Food Trip : Dining, GMA-7 Style.

January 31, 2008. In the past six months, I have been in work for 131 days (with two missed days). In those 131 days, I eat at work since it is very impractical to go home and eat. Also, nobody at home can prepare our baon for us so we don't bring lunch boxes. And in those 131 days, I had been to various restaurants, canteens and food stores. For me this six months is quite a food trip. Aside from the usual Jollibee, McDonald's, KFC, Greenwich and Chowking branches on my way home, the following are the places I have been to in my food trip:

1. GMA-7 Canteen (a.k.a. Skyline)
2. GMA Coop Canteen (a.k.a. Old Canteen)
3. Chowking (near Delta Theater)
4. KFC - Delta (Quezon Ave. cor Timog Ave.)
5. Napoli Pizzeria (The Block, SM North and Timog Ave.)
6. [Unnamed eatery at 11th Jamboree]
7. Negros Inasal (Timog Ave.)
8. KFC - East Ave.
9. JT's Manukan (Sgt. Esguerra?) - a grille (supposedly owned by Joel Torre, thus the name J.T.?), serving grilled chicken and other tasteful meals.
10. Green's (Near Tomas Morato) - This restaurant serves vegetarian dishes. I dig their pork barbecue meal. It tastes like pork and you'll never quite notice that it's not meat.
11. Jollibee - Sct. Borromeo
12. Slice n' Dice
13. World Topps
14. Kopi Roti
15. Pan de Pidro
16. 7-Eleven

(Other details to follow. I'm quite sleepy right now. Cheerio!)

22 in 28 this 2008

January 28, 2008. My 22nd birthday is quite memorable since it’s my first time to celebrate my birthday in the office and what’s better is that it’s in GMA-7.

A few days before, I was planning to treat my officemates in News Research for lunch but our unit head discouraged me to do so since I am working on a comparatively lower salary. So I planned to use a Pizza Hut Palm Card (which I thought was a “Pump Card” for some reason) to treat them some snacks.

Coming to work was quite normal but I still feel uneasy since I am not confident enough to have a blow-out them since they have so much experience in dining out in the nearby restaurants along Tomas Morato and Timog Avenue (See Dining, GMA-7 style). All of my officemates greeted me ‘Happy Birthday,’ some even needed a reminder for them to greet me. Unexpected greetings also swarmed in my Friendster account, mobile phone and e-mailbox (See Birthday Greetings post). I was also greeted by someone whom I thought doesn’t know my birthday.

Lunch time came and no one dared to invite me to lunch since they are all busy doing their stories and other stuff. It’s nearly two o’clock when I decided to go on my own.

It was a usual work day with the usual work load with the usual conversations. For me, nothing was extraordinary except the fact that I’m now on double-two’s.

Snack time, around 4pm, I was thinking of ordering pizza so that my enormous task will be done. I know that this is one of my weaknesses. I am afraid of doing things that I do not know. Basically, when I’m entering into a situation, I plan my course of action, making sure that I know what to do in the process and what alternatives to take in case something in the system fails. I found that I would like to be as reliable as possible (based on my Tickle test to be posted later).

5pm came and I realized I must open this up to everyone. I let Kuya Ederic order for us and let everyone decide on the pizza toppings. It turned out to be quite good since everyone enjoyed the Super Supreme and Pork and Mushroom variants. We also ate the Red Ribbon chocolate cake roll Ma’am Pooyan brought for me.

There were three pizza slices and five slices of cake roll left. The pizza was enough since my sister was with her two office mates while waiting for us to go home. The cake roll was also ample since we are five at home.

In general, I celebrated my birthday quietly and meagerly. Still, in the midst of meagerness and quietness, I can honestly say it was a very happy birthday indeed.

Birthday Greetings

May humabol pa po! Kaya update ko ito.
For those who greeted me in my birthday:

At FRIENDSTER:
Venus, Mark, Ate Donnabelle Kim, Ate Evelyn, Len, Avril, Carlo, Camille, Marlon, Bhabie Roxy, Ynah, Che Che, Grace Faith, Pauline Yap, Karryl, Grace S.

Through SMS:
Camille, Kzon, Ate MeAnn, Ate Lou, Ate Donnabelle Kim, Ate Merly, Ate Diane, Marlon

Through EMAIL:
LiNa ng Jobstreet.com, JobDB.com, Alumni.net, BirthdayAlarm.com, Camille

Greeted me PERSONALLY:
Anna Marie, Nica, Camille, Mama, Ate Dada, Papa, Kuya Ederic, Ate Me Ann, Ate Karen, Ma'am Pooyan, Kuya Allan, Ate Agatha, Ate Kate, Ate Riz, Lola Brendz, mga taga-Scenarios, Kuya Owen, Kuya Oren, Ma'am Kelly

In these various ways of greeting me, this is all that I can say,
MARAMING SALAMAT PO!

PS: Grabe yung paulit-ulit mag-greet jan ha! Heheheh! Thanks! Sorry sa mga nalimutan.

Cockpits > Churches

Grace Magno, spokesperson of Araneta Center.

"It's a national sport. It's licensed by the Games and Amusements Board and we have, we actually, we even have more cockpits in the Philippines than we have churches. I mean, there's a lot."

My First Statement in Defense of GMA-7

January 25, 2008. Even I'm quite sleepy, I made sure I post this entry for this is, as we call it in the media industry, BREAKING NEWS.

I just received a Friendster message from a schoolmate from Marisyl who was ahead of me for two years. I prefer to disclose his identity since he wrote:

"dude how can your network claimed it as “walang kinikilingan, walang pinoproktektahan”? if they cant stand it firm against a not so big religious group in diliman.. gma should be ashamed of themselves. your updated right? then investigate -(not my comment. it came from a neigborhood friend, just take it constructively.. peace.)"

As I was reading this, well, I got anxious and disturbed since he is attacking my home network. At the same time I tried to compose myself since I wanted to be more mature and more prudent in my actions so I gathered my thoughts to reply to what he is stating. In only a few minutes, I finally drafted a reply note and had it printed so that my family could check it for form and substance. The reply note reads:

"I'm very sorry I am not in the position to comment on that issue since I am a talent under contract and my views are not, in any way, representative of GMA Network's stand on such matters. But since I work for the Kapuso network, I opted to reply to your message as courtesy, and just to air my side of such concerns.

"I regret to inform you that I am not updated to the issue being raised since I do not know of the Network being linked to an issue with "a not-so-big religious group in Diliman" as you have, or your friend had mentioned. All I know is that the Network is facing allegations of cheating behind the ratings gathered by AGB Nielsen (which I would not dare to comment on).

"As far as I know, we in the News and Public Affairs group try our best to give objective and credible news as this is our way of doing public service. As for me, I’m doing my own share in serving God and the viewers. I may not generalize but I know of a few people like me who adhere to the Network’s core values of “placing God above all” and “upholding integrity and transparency” among others.

Thank you very much and may God bless you.

All the best,
[my name]"

I was so glad that God was still in control and gave me a humble spirit. Everyone knows that I flare up when I receive these kinds of messages especially in SMS. But He would not want to let me start a fight since I know I still represent GMA-7 even though I am still a contract worker in the Network.

Surprisingly, this is the first time I rebutted to an allegation in writing. Maybe it's because this is the first time I received a mail of such content. The issue on ratings are directly asked to me in person, face to face. Not bad for a first timer, a small-time employee to formally answer a direct message regarding his large-scale employer. In my assessment, I handled it charmingly by God's grace. Nevertheless, I am not looking forward to be handling Corporate Communications for the Network. What I do hope is that mails like this would be the FIRST and the LAST...

TICKLE TEST: Could You Solve Crimes?

Could You Solve Crimes?
My Result: Have what it takes because you Have a Sharp Mind

There's no doubt about it: A quick-thinking person like you leaves no stone unturned and wastes no time solving any mystery that comes your way. Whether you're finding the fastest route to work, spotting online scams, or thinking up the perfect plan to escape a bad date, when it comes to using your noggin, you're definitely in first place.

Of course you aren't just book smart. You're also streetwise and savvy, especially when it comes to the things that are most important to you. With that deadly combo of creativity and logic, your brains are the only muscle you'll ever need when tackling even the biggest of problems. Just don't let all that talent go to your head!

Take this test >

American Idol na naman!

Since another season of American Idol is commencing, I just wanted to share my thoughts on Melinda Doolittle and her performance on last year's results show on American Idol Finals between Blake Lewis and Jordin Sparks, in which the latter gained the title 'American Idol'.

May 29, 2007. Thoughts on "Hold Up The Light", Melinda, etc.

“She used to sing back-up for ‘em now she’s singing with them.” – Ryan Seacrest.

Heehee. I kinda like this song ever since Melinda Doolittle and Bebe and Cece Winans sang it on American Idol 6 Final Results Night a few days ago. I made it a point na mailagay ko 'yun sa media box ng Friendster profile ko eh. Basta ang lakas ng dating sa kin nung song number na nainis/nalungkot pa ako nung namiss ko yung part na yun sa Idol replays (on free TV ABC 5).

I guess the song whooshed in me because the lyrics were so compelling. Kailangan talagang itaas natin yung lamp (Kasi sino ba namang maglalagay ng ilawan sa ilalim ng kama.) Nakakatuwa rin yung part na "Voices crying, young people dying..." The melodies complement the urgency of the message being sent. Singing it sounds like sounding an alarm lalo na pag binirit ng singer like Melinda did, hehehe.

The song was highlighted with great vocals coming from the Winans and Melinda. I saw CeCe Winans sing once on TV, in one of Benny Hinn's crusades. She sang "You'll Never Thirst" (don't worry I'll feature this soon.) She sang it wholeheartedly, basta touching xa. Kaya nga tuwa din ako dahil ung "You'll Never Thirst" nasa "If We Pray" album ng Anointed eh. I found it as a big blessing.

Ever since I watched Idol, I eyed for Melinda and Jordin for the finals but sadly Melinda didn't make it since there were so many who were voting for the beatboxer. Nakakatuwa rin na Melinda served as a back-up singer for BeBe and CeCe Winans and Anointed. It was like a full circle for me. Nakakatuwa na magkakadugtong pala yung buhay nila in the gospel music industry. :D

Nung napanood ko yung pag-uwi ni Melinda sa Tennessee and she visited her home church, I thought she was only just a singer pero hindi pala. She has a greater work than just singing in church. Kala ko nga parang choir member lang xa, yun pala my nasalihan na xang recording projects. Kaya rin pala ganun na lang yung pagwelcome sa kanya ng church nya. As if she was one of the assets of their church.

Nakakainis nga yung isang nagcomment sa YouTube. S/he was telling that if Melinda didn’t look like a turtle, she would be in the finals. Haayyy, bakit sila ganun?!? All I know is that man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart. And yes we are fearfully and wonderfully made by a Creator who has a voice that created it all. O diba! :D

Nakaktuwa ding isipin na Christians are coming in the secular music industry to shed a little light on this dark world. I hope they can greatly influence the world and win them back to Christ. God gave Melinda a great voice and she's giving it all back to Him. I hope ako rin, kahit di kasing-laki ng audience niya basta maproclaim Xa, ok na ako dun.

A Time For Everything

A flashback on my previous blog post.

September 20, 2006. When I first heard this song, it gave me the chills and it stirred up my soul. Kasi ba naman yun yung time na malungkot talaga ako, ‘yung tipong hindi satisfied or contented sa buhay at sa lahat ng nasa akin nung time na yun. Tamang-tama talaga dahil tinamaan ako nung lyrics ng song. First stanza pa lang, nakakarelate na ko dahil weary and tired na ko sa skul (thesis) n work ko. Then I recall past victories and happy moments. I wished sana lagi na lang “soaring high” ang buhay ko. The words are just ryt to make tears fall out of my eyes and whisper, “Lord kelan kaya ‘yung time for joy, time for sunshine ko…”

The song speaks of the proper timing of God. Kasi alam ko alam Niya yung pinakamabuti para sa kin. Hindi siya magkakamaling ibigay ang isang blessing sa kin at ‘di pa ko ready to handle or receive it. Kaya alam ko habang malungkot or madaming pagsubok ang buhay, hinahanda lang nya ako sa malaking blessing na maaari kong tanggapin. All I pray is that sana hindi ako mapagod sa pagsunod sa Kanya. Nagiging tendency ko nga na tamarin umattend ng services at magmukmok na lang. Pero kanina narealize ko lang na dapat magpatuloy ako. Sabi kasi ni Mama sa IV-1 class nya at BS nila kanina ng mga co-teacher nya, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9, KJV). I hope I will not faint so I can reap the blessings in due season…

-------------------------------------------------------------

V1
Sometimes life can be demanding
It can drain a soul inside
But left without an understanding
So many questions why, oh why

V2
Then there are times when we’re flying like eagles
Our spirits are soaring high
Hoping it will last forever
But then we realize that this moment will be gone
Leaving us to know that

CHO
There’s a time for joy, there’s a time for pain
A time for sunshine and a time for rain
Like there many seasons
When there comes a time for change
There’s a time, a time for everything

V3
God will take care of His children
We’re a part of His perfect plan
And if we walk by faith believing
That our lives are in His hands
We’ll keep goin’ so don’t worry
There’s comfort in knowing

BR
There is a season to change
There is a time to remain the same
But Jesus will still be there
His peace is what we all long for
‘Cause He is all we need and so much more

W/M: Nee-C Walls, Mark Heimermann

Schedule Trouble

January 17, 2008. I usually go to work from 11am-8pm, just in time for Balitanghali and 24 Oras. But this time, my sister is now with me. We both work in a single compound so we thought of going to work together and going home at the same time.

I had to adjust to her schedule since my contract states that I can go to work depending on the supervisor's assigned work schedule. My boss even mentioned that I can adjust my work hours, so there, I changed my schedule.

From the 8:30am wake-up time, I am now rising up from bed at around 6am. From the 8pm dinner after going out of the office, we both now eat at Skyline Canteen at around 7pm.

I felt that it would be fun for me since I want to try being a morning person rather than an evening owl but it really takes time to wind up my biological clock. In the past few days, I sometimes feel sleepy and tired but I know I can adjust. (As you can see, it's been five days since I last made my post here at my blog.)

Eating is also a struggle since my body wants to sleep more than eat. This is apart from the fact that I cannot eat snacks at our floor in the high-rise building. Well, there goes my 'gain weight' advocacy.

My Sis in Scenarios, Inc.

January 16, 2008. Kudos to my sister for being hired as the operations assistant for the Operations Department (now Stage and Sets Department) of Scenarios, Inc., a GMA Network subsidiary specializing in production (i.e. staging, set construction, props, lighting, etc.).

Working under the supervision of the Operations Department Head, she will coordinate supervisor's reports, coordinate with program managers for its GMA-7 News and Public Affairs and Entertainment TV groups, and other paperworks to be assigned to her.

I am glad that after months of waiting, with seven (take note, 7 interviews), she finally got in. She originally applied for the videotape custodian position yet the top-level management decided that she was over-qualified for that job. The company then thought of forming a job title for her so that the Operations Department can have an assistant to lessen its bulk of work. We feel that it's a big blessing that the Lord put her in that job since we only expected for a not-so-big position.

I am also thankful that God used me to be a channel of blessing to her since I was the one who saw the job opening and encouraged her to apply for that. I truly wanted her to get over the misery she experienced before. I am also grateful and glad that I have someone to accompany me on my way home.

We do hope that we could both endure the pressures of working in a huge media company. We pray that God would give us everything we need as we do our best, keeping our fingers crossed and hands raised.

Of Hairdos and Studio Pics

January 15, 2008. They said the release would be from 10 AM to 4 PM so I'm so excited I rushed to UP just 30 mins. before 4PM. And yes, I got it! I got the contact prints of my graduation pics last Monday! It's in CDROM format and it includes all prepared shots, retakes and all. Mark, my ex-officemate and friend commented it as 'boss chicks' jejeje! Check my Friendster profile to catch a glimpse of some of the pics: http://www.friendster.com/elijahjohn.

**********

I just had a haircut this morning in my favorite barber shop. Barber's cut daw ang tawag sa haircut ko. I was sweating a lot since the airconditioning isn't working so they just sprayed water on my hair and fixed the electric fan on me when my hair was being trimmed.

Our unit head told me that she 'envies' me because we both wanted to have our hair trimmed yet I was the one who 'successfully' did it first. She says it's a major undertaking to have her go to the salon and have a haircut.

This haircut made quite a history since the hair that was trimmed is the longest length that grew out of my scalp. It also means that it was the longest time for me to return to the barber shop. My last haircut before this was August 2007, a personal record-breaking five months ago!

I think this record would stand since I plan never to try to have longer hair again. It's quite irritating for I always feel that brush-like strands on my nape. And also, it wastes my time shampooing, drying, and styling when my hair is longer. Imagine the saved money on shampoos, hair gels and leave-on conditioners! I better start counting my savings. Who knows, maybe in saving vanity supplies, I can raise money for a new laptop! Aja!

I'm Going Home

January 15, 2008. The bridge of the song 'Home' by Chris Daughtry says:

"Be careful what you wish for
'Cause you just might get it all
And then some you don't want"

I realized the lesson I learned when wishing (see post "Be Careful What You Wish For"). The good thing is that the problem was eventually solved because of his own arrogance (peep, peep. Used for lack of a better term).

I was not only the one who is uneasy when he is around. Even my sister and my father are complaining about his acts. In his stay, he ate a lot, slept a lot, texted a lot and watched TV a lot. If there is Ka-Tu-Ga for Kain-Tulog-Gala, for him it's, Ka-Tu-Te-Li-Te: Kain-Tulog-TV-Ligaw-Text...

His requests are sometimes fruit of his superiority. Because he wakes up late, he sometimes asks for breakfast an hour before lunchtime. One time, he also borrowed my polo shirt to apply for a service crew job. And behind my back, when he went back here, he said "Di maganda ang porma ko" ("My style isn't good"). Hmpfh! Sana pala di ko na lang siya pinahiram ng polo. He even asked my sister to fix him a cup of coffee. In short, he acts like royalty. And worse, he and his girlfriend are locking themselves up in his room. Who knows what they're doing...

So my mom decided to talk to his grandparents. We then knew that everyone in their house was so hardworking. A barber shop here, a store there, sewing machine, etc. They are quite assured that eventually, the brat will go home for he will not find a decent place to stay. My mom even felt the love and concern of his grandparents and aunts.

Yet, just like old king Pharaoh, his heart hardened, even after a long sermon from my mom persuading him to swallow his pride and go home. He went out around 10 AM last Saturday, January 12. We were shocked to hear what his aunt told us when he called her home. He says he will not be following Mom and still not go home for he doesn't know where did he go wrong during his stay! (Obviously he hasn't seen what he has done.) He still sends text messages to my sister once in a while, saying that he would be homeless after a few days since he can't stay in his friends house for long.

If I had the opportunity to give him an advice, it would still be coming from Daughtry:

I'm going home, to the place where I belong
You must go home, to the place where you belong
Where your love is always been enough for me
Where their love is always been enough for you

I do pray that he would be enlightened with every word that he has heard from me and my family. May he find rest in God, just wishing him all the best.

My Puzzling Pre-Thesis Period

January 15, 2008. Taken from my blog archive, this post was written after I made one of the most crucial decisions in my life -- to leave DGP to focus on my thesis... Read on what I felt during these trying times. Please do note the last few sentences - a proof that promises are sometimes made to be broken!

WaAaH! Matatapos na ang sem...

1st Sem of 06-07 is coming to a close... WaAaH! Apat lang ang subjects ko, isa dun PE pa, tapos tinatamad na 'ko! At ngaun nsumpungan ko pang mag-update ng blog (hehe, tinatamad na kasi). Kasi ba naman akala ko kakayanin ng powers kong pagsabayin ang trabaho, thesis, EEE 10, Socio 101 at PE 2 CHL (a.k.a. cheerleading). Well natauhan din naman ako sa dilemma sa buhay ko at kailangan ko nang magbawas ng mga responsibilities ko.

Sa mga hindi pa nakakaalam, kahit huli na ang lahat, nagresign na ako nung Sept. 15 sa DGP. Napapansin na kasi namin ng ate ko na nagmumukha na kaming yung “Before” sa Stresstabs commercial. Grabe, nagiging moody na ako, mukhang haggard, tpos nagkasunud-sunod pa na maysakit ako. I had two fever spells and had to go to a doctor for check-up. Salamat na lamang at taga-UP ako, andun kasi ang karamihan sa medical records ko. Kahit tawagin nilang Infirmatay ang UHS, ok na rin yun basta may doktor! Sa panahon ngayon, bawal magkasakit!

Grabe talaga yung mas recent na fever spell ko three weeks ago. Dapat nga nagreresearch na ko sa Socio nang time na yun pero napunta lahat ang oras ko sa walang-wawang pamamahinga. Pagpunta ko sa Infirmary, akala ko the doctor will only prescribe me with antibiotics. Napaisip na lang ako bigla nung chineck nya yung breathing ko at nirecommend na magpaCBC at platelet count ako sa hospital lab. Pagbalik ko kinabukasan for the results and follow-up consultation, the doctor told me “Buti na lang hindi dengue…” I thought, Ha, ano kamo?! Inakala pa nung doctor na may dengue ako! Huwaat! Kasi nga uso 'yun, parang moda ng damit at usong sound trip...

Grabe nagugutom na ko… saka ko na lang ‘to tatapusin. I vowed to myself na magpapataba na talaga ako seriously. Good luck sa ‘kin.

A Well Written 'About Me'

January 15, 2008. I just sifted through my old files chilling inside my computer and I came upon my previous blog posts. I just thought that it's not only a treasure of entries but a picture of what I am in college during my UP days.

Looking back, I know I have somewhat improved my social skills. I gained new friends at GMA-7 and I have high hopes in my career. Nevertheless, here's my not-so-optimistic 'ABOUT ME' posted in my Friendster profile:

ABOUT ME

DISCLAIMER: I’m still getting to know myself so please bear with me as the following information may abruptly change from time to time. Also, I am leaning towards the technical writer versus the creative writer so the following narrative may be too serious for you. Nevertheless, it may be a lively prose if you’re interested to read it. The testimonials in my Friendster account complement this so please do read them.

I am Elijah John. The former means ‘Yahweh is God’ and is used as my nickname since college. Some say my name sounds like a girl’s name. (I pity them for they do not know the Bible or Frodo of LOTR.) Some say “I like your name” while others say “Where did you get your name?” Well, whatever the reaction is, we just have to thank my mom and my dad for it.

I lived a life of an intellect, doing the “brainy high” since kindergarten up to high school. Everyone looked at me as smart and talented. A churchmate even told me that I’m a jack of all trades. In high school I entered into a lot of ‘intra-school contests’ such as speech contests, with the usual quiz bees in different subject areas. The prime of my high school life was during my 2nd year, winning a weekly championship in the LG Quiz. During those days, I made sure me and all of my classmates are in good terms. I like to befriend everyone I know and I don’t want anyone to be mad at me. I almost knew everyone in school and gave a smile to everyone who greets me. I was so active back then and all of my ‘social activeness’ was translated into memory when I entered college.

UP culture has trained me to be an independent, loner when I entered Diliman territory. Block sections were gone and every freshman has to go on his/her own. I had a few friends during my stay at Computer Science yet the pressure in academics pushed me out of Computer Science and into LIS. Well everyone outside UP asks me, “What’s LIS?” A: Library and Information Science. As expected always, either one of two follow-up questions will be asked: “So gusto mong maging librarian?” or “Ano magiging trabaho mo?” A: A myriad of opportunities await LIS majors and we’re not confined in the premises of a library…

Like my mom, I have this liking for teaching and I may someday take units in education. It’s proven in church as I receive encouraging feedback from the kids in Sunday school. I like helping people in any way possible, especially with homework and simple reference questions.

During college, I learned to be a lakwatsero, finding the ways around the metro. You can easily spot me in SM North or sometimes in Megamall or Glorietta walking on my own. I also developed the liking for movies as I sometimes needed to do something in my spare time.

Right now in college, I am thankful to be in UPD but I still yearn to know more about friendships and relationships. I know I need some catching up to do to again build up my social network. Kaunti lang ang mga naging kaclose ko sa UP. I may bear a smiling face but sometimes deep inside I feel so empty. I may have some acquaintances yet I am still looking for true friends that will accept me as I am, like before in high school.

I may be talented (as the testimonials below say) but still sometimes I feel so insecure. I sing for God yet sometimes life’s trials pull me down (Jesus, [please] take the wheel…). I know I am just a regular person, struggling to live in this world and trusting on the One wise enough to answer all of my questions.

A Man with So Many Tags

January 15, 2008. I am reposting this entry in my previous blog. While looking at my graduation pictures, I just remembered what I was when I wrote this post: a rebellious post-teener struggling to graduate in the ultimate school of hard knocks in the Philippines. Here it is:

I am a man of so many tags... Here's a few of them:

Childhood nicknames:
- IAN
- LIAN
- JAJAN

School-based nicks:
- ELAY
- LAY
- LAY-LAY (As in hanging down, no?!)
- ILAY (regine tolentino, nabibisaya!)
- ILOY (kainiz c mang pikong!)

- ELI (pronounced as eh-lee)
- ELIAS
- ELIAS JUAN (cge tagalugin daw ba!)

- LAYJA
- ELAYJ
- AJA (koreano ng let's go?!)

- DARJU (courtesy of jaimeeah)
- JUDAR (courtesy of jaimeeah din)
- KUYA ELL (jempoy's idea)
- ELEEJ

Pag nasa church:
- KUYA ELAY(kahit nga mga oldies, nakiki 'kuya elay' din!)
- BRADER ELAY

- MR. DAR JUAN (pag ang prof ay maxadong formal; nariririnig ko rin pag pumasok ako sa KIKO! :D)
- DAR JUAN (Military style...)
- SER (kadalasan sa Kiko din maririnig 'to)

Kamukha ko daw siya kaya ayun, they sometimes call me:
- PAOLO SANTOS (sa GMA, halos lahat e2 tawag sa 'kin)
- PAOLO
- KUYA PAO (IV-1, 03-04?)

I also assume false identities (hehe!):
- MARK TAN (3rd yr HS!)
- MARK BAUTISTA (may pangarap kc eh... heheh)
- JB (sa dbrayd big brother. ask me for more details... hrrhrrr)
- MIKEE (as in pbb teen, ryt?)
- MATEO (codename sa xchange gft)

at ang mga pangalang di ko alam kung san galing:
- JOSEPH (at least two called me Joseph on two different situations, o diba meant to be! hehehe!)
- JEREMY (lead us in singing, Jeremy!)

My name is quite unique yet some people tend to forget it. And as I get to know more people, the list goes on... Hehe!

GMA News Research plans 2008

January 11, 2008. We had our annual planning meeting today at Green's in Quezon City. As we have discussed over some meat-flavored veggies, News Research has so much tricks up in its sleeves, even more than what I had expected. I am just a library assistant yet I am also involved and quite optimistic with what we planned to do this year.

Watch out for things will be getting more exciting as we churn out more exciting investigative reports and backgrounders for gmanews.tv and newscasts in QTV-11 and GMA-7. An improvement in the existing collection and databanks of News Research is also expected during the first quarter of this year.

Visit our site: http://www.gmanews.tv/research/

To know more about us: http://www.gmanews.tv/research/about

Looking Back at Quiapo

January 10, 2008. I just wanted to air my attitudes toward the Feast of the Black Nazarene, happening annually at Quiapo in Manila first by quoting the head of the article "Devotion to the Nazareno: Living… Believing…" from "Inside Quiapo", a booklet probably published by the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, also known as the Quiapo Church:

"The pandemonium that ensues once the Black Nazarene is brought out of Quiapo Church is often driven by the devotees' uncompromising desire to touchthe image [or the rope that pulls its carriage] in the hope of experiencing a 'miracle'. But regardless of their motivation, to many of them, the Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno is their Provider, Confidante, and Friend for whom they would not mind experiencing some physical discomfort."

It's just so heartbreaking that they had to endure such physical pain - being pushed, trampled on, etc. just for their unwavering devotion to the statue. The words "physical discomfort" is such an understatement based on what I saw on the newscasts.

One needs not to go to a procession and to endanger himself just to follow a sacred vow. I totally agree with the parish priest of Quiapo Church. He said that parishioners need not to go to Quiapo on the feast day to be blessed by God. God (in their context, the Nazarene) is waiting for them every single day in church. I think that a miracle can simply be experienced by thanking God on whatever blessing He has given.

Yet more deeply, I believe God doesn't reside in tangible things such as sculpted images, church buildings and other objects we call 'sacred'. We can experience God in our hearts through His word, connecting with Him daily 'in spirit and in truth'.

Jeepney Blues (or, Sucking Jeepney Rides v. 2)

January 9, 2008. Another day neared to a close as I walked towards the jeepney terminal in Monumento. I was hoping for a quiet ride so I can enjoy music with my mp3 player. But my hopes were miserably shattered as I boarded the jeepney.

Even though I like pop divas like Whitney Houston, I hated her during my trip home. The sound from the speakers of the jeep pumped and almost shattered my eardrums since the high and low levels (in equalizing sound, right? Sound techs/engineers know this) were pumped up. It's like I really wanted to tell the driver, "[Please,] can you turn that freakin' thing off?!" (in reference to American Dreamz). From Monumento to Polo, I was plugging my ears with my fingers yet this was not enough to lessen the sickening feeling.

I totally respect jeepney drivers since they are the ones who are in charge of the jeep yet I definitely think that they should also be responsible to give their riders a comfortable ride home. We are availing their services by paying the fare. I paid my fare as soon I sat on that part of the long bench and I do expect something from the driver, not just fulfilling the duty of taking me home safely. Also, riders must have a choice of a noisy or a quiet ride. Not everyone wants to be wide awake when riding the jeep.

I do hope that someday drivers would think of the welfare, comfort and satisfaction of their riding public. We are their customers and we also deserve quality service.

A Nightmare with an Anonymous Alcoholic

January 7, 2008. It bothers me when a drunken person boards a jeepney I am in and luckily sits beside me. Well, today’s my lucky day. A drunken man sat beside me on the jeep bound to Polo. He utters words, reacting to other people’s conversations. He even says that the jeep is filled and we must go. After a few minutes, we were on with the ride.

Then the worst thing happened. He was so drowsy he wanted to sleep. He was leaning onto me and I just carried his weight on the ride. I only felt relief when the driver steps on his brakes and his weight shifts to the other side. I really was so irritated and I was just controlling my expression so that he wouldn’t say anything or even react to my face and what I was thinking.

I was also bothered because I felt that drunken people pose a threat to the people on board. Not because he was carrying a deadly weapon but because of the things he may say or do during the ride. I even experienced a ride with two or three drunken men and that trip was soooo bad, even worse than this one.

The government says that people shouldn’t drive when they are drunk so they have to find someone sober and awake enough to drive them home. Say, a friend or a taxi can take them home. But what about these people who don’t have a friend or can’t afford a taxi ride home? Maybe next time, I’ll just pray hard that in my next jeepney ride home, I would not be accompanied by an anonymous alcoholic.

Extra, Extra: Paolo Santos and Rochelle Pangilinan Onstage Again!

January 6, 2008. Camille and I are planning to have a duet again. This time we’ll be singing a medley of Sandi Patty fast-tempo songs. At first I was hesitant since I intended to let her sing the song “Make His Praise Glorious” but she thought that we would sing the praise medley together. Well it’s an opportunity so I just grabbed the singing stint happily.

Since we don’t have choir rehearsals and youth fellowship, we just rehearsed for this number. We’re so excited that we can do the song from top to bottom. We even thought of having movements for the song since it’s energetic and fun-filled. We just pray that the song works when we sing it on our Sunday service.

Be Careful What You Wish For

January 2, 2008. In my Friendster profile I previously said I wanted to meet my younger brother. It’s kinda impossible for us to have another sibling and I really meant that I wanted to have a younger person in the house. I wished for a younger friend, sort of a barkada for me since my only barkada is my elder sister. I wished for it and then he came and things were changed.

I didn’t expect that he would be staying with us to spend Christmas, New Year and even his birthday in our place. He said he didn’t have a place to stay since he does not live with his parents since childhood and was evicted at his grandma’s house. So I thought maybe he can be my close friend. But it turns out that he’s not the one I am looking for. FYI, I do not like people who are so complacent (for lack of a better, more politically correct term). In other words, ayoko ng taong maangas… Even if I know that he’s an honest and polite person, I really feel that his personality is overwhelming me. Basta, maangas siya.

This is a proof that the saying “Be careful what you wish for” is true. (Or, maybe this shows that I’m kinda picky…)

Background on Christmas Presentations

Fast-forward to the Past: Background on Christmas Presentations
(Under construction)

2002
Grouping: Cell groups
Cell groups (or 'care groups' as they were once called, small groups in other churches) were the basis for the teams in the presentations. My mom made a angelic, love-filled drama presentation for her group, which was later used by the Kids segment for their winning entry in 2005. Our presentation was a puppet talk show. I thought no one, or maybe just a few, watched our show since we performed while dinner was served.

2003
I can't recall any prize for the best entry in this year's Christmas party. Our first production as a youth segment was a flop since we were amateur videographers and we accidentally taped over some of the best scenes (e.g. taken on a boat on a nearby river). But the experience was great since we ventured onto scouting locations while we were taping the scenes. We even woke up to catch the sunrise and stayed until the wee hours of the morning. We even took some shots hours before the party started.

2004
Grouping: Families
We teamed up with Bernardo-Dar Juan family with a singing Christmas tree presentation. We wore green shirts and sang while forming a christmas tree on our finale. Gladly we won First Place. The Prados and Olalias are in second place with a family-themed drama. Third place was awarded to the group, led by Bro. Jerome T., composed of members who don't have families attending with them in church.

2005
Grouping: Segments
In this year, the youth segment also ventured into spoofing Pinoy Big Brother yet it was not as good as we thought it would be. The judge on that year was not really watching and allegedly rated us indiscriminately. She also highlighted that the grand winner was a live production with an original concept. To think that the winner's script was just borrowed from my mom and was already performed in the 2002 party. Efforts were not duly considered since the kids were just holding their copies and reading their lines.

2006
Grouping: Segments
We were a bit skeptical about the entire Christmas presentation theme. I had no plans of joining that year and I just did production help to my sister's (young pro's) and my mom's team (women's). My sister did not did her thing seriously in their wacky presentation with Bro. Jerome T again as the brain behind the song/dance number.
My mom again made a simple yet meaningful play on how Jesus looked for a place to stay. The play was full of symbolisms and attributions regarding salvation and the Savior.

Sadly, the judges weren't in favor of both presentations. My mom settled for second and my sister's group in third place. The youth group (in which I was supposed to be in), won first prize. It was a hand-mime to the tune of "We are the Reason". Partida pa raw 'yun. They rehearsed it for only a few hours. Worse, my sister's ex- and his student taught and led the group. To think that a play was beaten by a few hand movements en sync with a canned song… As for me, I had no regrets on this year since I joined in all winning presentations. Where am I in youth? I was the one who did the opening voice-over for their presentation. Lucky me, I had a taste of three worlds…

2007
Grouping: Segments
Since I graduated and have work, I eventually left youth and moved on to the young pro's segment. My mom and dad was totally against having another regretful Christmas because of the presentation fiasco.

TO BE UPDATED…

2007 Christmas Thanksgiving at BCC

December 23, 2007. Competition was felt during our Christmas party in church. There were parlor games for kids, youth and young adults. My sister and I participated in a game called "A Thing of Beauty" on separate teams. A set of items were given to us - strands taken from a coconut-made broom, newspaper leaves, a long-necked bottle, sticky tape and a pair of scissors. We must make 'a thing of beauty' out of those materials and tools. I know my team was not as good and as brilliant as my sister's but we wouldn't want to give up. One would think that a flower vase would be the immediate product of the materials so I suggested that we make a Nativity scene out of the sticks and the newspaper with the bottle being Joseph and Mary and Jesus, of paper and sticks. We ran out of time so the manger was not as good as my sister's team's flower vase. We lost to them. Well at least I know my sister can move on since she can supervise the team with her ex- as one of the members. Kudos, ate!

Not only did the parlor games draw us into competing but the segment presentations as well. In around 6 years, it's a custom that groups (e.g. segments, cell groups, etc.) would produce a presentation, in any artform, during our Christmas party. In the past few years, I am not satisfied with the way this tradition takes place. (See Background on Christmas Presentations post.)

New Blog for the New Year

January 1, 2008. My online journal is in hibernation for the past few months and I haven't had much time writing whatever was on my mind at that time. Ideas, events, and past experiences all storm in my mind in my 1 1/2-hour ride to work and another 1 1/2-hour back home. Actually I'm writing this entry at work when I'm waiting for the SEC page to appear... Well, it seems that my blog needs a little push so that I can fill it up.

And then came 2008. I just thought that since the year is just starting, why not try to start a daily routine of writing for my blog. I got carried away by my ideas and recalled the past Christmas, appearing in my December entries. It's kinda weird but it's 'better late than never'. Happy new year, pipz. Piz.