Tonight will be a night of revelry for many people. Halloween parties will be held across the Philippines. I am just piqued by the recent rantings of the Catholic Church discouraging Filipinos from donning scary costumes. Instead, the Church wants Filipinos to wear saintly costumes. For one, it is the church who invented the concept of evil to scare the faithful the hell out of thinking independently and blindly follow its so-called "guidance."
Anyway, Filipinos should celebrate Halloween the way they deem proper and enjoyable, not listen to the controlling 'advice' of a church that once sanctioned the murder of innocent men and women for mere suspicion of being a witch, in other words, for thinking outside the dogma of church accepted beliefs. So yeah people, go ahead and wear the scariest costume you can find and hopefully, scare the clergy out of its centuries old hypocritical slumber, maybe then, they would realize that in today's milieu, thinking is actually valued more than hopeful beliefs based on what Christopher Hitchen's would describe as "plagiarism of a plagiarism, delusion of a delusion based on a few non-events..."
Huwebes, Oktubre 31, 2013
Miyerkules, Oktubre 30, 2013
First Day in New Job
Today I started out in my new job as a legal researcher in a law firm. I was immediately drafted to formulate a letter of complaint to the Chairman of the Board of Election Teller in a barangay in Dulag, Leyte for stopping the counting of vote for the sole reason that some voters wrote the middle name of a candidate instead of the full name. The BET's were probably coaxed into suspending the counting after being intimidated by powerful candidates. Obviously, the act was grossly illegal.
In addition, I was also drafted to make decisionary pleadings about a land dispute. It was exciting and difficult at first but somehow I made it through page 6, hoping to finish the document tomorrow.
As far as I can tell as of today, I think I will enjoy the workplace. I just don't know how the entire thing plays out when classes start. Let's see....
In addition, I was also drafted to make decisionary pleadings about a land dispute. It was exciting and difficult at first but somehow I made it through page 6, hoping to finish the document tomorrow.
As far as I can tell as of today, I think I will enjoy the workplace. I just don't know how the entire thing plays out when classes start. Let's see....
Martes, Oktubre 29, 2013
Reflections on the 2013 Barangay Elections
For this election, I was volunteering for LENTE (Legal Network for Truthful Elections) and we were deployed in one of the largest provincial jails operated by the Province of Leyte, the Kauswagan Prison. It's a moderately huge facility holding 580 inmates. There were 280 eligible voters although 53 did not cast their votes.
Together with my three companions, we observed how the electoral process was conducted in a prison facility, a first for all of us actually. There were two precincts opened in the prison and because of the delay in the arrival of the poll watchers, voting started at 8:30 A.M. instead of the officially mandated opening hour of 7:00 A.M. The turnover of voters for the entire morning was a little bit slow as only 4 voters for each precinct was allowed in. During the afternoon, the pace was moved faster with 8 voters for each precinct being entertained.
Generally, the voting process was orderly and peaceful as well as organized and uneventful. However, voting inmates had to squat on the benches were the Ballot Secrecy Folders were placed as there were no armchairs available. I observed one PWD (person with disability) doing the same, as he was not provided any special place to vote.
I also observed that there were no ballot boxes for each precinct, ballots were placed only in folders. One of the precinct chairmen pointed out that the absence of ballot boxes is due to the fact that the Prison Precinct were mere clusters of Brgy. Barayong, were the ballot boxes were located. The used ballots would then be transported to said barangay were they will be placed in ballot boxes.
There was some confusion with regards to the sealing of the used and unused ballots as one precinct sealed the same in the provided brown envelopes while the other precinct did not, the chairman of which explained that the sealing will only happen at Brgy. Barayong since, as pointed out earlier, the prison precincts were mere clusters of the former.
Another thing that was not followed was the extension of time for the voting process. Officially, prison precincts were supposed to close at 12 noon while regular ones would close at 3 P.M. However, due to the slow paced voting in the morning, both precincts extended the voting time up to 3 P.M.
Other than the problems pointed out, the voting process in said prison facility was generally conducted successfully.
Together with my three companions, we observed how the electoral process was conducted in a prison facility, a first for all of us actually. There were two precincts opened in the prison and because of the delay in the arrival of the poll watchers, voting started at 8:30 A.M. instead of the officially mandated opening hour of 7:00 A.M. The turnover of voters for the entire morning was a little bit slow as only 4 voters for each precinct was allowed in. During the afternoon, the pace was moved faster with 8 voters for each precinct being entertained.
Generally, the voting process was orderly and peaceful as well as organized and uneventful. However, voting inmates had to squat on the benches were the Ballot Secrecy Folders were placed as there were no armchairs available. I observed one PWD (person with disability) doing the same, as he was not provided any special place to vote.
I also observed that there were no ballot boxes for each precinct, ballots were placed only in folders. One of the precinct chairmen pointed out that the absence of ballot boxes is due to the fact that the Prison Precinct were mere clusters of Brgy. Barayong, were the ballot boxes were located. The used ballots would then be transported to said barangay were they will be placed in ballot boxes.
There was some confusion with regards to the sealing of the used and unused ballots as one precinct sealed the same in the provided brown envelopes while the other precinct did not, the chairman of which explained that the sealing will only happen at Brgy. Barayong since, as pointed out earlier, the prison precincts were mere clusters of the former.
Another thing that was not followed was the extension of time for the voting process. Officially, prison precincts were supposed to close at 12 noon while regular ones would close at 3 P.M. However, due to the slow paced voting in the morning, both precincts extended the voting time up to 3 P.M.
Other than the problems pointed out, the voting process in said prison facility was generally conducted successfully.
Lunes, Oktubre 28, 2013
2013 Barangay Elections is Today
Today will be the 2013 Barangay Elections. Hopefully the Filipino people will vote for candidates who stand for progress, honest governance and prudence. To do otherwise would be to guarantee the perpetuation of poverty, economic stagnation and unemployment.
Vote wisely and vote for the future of the country, for our FUTURE!
Vote wisely and vote for the future of the country, for our FUTURE!
Linggo, Oktubre 27, 2013
2013 Philippine Barangay Elections Tomorrow
The Philippines will be conducting its scheduled Barangay Elections tomorrow and as a volunteer of LENTE (Legal Network for Truthful Elections) I will be deployed to a prison facility and a public school here in Leyte to monitor and observe the conduct of elections.
I call on the Filipino people to vote with their conscience, to think for the future and to safeguard their sacred right of suffrage by refusing to be bribed, intimidated or threatened into voting candidates who use and depend on money, goons and armies to ensure they win positions of power.
Protect YOUR VOTE, protect our FUTURE.
I call on the Filipino people to vote with their conscience, to think for the future and to safeguard their sacred right of suffrage by refusing to be bribed, intimidated or threatened into voting candidates who use and depend on money, goons and armies to ensure they win positions of power.
Protect YOUR VOTE, protect our FUTURE.
Sabado, Oktubre 26, 2013
New TV Series: The Blacklist
After seeing good reviews from a classmate, I was hooked for the first five episodes of the Blacklist. It's basically Person of Interest in Reverse, in that unlike the latter, protagonist in The Blacklist is actually a sociopathic killer with a lust for death, gore and everything that needs to be done to get what he wants done.
Anyway, I find the opening episode exciting, dramatic and classically suave. James Spader plays Red Reddington with aplomb, finesse and cold brutality without being crass or crazed. It's a beautifully written show, well acted, excitingly presented and eerily creepy.
Anyway, I find the opening episode exciting, dramatic and classically suave. James Spader plays Red Reddington with aplomb, finesse and cold brutality without being crass or crazed. It's a beautifully written show, well acted, excitingly presented and eerily creepy.
Biyernes, Oktubre 25, 2013
Tacloban Freethinkers Society Meets for the Third Time
For three months in a row now, TFS has successfully and continuously maintained the commitment of its new members and officers by meeting for a significant third time. Interesting topics were discussed such as same-sex marriage, end of the world, love, religion, faith, truth among others. It was a fruitful night conducted in two venues no less.
TFS is a non-stock, non-profit organization founded by four law students of DVOREF Tacloban City and is dedicated to the promotion of science, philosophy and reason in solving the most challenging problems of contemporary human life. TFS meets once a month and as of date, everything is open for deliberation, discussion and analysis.
TFS is a non-stock, non-profit organization founded by four law students of DVOREF Tacloban City and is dedicated to the promotion of science, philosophy and reason in solving the most challenging problems of contemporary human life. TFS meets once a month and as of date, everything is open for deliberation, discussion and analysis.
Huwebes, Oktubre 24, 2013
Last Exam for the Semester!
The semester is about to end, and tonight, we ill have our last exam (we'll not really, technically, we still have one exam re-scheduled for Nov. 16) for this semester and I cannot wait for a much needed break. Time indeed passes so swiftly.
Miyerkules, Oktubre 23, 2013
Two More
The semester is almost over and I can't wait for the sem break to start rolling. Tomorrow will be our second to the last exam for this semester and I can't wait to relax for a week. Hoping for a relaxing week and ohh, to a successful start of a new job as a legal researcher.
Martes, Oktubre 22, 2013
World's Worst Airport to Sleep In
A few days back, I wrote an article about NAIA being one of the most consistently horrendous airport in the world. The place just continues to suck at what it does, and nothing seems to be done by authorities to remedy the matter. Today, another article came out in CNN listing the worlds best and worst places to sleep in, if you're in an airport that is, and no surprise their, the worst airport to sleep in is....don't hold your breath, NAIA!!!
Geez, the place is a masterpiece in horror travel. Filipino authorities have failed to even make it slightly bearable and decent. Really an embarrassment of gargantuan proportions, a clear manifestation of government inefficiency, corruption and poor planning. The place continues its long tradition of pissing passengers the world over, and especially those who have to actually use the place when going to Manila, another city I hate with a vengeance for its disorderliness, chaos, filthiness to name a few, and yes, for its hellish traffic conditions, flood prone streets and perpetually unfinished roads. Talk about third world class.
Geez, the place is a masterpiece in horror travel. Filipino authorities have failed to even make it slightly bearable and decent. Really an embarrassment of gargantuan proportions, a clear manifestation of government inefficiency, corruption and poor planning. The place continues its long tradition of pissing passengers the world over, and especially those who have to actually use the place when going to Manila, another city I hate with a vengeance for its disorderliness, chaos, filthiness to name a few, and yes, for its hellish traffic conditions, flood prone streets and perpetually unfinished roads. Talk about third world class.
Lunes, Oktubre 21, 2013
The "Bling Bishop" of Germany
No surprise for me when I read the recently hot issue of Bishop Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst, a German Catholic bishop in hot waters for spending at least 31 million euros for a sparkling new bishop's palace complete with a conference room, 63-square-meter dining room and a 15,000-euro bathtub.Wow! This is one bishop with a very, very expensive taste at luxuries.
Then again, the church throughout its history has always been an institution that has over the centuries increasingly stuffed itself with the riches of the world. Probably the only thing unusual about this is that the bishop was so brazen enough to openly display his wealth, as to wealth, geez, the Vatican and the Catholic Church is as wealthy as any fortune 500 company, people just refuse to see it for what it is, a money-making, wealth accumulating tax-immune entity.
Then again, the church throughout its history has always been an institution that has over the centuries increasingly stuffed itself with the riches of the world. Probably the only thing unusual about this is that the bishop was so brazen enough to openly display his wealth, as to wealth, geez, the Vatican and the Catholic Church is as wealthy as any fortune 500 company, people just refuse to see it for what it is, a money-making, wealth accumulating tax-immune entity.
Linggo, Oktubre 20, 2013
Sugru: Where Everything Sticks (Almost!)
I have recently discovered a new product after watching it from CNN. It's called Sugru, a silicone based, clay like bonding and sealing agent that is easy to handle, clean and most of all, bonds to almost all things and what is great about it, it can be removed easily.
I recently ordered the product through Sugru's website and I am excited for it to arrive. I'm planning to use it to fix certain parts of our car. Can't wait for my first Sugru to arrive. I really hope it works as advertised.
I recently ordered the product through Sugru's website and I am excited for it to arrive. I'm planning to use it to fix certain parts of our car. Can't wait for my first Sugru to arrive. I really hope it works as advertised.
Sabado, Oktubre 19, 2013
NAIA: Worst Airport in Asia (And I Agree!)
Again, NAIA, specifically NAIA 1, has maintained its dubious reputation as one of the, and for one blogger, the worst air terminal in the world.
In a previous post, I pointed out that in my last travel to Manila for a seminar, water from the roof of NAIA 3 was dripping right beside passengers who were in a queue so as to enter the said terminal. It's just one horrendous experience flyers have to contend to with NAIA. The entire three-terminal airport is a mess: rude staff, chaotic procedures, messy lines, no internet connectivity to name a few. NAIA 1 is without a doubt the worst of the three, it's basically nothing more than a warehouse for departing passengers! And mind you, it feels like one and a passenger will feel like a cargo.
Travelling through NAIA is the worst part of any trip going into and out of Manila. It has consistently left a bitter aftertaste in many a travellers' palate, and the nightmare of its experience seems to live one well and strong.
In a previous post, I pointed out that in my last travel to Manila for a seminar, water from the roof of NAIA 3 was dripping right beside passengers who were in a queue so as to enter the said terminal. It's just one horrendous experience flyers have to contend to with NAIA. The entire three-terminal airport is a mess: rude staff, chaotic procedures, messy lines, no internet connectivity to name a few. NAIA 1 is without a doubt the worst of the three, it's basically nothing more than a warehouse for departing passengers! And mind you, it feels like one and a passenger will feel like a cargo.
Travelling through NAIA is the worst part of any trip going into and out of Manila. It has consistently left a bitter aftertaste in many a travellers' palate, and the nightmare of its experience seems to live one well and strong.
Biyernes, Oktubre 18, 2013
PNOY Arrives in South Korea: And Why the Trip Should Not Have Pushed Through!
I think President Aquino should have postponed his trip to South Korea. Considering the devastating earthquake that hit Central Visayas, leaving should have been the last thing on his mind. Most world leaders even return from their outside the country trips when disasters strike their countries. Indeed, most would instantly fly back home.
It's disappointing for the president to cavort, however noble his intentions were, simply because the timing was not right. More has to be done, more should be done, in order to alleviate the plight of the residents of Bohol and Cebu, especially Bohol, who have lost loved ones, friends, neighbors and houses.
The South Korea Trip was really, really a bad idea, a bad decision and frankly, an imprudent call by the president.
It's disappointing for the president to cavort, however noble his intentions were, simply because the timing was not right. More has to be done, more should be done, in order to alleviate the plight of the residents of Bohol and Cebu, especially Bohol, who have lost loved ones, friends, neighbors and houses.
The South Korea Trip was really, really a bad idea, a bad decision and frankly, an imprudent call by the president.
Huwebes, Oktubre 17, 2013
U.S. Debt Default is Averted
After six days of partisan brinkmanship, the US Congress finally passes a band-aid bill that will keep the government open until January 2014 and the debt raised until February 2014.
Reports indicate that in the duration of the shutdown, US 24 billion was lost from the U.S. economy. The shutdown was the result of the perpetual political banter between House Republicans and their rabid dislike for everything Obama. This is what happens when extremists are placed in positions of power. They would bring down anything in order to push one, yeah ONE pet idea. And extremists always push their pet ideas down everyone's throat without regard for consequences, consideration or prudence.
The crisis has been temporarily averted, more of the same could come in the days ahead.
Reports indicate that in the duration of the shutdown, US 24 billion was lost from the U.S. economy. The shutdown was the result of the perpetual political banter between House Republicans and their rabid dislike for everything Obama. This is what happens when extremists are placed in positions of power. They would bring down anything in order to push one, yeah ONE pet idea. And extremists always push their pet ideas down everyone's throat without regard for consequences, consideration or prudence.
The crisis has been temporarily averted, more of the same could come in the days ahead.
Miyerkules, Oktubre 16, 2013
Internet Connection in Tacloban City still Weak
A day after the devastating quake that struck under Bohol, I still could not connect to the internet, it seems that underground fiber optic cables were damaged by the quake. In addition, the death toll in the quake has been steadily rising.
Structures that collapsed such as the historic churches and some houses and buildings, were somehow found to be below par in terms of structural strength vis-a-vis it's ability to weather earthquakes. As for the churches, such as the 400-year old Luboc Church, this is not surprising since such monuments were built at a time were modern construction techniques were not even thought of. But as is the problem with public officials, nothing was done to spruce up and provide structural support to these monuments before the quake. Prudence again, was wanting. Again, not surprising being that public officials are more reactive than proactive, always failing to plan for the future, merely reacting to catastrophes after the fact is unacceptable in this day and age.
Structures that collapsed such as the historic churches and some houses and buildings, were somehow found to be below par in terms of structural strength vis-a-vis it's ability to weather earthquakes. As for the churches, such as the 400-year old Luboc Church, this is not surprising since such monuments were built at a time were modern construction techniques were not even thought of. But as is the problem with public officials, nothing was done to spruce up and provide structural support to these monuments before the quake. Prudence again, was wanting. Again, not surprising being that public officials are more reactive than proactive, always failing to plan for the future, merely reacting to catastrophes after the fact is unacceptable in this day and age.
Martes, Oktubre 15, 2013
Central Visayas is Rattled by a Quake!
I was awakened about 8:15 in the morning today by a quake that would turn out to be 7.2 on the scale and devastated the islands of Bohol and Cebu in Central Visayas. Churches in Bohol, some I visited for the first time way back in 2010 such as the Baclayon Church, collapased under the power of the quake. The Sto. Nino Cathedral in Cebu City was also partly destroyed, at least the belltower.
Initial reports indicated that 20 people died. Internet in Tacloban City was shut down, or at least slowed to a snail's pace.
The quake centered under Carmen town in Bohol and virtually destroyed historic landmarks such as the Luboc Church, damaged roads and bridges and destroyed houses, not to mention killed many people.
Initial reports indicated that 20 people died. Internet in Tacloban City was shut down, or at least slowed to a snail's pace.
The quake centered under Carmen town in Bohol and virtually destroyed historic landmarks such as the Luboc Church, damaged roads and bridges and destroyed houses, not to mention killed many people.
Lunes, Oktubre 14, 2013
TV SHOW REVIEW: The Walking Dead S04E01
The opening episode for the next season started out weak and bleary actually. Not much action, not much anticipation was built by the show. Somehow the premiere episode failed, in my opinion, to set the tone for the entire season, except perhaps towards the end, when Luke suddenly collapses in the shower at night. A prelude to the next bout of zombie attacks, one that could threaten the very integrity of the prison community Rick and the gang originally built and have come to call home.
In addition, I was accepting a two-hour opening salvo, unfortunately, that was not the case.
In addition, I was accepting a two-hour opening salvo, unfortunately, that was not the case.
Linggo, Oktubre 13, 2013
Blurry Night
Blurry was the night
Amidst flickering lights
Rousing sounds
Screeching furnitures
Deafening sounds
Clicking glasses
Swooshing liquirds
Vomiting sight
Me intoxicated
Amidst flickering lights
Rousing sounds
Screeching furnitures
Deafening sounds
Clicking glasses
Swooshing liquirds
Vomiting sight
Me intoxicated
Sabado, Oktubre 12, 2013
Biyernes, Oktubre 11, 2013
Malala Yousufzai: Deserving of a Nobel Prize
The clock is ticking for this year's Nobel Peace Prize and most educated people around the world are desperately hoping that Malala, the 16-year old Pakistani girl shot in the head by the Taliban for advocating girl's education in her home country, would get the prize.
I agree. If there is any person who should deserve the Nobel Prize in the past year, it would be no other than Malala. For a young girl (she started writing for BBC on the right of girls to an education at the tender age of 11), Malala is ahead of her times, ahead of her peers, and way ahead of Medieval, misogynistic, narrow minded worldview of the Pakistani Taliban.
Malala exudes the wisdom of an old scholar, the prudence of a mother, the strength of a soldier, the eloquence of a poet and the innocence of a child. No other person in the last year deserves therefore the Nobel prize than Malala. I hope she gets the prize, for to do so would really be a boon in the fight for girl's education the world over.
Go Malala, your work is an inspiration to reasoned people all over the world.
I agree. If there is any person who should deserve the Nobel Prize in the past year, it would be no other than Malala. For a young girl (she started writing for BBC on the right of girls to an education at the tender age of 11), Malala is ahead of her times, ahead of her peers, and way ahead of Medieval, misogynistic, narrow minded worldview of the Pakistani Taliban.
Malala exudes the wisdom of an old scholar, the prudence of a mother, the strength of a soldier, the eloquence of a poet and the innocence of a child. No other person in the last year deserves therefore the Nobel prize than Malala. I hope she gets the prize, for to do so would really be a boon in the fight for girl's education the world over.
Go Malala, your work is an inspiration to reasoned people all over the world.
Huwebes, Oktubre 10, 2013
To be or not to be
To be one
To be two in one
To be best
To believe
To better onself
To bet for the best
To be all that one can be
To be someone
To be
Not to be no
To be two in one
To be best
To believe
To better onself
To bet for the best
To be all that one can be
To be someone
To be
Not to be no
Miyerkules, Oktubre 9, 2013
Saudi Arabia's Unjust Justice System
Once again, a girl is killed, once again it happened in a Muslim country, once again, it occurred in the Middle East, once again, it's Saudi Arabia!
What is shocking, as rightly pointed out by social media users in Saudi Arabia itself, is that the so-called father, al-Ghamdi, who killed the his 5-year old child - by torture! got only 8 years and 600 lashes, the same penalty for a Saudi activist Raif Badawi, sentenced to 7 years in prison and 600 lashes for running an unauthorized web forum. Al-Ghamdi received a lesser fine than four Saudi men who danced naked on top of their car, the latter being sentenced to 2,000 lashes and 10 years in prison.
Saudi Arabia, for all its material riches, is nothing more than a medieval backwater who happens to exist in the 21st century. It's justice system is known for its unjust, arbitrary, even brutal pronouncements. It's a pity the little girl was born into that country. There is really nothing that can be said about this incident, it's one among countless human rights violations that are institutionalized and indeed, sanctioned by its equally brutal form of Islam, Wahhabism. Pity the girl, pity the women who are always at risked of being lynched in Saudi Arabia.
What is shocking, as rightly pointed out by social media users in Saudi Arabia itself, is that the so-called father, al-Ghamdi, who killed the his 5-year old child - by torture! got only 8 years and 600 lashes, the same penalty for a Saudi activist Raif Badawi, sentenced to 7 years in prison and 600 lashes for running an unauthorized web forum. Al-Ghamdi received a lesser fine than four Saudi men who danced naked on top of their car, the latter being sentenced to 2,000 lashes and 10 years in prison.
Saudi Arabia, for all its material riches, is nothing more than a medieval backwater who happens to exist in the 21st century. It's justice system is known for its unjust, arbitrary, even brutal pronouncements. It's a pity the little girl was born into that country. There is really nothing that can be said about this incident, it's one among countless human rights violations that are institutionalized and indeed, sanctioned by its equally brutal form of Islam, Wahhabism. Pity the girl, pity the women who are always at risked of being lynched in Saudi Arabia.
Martes, Oktubre 8, 2013
TV SHOW REVIEW: Defiance S01E12
What an exciting two day run trying to finish episodes 1 to 12 of season 1. Episode 12 delves radically into the existence of a god, Irisa enters into the cave to save his stepfather Joshua Nolan, shot by Earth Republic soldiers in the pitch battle to rescue herself. The cave represents strongly Irizu, the Irathient god.
Meanwhile, Amanda Rosewater loses to Datak Tarr in the bitterly contested mayoral race. Datak kills an Earth Republic major for disrespecting him. The episode ends with Earth Republic soldiers descending upon Defiance.
More or less a very exciting run by far. I can't wait to see more of the future episodes. More than just a sci-fi series, Defiance delves into the perennial human issues of love, commitment, community, friendship, family and the ties that bind humans across races - the need to survive at all costs amidst the uncertainties of life. It eludes into the meaning of life, of heroism, of sacrifice.
Episode 12 showcases in no uncertain terms the "hero persona." A perennial theme in human literary masterpieces. Most of all, it talks about relationships and the need for communication as critical in order to navigate the complexities of social relations and survival.
It left me longing for more, expecting for more. The adrenaline rush has just begun.
Meanwhile, Amanda Rosewater loses to Datak Tarr in the bitterly contested mayoral race. Datak kills an Earth Republic major for disrespecting him. The episode ends with Earth Republic soldiers descending upon Defiance.
More or less a very exciting run by far. I can't wait to see more of the future episodes. More than just a sci-fi series, Defiance delves into the perennial human issues of love, commitment, community, friendship, family and the ties that bind humans across races - the need to survive at all costs amidst the uncertainties of life. It eludes into the meaning of life, of heroism, of sacrifice.
Episode 12 showcases in no uncertain terms the "hero persona." A perennial theme in human literary masterpieces. Most of all, it talks about relationships and the need for communication as critical in order to navigate the complexities of social relations and survival.
It left me longing for more, expecting for more. The adrenaline rush has just begun.
Lunes, Oktubre 7, 2013
The Legacy of Masters and Johnson
Ever since I read about Masters and Johnson's work as a college student, I have always been fascinated and amused by their revolutionary findings. William Masters and Virginia Johnson were to sex education as Margaret Sanger was to Reproductive Rights for Women.
The research of Masters and Johnson certainly had a broad impact on succeeding scholars who dared to go were no academic has gone before that is clearly apparent in Time article on the 12 new discoveries regarding sex. I would say it's not shocking, just new discoveries in our unending search to discover and understand ourselves better.
It made me realize how exciting and unique indeed is man.
The research of Masters and Johnson certainly had a broad impact on succeeding scholars who dared to go were no academic has gone before that is clearly apparent in Time article on the 12 new discoveries regarding sex. I would say it's not shocking, just new discoveries in our unending search to discover and understand ourselves better.
It made me realize how exciting and unique indeed is man.
Linggo, Oktubre 6, 2013
TV SHOW REVIEW: Defiance S01E01
Confusing is what I felt upon watching the pilot episode. I felt that the story was not clearly laid out at the beginning. I actually had to read reviews of the story so I could somehow make sense of what the heck was the episode all about, who were involved, how, why and the like.
It's a sci-fi series with an apocalyptic bent involving humans and aliens fighting it out against each other while trying to survive with each other against all odds. It's was interesting enough for me to look forward to episode two. Let's see how the story leads me...to watch it through or to disregard it altogether?
It's a sci-fi series with an apocalyptic bent involving humans and aliens fighting it out against each other while trying to survive with each other against all odds. It's was interesting enough for me to look forward to episode two. Let's see how the story leads me...to watch it through or to disregard it altogether?
Sabado, Oktubre 5, 2013
Restaurant Review: Ice Tea (Burgos St., Tacloban City)
Basically a beverage resto with tea as its main theme. The place is cool, cozy and very comfortable. The seats are well cushioned and the place smells really good.
This is actually the first time I entered the place. I ordered Blueberry Cheesecake Frappe. It was just good, not out of this world I would say. My friend ordered Green Apple. I did not actually get a taste of the stuff but it looked really appetizing and very healthy. What is so unique,at least for Tacloban City, about Ice Tea Restaurant is that you can actually choose to regulate the sugar used, I chose my beverage to be sugarless. Others might prefer theirs to be 25%, 50%, 75% sugared. At least when it comes to sweeteners, this place gives its customers the choice to have a say on the matter.
I think I would need another visit or two to the resto to have a conclusive finding on its over-all quality, both from the service side and the food side. But anyway, good impressions so far.
This is actually the first time I entered the place. I ordered Blueberry Cheesecake Frappe. It was just good, not out of this world I would say. My friend ordered Green Apple. I did not actually get a taste of the stuff but it looked really appetizing and very healthy. What is so unique,at least for Tacloban City, about Ice Tea Restaurant is that you can actually choose to regulate the sugar used, I chose my beverage to be sugarless. Others might prefer theirs to be 25%, 50%, 75% sugared. At least when it comes to sweeteners, this place gives its customers the choice to have a say on the matter.
I think I would need another visit or two to the resto to have a conclusive finding on its over-all quality, both from the service side and the food side. But anyway, good impressions so far.
Biyernes, Oktubre 4, 2013
MOVIE REVIEW: Run 2013
The movie was at first dragging and slow for me but ended up quite exciting. This is basically a story about a father and a son who have dedicated themselves to hiding from a bunch of organized criminals who had control of the NYPD until finally, they stood down and fought. To survive, Shaun (Daniel) stole, using his skills as a Parkour practitioner in the get-away process. Daniel is the son of the mob leader's now deceased daughter Maria who was killed by Luke, her brother.
The movie is about the joy's of finding love, the power of friendships and the bond of a father and son as they tread the challenges of life. If there is one poignant line from the movie, it's Daniel sharing his thoughts at the end of the movie about the three important things one should realize in life: to know your world, to follow your instinct and to trust the one you love. Beautiful parting words indeed from a character who was basically bland throughout the movie.
The movie is about the joy's of finding love, the power of friendships and the bond of a father and son as they tread the challenges of life. If there is one poignant line from the movie, it's Daniel sharing his thoughts at the end of the movie about the three important things one should realize in life: to know your world, to follow your instinct and to trust the one you love. Beautiful parting words indeed from a character who was basically bland throughout the movie.
Huwebes, Oktubre 3, 2013
TECH REVIEW: Cherry Mobile Burst
I recently received a new cellphone from SUN Cellular. This was a complementary unit given by the company for all post paid subscribers every two years. This year, I got Cherry Mobile's Burst. This is a new model patterned after the popular Flare.
At first it was great. The screen was clear. Everything worked well. After three days now, it seems that a lot of things started to get awry. First, the Live Wallpaper I choose from it's memory did not appear anymore. A few hours ago in fact I reloaded the said Live Wallpaper but it immediately disappeared from the Wall after a few minutes! Second, everytime I would press the menu buttom, response time was becoming slower by the day, indeed, the delay could last between 10-20 seconds! And third, which I just discovered after I recorded a 15 minute audio of my teacher's discussion, was that the phone retained only 18 seconds of the entire lecture! I was aghast. Trying to test if there was anything I did wrong, I played a Youtube videos and recorded the audio for 6 minutes. After which I hit the save checkmark. When I looked on the Files folder, I discovered that instead of 6 minues, the DAMN phone only saved 1 minute. So there it goes, there is something wrong with the phone!
I had good expectations with the phone, physically it was sleek and modern. The software was Android 4.0 ICS so it was decent. However, with the aforesaid incidents, I am beginning to regard Cherry Mobile's Burst with derision and hate actually. This brought me to the fact that it is Made in China.
It sucks and its frustrating. Anyway, I'm not recommending the Brand and the Model to any of my friends. It may be cheap, but it does not do its job well compared to other cheap smartphones. Typically what you would expect from a low cost phone made in China.
At first it was great. The screen was clear. Everything worked well. After three days now, it seems that a lot of things started to get awry. First, the Live Wallpaper I choose from it's memory did not appear anymore. A few hours ago in fact I reloaded the said Live Wallpaper but it immediately disappeared from the Wall after a few minutes! Second, everytime I would press the menu buttom, response time was becoming slower by the day, indeed, the delay could last between 10-20 seconds! And third, which I just discovered after I recorded a 15 minute audio of my teacher's discussion, was that the phone retained only 18 seconds of the entire lecture! I was aghast. Trying to test if there was anything I did wrong, I played a Youtube videos and recorded the audio for 6 minutes. After which I hit the save checkmark. When I looked on the Files folder, I discovered that instead of 6 minues, the DAMN phone only saved 1 minute. So there it goes, there is something wrong with the phone!
I had good expectations with the phone, physically it was sleek and modern. The software was Android 4.0 ICS so it was decent. However, with the aforesaid incidents, I am beginning to regard Cherry Mobile's Burst with derision and hate actually. This brought me to the fact that it is Made in China.
It sucks and its frustrating. Anyway, I'm not recommending the Brand and the Model to any of my friends. It may be cheap, but it does not do its job well compared to other cheap smartphones. Typically what you would expect from a low cost phone made in China.
Miyerkules, Oktubre 2, 2013
The U.S. Government Shutdown: When Extremists are in Power
The recent U.S. government shutdown is a clear manifestation that in any society, democratic or otherwise, it is always the extremists that somehow, someway, manage to push their narrow goals, however numerically small they may be, that could incalculably affect the well-being of an entire nation.
Without doubt, the current Republican led-House is run by Tea Party conservatives who have consistently opposed Obama, simply because he is Obama, regardless of the merit or reasonableness of his policy. The current shutdown has been rightfully blamed on the Republican Party, currently the most retrogressive and inane institution in the U.S. It's obstructionist policies, narrow goals, and myopic views have caused the U.S. it's first ratings downgrade a few years ago. Not to mention it's lack of a solid governing ethos, other than opposing Obama at every move, has shown that the Republican Party is indeed a party of old, white men who are out of touch, out of tune, out of reason in its approach to governance.
The Republican Party is Exhibit A to all nations that without a tinge of uncertainty indisputably proves that extremists in power will always push a narrow agenda at the expense of the wider, greater good.
Without doubt, the current Republican led-House is run by Tea Party conservatives who have consistently opposed Obama, simply because he is Obama, regardless of the merit or reasonableness of his policy. The current shutdown has been rightfully blamed on the Republican Party, currently the most retrogressive and inane institution in the U.S. It's obstructionist policies, narrow goals, and myopic views have caused the U.S. it's first ratings downgrade a few years ago. Not to mention it's lack of a solid governing ethos, other than opposing Obama at every move, has shown that the Republican Party is indeed a party of old, white men who are out of touch, out of tune, out of reason in its approach to governance.
The Republican Party is Exhibit A to all nations that without a tinge of uncertainty indisputably proves that extremists in power will always push a narrow agenda at the expense of the wider, greater good.
Martes, Oktubre 1, 2013
Honesty
Truth hurts
Reality bites
Life could suck
Lies blind us
To dwell on untruths
For a moment it seems
Boon is on our side
Then we forget
That in all things
Good and bad
Consequences abound
And always
Truth brings us bare
Naked and vulnerable
Better endure the pain
Than live in a bubble of fantasy
For always
As always
For every action
Comes reaction.
Reality bites
Life could suck
Lies blind us
To dwell on untruths
For a moment it seems
Boon is on our side
Then we forget
That in all things
Good and bad
Consequences abound
And always
Truth brings us bare
Naked and vulnerable
Better endure the pain
Than live in a bubble of fantasy
For always
As always
For every action
Comes reaction.
Mag-subscribe sa:
Mga Post (Atom)