Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day Eight: Emmanuel

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Day 8: Emmanuel
This is the second time I almost missed the simbang gabi due to oversleeping. It is because I am still quite sick with sore throat. But I can still manage to sing and even speak but there would still be a stinging feeling every time. Luckily I realized that another perfect venue to attend the mass would be at the Archbishops' Residence in Villa San Miguel which is near shaw boulevard and Nueve de Febrero.  

The last time I have been to this place again was the 75th birthday of beloved Jaime Cardinal Sin. I just knew that they also have Misa de Gallo when I encountered a lot of people coming from the street where the compound is located and knew that there was a simbang gabi mass held there. Again since this is just near the office I took the chance to attending mass.
At first, I don't know how will they pull off a mass when the population of the people in that area could actually fill the whole compound and the chapel can accommodate up to 50 persons only. Fortunately there is also a covered court that can be used as the mass area. Also the rest of the compound since there is a lot of grass space this provided. 

For the gospel for today, it focuses on the coming of EMMANUEL or the lord is with us.  The way has been prepared by John the Baptist, Mary conceived Jesus through the holy spirit and God intervened to convince Joseph to take care of Mary and bring him into Bethlehem (the city of David). Everything is now at place, the only thing we await is the King who made himself flesh.  and free from  us from sin and hate.  

Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day Seven: Magnificat

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Day 7: Magnificat



One of my most favorite songs from the Bible is Mary's song of Magnificat. The song that praised and honor the glory of God as the savior and the light of the troubled world. The song was sung by mary as she conceived in her womb Jesus who is the  Messiah and brought the good news to the world. And on the seventh day of Misa de Gallo, I now found myself in a new church that I would only view from afar but unable to get inside and attend mass. This Parish was the San Roque Church located near Boni Avenue and also close to the office where I decided to go and check out this parish that I have passed many times but never go the chance to explore the church with a very high structure. 

Indeed the church was made to be high because of the limited space of the lot to fit it inside the community in that part of Mandaluyong. San Roque is a farmer and always depicted with a scar and dog. He was poor yet never let his faith down just like Mary that also sung a melody of praise that her heart had composed. The song of Magnificat is also one of my favorite praise song because of the simple yet strong words of faith and thanksgiving. 

This is how Jesus would make us when we welcome him into our hearts. Though born in a manger, has proven even before his arrival that he does bear good news. Erases all worries and fears and also makes you sing out for joy.



two more days
singing while waiting...

Super Tuesdays on the All NEW & Exciting AXN Beyond!

Get set to be blown away by the latest drama and entertainment shows on an all new, all awesome AXN Beyond channel. More than ever, viewers from the Philippines will enjoy a fresh and unrivalled programming line-up Tuesday nights across a newly-expanded spectrum of genres, as AXN Beyond refreshes to redefine the entertainment experience like no other.

AXN Beyond viewers are set to enjoy a back-to-back series of the channel’s very latest shows on Super Tuesday evenings not-to-be-missed. The fun begins with reality talk show The Marriage Ref, as celebrities such as Madonna, Demi Moore and Gwyneth Paltrow pass judgement on real-life couples’ marriages.
That leads to light-hearted series like Drop Dead Diva Season 2 which continues the life of shallow model Deb (Brooke Elliott) whose soul ends up in the body of a brilliant, plus-size attorney. The night’s fun culminates in AXN Beyond’s headliner of the month – fresh new legal comedic drama The Defenders which stars Jim Belushi (According to Jim) and Jerry O’Connell (Sliders) as colourful Las Vegas defence attorneys.

With all that and more, viewers will surely adore the all-new, all awesome entertainment experience with the latest shows across the greatest variety of genres, unveiling this December on the fresh, hip and super-sized AXN Beyond. Check out some of these shows airing tonight:


The Marriage Ref
Tuesdays, 8:10pm, first and exclusively on AXN Beyond

Jerry Seinfeld is back and in the producer's chair for a funny and revealing comedy panel series The Marriage Ref, about the unpredictable and hilarious institution commonly known as marriage. In The Marriage Ref, disputes between real-life couples are revealed, examined - and ultimately judged.

For the first time, audiences will be able to look at these fights, analyze them and declare a winner. At the centre of the action and making "the call", is popular comedian Tom Papa (The Informant!) who will have the final say in determining the victor of each spat.

Advising and influencing the Ref's decision will be a rotating panel of ‘experts’ comprising top celebrities, comedians and sports stars who will weigh in and offer their own wit, wisdom and unique opinions. Guest stars featuring through the series include Tina Fey, Eva Longoria Parker, Larry David, Ricky Gervais, Madonna, Martha Stewart, Sheryl Crow, Tracy Morgan, Gloria Estefan, Donald Trump and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Drop Dead Diva Season 2

Tuesdays 9pm on AXN Beyond

Returning for a second season, comedic drama Drop Dead Diva continues the story of a shallow wannabe model that dies in a sudden accident, only to find her soul resurfacing in the body of a brilliant, plus-size and recently deceased attorney, Jane.

At the close of last season, Deb was ready to let go of her past and embrace her new life as Jane. But the unexpected arrival of Jane’s “secret” husband, Ethan (Devon Gummersall), at her doorstep left her with more questions than ever. To make matters worse, Jane may be disbarred after breaching client-attorney confidentiality when, against the firm’s advisement, she reported her client for fraud. Faced with a new love triangle and the uncertainty of her career, Jane must, once again, chart out a new future for herself…

The 13-episode second season of Drop Dead Diva features breakout star Brooke Elliott (Wicked, Taboo”), Margaret Cho (Ghost Whisperer, Notorious C.H.O.), Jackson Hurst (The Tree of Life), Kate Levering (Cashmere Mafia), April Bowlby (Two and a Half Men), Josh Stamberg (Lie to Me) and Ben Feldman (The Perfect Man).The Season 2 opener of Drop Dead Diva will feature entertainer Paula Abdul (American Idol) reprising her role as Judge Paula Abdul, a figment of Jane’s subconscious. Devon Gummersall (“My So-Called Life”) and David Denman (“The Office”) return as guest stars this season.

The Defenders
Tuesdays 9.50pm first and exclusively on AXN Beyond
The Defenders is a comedic drama about two colourful Las Vegas defence attorneys who go all-in when it comes to representing their clients. Nick (Jim Belushi, According to Jim) and Pete (Jerry O’Çonnell, Sliders, Crossing Jordan) are the local go-to guys with an eclectic client list who are still looking to hit their own jackpot.

Leading the law firm of Morelli & Kaczmarek are Nick Morelli, an earnest, hard-charging attorney who represents his clients to the best of his ability, no matter how big or small the case; and his partner, Pete Kaczmarek, whose passion for the law is matched only by his love of fast cars, beautiful women and expensive clothes. 

Joining them in their growing law practice is new associate Lisa Tyler (Jurnee Smollett, The Great Debaters), an enthusiastic young attorney looking to put her exotic dancing days behind her; and their young assistant, Sophie (Tanya Fischer, Life On Mars), a spunky and sweet ingénue who is eager to please her bosses.


Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day Six: Shared Time

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Day 6: Shared Time

I have to admit that being too busy with a lot of this just stress me out and what I do need more right now is time. However I am still very thankful for the blessings that I have received within this year. Time indeed is a very important thing that we cannot never get back. So that has been by philosophy in life to live it to the fullest and enjoy its fruits without affecting anybody. Now I am at my sixth day of the Misa De Gallo and I just had my first part of my medicals on this day. I chose to spend the rest of the day off at the mall and do some wifi. I am also pressured with the fact that I need to finish music pieces for the stage play in January.  

So much things to do with so little time. This had me worried in the past as I got busy, the time for myself especially in prayer also declined. I am too worried that being to busy will would lead me to be ill. But I would also find myself in many situations that I encounter God in many ways and in places that I did not expect (though the mall chapel is something I already know). It will indeed touch your heart.

Last year this is where I ended the Misa De Gallo 2009. Aside from the ambiance and the wonderful reflections from the priest of this chapel, I dont know but I would find myself emotional inside the chapel even though I am a regular visitor. I'm glad to have my time to be in chapel for the simbang gabi series and with this shared time, I am thankful that I was able to encounter  a new learning and another nice reflection.


Three days more...

Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day Five: Mutual Love

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Day 5: Mutual Love 



This time, I was able to visit the Archdiocesan Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Mandaluyong. The shrine is known to also have the relic of Sister Faustina, in which Jesus revealed himself to her and journal every encounter in her diary. For the second time, I almost woke up late but I was thinking of going to another church to see what experience and message will he give to me during the dawn masses.

Now that I am on my fifth day and the days goes by so fast, I decided to complete the simbang gabi with different churches. Its really hard especially with limited time and also searching churches and the schedules which varies and could cause me to be late or else.

Still tired and quite sleepy with the number of schedules of work and other things throughout the day. And even with these conditions, I still feel that the church is good refuge place to be with good and also seek peace from within and also resting place. With a lot of worries that I have felt and feeling inside. I wanted to have to be given a sign or an opportunity with God's grace on how will I face these challenges.  

Unlike the disturbed moment yesterday, the fifth night is fairly silent. The Gospel talks about the reason why Jesus came to the world. It is LOVE. For love we were given the messiah amidst the sin and chaos that is happening on that period. He calls for us to love also, if not him, be it be done with the least of the people for it would also be the same in praising God for acts of kindness. The network of love is the most powerful yet the most fragile value that should be kept and enriched. Just like the church, because of his everlasting love he appeared and shared the message of salvation through his divine mercy. 

Now it will be a few more days but I also felt that time flies so fast. 
Yet with LOVE, its seems so endless yet it slows down or freezes time to make each moment memorable. 

2010 Is Where AXN Becomes The No. 1 International Channel in Southeast Asia!

For many years now, AXN has been claiming the top position as Southeast Asia’s leading international channel. Especially in the key markets of Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, viewers have embraced AXN as one of their favourite entertainment destinations. As the year 2010 is coming to an end, AXN once again cements its position as Southeast Asia’s number one international channel, averaging 10.2 million viewers every month to take the top spot in results tabulated from January to October 2010.

Malaysia, in particular, is a star performer. Not only is AXN the top international network, it is also the most-watched channel on Astro, leading in average monthly viewer reach at 5.9million. Amongst English channels, AXN beats the next closest competitor in primetime ratings by 24%, and out of the 14 first-run shows that AXN aired in 2010, 10 premiered at the top of the ratings chart.

Likewise, AXN is ahead of all English pay-TV channels in Singapore in primetime ratings among cable 15+; while in the ultra-competitive market of Philippines where all channels are offered on the basic tier, AXN leads in the English general entertainment category among cable 16+ audience.

Says Mr. Ricky Ow, Senior Vice President and General Manager, SPE Networks – Asia, “Our report card for the first 10 months shows some really great result for the year as a whole. Especially with superb ratings from two key shows in the last quarter – The Amazing Race Asia and Hawaii Five-0 – it is pretty much a foregone conclusion that AXN will finish strongly as Southeast Asia’s top English channel for 2010.”

Indeed, viewers can expect an exhilarating run to the finish-line in the fourth quarter, starting with a chart-topping performance from the highly-anticipated premiere of the re-imagined Hawaii Five-0 that airs Sundays 9PM on AXN. The elite team of crime-fighters led by Alex O’Loughlin as Steve McGarrett in the reboot of the TV classic certainly mesmerized viewers as the original series did 42 years ago, passing the ratings test with flying colours. Asia’s very own reality production, The Amazing Race Asia, is another favourite that never fails to thrill viewers across the region. Here is how each market fared with these two marquee shows so far:

In Singapore, Hawaii Five-0 captured the hearts of both young and old viewers, winning the timeslot during its premiere on 14 November among all English channels on StarHub, and beating the next closest competitor by 20%. Subsequently, episode two on 16 November rated higher and even broke the record to become the top programme of the year… not just on AXN, but amongst all premiering English drama series in 2010 on StarHub!

In Malaysia, the Hawaii Five-0 premiere ratings surpassed all English pay-TV networks during the timeslot, out-performing even the Formula 1 final race which aired at the same time. The Amazing Race Asia also put in some stellar performances since the latest season premiere in September. Its season-to-date ratings is ahead of the next highest-rated English channel by a whopping 175%!

With Team Philippines led by Richard Hardin and Richard Herrera winning this season of The Amazing Race Asia, this AXN Original Production won in its timeslot among all international ad-supported channels, and saw an increase of 71% in average ratings over the previous season.

Ow continues, “I would like to sincerely thank our viewers, as well as our cable partners and sponsors, for all the support we have received in making AXN the number one international channel in Southeast Asia. It is precisely because of their great support, that we have been able to expand our AXN family of channels, which today includes Animax, AXN Beyond, Sony Entertainment Television, as well as ONE. With the expanded suite of channels, we will be able to cater to even more viewers, provide greater variety and deliver a diverse range of programmes to suit the whole family’s viewing preferences. We have enjoyed a good year, and it is my promise to all our viewers that next year will be even more exciting.”

*Source: Kantar Media Singapore / Philippines, AGB NMR Malaysia.



Blah Blah Blogs: Pasko na! Boom Tarat Tarat!

Mula sa mga manunulat, editors, scriptwiters, lightmen, soundmen, PAs, make-up artists, sponsors, contributors, fans, stalkers, guests, mangers at executive producer ng Blah Blahh Blogs, kami (ako) ay bumabati sa lahat ng tao sa buong sangkatauhan sa kadaigdigan ng maligayang Pasko at masaganang Bagong Taon sa inyong lahat.

Hep hep hep! hindi pa tapos ang taon, pero gusto kong batiin kayong lahat upang kahit paano ay maramdaman niyo naman ang diwa ng pasko. Iwasan na ang pagiging depressed at 'wag kariririn ang pagiging SMP. sinasaktan niyo lang ang sarili niyo. Sa mga kapwa kong agents at mga nagtratrabaho sa call centers at 24 hour never-we-will-we-close stores tulad ng Mcdo at Starbucks, mas masayang isipin na ang araw na ito at double pay.

Hindi ko na uubusin ang oras ninyo dahil maari niyo na itong ilaan para sa inyong mga kaibigan at pamilya. Enjoy lang kahit sa dami ng pinagdaan natin sa taon na ito ay marami pang rason upang maging masaya at ipagdiwang ang araw ng kapanganakan ni Jesus!

Hinay hinay lang sa pagkain at inom
Huwag muna magpaputok, bagong taon pa yun teh!
Mga ninong at ninang magtago na kayo, bwahahaha!

Merry Christmas!

10 Fun Things I Can Do with a new Lenovo Laptop!

Given I would be given a new LENOVO laptop, what would be the 10 fun things that I could do wit it. I made a list of thing you can do with this neat gadget that is a perfect Christmas gift for all!



Check my list here!


This is my official entry to YUGATECH's Lenovo contest!
Hope you enjoy it!
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Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day Four: Disturbed Silence


Day 4: Disturbed Silence




The fourth day of simbang gabi happened with the parish where I started last year's simbang gabi, The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Sta Mesa. Its actually one of the most accessible churches since its near my place. Although I am not a regular parishioner as I go to different churches for mass. But I do appreciate that this hundred year old parish has its share on my spiritual life.Day 4 was actually considered a regular Sunday mass according to father. And this was after I went to the company Christmas party in SMX and also another High School Friends' Party. Though never intoxicated but just stuffed with a lot of food and fun from the parties, I still reminded myself of my obligation to complete the simbang gabi. Because of the events, I never got the chance to sleep or even nap since I am running out of time and also options. But I did expect that I would visit the parish in this year's Misa de Gallo. 


Though it would be another day at mass was something I was not expecting to happen in the church. In the midst of the homily, a fight broke off within the premises of the Parish. The priest did notice the commotion and the mass was temporarily halted to notice the ruckus. The riot did not last long, since there were people and (police?) who responded to the situation. The reason of the fight is unknown to me, and I don't bother to know. I would just make matters worse. It would be ironic as the message of happiness would also mixed with acts of anger. In the end, I hope everything went well. 



I would look very disturbing but the good thing is that in the end there was no grave acts committed. Though most people would like to know what happened to that fight. To take my mind off of this, I decided to buy puto bungbong. to make me feel the simbang gabi spirit with this warm and sticky breakfast. This also reminded me of one thing that just like the journey to the nativity, it is not easy and peaceful, they have to go into uncomfortable things until Jesus was born and brought peace on that night. 




The empty crib awaits, waiting for the prince of peace...
day four done.





Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day 3: Weary Heart

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Day 3: Weary Heart



Third day. And its seems so faster with my very busy schedule. I have a lot of appointments lately from events, work and even reunions and parties. But of course I always look forward to attend the Misa de Gallo as my own personal retreat and encounter with God in preparation for Christmas day. After work I went to Divisoria to check on good buys and as always that traffic is indeed heavy in that area for both people and vehicles. Unfortunately after 2 hours roaming Divisoria, I did not bought anything but only had dinner at Mang Inasal. This tested my patience since I was disappointed with the service because of many things. The time was almost 8pm so I was worried that I may miss the mass. I thought that the nearby church of San Lorenzo in Ongpin would have its mass on 8 but when I got there there, it seems that they will start 30 minutes to an hour later. This is critical for me since I would go home more late and would also affect my other schedules. So my plan was top go to another church near the area. I was planning to go to Intramuros but it would take more time. So what I had in mind was Sta. Cruz or Quiapo. But since Sta Cruz would be near the Jeep route so I went ahead with it.

This would be my first anticipated mass since I would like to avoid what happened on the 2nd day. There was a different feeling on this church because unlike the previous ones, the church has a lot of indigent parishioners which others are beggars, vendors and others. It made an impact on me that despite the happiness that the season brings, there are still a lot of people who are in this condition. I wish I could help, and what I would like is a thing that would be long-term and take them off the streets and live decent lives.

Just like me, the Gospel talks about Joseph as he is also weary about the pregnancy of Mary. He is also stuck into a situation that he himself can't find a way to explain and would also jeopardize the birth of Jesus. But God sent out his heralds to ensure Joseph that the one conceived is the Messiah. The birth of Jesus was filled with weariness at first but God finds a way to console their feelings. You too may have a weary heart this Christmas, ask God that he will give you peace.

Let me share a Taizé cant that you can sing to console the weary heart

Nada te turbe
Nada te espante
Qien a Dios tiene , nada e falta  

Nada te turbe
Nada te espante
Solo Dios Basta


nothing can trouble,
nothing can frighten, 
those who seek God shall never go wanting
nothing can trouble,
nothing can frighten, 
God alone fills us.

Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day Two: Unexpected Serendipity.





Day Two: Unexpected Serendipity. 

I almost missed the second day of the Misa de Gallo when I woke up at exactly 4:10, ten minutes late for the 4pm mass at the nearby Our Lady of Fatima Parish, but I had sudden reflex that I can catch up on another church that I can go to. It was the EDSA shrine. since I know that they have the mass at 4:30 so I do have a few minutes to commute there. Though I have computed the time that it will be exact given I dont wait and there is less or no traffic since it so early in the morning. I took a jeep to EDSA and then a bus going to ortigas Robinsons. One surprise for me is to see one of friends Kuya Lei O Lap on the bus with his friend, I knew that they will also go to EDSA shrine since I also encountered him last year at the same place. Coincidently, it was funny though we never talked during the trip and also at mass, that I also find people who are also into the spirit of the simbang gabi

Though another dilemma that I have encountered is the time from the shrine going to work. Though is one bus ride away, I could actually be late since my shift starts at 6am. But thankfully, I was able to return to the office 10 minutes before 6am. I was racing numbers in my mind that made me worry too much about work. But I realized that it was also refreshing to know that I started the day with a prayerful journey. Indeed another adventure it was and it was unexpected serendipity.
The Gospel for today is the longest from I presume, sine it was the genealogy of Jesus from the first generation and other 14 generations spanning from Abraham to Joseph. Though it would be more of historical account, it has this essence that it was well planned. It was not an accident, it was not coincidence, it was beautifully planned, unexpected just like I had experienced during this day. Meeting an old friend and also manage to go to another church to hear mass. This made me inspired that I was allowed to have opportunities and these are given unexpectedly yet leaves a long lasting impression and this is why I am sharing my experience.

Misa De Gallo Diaries 2010 Day One: Simple Start


Day One: Simple Start

Another year has passed and this time I go on another adventure again to complete a tradition that most Pinoys also follow. The Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo is also my way of professing my faith and also finds it very fulfilling to complete the 9 days. The first year of Misa De Gallo diaries were really tough yet was also happy experience. On its second year, I hope that this also give another unforgettable experience. I look forward  to know more about traditions, friendships and also history since most of my trips are not bounded with only one church. Also this will be different as I also have a lot of schedules and work to attend to, unlike last year. Generally, this is still something new, this is also something that comes once a year. So better make the most out of it. And I'm very happy to share to you the first day! Now with perseverance and enough sleep I know I can get through this and also learn a lot of things from people and also the encounter at the house of God. Join me!
For the first day, I planned to have it with EDSA shrine or Manila Cathedral but due to distance and schedule, I went ahead to the office and decided to go to the nearest church which is Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Addition Hills. I have passed so many times but never got the chance to celebrate mass there.The church looks really small due to its location but it houses a lot of parishoners that even spills out into the streets. And since its also my first Misa De Gallo, so this makes this day special as it also kick off the start of the adventure. Though had only a few hours of sleep I was able to stay awake throughout the mass. The first gospel was about John the Baptist as the herald of the Lord until his arrival. And also of the fact that people would be excited at first but would turn cold after he left. This is true for us Christians as we also be excited at first but would lose enthusiasm after some time. That is why the challenge of the gospel is to always keep our hearts aflame and vigilant as the hour of the savior is fast approaching and what we will be doing on that hour.


After the mass, the Mgsr asked the community to join in in a small feast of kakanin and coffee provided by the barangay and some sponsors. Of course, the Bibingka and Puto-bungbomg would never be left out as people also lined in stands for the Christmas delicacy. I decided to go back to the office since its almost my shift and I still have to work. SO far I could rate my first day as a major major success with the inspiration and motivation that I have discovered on the first day of the Misa de Gallo. One down, 8 days to go!

Pacquiao and Hardworking Pinoys Trubute Art at the Mall of Asia Seaside

There is truth in the saying “no pain, no gain,” and Filipinos, more than anyone else in the world, best exemplify that pain is a symbol of perseverance, strength and courage. We are, after all, known globally as hard-working people who strive for excellence in whatever we do. 

Time and again, we’ve witnessed how Filipinos wear their pain with pride and honor, as badges of jobs well done. Often, simple workers—such as those who toil under the sun, teach children in rundown classrooms, sew hundreds of garments a day, and go through much pain and sacrifice—steer the country towards the future. They are the true heroes of the country. It is these amazing, hardworking Filipinos, who accomplish even the most ordinary tasks with extraordinary dedication, that Alaxan FR lauds and salutes with the “Aray Ko Galing Ko” campaign.

Manila Metropolitan Theater Curtain to Rise for Magwayen



Ehipto, the new masterpiece of Magwayen Creative Scholars Guild, will be staged at the Manila Metropolitan Theater on January 29 and 30, 2011.

This curtain-raiser will be the guild’s grandest and most ambitious production to date. And what could be the best platform for this other than the “grand dame” itself, the Manila Metropolitan Theater?!

Magwayen, a student based theater organization, resides at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, the foremost university for the Manileno scholars. For the past 12 years, the guild has been performing at the university’s Justo Albert Auditorium. But for its biggest project, a play that will try to stage few of the Bible’s most majestic miracles, the members looked for a place that is more awe-inspiring. And that is where the MET comes in.

The Metropolitan Theater, being one of the most celebrated Art Deco structures in the Philippines, used to hold world-class theatrical performances, operas, musicales, pageants, and other lofty events during its heyday.
Unfortunately, the theater was severely damaged during the World War II. Former First Lady Imelda Marcos tried to restore it but it finally fell into decay in the 90’s.

But prepare to be stunned once more as the Government Service Insurance System, the City of Manila, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts join forces to restore its beauty and magic. 

Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim wanted to re-establish this glorious theater for the underprivileged people of Manila so they may have better appreciation for arts and culture.

“We must make culture available and attractive to the masses,” Lim said in an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer. “The one venue the poor will find accessible is the Met, and that’s the reason why I think it should be revived. Once it opens, people will again get to see and hear the kundiman, zarzuela and other stage plays showcasing Filipino heritage and talents.”

The timing couldn’t get better as the sole theater group of the scholars of the Pamantasan decided to bring its best act into the regal arena. The members are now rehearsing and getting the “feel” of performing in the historically and culturally rich venue. The artists of this 12-year old guild, still considered young, just can’t hold their childish excitement every time they daydream of performing on the same stage as the cultural icons.

The Magwayen officers are seeking the help of Ms. Gemma Cruz-Araneta, vice chair of the Manila Historical and Heritage Commission and executive assistant to Mayor Alfredo Lim, in mounting this event. Ms. Araneta’s positive response overwhelms the young thespians. They couldn’t believe it’s finally happening.

The Exodus adaptation, written by Magwayen founder Marlon Miguel, will highlight the poignant relationship between the two brothers, Moses and Rameses. The Egyptian ruler, Rameses, in this production is not necessarily evil but merely a king trying to perform his duties in the best methods he possibly could. Meanwhile, the adopted prince, Moses, doesn’t despise his brother. Instead, he simply obeys the commands of the God of his people. In the course of carrying out their duties, to their people and to their faith, the brothers who once adored each other become opposing men who are driven by totally different forces.

Many of the key players are the organization’s finest members and alumni: from Executive Producer John Borgy Danao, Director Shengka Mangahas, Dance Consultant Michael Flororita, to actor and Production Manager Sheena Flor Tamayo, and co-actors Michael Cayatano, and Mark Angelo Lapada.

This January, Magwayen will reap another milestone.

This January, the Metropolitan Theater curtain will rise again.

This January, we will applaud for the Manilenian arts in its rightful home.

(this note was written by Shengka Mangahas, an alumni of PLM and the director of Magwayen's new play, EHIPTO)

Misa de Gallo Diaries


One of the project that I am happy to share. It was sacrifice indeed as I struggle trough different routes to get to the churches and have a unique experience in each location. You can check my posts last year with the links below. And for this year, it will be another challenge as I also go into this tradition while having time for work. But the moral of this one is how can I be patient and also be faithful. A journey that I made me realize a lot of things in life, to be happy, to be thankful and always find something interesting and inspiring even after going to mass for 9 consecutive days. This is another year for the Misa De Gallo diaries...

Philippine Blog Awards 2010

CCIts PBA time again, Philippine Blog Award that is. And this time it was held at the RCBC tower in makati. I realized that this place was nostalgic to me because 6 years ago, this is also the place where I got my AY Foundation Award for National Discipline, but anyway going back to PBA, it was unfortunate that I was late for the event. But I was able to meet and greet the blogger winners and also friends who witnessed the event. Now let me share the winners for PBA this year!


MAIN AWARDS
Best Blog in Advocacy Category – Web Safety Philippines by Sonnie Santos
Best Blog in Beauty and Lifestyle Category – The Reluctant Stylista by Alexandra Lapa
Best Blog in Business Category – Ready to be Rich by Fitz Villafuerte
Best Blog in Culture and Arts – Anik-anik Love by Mitch Mauricio
Best Blog in Entertainment Category – Without Wang2 by Nickie Wang
Best Blog in Food and Beverage Category – Happy Foodies by Ferdz Decena
Best Blog in Gaming Category – Back 2 Gaming by B2Gamers
Best Blog in Hobby and Recreation – Back 2 Gaming by B2Gamers
Best Blog in Home and Parenting Category – iMom by Chats Siao
Best Blog in Humor Category – The Professional Heckler by Loi Reyes Landicho
Best Blog in Lifestyle – The Creative Dork by Robbie Bautista
Best Blog in Literature / Literary Category – City Buoy by Nyl Lim
Best Blog in Personal/Diary Category – Yoshke.com by Yoshke Dimen
Best Photoblog – Gerryruiz Photoblog by Gerry Ruiz
Best Blog in Social, Politics and History – The Pro Pinoy Project by The Pro Pinoy Project
Best Blog in Sports – Filipino Boxing Journal by Kenneth Ragpala
Best Blog in Technology Category – My Silly Point of View by Richard D. Feraro
Best Blog in Travel Category – Just Wandering by Nina Fuentes
Best Blog in Video and Podcasts – Pinoy How To by Buddy and Yael Gancenia

SPECIAL AWARDS
Best Blog Design – The Reluctant Stylista
Bloggers’ Choice Award – CHKSLG
Readers’ Choice Award – Green Archers
Best Filipiniana Blog – My Sarisari Store
Top Blog Post for 2010 – Do They Read Blogs in Heaven? by Yoshke.com

Top Posts for 2010
EXCLUSIVE: GMA Breaks Her Silence by the Professional Heckler
Sometimes We Are Lost by I am Fickle Cattle.
Fireworks, Hormones and this Blog Post by Yoshke.com


Top Photo Posts for 2010
A Solo Traveler’s Photo Story of Backpacking in Palawan by Ambot Ah!
Pahiyas Festival by Biyaheng Pinoy


Top Video Posts and Podcasts for 2010
Krimmy Couple: Of Bad Words and Saranghae by My Korean Boyfriend
Podcast 6: Being Friends with the Ex by Ria Jose
Krimmy Couple: The Korean Eats Balut by My Korean Boyfriend

MY CHRISTMAS WISH THIS YEAR: A NOKIA C7


I remembered almost 10 years ago that my first mobile phone ever is a 5110 (with antenna) and always wondered what the future holds and what things that will be new with the future mobile phones. Though not really a text addict or a serial caller, I always find a mobile phone as a thing of many uses and features that gets better and better each year.  True enough, from the colored phone, to bluetooth, to camera and radio integration and now the age of the expanded mobile internet lifestyle wifi and applications, and there are thousands out there!

I am not a person who changes his phone whenever a new one comes up, to be practical and resourceful is the main reason why I have a mobile phone. However, I do value phones that came out recently for the additional features that will blow our minds away. It makes you wonder that things are really getting faster as time passes by. Also phones do also age so that is why of course that there will always be a need to upgrade to a better version. THIS IS ALWAYS MY CHRISTMAS WISH LIST!

I have tried some brands so far as the years pass by. Not always a Christmas gift every year, but if given the chance to buy or get one would be my option. And what I would always have on my list is Nokia. And what they have right now is the Nokia C7, definitely I say is a very sleek and savvy phone. Super LIKE! 

Aside from its looks it does a lot of cool things like checking your favorite social networking sites like facebook and twitter™. Also integrates the OVI that lets you enjoy mobile bliss with mail and many more. Then one of the juiciest part would be it has a high quality camera, and in HD! Then you can also stream video via web TV. Then aside from the FM function would be great sounds from its Nokia Mini speaker MD-9 so music will still be great music to the ears. Also as a trekker, getting lost is part of the adventure, but it would also come in handy to have a GPS navigator that would also be another and modern adventurer around the city. And it also works with my standard for a phone today, WIFI!

Though I cannot afford to have one right now, I do wish to have one. I think its calling me saying "take me, take me" and  as a tech geek myself. temptation is really a challenge. Well if you do have something similar to this phone, I hope that will be a Nokia and hoping for more that it will be a C7!

just like me, Nokia C7 is perfect reflection of myself and the 'lives' I have been living.
sleek.savvy.cool 
Nokia C7

I'm waiting...