Victory!

"This is it!...", louie [my student] texted me. "Just have fun out there!" told them. Sheldon, Michelle and Bembem were already waiting outside CJC gate when i got there. Just before we go inside, Louie arrived. We were actually 2nd of the early birds who set foot at the CJC gym. Maam Regz was surprised of an Adviser's presence. Well.. [chuckles]

The program host was Mr. Dondon Llanos, Director of Red Cross Committee and welcomed everbody to the PNRC Davao del Sur Chapter 1st Blood Olympics. He emphasized that this is not just Davao del Sur's first but of entire Philippines. We were glad to hear such news!

A short message was given by Ma'am Helen D. Caberto, RMT, MPA, Head of PNRC Davao del Sur Chapter and Dr. Allan Kintanar, one of the Red Cross Davao del Sur's Director.

Out of 7 group participants, students from PITS were the only group in complete uniform.
Beat that!

Just before the quiz bowl started

Prior to Q & A portion, Mui and I felt jittery but we managed to be calm and relax as it goes.. I guess the positive energy was with them the whole time. There were questions in which they were the only group who got it correctly. During updates of scores, i was also taking note of the participants' standing. The host also acknowledges the presence of the Advisers during the event [ehem, ehem..looks like we were the ONLY Advisers present]. Thank you!!

The last tally of scores was heart-pumping. For a while, the audience were entertained with intermission numbers. Just before the announcement of winners, Mui whispered joyfully we got the over-all 2nd place brushing elbows with the ROTC group from CJC. Tallying of scores were held in public for transparency purposes. "Oh my God, Oh my God..I wanna jump now..I wanna scream!", i uttered myself. Couldn't get hold of the excitement so I took my phone out of my bag and prepared the Create Message Option [hehehe] ..

To Cindy, Rona, Sheldon, Louie and Bembem..
CONGRATULATIONS!! Your dear Advisers and PITS Family we're so proud of you.

[thumbs up]

Participants manages to set aside the 'lubb-dubb' sound for the meantime. I know the feeling. I used to attend Quiz bowls during High School and College. It's not the winning or losing that matters but the learning experience and a fulfilling commitment being a participant. Upon hearing the announcement of the winners, I immediately sent out the good news to Ma'am Sol, Sir Jopay and to the rest of the Administrative Staff. Couldn't bear the excitement eh! We took pictures and lots of it!

We shook hands with Maam Helen and Sir Dondon. We extended our appreciation for having us a part of the pioneering blood olympics. God Bless, Red Cross!

After the Quiz bowl, BLOOD LETTING ACTIVITY followed. Too bad, wasn't able to donate blood so with Mui =(. The time may not be now but definitely soon..

Before leaving CJC, we passed by this spot where a photograph of the victim of the recent blasting incident is posted.

The family and the entire school mourns for her regrettable loss. Too soon to die..
May she rest in peace..

innocent victims

Yesterday, on my way home I passed by DSPH and saw a jampacked of people infront of the Emergency Room..

Victims were brought to different hospitals and some were directly referred to DMC for medical assistance. Last night, when my sister came home we talked about the sad news. Teary-eyed, she related the story of her school mate who suffered severe injury. Sad story.

This morning, my class offered a short prayer [followed by a moment of silence] to the victims of the terrible incident. That day would leave an unforgettable mark on every Digoseños heart most especially the relatives and immediate family members of the innocent victims.

These candles would forever be lighted until justice has been served.

Whoever gets to read this post, please offer a silent prayer for the victims of the blast.

Life is indeed, fragile. Vulnerable to everything. How safe are we now? Tell me..

Sad news =(

The whole town Digos City was stricken with the bombing incident happened few hours ago at the Bus Terminal, particularly MSB 176 leading to numerous casualties.

All of us here at school were so upset. Thinking the victims might someone we knew. God forbid! My phone rang. Papa is calling. I answered. He asked, "Asan ka?" [where are you?], I calmly answered I am here at school and my sister was also at her school. He was worried. "Don't worry pa, we're both fine." I assured him.

Have to catch the news later to find out the whole story. This is a very, very sad day =(

flowers & photos

Twin vine flowers caught my attention when we visited the
St. Benedictine's Monastery

Flaming red variety of euphorbia

Photos taken from Auntie Inday's front yard

Quail eggs sunny side up? nah, this is one variety of a euphorbia plant

The dancing lady gracefully sways as the wind blows at ENCAR Resort

One fine morning, i took this photo.
A shrub named bougainvillea adorn the facade of our house.

An orchid type in full bloom

These breed of flowering plants were given by Auntie Myrna

more flowers to feature soon...

rainy monday

Lazy to wake up on a gloomy morning, i have no choice but to force myself to get up on bed. It rained, so great! Perfect scenario i'm wearing white uniform with my blue windbreaker and carrying my sturdy umbrella.

My class was cancelled to make way for the BLOOD FORUM conducted by the Red Cross Davao del Sur Chapter Officers headed by Maam Reggie Palma accompanied by Sir Carl and Sir Ronald. Naikot na nila halos lahat ng eskwelahan dito sa Digos campaigning for the benefits of Donating Blood.

According to Maam Regz 'July is a Blood Donor's Month'. The forum was initiated by Sir Carl Rabor, Red Cross Youth In-charge and Training Officer by introducing the other services offered by Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), the activities they have been doing and the organization's on-going projects. He shared his/their experiences during disasters/emergencies.

Maam Regz, on the other hand, discussed the National Blood Service of PNRC. A different learning experience. I even take notes of her lecture.

When the program ended, I extended my appreciation to the speakers for taking time to visit our school, for instilling awareness to the students, most especially on Blood Donation. It was a very productive morning. Thank you Maam Regz and company.

My students were surprised to hear my announcement that i am going to give them a quiz about the discussion.

There will be a Mass Blood Letting Activity this Sunday, July 27 at Cor Jesu Gym preceded by a Quiz Bowl Competition at 8:30AM, same venue. Maam Regz stressed that 'IF YOU CANT BE A BLOOD DONOR, YOU CAN BE A BLOOD CAMPAIGNER'. I would probably
do both! A blood donor and at the same time, a blood campaigner.

They'll be back this afternoon.

an emotional yet funny weekend

Friday..
While waiting for mui to come over, i stayed again at the internet lab here at school.."it pays to be faculty member," i told myself [chuckles]..she owe me a chika [story] she forgot to relate when we get along last Saturday..anyways, she opened up..told me the story behind the story..people are entitled to their own opinion mui..nevermind them..it won't make
you less of a person..we know you better than them, ok? Words can't bring you down..

Saturday..3rd Padigosan Festival
I woke up early [got used to it already!], opened the television and watched Kabuhayang Swak na Swak at 5:30AM..I just love the concept it offers to viewers like me, who aspires to be an entrepreneur! My letter was once featured in the show when I was in Manila 2 years ago. The show runs for 30minutes. After that, i went outside. Let the DOGS out of their cage
and greeted them "Good Morning"..

I was checking test papers with a coffee on the side then mui reminded the group about the get together. We would supposedly meet after lunch but was moved later in the afternoon. Elite will be present, through her text message. Thank GOD, mabubuo na kami [we would be complete]. Unexpectedly, visitors came in at home. Had some chitchats and left at around 6pm. Told mui, i'm coming to meet with them.

weee...Let's volt in!! tenententenententen!! hahaha!! i took a quick [quick daw o!] bath, dressed up and left home..

on my way to the meeting place, received a text message again that the group was waiting for me na sa may park..hehe, late ang beauty ni pucca..sorry guyz!! glad to see them again lalo na si elite at may plus pa, si amor..

DJs of MOR-Davao draw the crowds attention and Digosenos were delighted by the music created by the TALIGSIK BAND..Kaanhi na jud si tanini sa Digos..naninuod jud..hahaha!!

After the show, the group ate out at CAA [lot and i's second time already]. Buti na lang may dala akong P100. Almost all the tables were occupied. We settled-in near the counter. Medyo matagal tagal nga lang kaming na-entertain kahit nasa gitna na kami..hehehe..

The crew who served us [codename: C] wasn't that friendly at all. He seemed irritated and the complete opposite of A. Kairita! His actions does it all. From taking our orders, getting the menus back to serving the meals. We were left staring at each other. Be thankful we didn't file any complaint. Wait till you do that again the next time we visit the place. You'd
probably be hearing from us. [thumbs down]

We strolled around and took pictures. Set the timer, requested people to take our photos ug gamit pud pagkataas sa kamot ni elite kay nakapa picture jud ming unom na siya ang nikuha..hahaha!! Smile gihapon maski gipaningot na ug taman.

Why do time runs fast when friends are having fun? We parted ways pass 10pm!

Was kinda tired When i got home. I slept around 10:35pm..

Sunday..
My morning isn't complete without a dose of coffee. I am a self-confessed coffee-holic!! Watched KSnS again but this time, it airs at 7AM. Papa reminded me through text to catch the TV show.

While in the midst of computing the midterm grades of my students, I received a text from a friend who needs a shoulder to lean on.

We went to Our Lady of Benedictine Monastery wherein my bestfriend finds enlightenment. We sat on the highest stair leading to the statue of the Holy Mother of God. I offered my time to listen, made my observations and gave broad openings. Char, therapeutic techniques kaayo..hehehe!

It's hard seeing a person experiencing a terrible, complicating, rocky relationship. Seeing your friend burst into tears from too much heartaches. When asked 'why still continue when its not making you happy anymore?', you'd hear the famous line 'because of love'..oh, well!!

But, despite the pitiful moment this person is undergoing, I was able to help ease the pain by means of comedic lines and acts.

Then, we went to this place. Wishing the strong winds would take away the pains and heartaches of my dear friend. Where we talked of our future plans. Envisioning ourselves working in the land of milk and honey. We vowed to make our vision board. I'm glad i saw the smiles and heard the laughters! I felt a sense of fulfillment, I was able to help in my own little way.

Midterm Exam

This is the day that a teacher hears side comments, seeing scratching heads and letting out a big sigh after a student got hold of its questionnaire..

Yeah, i am talking about EXAMINATION. As a teacher, i imposed rules and live by it. My former students knew the benefits of being disciplined in all aspects, most especially when it comes to school life and during examination day.

I slept around 2am and set the alarm at 4am but as the typical sleepy head, reaching out the phone and snoozing it off is quite a relief! No bothering alarm tone. Go ahead sleep more.

6am..There, sleep time is over. Time to start my day. Bathe. Suit-up. Eat. Checked things in the bag. Put loose change in the pocket for the tricycle fare. Photocopied the test papers. Kept the receipt for reimbursement. Walked my way to school.

8:30am..Logged-in. Checked their permits, arranged their seating positions. Placed all bags infront of the classroom. Checked all their clipboards. Distributed the questionnaires. Monitored closely. Called the attention of suspicious cheater.

Sir Jopay informed me earlier about the upcoming activities of Red Cross, Davao del Sur Chapter. This is going to be a hectic week. There will be a Blood Forum this Monday, July 21 which is yet to confirm with the RC Office and a blood-letting this 27th of July. I am very much willing to donate blood. Have to spread this announcement to the afternoon session.

11:30am..Here i am, temporarily the in-charge personnel at the internet laboratory while Ma'am Gina and Mavic is having their hearty lunch outside. Don't mind me, I'll have my lunch later at home..

12:30pm..oooppsss, i could already hear my stomach growling..may i exit muna beauty ko for a while..

1:00pm..And i'm back at mega face na naman ang beauty ko sa PC dito sa internet lab. Mega gusto na ata ni pucca ang ambience dito..this is going to be a habit..money-saver pa! I could research here for free.

1:35pm..hmm, i seem to enjoy spending time here..sir jopay and i is very much willing to substitute Ma'am Gina [hehehe]..well, in case she rans an errand.

2:20pm..A student of mine ask if we could take pictures using the camera of this unit i am using..'sure, why not?!' anjan naman si sir jopay.. gurlalu gleefully answers..click! click! click!

3:00pm..yes, i'm still here but i'll leave na rin in a while.

On this day and my friends' reunion...

Been to my make-up class with my students and pretty exhausted..this would go for days..had to catch up on some lectures..after this, i'll be facing my PC again and finalize the questionnaires then review, review, review for my 3rd battle..

It's their midterm exam tomorrow. Time flew that fast..

Pretty happy though, my Aunt Nelly called me up last night and was glad hearing her voice again. She was like a second mother to me..we talked for a while then bid our goodbyes..it was good to hear the latest whereabouts of my cousins, nephews and niece..i'd be missing them..Happy trip to L.A. [for good]..i will be seeing you all there soon, GOD WILLING!! i never stop praying for it..

On the other hand, my friends and i get together again as jak and lot treats the barkada for a sumptous dinner at Chicken Ati-Atihan here in Digos City..A native restaurant catering grilled foods and other pinoy favorites..sinigang (of any variety) to name a few..

We were not actually complete, elite wasn't present..too bad =(
But despite the absence of our dear tall friend [hehe], we did enjoy each other's company..

We even made ourselves models for the time-being..shots taken inside a studio house while jak waits for her pictures to be printed..hahaha!! Thanks to the little girl we ask to have our pictures taken using my camera..ssshh, it's a little secret..

We then headed to this native restaurant. When we get there, people followed their stares on us [as if seeing celebrities..hmmm, guyz you have to treat me for this..hehe!!] We ordered Shrimp Sinigang and 4 Combo Chicken Ati-Atihan Meal + iced tea. With the skyrocketing prices of the rice grains, getting a combo meal + unlimited rice is a thrifty thing to do..

While eating, we catch up on stuffs with each other. The bonding was filled with more laughter as each of us teases and makes fun of each other not minding some undesirable look from other customers. The dessert was lot's treat..2 orders of halo-halo [good for 2-3 persons] not place in the traditional plastic or fragile glass but tossed up inside a peeled off buko husk...hmmm.. innovative!!

We took pictures, pictures and more pictures!!

Thanks to Algier [one of the crews] for being so customer-oriented..

We planned to get together again and invade the UK store this saturday..hope it's pushing through..

Until then, ciao!!

Jak's birthday

it's my mareng jak's birthday today..greeted her na and made a testimony on her friendster profile..a college bestfriend..been through a lot na rin..can't wait for the group's reunion this saturday afternoon..should i go to the spa for a facial?? [char, ferte oi!]..

Internet cafe

i am here at SKY-NET Cafe, my newest turf..on my 5th time already and i would say this leads the list of the cafe's i used to dwell in here in Digos City..the place is not that huge but spacious enough with 10 operating units and a good internet connection..the cafe assistants willfully assists unit users. And the good thing here is the fact that they are open 24 hours. People, students preferably could now have their term papers/school requirements printed even on the middle of the night. But, when i'm in Davao City, SPA NET is the best choice. It's worth the hourly rate you pay for.

This cafe is always full, customers could wait and sit comfortably in their bench [inside the establishment]..They even placed a center table and chairs for wait-listers. It's located along Ramon Magsaysay St. on the newly-built Monarca Building neighboring Digos Maternity Lying-In Clinic.

should I include this on my Thumbs up, thumbs down? hmmm..wait and see..

41st Araw ng Davao del Sur..

Note: I was supposed to post this last friday 'cause I was able to use 1 of the units at the internet lab at school but i left my flash drive [which contains my pretyped journal] at home.

July 1, 2008. The people & town of Davao del Sur celebrated its 41st Founding Anniversary and was glorified by a short visit of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo aboard the Presidential Chopper. Her Excellency inagurated the new DSPH-OPD building now with new medical equipments to render a more efficient medical services needed by the Digoseños.

At 8am, on my way to our assembly area, I've passed people from all walks of life [students, teachers, government employees, by-standers to name a few] started to fill the streets holding colored flaglets and banners representing their schools, organizations, companies, government agencies, etc. to welcome Madame President.

We were informed to accompany 20 students from NA, IT & HRM departments to the Provincial Capitol to somewhat represent the school. We rode a jeep and shouldered the fare of the students, which had to reimburse by the school, of course..[wink, wink!]

Pass 10am, Her excellency arrived [with a very tight security] at the covered court of the Provincial Capitol and received a warm welcome from the folks of the towns of Davao del Sur. Cameras and video recorders weren't allowed eventhough taken from the outside.

After the event, exhausted and tortured by the scorching heat, we took pictures [posted below] infront of the Provincial Capitol as proof na rin that we did go there and filled the crowd. I just pity those students we accompanied. Some of them haven't taken their breakfast. Mui and I let out a big sigh of annoyance about a certain person who misinformed us about the free meal. Anyways, that's just the way it is.



While waiting for Ate jel to fetch us, moi and i killed the time chatting. We were so hungry, we even jested we could almost hear each other's audible bowel sound. hahaha!!

At jollibee, we saw jenny [our batchmate]. we chatted for more than 2 hours and i tell you, it wasn't enough catching up with an old friend. A lot has been talked about. Goodluck on your new found job, jen!

When I got home, I noticed the pile of test papers I had to check..

I just finished recording their quiz results and pretty glad about it..oh well, the works of a teacher..a noble job to be proud of..

My sister and I rarely watch TV na..

That ended my day. Had to really elevate my legs for standing a long time.

Thumbs up, thumbs down...

June 10, around 3:30pm i dropped by Western Union-RCPI branch along Rizal Avenue to send a fax message to about their reader's survey attached to their April 2008 issue. The line were so busy then, we can't get through so i patiently waited. The two female staffs were very friendly & accomodating. I forgot to ask for their names. I am giving them a thumbs up!

Working in a hospital is of high distinction. One Laboratory personnel in this tertiary hospital here is showing her unfriendly side & unwilling to be of service type. My sister is about to have her medical labs taken when she raises a tone of her voice obviously annoyed upon seeing the bunch of Nursing students submitting specimens/slips & claiming for the results. Talk about the loads of work she's bound to face the whole day. She was wearing all smiles pa naman in the billboard.

There's this 1 lechon manok's hauz in which i found its crews unfriendly..They should learn to treat their customers fairly..Owners should conduct some attitude make-over to their staffs..Unfortunately, they don't have a suggestion box so customers could place their comments..Have they forgotten the business slogan "customer is always right"? probably. no wonder few people came in..

July 2. After my morning class, I headed to SSS Digos-Branch for the verification of my records. I have yet to own an ATM-like SSS ID kasi. And before applying for it, I had to have my Middle Name change. The clerk of the SSS-Cubao Branch erroneously encoded a single letter of my mother's surname. pissed on her.

Luckily, the lady named MAE of SSS Digos-Branch was very accomodating when it was my turn to be served. I was told I had to wait 3 weeks for the processing/update of my records & a letter will be sent to my address by then from Davao Branch. Well Mae, you deserved my thumbs up!!

to be continued...