthday.  I know, others might think we chose a tiring way to celebrate her birthday, 190 kilometers each way... but it was worth it. She is worth it.

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Saturday photo

The Miag-ao Church of St. Thomas of Villanueva in Iloilo, Philippines,
a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Blending work with play, my colleagues and I at the Philippine Association of Engineering Schools (PAES), Inc. (formerly, Philippine Association for Technological Education, Inc. or PATE, Inc.) held our monthly Board meeting in Iloilo City in the Visayas.  While in Iloilo, we also held information dissemination and forum with colleagues in various Universities

"Work + play" is a winning formula for a balanced life.

in the region on the implementation of K-12, and how this will affect the operations of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), particularly Engineering Schools, in 2016 when the first cohort of K-12 students attend Senior High School rather than the University.  

The weekend - well, this weekend - was spent educating ourselves on Iloilo.  Among many others, what caught my attention was the Miag-ao Church of St. Thomas of Villanueva.  The Church with Baroque-Romanesque architecture was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.  The massive structure earned it the "alias" of "church fortress" in the old days when there was still war between Christians and Muslims in the region, and the church was used to protect the region from Muslims/Moros who attacked it.

Sometimes, we go out and search for impressive stuff... and yet, right at our "backyard", we have "treasures", like the Miag-ao church.  Overall, it was a weekend well-spent.

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